SacTown Talks by The Nooner W/ Scott Lay

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jamie Miller from People Who Think joins the show to discuss the evolving political landscape in Florida and its broader implications for national politics. Jamie provides insights into Florida's shift from a Democratic advantage to a Republican stronghold influenced by conservative governance and migration during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation contrasts Florida and California politics, examines the influence of national figures like Gavin Newsom, and offers perspectives on Ron DeSantis's presidential campaign strategies. Additionally, the episode delves into recent election outcomes, voter turnout trends, and the impact of key swing states in upcoming elections. The discussion also covers the challenges facing Kamala Harris's campaign, the strategic maneuvers of political parties, and the implications of debate performances and political endorsements. Jamie also reflects on the potential outcomes of the upcoming election, shares his perspectives on the Citizens Unit

In this episode of SacTown Talks, David Bowman joins the discussion to reflect on an eventful legislative session. The episode delves into the unique aspects of the session's conclusion, including notable retirements, end-of-session processes, and procedural insights from the assembly floor. Bowman shares personal anecdotes, the impact of long-serving staff retirements, and the intricacies of legislative procedures like electronic voting and bill processing. The conversation touches on the historical context of assembly operations, recent protests, and special sessions. Bowman also highlights the transition with long-term assembly members departing and future procedural considerations. This Episode was record on 10/4/24 00:00 Welcome Back to SacTown Talks00:39 Reflecting on Staff Retirements02:15 Roles and Responsibilities on the Floor03:22 End of Session Chaos05:44 Protests and First Amendment Rights08:28 Saturday Session and Voting Procedures10:00 Changing Votes and Legislative Procedures16:49 Debate Time a

In this episode of SacTown Talks, host Jarhett Blonien welcomes Melissa Sagun, President of the Asian Pacific Islander Capital Association (APICA), and board member Allie Umemoto. The discussion delves into APICA's history, mission, and initiatives. Melissa and Allie share their personal journeys into politics, the importance of community building and professional development for API staff in Sacramento, and their efforts to create a pipeline for future generations. They highlight key events like the annual Sushi Showdown and internship programs, underscoring APICA's role in fostering networking and career opportunities. The conversation also covers the challenges and strategies associated with working for term-limited members and the ongoing efforts to increase API representation in the legislative workforce. This Episode was record on 9/17/24 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:27 Background of APICA01:21 Melissa's Journey with APICA03:00 Allie's Journey with APICA04:05 History and Founding of APICA05:46

In this episode of SacTown Talks, host Jarhett Blonien speaks with former Assemblyman Sebastian Ridley-Thomas about his support for Donald Trump, the current state of the Democratic Party, the economic challenges facing millennials and African American men, and the national political landscape. Sebastian shares his experiences of relocating to Nevada and discusses the impact of COVID-19 on the economy and housing market. The conversation covers topics such as retail theft crime in California, high tax burdens, and the discontent among Democratic voters regarding the lack of a primary process. Sebastian also provides insights on the economic policies of other states and the potential consequences of the Democratic administration's actions on national and local economies. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:36 Disillusionment with the Democratic Party02:14 Post-COVID Economic Challenges04:14 Housing Crisis in California09:01 National Economic Concerns17:10 Retail Theft and Crime in California23:56 California's Tax

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jarhett speaks with Catharine Baker, former California Assembly member and current Director of the UC Student and Policy Center. Catharine shares her journey from growing up in Coachella Valley and cutting her teeth in Chicago politics, to working in law and then entering public service motivated by the Great Recession and issues in local schools. Catharine  discusses her campaigns, experiences in the assembly, and her work post-politics, including her role at the FPPC. Catharine’s latest venture focuses on utilizing UC's resources to influence policy and provide research-backed solutions to state legislators. This comprehensive interview provides insights into her career, perspectives on bipartisan work, and future plans in her new role.This Episode was record on 8/23/2400:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:29 Catharine Baker's Early Life and Career Beginnings01:03 Entering Politics: The Great Recession and Campaigns03:16 Running for State Assembly and Winning06:06 Challeng

