In this episode, we sit down with Matt Waltz, a powerhouse in entrepreneurship and construction, to uncover the mindset that turns obstacles into opportunities. From the grind of building a business to the mission of making a real impact, Matt shares what it takes to push past every “no” and build something bigger than yourself.
We also dive into the incredible work of New Freedom, transforming lives for the justice-impacted population. They’re not just giving second chances—they’re creating new futures.
Matt Waltz Founder of Waltz & New Freedom
An Arizona native and graduate of Arizona State University, Matt Waltz is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in building and managing successful businesses. As the founder of more than five companies in various industries, Matt has built a reputation for innovation, leadership, and commitment to community impact.
Matt’s entrepreneurial journey took flight in 2003 with the founding of Waltz Construction, a commercial general contracting firm based in Tempe, Arizona, with additional offices in Texas and Colorado. Specializing in Design / Build and CMAR delivery methods, Waltz boasts a diverse and impressive portfolio, including K-12 educational facilities, sports and recreation complexes, multi-family developments, hospitality projects, as well as restaurant and retail spaces. Matt’s vision and leadership have established Waltz as a trusted name in the industry, known for its innovative approach and commitment to client advocacy.
In 2013, when medical marijuana was approved in Arizona, Matt recognized a transformative opportunity in the emerging industry. He became a founding partner of Harvest, Inc., one of the state’s pioneering medical marijuana dispensaries and cultivation facilities. Under his leadership, Harvest played a pivotal role in shaping Arizona’s medical marijuana landscape, blending innovation, compliance, and care to serve patients effectively.
Additionally, Matt went on to establish several other companies, including the groundbreaking organization New Freedom in 2020. New Freedom is an all-inclusive behavioral health facility dedicated to meeting the unique needs of individuals reentering society from the justice system. New Freedom prioritizes holistic well-being and delivers positive, effective outcomes through a comprehensive approach that integrates peer support, behavioral health services, vocational training, case management, and a strong emphasis on overall wellness. With a mission to empower individuals, support successful transitions, and foster lasting transformation, New Freedom stands as a testament to Matt’s commitment to creating opportunities for meaningful change and building stronger communities.
