Monks & Merrill

Hour 1-Monks and Merrill are delving into the conversation about gas tax vs vehicle weight tax with Assembly Member Chris Ward. PLUS we are getting into Watson vs Republican National Committee and what that means for counting votes. It's all on KFIAM-640See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2- Monks and Merrill are talking all things fireworks just in time for the 250th birthday of America. Fireworks are illegal and they come with a fine. People are getting paid to turn in their neighbors for illegal fireworks. PLUS Lebron James left the Lakers and we check in with Matt Money Smith for the latest on KFIAM-640See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3- Monks and Merrill are covering the latest with the half way house in Santa Ana, the mayor wants to put it to an end. We hear from Mayor Amezcua with the latest. PLUS the LA zoo is not doomed but at risk. We break it down on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1- Monks and Merrill are getting into the Palisades fire mistrial and what this may mean for the lawsuits against LADWP. PLUS the Boyle Heights fire and air quality aren't the only issue. Clean up can take longer than you'd expect. We break it all down on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2- Monks and Merrill are delving into the payouts in LA county's $4 billion child abuse sexual settlement. The request to freeze payouts was denied and we are getting into it. PLUS Sushi drama. San Diego county sued 5 grocery store sushi companies for misclassifying employees as contractors or franchisees. It opened a can of worms and we are deep diving on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3- Monks and Merrill are covering the latest with sexually abused student and where LAUSD went wrong. PLUS LA28, the Olympics are around the corner and the World Cup has been an indicator of how the 2028 Olympics will be handled. We break it down on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More Monks and Merrill Hour 1 (06/27) - Conversations about A.I. is fascinating Merrill. From "world wide web" to "surfing the web" when the digital age was born, will A.I. be called "A.I." forever? A.I. has become so good, teachers can't detect it in schools. Plus, are expiration dates on food accurate? CA has a new bill taking affect on July 1 that would ban the "sell by" dates. Also, have you noticed the amount of prediction markets that are around during the FIFA World Cup? Monks and Merrill dive into what the conversations surrounding vaccines have been like since the COVID Pandemic, and what the conversations sound like today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More Monks and Merrill Hour 2 (06/27) - Hannah Brandt of NewsNation joins the show to discuss the latest push for UFO transparency as experts and lawmakers gather for the Disclosure Forum. Plus, are the needs of MacArthur Park and the plan to close Wilshire Blvd realistic? Monks & Merrill are talking to Scott Cameron, Acting Head of Reclamation, about the Colorado River water supply. Also, autonomous heavy duty trucks may be coming to a road near you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 - A massive warehouse fire in Boyle Heights has been knocked down, but the controversy is just heating up. As investigators examine reports of rotting meat, foul odors, and the site's history of safety concerns, Noah Ropp of Food & Water Watch joins us to discuss why the property had already been under scrutiny before the blaze. Then, attorney Lou Shapiro breaks down the mistrial in the Palisades Fire case and what it means going forward. Plus, a judge rejects an effort to freeze Los Angeles County's $4 billion sex abuse settlement payout, setting the stage for another major legal battle.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 California voters are set to weigh in on a controversial billionaire tax proposal this November, while the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association backs a competing anti-tax measure—setting up a major showdown over the state's financial future. Then, Jordan Harris, CEO of Solar AquaGrid, joins Monks & Merrill to discuss an innovative project that could help solve two of California's biggest challenges at once: water shortages and clean energy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 - An alleged hidden-camera scandal involving a former Orange County State Parks chief has raised disturbing questions about trust and accountability among lifeguards. At the same time, Los Angeles County and the City of Los Angeles are clashing over control of lifeguard operations and public safety. Plus, the high-profile Palisades Fire arson case ends without a verdict as a jury deadlocks, forcing a mistrial and leaving major questions unanswered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 - Michael Monks and Chris Merrill examine the aftermath of the Boyle Heights fire and the legal battle unfolding on behalf of impacted residents. Trial attorney William (Will) Sykes of Claggett & Sykes Law joins the show to discuss the victims he represents and what's next in their pursuit of justice. The hosts also cover the latest developments in the Palisades fire arson trial, the devastating earthquakes that rocked Venezuela, and what those quakes could mean for California. Plus, John Vidale, Director of the Statewide California Earthquake Center (SCEC), explains the recent seismic activity around the world and whether Californians should be paying closer attention.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 - Michael Monks and Chris Merrill tackle the red tape slowing Los Angeles' housing crisis with Nolan Gray, Senior Director of Legislation and Research at California YIMBY, who explains how bureaucracy has turned homebuilding into a waiting game—and what reforms could change that. Then, Hannah Brandt of NewsNation joins the show to discuss the latest push for UFO transparency as experts and lawmakers gather for the Disclosure Forum. Plus, the hosts break down Los Angeles' selection of a new schools superintendent following months of controversy and what the leadership change could mean for the nation's second-largest school district.