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jarhett interviews Lacey Keys of Keys Law Corporation. They discuss her journey as a political attorney, including her educational background and career trajectory. Lacey elaborates on the nuances of political law, including registration and compliance for lobbyists, campaign finance work, and the role of the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC). She also shares insights on managing her own law practice and offers advice for aspiring political attorneys, emphasizing the importance of internships and networking within the field.This Episode was record on 8/5/2400:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:37 Lacey Keys' Background and Career Path04:13 Transition to Independent Practice05:52 Understanding Political Law and Lobbying13:56 FPPC and Lobbying Compliance32:08 Advice for Aspiring Political Lawyers35:48 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jarhett speaks with Michael Boccadoro, Executive Director of California Dairy Cares, who shares his journey from a UC Davis intern to a veteran lobbyist with over 41 years of experience. Boccadoro discusses the intricate balance between environmental sustainability and economic viability in California's dairy industry. He highlights the state's efforts in methane reduction, dairy farm regulations, and legislative support for farmers. Additionally, he explains the impact of statewide policies on dairy production and the importance of incentives in achieving sustainability goals. The conversation also explores the evolving dairy market, environmental challenges, and collaboration within the agricultural sector.This Episode was record on 8/2/2400:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:23 Michael Boccadoro's Early Career01:45 Transition to Dairy Industry03:19 Public Affairs and Lobbying03:43 Regulatory Challenges in Agriculture07:13 California Dairy Cares: Mission and Impact09:05 Ca

In this episode of SacTown Talks, host Jarhett interviews Matthew Hargrove from the California Business Properties Association (C.B.P.A). Matthew shares insights into his career path from UC Davis and his extensive experience in Sacramento politics. They discuss a wide array of topics impacting the commercial real estate sector in California, including property taxes, Prop 13, Prop 218, minimum wage, energy issues, building code, retail theft, insurance, and legislative efforts. Matthew provides a detailed overview of key legislative propositions and the challenges and opportunities within the commercial real estate market. The conversation highlights the need for ongoing advocacy and adaptation in response to economic and regulatory changes. This Episode was record on 7/23/24 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:37 Matthew Hargrove's Early Career01:57 Working with Brooks Firestone06:04 Transition to UC Davis08:09 Joining the California Business Properties Association11:46 Challenges in Commercial Real Esta

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Co-Chairs Andres Ramirez and Brandon Garcia of the California Latino Capitol Association Foundation (CLCAF) join the show. They discuss their respective journeys into the political community in Sacramento—Andres starting in lobbying and Brandon discovering the field almost by accident. Both highlight the significance of networking, mentorship, and community support facilitated by CLCAF. They delve into the organization's initiatives, like the annual Dodgers vs. Giants game, policy academies, and cultural events such as Dia de los Muertos. The episode also emphasizes outreach efforts to engage underserved populations and future staff through partnerships with nonprofits. The co-chairs express pride in CLCAF's growth and share their vision for further empowering Latino professionals in the Capitol community. This Episode was record on 7/19/24 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:45 Backgrounds of Andres Ramirez and Brandon Garcia04:06 Joining the California Latino Capital Ass

In this episode of SacTown Talks, members of the California Legislative Black Staff Association (CLBSA) and co-chairs, Symphoni Barbee and Kapri Walker, share their journeys and experiences. Symphoni discusses her role as a legislative advocate for Planned Parenthood and her entrance into the CLBSA. Kapri outlines her transition from working in the Senate Public Safety Committee to her current position as Government Affairs Manager at California for Safety and Justice. They reflect on founding the CLBSA during the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges faced by young Black professionals, and the significance of mentorship. They also highlight the association's key events, including the Juneteenth Gala, and their ongoing efforts to support and retain young Black staff in Sacramento.This Episode was record on 7/19/2400:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:25 Meet Symphony Barbee01:52 Meet Capri Walker02:45 Founding the Association05:08 Challenges and Achievements06:20 Mentorship and Support08:47 Fellowship Experience

