Social Venture Podcast with Joe Mkhitaryan

Can Antonio Villaraigosa Fix California? | Social Venture Podcast #016


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This week, we’re joined by none other than Antonio Villaraigosa — former Mayor of Los Angeles and now a contender in the race to become California’s next governor.In this candid, wide-ranging interview, Villaraigosa reflects on his tough upbringing in East L.A., his transformation from a self-described “bad kid” into a community organizer, lawmaker, and eventually the mayor of one of the most complex cities in the world. We unpack what it was like managing Los Angeles through crises and reform efforts, and why — despite everything — he's ready to jump back into public service at the state level.💬 Topics Covered:His run for Governor of CaliforniaThe state’s growing homelessness and housing crisisThe rise in crime and public safety concernsThe failure of public schools and what real reform looks likeWhat he learned from leading L.A. through its most pressing challengesThe roots of his resilience — growing up in poverty, gang culture, and struggleHis thoughts on Skid Row, inequality, and whether real change is possibleThis episode goes beyond the headlines to explore the human side of leadership, redemption, and ambition. Whether you agree with his politics or not, Villaraigosa offers a rare, unfiltered look at power, mistakes, and what it truly means to serve.👉 Subscribe for more conversations with changemakers, leaders, and disruptors.INSTA: @The_SocialventureTiktok: @SocialVenture

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Social Venture Podcast with Joe MkhitaryanBy Tom Bystrek