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 - Michael Monks and Chris Merrill dig into the future of California's troubled high-speed rail project as private investors continue to keep their distance. Herb Morgan, candidate for California State Controller, joins the show to discuss the project's mounting challenges, costs, and what accountability should look like moving forward. The hosts also break down a jury's $6.5 million award to a man beaten by police following the Lakers' 2020 NBA Finals victory, and Missy Coleman joins to preview World Cup traffic impacts, fan zones, and what Southern Californians should expect as the tournament excitement ramps up. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 - The massive Boyle Heights fire continues to send shockwaves across Los Angeles. Michael Monks and Chris Merrill examine the growing scrutiny surrounding the company at the center of the blaze, the widespread impact of toxic smoke on neighborhoods throughout the region, and the political fallout facing Mayor Karen Bass as comparisons emerge to the Palisades fire response. Plus, former LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley takes legal action against the mayor, alleging defamatory campaign remarks and seeking personal accountability.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 - LAUSD adopts one of the nation's toughest screen-time policies for young students while approving a $21 billion budget that spends beyond current revenues and sets the stage for painful future cuts. Meanwhile, district leaders preserve a key Black student equity program amid growing financial pressures. Plus, Los Angeles voters may soon face another tax increase—this time to bolster fire services. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 - Los Angeles' Measure ULA is generating millions for affordable housing and tenant assistance, but critics say it's also slowing real estate sales, discouraging development, and reducing multifamily housing construction. Then, David Kline, Vice President of Research and Communication for CalTax, joins the show to discuss why California is bracing for one of the largest tax increases in a decade. Plus, reports of a new California exodus are emerging as brokers field a surge of inquiries from residents considering a move, while a state workers union warns that Governor Newsom's return-to-office mandate could accelerate departures from the Golden State.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1- Monks and Merrill are covering the latest with the Boyle Heights Fire and we're talking to attorney Lou Shapiro about the Palisades Fire trial. PLUS we are delving into everything World Cup. It's all on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2- Monks and Merrill are covering all things taxes. There may be a new tax measure going into effect in November. Is the Billionaire Tax happening? Do higher taxes mean a better life? We're breaking it all and MORE on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3- Monks and Merrill are talking to Scott Cameron, Acting head of reclamation, about the Colorado River water supply. PLUS CA water vs energy vs AI. Everyone is at odds. AND autonomous heavy duty trucks may be coming to a road near you. We're covering all of it on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1- Monks and Merrill are covering the latest with the Boyle Heights fire and it's impact on the air quality. PLUS Spencer Pratt is attacking Mayor Karen Bass. It's all on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2- Monks and Merrill are talking to Bob Blue about the Barry Building Demolition Project. We have an update. PLUS what the Woodland Hills Country Club fight is exposing about the housing crisis. AND MacArthur Park has had some drug operations and we're breaking it all down on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3- Monks and Merrill are the needs of MacArthur Park and the plan to close Wilshire. Is it realistic? PLUS a park in the middle of the freeway? Santa Monica may be wasting money and we're getting into all of it and more on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More Monks and Merrill Hour 1 (06/20) - From the open road to medicine cabinets to the executive suite, this episode covers a wide range of topics with insights you can use. We begin by examining the best states for road trips and the surprising reasons why California ranks near the bottom despite its famous scenery and highways. Next, we break down the differences between common pain medications, explaining how various drugs work, when they’re typically used, and what consumers should know before reaching for relief. Finally, we sit down with former CBS Radio CEO Dan Mason to discuss his new book, his decades in broadcasting, leadership lessons from the media business, and the future of radio and audio entertainment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More Monks and Merrill Hour 2 (06/20) - Monks and Merrill discuss the concerns surrounding labor and sex trafficking tied to major international sporting events, including preparations for the upcoming FIFA competitions, and discuss what SoFi Stadium and local organizers are doing to raise awareness and help prevent exploitation. Next, we speak with an Orange County high school student leading a growing movement to remove cell phones from classrooms, explaining why he believes schools should create phone-free learning environments. In the second half of the program, we explore both sides of the debate over herbicide use around local waterways.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 - From Kraft capitalizing on America's ranch obsession to the festive atmosphere surrounding the Korea-Mexico World Cup matchup, Monks & Merrill explore how global events are reshaping Los Angeles. Plus, why homeowners hoping to cash in on the World Cup may be disappointed, and the encouraging news that could keep L.A.'s Olympic transportation plans on track.