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jarrett welcomes Andy Walz, President of Chevron of the Americas, for an in-depth conversation about California's role in the energy sector. Andy shares his 35-year journey with Chevron, discussing the global assignments he's experienced. He elaborates on the responsibilities of his current position, overseeing downstream operations in North and South America. The discussion covers California's unique challenges, including high operational costs, taxes, and regulations, and their impact on fuel prices and energy production. Andy also highlights Chevron's commitment to renewable energy, including renewable natural gas and hydrogen, and discusses the future of the energy market in the face of evolving technologies and policies. This Episode was recorded on 5/9/24 00:00 Welcome to SacTown Talks00:20 Meet Andy Walz, President of Chevron Americas00:34 Andy's Journey with Chevron01:14 Living Around the World with Chevron01:47 Chevron's Operations in the Americas02:30 California's I

In this episode of SacTown Talks, host Jarhett interviews Assemblyman Marc Berman, who shares his journey from Palo Alto to Sacramento. Asm. Berman discusses his early life, education at Georgetown and USC, and experiences working on political campaigns across the country. He recounts his path to becoming a member of the Palo Alto City Council and eventually the California State Assembly in 2016. The discussion covers the challenges of his role, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his legislative focus on housing, education, and AI regulation. Asm Berman also talks about California's budget and his work on the Business and Professions Committee.This Episode was record on 6/18/2400:00 Introduction and Welcome00:25 Mark Berman's Early Life and Career Beginnings01:54 Campaign Experiences and Political Insights02:41 Reflections on Political Campaigns and Colleagues05:08 Transition to Law School and Community Involvement08:21 Running for City Council and Assembly12:56 Election Night and Initial Assembly E

In this episode of SacTown Talks,  Jarhett Blonien welcomes Jennifer Saha, Founder and CEO of Golden Bridge Strategies. Jennifer shares her extensive background in government service and her transition to the private sector. She discusses her career journey from working in the Governor's office under Schwarzenegger, to the challenges of managing large-scale procurements and IT modernization projects. Jennifer also talks about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on government procurement, the growing importance of cybersecurity, and the cautious adoption of generative AI in government operations. Additionally, she provides insights into the complexities of working with government contracts and offers advice for businesses looking to navigate this sector. This Episode was record on 6/13/24 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:29 Jennifer's Background and Early Career01:17 Working in the Governor's Office03:07 Transition to Economic Development04:52 International Trade and Travel08:16 Economic Crisis and Recov

In this episode of SacTown Talks, host Jarhett speaks with the voice of the Assembly, David Bowman, about the intricacies and history of the California State Capitol. They discuss dining at the Capitol, changes in the legislature's working environment, and the renovations of the Capitol building. David shares fascinating historical anecdotes, including the original locations of California's capital, the construction of the Capitol building, and peculiar stories about the building's artifacts and architecture. The episode also covers how seating arrangements are determined in the Assembly, interesting details about the Assembly and Senate chambers, notable visitors to the Capitol, and David's personal involvement and experience in California politics.This Episode was record on 5/15/2400:00 Welcome to SacTown Talks00:29 Dining at the Capitol01:22 Navigating the Swing Space02:21 Committee Interactions03:30 History of the California State Capitol10:23 Capitol Renovations and Anomalies17:34 Retired Desks and Legis

In this episode of SacTown Talks, we sit down with Assembly Member Isaac Bryan, discussing his unique background growing up in a foster care family, his journey through multiple states, and his eventual relocation to California. Bryan reflects on the influence of key life events, from getting cut from his high school basketball team to his academic and professional development, leading to his passion for public policy. The conversation delves into his legislative efforts, challenges in the foster care system, the realities of housing affordability in Los Angeles, and his role as the chair of the Natural Resources Committee. Bryan shares insights on his policy work, particularly on social justice, criminal justice reform, and environmental sustainability, while navigating the complexities of California's political landscape.This Episode was record on 5/29/2400:00 Introduction and Welcome00:28 Isaac Bryan's Early Life and Foster Care Experience02:56 Challenges and Resilience in Education05:19 College Journey an

