In this episode, I sit down with Alexander Kolodin, Arizona State Representative and candidate for Arizona Secretary of State, to talk about the future of elections in Arizona.We discuss Rep. Kolodin’s campaign for Secretary of State, why he believes election integrity and transparency must be restored, and what changes he would make if elected.We also break down the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (SAVE Act) and why many believe it is critical to ensuring that only U.S. citizens vote in federal elections.Finally, we dive into one of the biggest frustrations voters have every election cycle: why does it take so long to count votes in Arizona? We compare Arizona’s process with Florida, where election results are typically reported the same night, and discuss what reforms could help Arizona deliver faster, more transparent results.Topics covered:Rep. Kolodin’s run for Arizona Secretary of StateThe SAVE Act and election integrityWhy Arizona election results take so longLessons Arizona can learn from Florida’s election systemReforms to improve transparency and public trustIf you care about the future of elections in Arizona, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Delprete, a Phoenix City Council candidate for District 6 and real estate expert, to break down one of the biggest challenges facing our city: housing affordability.

We start from square one—what interest rates actually are, how they relate to mortgage rates, and why they matter if you’re trying to buy a home. Michael walks through the real costs of purchasing a house, what goes into your monthly payment, and what first-time buyers should realistically expect when it comes to down payments, home prices, and long-term planning.

The conversation dives into practical advice for young adults and first-time buyers who may have no savings and feel locked out of the market. We also explore the rise of build-to-rent housing, who’s behind it, how fast it’s growing, and what it means for Phoenix neighborhoods.

Michael explains House Bill 2721, why it matters for Phoenix and the Valley, and whether it will actually move the needle on affordability. We wrap up with a broader discussion on what the Phoenix City Council is getting wrong on housing, why real estate experience matters in city leadership, and how federal policy—under Donald Trump—may be influencing interest rates, investment behavior, and housing affordability nationwide.

Whether you’re a renter, a homeowner, or someone who thinks owning a home is completely out of reach, this episode breaks it all down in plain English.

🎙️ Take Back Phoenix Podcast – Episode 1: Introducing Zach Lauer

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Take Back Phoenix podcast — where everyday residents share their vision for reclaiming our city and restoring safety, sanity, and common-sense leadership. In our first episode, Matt Evans sits down with Zach Lauer — husband, new father, entrepreneur, MAHA activist, and candidate for Phoenix City Council (District 4) — to talk about why he’s stepping up for Phoenix. 

Zach opens up about his journey from corporate finance and health insurance to local activism, how the COVID era shaped his commitment to freedom and truth, and what Take Back Phoenix really means to him. We dive into the big issues facing our city — from public safety and homelessness to fiscal responsibility and transparent government — and discuss Zach’s vision for a Phoenix where families thrive, neighborhoods are safe, and city hall works for all residents, not special interests. 

Tune in for honest conversation, real solutions, and the first step in building a movement grounded in faith, family, and freedom.

🔊 Listen now and join the movement to Take Back Phoenix