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 - Monks & Merrill break down a major agreement between Uber and California attorneys that could avoid a costly ballot-box showdown. Then, new geological research warns that California may be primed for a devastating earthquake, as guest Liliane Burkhard joins the show to explain the findings. Plus, jurors hear startling details from a bizarre interview with the suspect accused in the Palisades Fire case.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 - As residents grapple with the future of their neighborhoods, Monks & Merrill examine the heated debate over rebuilding plans in Altadena following the Eaton Fire, with guest Shawna Dawson Beer joining the show to discuss community concerns. Plus, Huntington Beach finally adopts a housing plan, officials reissue a shelter-in-place order near the Boyle Heights fire, and a controversial proposal to tax property owners for cleaner streets sparks fears of gentrification.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 - A toxic ammonia leak after a massive Boyle Heights warehouse fire raises health concerns, while hundreds of frustrated residents pack an Altadena town hall over controversial rebuilding plans in the Eaton Fire zone. Plus, Los Angeles voters could soon be asked to spend more on parks—but where will the money come from? And Los Angeles Times reporter Ruben Vives joins Monks & Merrill to discuss a scathing grand jury report that says the L.A. Zoo is deteriorating, losing members, and in need of new leadership.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 - California has denied Los Angeles' request for more time on $100 million in street improvement projects, while a controversial new transportation bill is drawing criticism from drivers who fear even longer commutes. As Southern Californians grapple with the nation's highest gas prices, some are turning to public transit—evidenced by a double-digit ridership increase at Pasadena's Metro A Line stations. Guest Michael Schneider joins Monks & Merrill to discuss the future of mobility, street safety, and transportation policy across Los Angeles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 - Tensions are escalating among the states that depend on the Colorado River as critical negotiations over the West's shrinking water supply intensify. Closer to home, questions are mounting over California's water priorities and how resources are being managed amid ongoing drought concerns. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles City Council is pushing back against federal efforts to suspend funding for LAHSA and has voted to place measures on the November ballot addressing noncitizen voting and expanded police oversight. Monks & Merrill examine the growing battles over water, homelessness, and political power shaping the future of Los Angeles and the West.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1- Monks and Merrill are delving into the Palisades Fire trial and checking in with Attorney Lou Shapiro. PLUS is the BIG ONE coming? Signs are showing it just might. We're diving into it all on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2- Monks and Merrill are going to school. We are talking to Rishaan Marwaha about the smartphone ban at school . PLUS we are breaking down what we know about the UFC Freedom 250 plot. It's all on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3- Downtown LA is dead! Well that's what the reports say and Monks and Merrill are breaking it down. PLUS Irvine is taking a page right out of LA's book, AND there is an affordability crisis in OC. All these stories and more on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1- Monks and Merrill are covering the latest in SoCal. Noncitizens may get the opportunity to vote and we are explaining how and why and we hear from you. PLUS we talk to Dr. Lynn Goldman about the chemical leak in Garden Grove, and the hundreds of chemical tanks just like it around SoCal, and much more on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2- Monks and Merrill are delving into the latest with the Palisades and Lachman fire. PLUS LAPD drama. LAPD is under fire for shooting a dog when they we're responding to a news complaint and the Pasadena officer who accidentally shot another officer. We are covering it all on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3- Monks and Merrill are talking to KIRN analyst Albert Booteh Saaz about the latest with Iran and the USA. Is there finally peace in the Middle East? PLUS Newsom vs. Trump's Justice Depts. We are deep diving on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1- It was a busy weekend and Monks and Merrill are diving into the latest news stories including the FIFA World Cup. We talk to Director/Visiting Associate Clinical Professor Stephanie Richards about the Human Rights concerns during the World Cup. PLUS a lot has happened at the beaches and the California Coast is dangerous. We are talking to Watch Duty CEO John Willis. It's all on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2- Monks and Merrill are talking about the effects of the chemical spray and we talk to Supervisor Donald Wagner about everything you need to know. PLUS it's Animal Rights Awareness week and we talk to Nina Jackel, Founder of Lady Freethinker about the animal abandonment crisis. AND the another misfortune with Spencer Pratt and fire on KFIAM-640. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3- Monks and Merrill are deep diving into the herbicide fight, and we talk to Environmentalist Brent Linas about his thoughts. PLUS the latest with USA vs Iran. The war may be over but where is the relief? We get into it on KFIAM-640.