The 10 Best Arizona Podcasts to Spice Up Your Adventure

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a curious newcomer, these 10 podcasts will deepen your connection to Arizona. We break down the best shows on everything from real estate to outdoor adventures, with tips, benefits, and more.

From History to Hiking: The 10 Best Arizona Podcasts You Need to Download Now

Welcome to the ultimate guide for anyone looking to dive deep into the heart of the Grand Canyon State! Podcasts have become an incredible medium for learning, entertainment, and connection, offering a window into the stories that shape our world. For Arizona, a state rich in history, diverse in landscape, and vibrant in culture, there’s a podcast for every interest.

Whether you’re a long-time resident, a recent transplant, or planning a visit, this article will introduce you to the 10 best podcasts on Arizona. We’ll explore what makes each one unique, how to use them to enrich your life, and provide everything you need to get started on your listening journey.

Best Podcasts on Arizona

1. AZ: The History of Arizona
   • Unique Approach: This podcast takes you on a historical journey, exploring the people, places, and events that have shaped Arizona. Host Marshall Shore, known as the “Hip Historian,” uses a fun and engaging style to uncover little-known facts and fascinating stories, making history feel alive and relevant.
   • Focus: Arizona’s history, folklore, and cultural heritage.
   • Why it’s Recommended: It’s an entertaining and educational way to understand the state’s roots, from its early pioneers to its modern development.
   • Apple Podcasts: AZ: The History of Arizona
   • Spotify: AZ: The History of Arizona
2. Arizona Spotlight
   • Unique Approach: Produced by Arizona Public Media, this show offers a weekly dose of local stories, interviews, and cultural features. It’s a journalistic approach that provides a broad, well-rounded view of what’s happening across the state, from art and music to community issues.
   • Focus: Arts, culture, and community stories in Arizona.
   • Why it’s Recommended: It connects you with the heartbeat of local Arizona life and introduces you to the people and projects making an impact.
   • Apple Podcasts: Arizona Spotlight
   • Spotify: Arizona Spotlight
3. The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast
   • Unique Approach: Hosted by journalists from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, “The Gaggle” provides sharp, insider analysis of Arizona politics. It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand the state’s political landscape, from elections to policy debates.
   • Focus: Arizona politics, government, and elections.
   • Why it’s Recommended: For its in-depth, expert-led discussions and ability to simplify complex political issues.
   • Apple Podcasts: The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast
   • Spotify: The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast
4. Valley 101
   • Unique Approach: This podcast answers all the questions you’ve ever had about living in or visiting Arizona. The hosts, a team of journalists, investigate topics ranging from local history and bizarre news stories to the best places to eat and explore.
   • Focus: Phoenix-area stories, FAQs, and local lore.
   • Why it’s Recommended: It’s a fun, quirky, and highly informative show that provides great conversational fodder and practical tips for navigating life in the Valley of the Sun.
   • Apple Podcasts: Valley 101
   • Spotify: Valley 101
5. Finding Arizona Podcast
   • Unique Approach: Host Chris McCrudden interviews Arizonans from all walks of life, highlighting the people who are shaping the state’s future. The show focuses on entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders, providing a human-centric look at the state.
   • Focus: Human interest stories, entrepreneurship, and community building.
   • Why it’s Recommended: It’s inspiring and uplifting, showcasing the innovative spirit and diverse perspectives of people living in Arizona.
   • Apple Podcasts: Finding Arizona Podcast
   • Spotify: Finding Arizona Podcast
6. Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast
   • Unique Approach: This podcast is for the outdoor enthusiast. Hosted by Michael Cravens and Trica, it explores Arizona’s wildlife, public lands, and conservation efforts. It’s an excellent resource for hunters, anglers, hikers, and anyone who cares about the natural environment.
   • Focus: Wildlife conservation, public lands, and outdoor recreation.
   • Why it’s Recommended: It’s a go-to for staying informed on environmental issues and connecting with the state’s natural beauty.
   • Apple Podcasts: Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast
   • Spotify: Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast
7. Arizona Highways Podcast
   • Unique Approach: An audio companion to the iconic Arizona Highways Magazine, this podcast features interviews with photographers, writers, and experts who explore the state’s scenic beauty. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the stories and images that make the magazine so beloved.
   • Focus: Scenic travel, photography, and the history of Arizona Highways.
   • Why it’s Recommended: It’s a visually evocative podcast that will inspire your next road trip and deepen your appreciation for Arizona’s landscapes.
   • Apple Podcasts: Arizona Highways Podcast
   • Spotify: Arizona Highways Podcast
8. The PHNX Arizona Cardinals Podcast
   • Unique Approach: This is a daily show for die-hard Arizona Cardinals fans. Hosted by Johnny Venerable and Bo Brack, it provides expert analysis, news, and commentary on everything from game recaps to draft coverage.
   • Focus: The Arizona Cardinals football team.
   • Why it’s Recommended: Its daily format and insider perspective make it the most comprehensive source for Cardinals fans.
   • Apple Podcasts: The PHNX Arizona Cardinals Podcast
   • Spotify: The PHNX Arizona Cardinals Podcast
9. 72Sold Arizona Lifestyle with Holly Waxman
   • Unique Approach: A podcast focused on real estate and lifestyle in Arizona. Host Holly Waxman shares insights on the housing market, home staging, and community spotlights, making it an excellent resource for homebuyers and sellers.
   • Focus: Real estate, homeownership, and the Arizona lifestyle.
   • Why it’s Recommended: It provides actionable advice and a local perspective on one of the most important aspects of life in Arizona: where you live.
   • Apple Podcasts: 72Sold Arizona Lifestyle with Holly Waxman
10. The Two Acre Homestead
    • Unique Approach: For those who dream of a more self-sufficient lifestyle, this podcast follows a family’s journey from suburban life to a two-acre homestead. While not exclusively about Arizona, the hosts’ background in the state and their practical advice on homesteading are highly relevant to anyone seeking a similar life in the desert.
    • Focus: Homesteading, self-sufficiency, and sustainable living.
    • Why it’s Recommended: It offers a unique and inspiring look at a different kind of Arizona lifestyle and provides practical tips for living off the land.
    • Apple Podcasts: The Two Acre Homestead

