PODCAST · news
SacTown Talks
by Jarhett Blonien
Weekly News Roundups and Conversations with California’s Leaders in Politics and Policy.
Episodes
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California's Criminal Justice System: Have We Forgotten the Victims?
Criminals get second chances. But what happens to the families whose loved ones never got a second chance at life? California lawmakers are rewriting criminal justice laws, expanding parole opportunities, and debating the future of incarceration. Amid these decisions, one question remains: Who is...
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What Will Decide California’s 2026 Election? | Tino Rossi
What will decide California’s 2026 election? Political strategist Tino Rossi says the defining issue crosses party lines: affordability. Tino, President of Swing Strategies, joins SacTown Talks for an inside look at the voters, races, and ballot measures shaping California’s political future....
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From Decision-Makers to Their Inner Circle: The Future of Politics & Public Affairs
What if reaching a decision-maker isn't enough? What if the people around that decision-maker are just as important? Hector Barajas sits down with Libby Hall, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs at Unearth, to discuss how technology is reshaping public affairs communications. They discuss...
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Is the “Dirty Dozen” Misleading Parents? The Science Behind Your Produce
In this episode of SacTown Talks, host Hector Barajas talks with Cameron English of the American Council on Science and Health about the “Dirty Dozen,” pesticide residues, organic vs. conventional produce, and the science behind food safety. They discuss why detection doesn’t necessarily equal...
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Are Food Safety Fears Making Us Less Healthy? | Amy Myrdal Miller
Food recalls and food safety outbreaks can be frightening. But what happens when fear causes people to avoid fruits and vegetables altogether? On this episode of SacTown Talks, Hector Barajas sits down with registered dietitian, cookbook author, and food and agriculture expert Amy Myrdal Miller…
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Why Is Gas So Expensive in California? | Jodie Muller on Energy, Jobs & Affordability
Why is gasoline so expensive in California? What happens when refineries close? Can California transition to cleaner energy without making life even more expensive for consumers? In this episode of SacTown Talks, Hector Barajas sits down with Jodie Muller of the Western States Petroleum…
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California’s Tipping-Point Economy – Jobs, Regulation, and the 2026 Ballot
On SacTown Talks, host Hector Barajas interviews Brooke Armour, executive vice president of the California Business Roundtable and president of the Center for Jobs and the Economy, about California’s economic outlook and the 2026 ballot. Armour says California added a net 200 jobs from January to...
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Rats, Disease & California Politics: The Debate Nobody Wants to Have
In this episode of Sac Town Talks, Russell Lowery welcomes Renee Pinel from Western Plant Health to discuss California’s growing rat infestation crisis and the public health, agricultural, and policy challenges tied to it. From Los Angeles overtaking Chicago as the nation’s top city for rat...
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E352: Navigating Florida's Shifting Political Landscape and National Election Dynamics with Jamie Miller
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...
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E351: End-of-Session Reflections with David Bowman
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.…
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E350: Empowering the Next Generation: APICA's Mission and Impact with Melissa Sagun & Allie Umemoto
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...
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E349: Former Democrat Assemblymember Supports Former President Trump
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....
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E348: From Assembly to Academia: Catharine Baker's Journey in Public Service and Policy
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...
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Episode Title: E347: Navigating Political Law: A Conversation with Lacey Keys
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...
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E346: Inside California Dairy: Sustainability, Regulations, and the Future with Michael Boccadoro
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…
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E345: Navigating California's Commercial Real Estate Landscape: An Interview with Matthew Hargrove
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…
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E344: The California Latino Capitol Assoc. Fndn: Building Community and Fostering Growth
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...
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E343: Inside the California Legislative Black Staff Association with Symphoni Barbee and Kapri Walker
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...
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E342: Chevron's Andy Walz Discusses Why Is Gasoline More Expensive in California Compared to Other States.
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...
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E341: Insightful Conversation with Assemblymember Marc Berman
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...
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E340: Jennifer Saha on Navigating Government Procurement and Technology
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...
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E339: Exploring the Rich History and Daily Life at the California State Capitol with David Bowman
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....