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More Monks and Merrill Hour 1 (06/13) - Monks took the company car to Santa Cruz (with permission) for his week off vacation recently. He's thinking about purchasing the same car as Merrill, which is a Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid. Plus, Primm is a spooky shell of its former self. Also, when Monks gets sassy, his sassy-accent slips out, but Merrill hears it more as his Kentucky accent. Also, are you a daily user of ibuprofen?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More Monks and Merrill Hour 2 (06/13) - Metro Police Chief Bill Scott joins the show to talk about the Metro police program and applicants. Attorney Tim Scott joins the show to discuss his client's claims that a San Bernardino County deputy entered a homeowner's yard without a warrant and fatally shot the family's dog, raising questions about law enforcement procedures, property rights, and accountability. Monks and Merrill are talking to Ramiel Petros about his latest documentary The Last Guest of the Holloway Motel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 - The homelessness debate in Los Angeles reaches a boiling point. NewsNation reporter Rich McHugh joins the show to discuss the Trump administration's move to block federal homelessness funding in Los Angeles. Plus, the DEA announces new arrests and major drug seizures at MacArthur Park, questions grow over California's homelessness spending priorities, and a report reveals more than 250 taxpayer-funded LA apartments remain vacant under a key homelessness initiative championed by Mayor Bass.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 - The financial empire behind SpaceX and what an eventual IPO could mean for investors and employees. Guest Miriam Gottfried of The Wall Street Journal joins the program to discuss how SpaceX workers are getting a crash course in managing newfound wealth. Plus, one year after cellphone bans hit classrooms, educators report calmer schools and stronger student engagement, while more than 1,000 Los Angeles school employees face layoffs as districts grapple with shrinking budgets and difficult decisions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 -The L.A. County District Attorney says as many as four out of five claims tied to a $4 billion sex abuse settlement could be fraudulent, raising serious questions about accountability and taxpayer dollars. Meanwhile, county health officials are warning of potential cuts to medical services as they seek emergency funding from the state. Plus, why aren't hotels filling up despite the World Cup's arrival, and what does that mean for Los Angeles businesses? And in a surprising political crossover, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Governor Gavin Newsom are set to share a VIP box at a U.S. World Cup match.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 - The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially arrived, but the road to the games comes with plenty of twists. Michael Monks and Chris Merrill break down FIFA's ban on vuvuzelas, the cheapest ways to get to SoFi Stadium without paying hundreds for parking, and why the FIFA Fan Festival may be the best bargain in town. Plus, scorching summer temperatures could turn the tournament into a test of endurance for players and fans alike, while LA28 unveils new details on its next Olympic ticket sales phase.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 - FBI executed a search warrant at the site of the Garden Grove chemical meltdown scare, as frustrated neighbors demand answers. The hosts also examine a new Orange County Grand Jury report questioning why county supervisors control millions in discretionary funds. Plus, the search for a missing girl ends after an intense 24-hour effort amid dangerous surf conditions. Later, attorney Tim Scott joins the show to discuss his client's claims that a San Bernardino County deputy entered a homeowner's yard without a warrant and fatally shot the family's dog, raising questions about law enforcement procedures, property rights, and accountability.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 3 - FBI Raids Chemical Scare Site, Questions Over County Spending & A Deputy's Fatal Dog Shooting Controversy surrounding potentially offensive statements appearing in California voter guides and what it could mean for future elections. The hosts also break down the passage of Measure ER, which will raise Los Angeles County sales taxes to help fund public health care services. Then, a heated battle erupts at Los Angeles City Hall over a proposed rodeo ban, pitting animal welfare advocates against cultural tradition. Plus, the DEA announces another wave of arrests and illegal drug seizures at MacArthur Park as federal authorities intensify their crackdown on crime and narcotics activity in the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 1 - A pivotal day in California’s wildfire crisis: jury selection begins for the man accused of sparking the Palisades Fire, new evidence points to an idle Edison power line as the cause of the Eaton Fire, and Mayor Karen Bass’ brother sues the city after losing his home. Plus, U.S. Forest Service meteorologist Kristen Stewart joins Monks and Merrill to break down summer wildfire risks, dangerous weather conditions ahead, the rise of “wildfire deductibles” for homeowners, and how looming funding cuts could impact California’s fire prevention efforts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hour 2 - From viral chaos to a housing revolution, Monks and Merrill tackle two stories reshaping California communities. Orange County deputies respond after teens on e-bikes allegedly wreak havoc inside a Walmart, fueling concerns over a growing trend some are calling California’s "new Hells Angels." Then, housing expert Jesse Zwick joins the show to break down Measure ULA’s transfer tax and a new state law aimed at cutting through NIMBY opposition that could pave the way for up to a million new apartments and condos across California.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.