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How to Apply These Podcasts

To get the most out of these podcasts, think of them as an audio-based curriculum for your life.

• For the History Buff: Listen to AZ: The History of Arizona while visiting a museum or a historical site. It will bring the exhibits to life.
• For the Outdoorsy: Use the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast to plan your next hiking or camping trip, learning about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.
• For the Political Junkie: Tune into The Gaggle before a local election to stay informed on the candidates and key issues.
• For the Sports Fan: Listen to The PHNX Arizona Cardinals Podcast to get a pre-game breakdown or a post-game recap, making you the most knowledgeable person in your fan group.

Finding and Subscribing

• Spotify: Click on the Spotify links provided above. This will take you directly to the podcast page. From there, you can click “Follow” to subscribe and receive new episodes in your feed.
• Apple Podcasts: Click on the Apple Podcasts links. If you are on an Apple device, this will open the app and take you to the podcast. Click the “+” or “Subscribe” button to add it to your library.

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Tips for Getting the Most Out of Listening

1. Listen Actively: Don’t just have the podcast on in the background. Take notes on interesting facts or places you want to visit.
2. Multitask Mindfully: Listen during a commute, a walk, or while doing chores, but choose a time when you can still give the content some attention.
3. Engage with the Community: Many podcasts have social media accounts or listener groups. Join these to discuss episodes and connect with other fans.
4. Listen to Old Episodes: Don’t be afraid to start from the beginning. Many of the shows have a rich backlog of content waiting for you.
5. Share Your Favorites: If you love a show, tell a friend or post about it on social media. This helps the podcast grow and connects you with others.
6. Use the Show Notes: Podcasters often include links to resources, articles, and guests in their show notes. Check them out for more information.
7. Speed It Up (or Slow It Down): Most podcast apps let you adjust the playback speed. Find a pace that works for you.
8. Vary Your Listening: Mix up the types of podcasts you listen to. One day, tune in for politics; the next, for history or lifestyle.
9. Review and Rate: A simple review or a five-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify helps a podcast’s visibility and supports the creators.
10. Use Them as a Learning Tool: Treat podcasts like a mini-lecture series. Pause and reflect on what you’ve learned.

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Benefits of Tuning into These Podcasts

1. Deeper Understanding: You’ll gain a more profound knowledge of Arizona’s history, politics, and culture.
2. Community Connection: Podcasts introduce you to local voices and help you feel more connected to the community.
3. Inspiration for Adventure: They often highlight unique places and events, inspiring you to explore new parts of the state.
4. Enhanced Commute: Turn mundane travel time into a learning experience or an entertaining diversion.
5. Informed Citizenship: Political and news podcasts keep you up to date on important local issues.
6. Discover New Interests: You might find a new hobby or passion, whether it’s homesteading or wildlife photography.
7. Improved Listening Skills: Listening to long-form conversations can improve your ability to focus and retain information.
8. Flexibility: You can listen whenever and wherever you want, fitting learning into your schedule.
9. Support Local Creators: By listening and engaging, you’re supporting local journalists, historians, and artists.
10. Reduced Screen Time: Podcasts offer a wonderful alternative to staring at a screen, giving your eyes a break while still engaging your mind.

