The Valley’s Voice with Travis Meltzer – Arizona Stories with Payton Whitmore

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Valley’s Voice: Arizona Lives, Legal Truths, host Travis Meltzer, founder and managing attorney at Valley Injury Law, sits down with Payton Whitmore, co-host of the nationally syndicated John Jay and Rich Show. Together, they explore Payton’s journey from growing up in Chandler, Arizona, to becoming a morning radio personality. The conversation covers her early memories of radio in the Valley, lessons learned from playing collegiate basketball across multiple states, and the unique perspective she brings as a young woman of color in a male-dominated industry. Payton also reflects on balancing authenticity with privacy on air, the pressure and privilege of her role, and how she uses her platform to inspire the next generation.

Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Show Introduction 01:15 – Growing up in Chandler and earliest radio memories of John Jay & Rich 05:28 – College basketball experiences across Utah, Texas, and Oregon 10:55 – Rediscovering appreciation for Arizona after moving back home 14:22 – Lessons from athletics applied to the 5 a.m. morning radio routine 18:40 – Shifting career goals from FBI agent to on-air personality 25:12 – Diversity in radio: pressure and privilege as a young woman of color 30:15 – Inspiring the next generation and mentoring young women 33:40 – Deciding what to share publicly versus keeping private

About the Show: The Valley’s Voice: Arizona Lives, Legal Truths is a podcast hosted by attorney Travis Meltzer, spotlighting authentic stories of resilience, culture, and community across Arizona. Through candid conversations with local leaders, public figures, and everyday Arizonans, the show highlights the unique challenges and triumphs that shape life in the Grand Canyon State.