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jarrett hosts Andy Walz, President of Chevron of the Americas, for an in-depth conversation about the energy sector, Chevron's role, and the future of fuel. Andy shares his 35-year journey with Chevron, which took him and his family around the globe, from San Diego to Singapore. He discusses the division of Chevron into upstream and downstream operations, Chevron's longstanding history in California, and the challenges and transformations the energy industry faces due to environmental policies, highlighting California's pioneering role. Andy talks about the complexities of producing and pricing fuel in California, including the impact of taxes, regulations, and the state's isolation from national pipeline networks. They also delve into renewable fuels, the transition towards greener energy, and the potential of natural gas and hydrogen as future energy sources. Additionally, the conversation covers Chevron's efforts in producing renewable gasoline blends and the broader chall

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jarhett Blonien welcomes Assembly Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan to discuss a range of topics from her personal background to her legislative work in California. Bauer-Kahan reflects on her undergraduate experience at the University of Pennsylvania, her thoughts on the current state of academic institutions and student protests, and the influence of her grandparents' Holocaust survival story on her commitment to public service. She outlines her legislative focus areas, including addressing mental health, regulating artificial intelligence, ensuring data privacy, and advancing environmental protections. Specific efforts mentioned include the 988 mental health crisis hotline, AI legislation, privacy laws in the context of social media and data brokers, and initiatives to ban plastic bags in grocery stores. The conversation also touches on broader issues such as the impacts of COVID-19, homelessness, healthcare, transportation, and climate change in California. Bauer-Kahan emphasize

This episode of SacTown Talks features a detailed conversation with Senator Bill Dodd, covering his decade-long political career, contributions, and views on various issues affecting California. Senator Dodd discusses his transition from business to politics, his achievements including the passage of over a hundred bills, and his work on wildfire management, education, and community safety. He also shares insights into the challenges of maintaining a strong legislative staff, navigating the budget deficit, the significance of community colleges, and the importance of addressing the state's insurance and homelessness crisis. The senator reflects on the impact of term limits, the shifting dynamics in the Senate and Assembly, and his commitment to legislative oversight and community wellbeing in his final year in office.This Episode was record on 5/1/2400:00 Welcome to SACTown Talks: A Dive into California Politics02:22 Senator Bill Dodd's Journey: From Business to Politics06:03 Tackling Wildfires: Legislative E

This episode of SacTown Talks features an engaging conversation with Damola Ogundipe, co-founder and CEO of Plural, a company dedicated to improving the analysis of public policy documents through technology. Damola discusses the inception of Plural, its focus on utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate the understanding and tracking of legislation and regulations across all 50 U.S. states. The discussion covers Plural's journey from raising venture capital to developing AI-driven features that precede the ChatGPT explosion, highlighting the importance of AI in legislative tracking. Damola details the challenges of catering to different jurisdictions, Plural's emphasis on collaboration in public policy, and the significant impact of early investor and customer support from major organizations. The conversation also explores the future of AI in policy analysis, the strategies behind Plural's growth, the importance of a free version for public access, and Plural's unique data acquisition methods, co

This episode of SacTown Talks features Anne McLeod from the Private Essential Access Community Hospitals (PEACH) discussing the role and challenges of safety net hospitals in California. The state has about 440 hospitals, with roughly 90 designated as safety net hospitals serving vulnerable populations. These hospitals fill the gap in healthcare coverage in regions not served by the sparse public hospitals. Despite the critical services they provide, safety net hospitals face financial difficulties, with many operating at a loss due to inadequate Medi-Cal reimbursement rates, among other challenges. The discussion also touches on the impacts of COVID-19, hospital funding, the conception of a state definition for safety net hospitals, and the potential steps forward to address the system's sustainability.This episode was recorded on 4/16/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders foc