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Pros and Cons of Each Podcast

Podcast	Pros	Cons
AZ: The History of Arizona	Entertaining host, covers unique topics, great for casual listening	Irregular release schedule, can be highly niche
Arizona Spotlight	High-quality production, broad range of topics, professional journalism	In-depth political analysis, features expert journalists, and daily news relevance
The Gaggle	Interviews can be long, and may not cover hard news	Can be highly political, may not appeal to non-political listeners
Valley 101	Primarily focused on the Phoenix area, it is less relevant for rural Arizonans	Primarily focused on the Phoenix area, less relevant for rural Arizonans
Finding Arizona Podcast	Inspiring interviews, focuses on positive community stories, highlights local heroes	Excellent for outdoor enthusiasts, provides conservation updates, and knowledgeable hosts
Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast	Content is sometimes promotional, and new episodes	Niche topic, might not appeal to a general audience
Arizona Highways Podcast	Visually evocative, ties into a beloved magazine, perfect for travel inspiration	Daily episodes for up-to-date news, insider analysis, and a dedicated fan community
The PHNX Arizona Cardinals Podcast	Exclusively for Cardinals fans, it may not appeal to other sports fans	It can feel like a long advertisement, limited to real estate and lifestyle
72Sold Arizona Lifestyle	Inspiring and educational, it offers practical tips for homesteaders, strong community feel	Inspiring and educational, it offers practical tips for homesteaders, and a strong community feel
The Two Acre Homestead	Practical real estate advice focuses on local market trends and provides homeownership tips	Not specifically about Arizona, content is not always location-specific

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Case Studies or Examples

1. A new resident to Phoenix used Valley 101 to learn about the city’s history and discovered her favorite local restaurant.
2. An aspiring author was inspired by a guest on Finding Arizona Podcast and started their own creative business.
3. A voter used The Gaggle to understand a complex ballot proposition, leading to a more informed vote.
4. A family planning a road trip listened to Arizona Highways Podcast and found a hidden gem of a scenic route they never would have known about.
5. A hunter, using the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, learned about new conservation laws and a volunteer opportunity to help protect public lands.
6. A high school student studying Arizona’s history used AZ: The History of Arizona to get a unique perspective on the state’s past for a class project.
7. A homebuyer who listened to 72Sold Arizona Lifestyle was better prepared for a negotiation, saving thousands of dollars.
8. A young artist discovered a local gallery featured on Arizona Spotlight and now volunteers there.
9. A parent and child, both Cardinals fans, bonded over listening to The PHNX Arizona Cardinals Podcast together after a big game.
10. A young couple starting their own garden listened to The Two Acre Homestead and learned key tips for growing produce in the Arizona climate.

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Key Takeaways

1. Podcasts are an accessible way to learn about all aspects of Arizona.
2. There is a podcast for every interest, from history to sports.
3. Listening to local podcasts can make you a more informed resident.
4. Subscribing is easy on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
5. Show notes are a valuable resource for further information.
6. Engaging with the podcast community can deepen your connection.
7. You can use these podcasts as a tool for planning trips and adventures.
8. Podcasts can be a great way to support local creators and journalists.
9. Finding a podcast that aligns with your specific interests is key to an enjoyable experience.
10. Don’t be afraid to try a show outside your usual interests—you might be surprised!

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FAQs with Answers

1. Q: How do I find these podcasts?
   • A: You can click the links provided for Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or you can search for the podcast name directly in your preferred podcast app.
2. Q: Do I need to pay to listen?
   • A: No, all of these podcasts are free to listen to. They may have advertisements, but the content itself is free.
3. Q: What if I don’t use Apple or Spotify?
   • A: These podcasts are available on most other major podcast platforms, including Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio. A simple search should bring them up.
4. Q: How long are the episodes?
   • A: Episode lengths vary widely, from as short as 15 minutes to over an hour. You can check the episode details in your podcast app before listening.
5. Q: Can I download episodes to listen offline?
   • A: Yes, most podcast apps allow you to download episodes, which is perfect for listening in areas with poor internet connection, like a remote hiking trail.
6. Q: How often are new episodes released?
   • A: This also varies by show. Some are daily (The PHNX Cardinals Podcast), while others are weekly or bi-weekly. Check the podcast’s description for details.
7. Q: How can I support a podcast I love?
   • A: The best ways to support a podcast are by leaving a rating and review, sharing it with friends, and sometimes by purchasing merchandise or becoming a patron through services like Patreon.
8. Q: Are these podcasts only for people who live in Arizona?
   • A: No, they are great for anyone interested in Arizona, whether they live there, are planning to visit, or are just curious about the state’s culture and history.
9. Q: What if I don’t like the host’s voice?
   • A: This is a common issue! There are many podcasts out there, so if a host’s voice or style doesn’t resonate with you, feel free to move on to the next one on the list.
10. Q: How can I submit a question or a story to a podcast?
    • A: Check the podcast’s website or show notes for contact information. Many shows welcome listener questions and submissions.

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Conclusion

Podcasts are an amazing and personal way to connect with the world around you, and for Arizona, the options are as vast as the desert itself. By exploring these 10 podcasts, you can learn about the state’s history, stay on top of local news, get inspired to travel, and become a more informed and engaged member of the community. So, grab your headphones, pick a show from this list, and press play. Your Arizona adventure awaits! 🏜️

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Link Resources

1. Visit Arizona – The official tourism website for the state.
2. Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records – A great resource for historical research.
3. Arizona Republic – The state’s largest newspaper for up-to-date news.
4. Arizona Public Media – For public broadcasting news and community stories.
5. Arizona Game and Fish Department – For information on wildlife and outdoor activities.

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Key Phrases

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