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E338:Resilience and Policy: The Journey of Assembly Member Isaac Bryan
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...
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E337: Navigating the Future of Energy with Chevron's Andy Walz
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…
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E336: California Politics and Legislative Insights with Assembly Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan
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…
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E335: A Comprehensive Insight into Senator Bill Dodd's Legislative Journey
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…
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E334: Innovating Policy Analysis with AI: The Plural Story
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...
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E333: Exploring the Challenges of California's Safety Net Hospitals with Anne McLeod
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...
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E332: Legal Recourse and Court Deference in Government with Chris Micheli
In this episode of SacTown Talks, Chris Micheli, a seasoned Attorney, Lobbyist, Author, & Professor shares insights into his move back to solo practice, his writing process for books and manuals aimed at simplifying complex legislative and lobbying processes, and his observations on changes in...
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E331: Election Insights and Voter Disconnect in California - A Deep Dive with Adam Probolsky
Today we welcome Adam Probolsky, a renowned pollster from Probolsky Research, discusses the recent election outcomes, voter sentiments, and the apparent disconnect between Californian policymakers' progressivism and the electorate's views. This episode was recorded on 4/10/2024 SacTown Talks is a...
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E330: Beyond the Wheel - Navigating Autonomous Vehicles with Adam Kovacevich
Today we welcome Adam Kovacevich, CEO and founder of the Chamber of Progress. We discuss the founding of the Chamber of Progress, the evolution of tech policy, the potential of autonomous vehicles, safety concerns, employment impact, the future of AV technology and more. This episode was recorded...
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E329: Building High-Performance Leaders with Nick Warner
Today we welcome Nick Warner of Nick Warner Consulting. After 30 years of experience in lobbying, Warner is a dedicated business coach, and hosts his own podcast 'Together at the Top'. We discuss the value of mentorship, meaningful client connections, the significance of personal development,...
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E328: From Housing to Human Rights - Assemblymember Chris Ward on Shaping the Future
Today we welcome to the program Assemblymember Chris Ward. Ward represents AD78, serves as Chair of the Assembly Housing, the Community Development Committee, as well as the Select Committee on Biotechnology. We discuss housing affordability, homelessness, utility pricing, elder scams and more....
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E327: A New Era of Politics - Assemblymember Alex Lee on Change, Challenges, and Progress
Today we welcome to the program, Assemblymember Alex Lee. Lee represents Assembly District 24 and currently serves as Chair of the Committee on Human Services, the Select Committee on Social Housing, and the Legislative Progressive Caucus. We discuss voter enthusiasm, LGBTQ+ rights, tax policies...
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E326: Exploring the Legislative Process - A Chief of Staff Perspective
Today we welcome to the program Aaron Vad, Chief of Staff to Assemblyman Connolly. Vad is one of the youngest staffers to hold a Chief of Staff position. We discuss Aaron's journey in politics, the challenges and rewards of working in the Capitol, the importance of communication and networking…
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E325: Housing, Infrastructure, and the Work Ahead with Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry
Today we welcome back to the program Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry. Aguiar-Curry represents the 4th California Assembly District. We discuss local housing, public infrastructure, mental health, supporting families and more. This episode was recorded 2/22/2024 SacTown Talks is a podcast…
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E324: Journey to the State Senate - The Christopher Cabaldon Story
Today we welcome former Mayor of West Sacramento, and current Senate candidate, Christopher Cabaldon. Cabaldon is running for Senate District 3. We discuss Cabaldon's experience as Mayor of West Sac, restoring communities, economic development, climate protection, education and more. This episode...
