LA County’s Public Defender Ricardo D. García joins Rodney Collins for a candid conversation about client-centered representation, Community Outreach Court, expungement clinics, and leading the nation’s largest public defender office. He shares his LA story, what “flipping the pyramid” in leadership looks like, and how technology (including AI) and community partnerships expand access to justice.

Host: Rodney Collins

Producers: Ramla Javed, Flavio Guzman Magaña, Tina Curry

Editor: Alban Kalasa

Guest: Ricardo D. García

Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all.From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose.The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.