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E323: One Year in The Capitol with Andrew Nickens
Today we welcome back, now full-time staffer for Senator Brian Dahle, Andrew Nickens. Nickens is a UC Davis graduate and has already gained exposure fighting hard legislative battles, and we are following Nickens' journey in the Capitol. Today we discuss all he's learned in his first year, what…
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E322: Future of Sacramento - A Dialogue with Kevin McCarty
Today we welcome back to the program, Assemblymember Kevin McCarty. McCarty, a Sacramento native, represents Assembly District 06. We discuss issues in Sacramento such as homelessness, housing, public safety, and more. This episode was recorded 1/26/2024 SacTown Talks is a podcast about…
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E321: Addressing Societal Issues through the 1964 Plan - An Interview with Herby Kay
Today we welcome the great visionary Herby Kay to the program. Kay is the founder of the 1964 plan. We discuss Kay's journey from crime to visionary, the 1964 Plan, issues in crime, drug legalization, homelessness and more. This episode was recorded 1/24/2024 SacTown Talks is a podcast about...
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E320: Revitalizing San Francisco's Downtown - A Conversation with Assemblymember Matt Haney
Today we welcome Assemblymember Matt Haney to the program. Haney represents AD 17. We discuss Haney’s path to politics, issues in San Francisco such as Fentanyl, housing, as well as a look ahead to goals for 2024. This episode was recorded 1/10/2024 SacTown Talks is a podcast about California...
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E319: Manufacturing Matters - An Interview with Lance Hastings
Today we welcome back to the program Lance Hastings, President and CEO of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association. We discuss the artificial intelligence, the future of technology, California manufacturing and more. This episode was recorded 1/09/2023 SacTown Talks is a podcast…
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Interview with Kristina Bas Hamilton #2
Today we welcome back Kristina Bas Hamilton, of KBH Advocacy, to the program. Hamilton also hosts her own podcast, Blueprint for California Advocates. We discuss Hamilton’s current focuses, the affordability crisis, organizing, the California Budget and more. This episode was recorded 1/08/2024...
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Flashback: Interview with Marie Alvarado-Gil
Today we revisit our episode with Senator Alvarado-Gil from May 2023. Alvarado-Gil represents Senate District 4 and serves as State Commissioner for Special Education. The Senator and Jarhett had a fantastic discussion on education, fentanyl, public safety, and more. This episode was originally...
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Interview with Quentin Foster
Today we welcome to the program Vice President of H Cycle, Quentin Foster. H Cycle produces low-carbon hydrogen using an innovative waste processing system, redirecting municipal waste and organic waste before it hits landfills. We discuss landfill waste issues, related bills, hydrogen solutions...
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Interview with Mike Gipson #2
Today we welcome back to the program Assemblymember Mike Gipson. Gipson represents Assembly District 65 and previously served as Mayor Pro Tempore for Carson City. We take a look back and recap 2023, the budget, and goals looking ahead to 2024. This episode was recorded 12/19/2023 SacTown Talks…
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Flashback: Interview with Robert Rivas
Today we revisit our episode with now Speaker, Robert Rivas, taking the oath of office as Speaker of the California State Assembly on June 30, 2023. Prior to being elected Speaker, Rivas served as the Chair of the Assembly Agriculture Committee and as Vice-Chair of the influential Latino...
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Interview with Chris Lane
Today we welcome to the program Chris Lane, Director for Cygnal. Cygnal is known for their work in polling, analytics and targeting. We discuss Lane's journey to polling, election analytics, the 2024 presidential election and more. This episode was recorded 12/05/2023
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Interview with Roger Salazar
Today we welcome to the program Roger Salazar, President of ALZA Strategies. Salazar is known for his work in the White House under the Clinton Administration, working on the 2000 Gore campaign and as campaign press secretary for former California Governor Gray Davis. We discuss Salazar's journey...
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Interview with Devon Mathis
Today we welcome to the program Assemblymember Devon Mathis. Mathis represents Assembly District 33 and previously served as Sergeant for the Army National Guard for nearly ten years, with two combat tours in Iraq. We discuss Mathis' career, path to politics, the opioid crisis, helping veterans…
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does SacTown Talks have?
SacTown Talks currently has 235 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is SacTown Talks about?
Weekly News Roundups and Conversations with California’s Leaders in Politics and Policy.
How often does SacTown Talks release new episodes?
SacTown Talks publishes regularly with 235 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to SacTown Talks?
You can listen to SacTown Talks on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts SacTown Talks?
SacTown Talks is created and hosted by Jarhett Blonien.
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