SacTown Talks

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 Welcome

00:36 Disillusionment with the Democratic Party

02:14 Post-COVID Economic Challenges

04:14 Housing Crisis in California

09:01 National Economic Concerns

17:10 Retail Theft and Crime in California

23:56 California's Tax System and Budget Deficits

32:41 Democratic Party Politics and Primary Process

40:59 Swing State Sentiments and Election Outlook

49:32 Conclusion and Farewell

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 8/23/24

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:29 Catharine Baker's Early Life and Career Beginnings

01:03 Entering Politics: The Great Recession and Campaigns

03:16 Running for State Assembly and Winning

06:06 Challenges and Experiences in the Assembly

08:05 Facing Political Realities and Party Dynamics

11:41 Impact of National Politics on Local Elections

14:27 Returning to the Law Firm and Community Service

14:54 Serving on the Fair Political Practices Commission

15:14 Insights from the 2014 Race and FPPC Work

17:11 Challenges and Reforms in Campaign Finance

19:01 The Role of Transparency in Democracy

22:08 Legislative Experience and Bill Proposals

25:15 New Role at UC Student Policy Center

27:50 Future Initiatives and Collaboration

34:48 Conclusion and Contact Information

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 8/5/24

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:37 Lacey Keys' Background and Career Path

04:13 Transition to Independent Practice

05:52 Understanding Political Law and Lobbying

13:56 FPPC and Lobbying Compliance

32:08 Advice for Aspiring Political Lawyers

35:48 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 8/2/24

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:23 Michael Boccadoro's Early Career

01:45 Transition to Dairy Industry

03:19 Public Affairs and Lobbying

03:43 Regulatory Challenges in Agriculture

07:13 California Dairy Cares: Mission and Impact

09:05 California's Dairy Production and Global Market

18:52 Environmental Sustainability in Dairy Farming

21:58 Innovations in Methane Reduction

27:38 Cost-Effective Climate Solutions

28:04 Challenges in Greenhouse Gas Reduction

28:47 Comparing Project Costs

29:47 California's Aggressive Climate Goals

31:44 Economic Impacts of Climate Policies

35:35 Dairy Industry's Role in Climate Goals

37:29 Innovations in Methane Reduction

40:42 Nutritional Importance of Dairy

42:48 Legislative Outreach and Dairy Farming

47:43 Collaborative Efforts in Agriculture

50:33 Future Funding and Policy Needs

52:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 Welcome

00:37 Matthew Hargrove's Early Career

01:57 Working with Brooks Firestone

06:04 Transition to UC Davis

08:09 Joining the California Business Properties Association

11:46 Challenges in Commercial Real Estate

21:29 Propositions and Legislative Concerns

25:19 Introduction to Propositions 33 and 34

26:35 Retail Theft Legislation and Initiatives

27:24 The Taxpayer Protection Act: Background and Challenges

33:19 Shifts in Voter Concerns and Polling Insights

34:51 Commercial Real Estate's Role in Housing Solutions

38:20 Challenges of Office to Housing Conversions

46:15 Legislative Efforts and Upcoming Lobby Day

54:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 Welcome

00:45 Backgrounds of Andres Ramirez and Brandon Garcia

04:06 Joining the California Latino Capital Association

07:55 Navigating the Pandemic as Young Professionals

14:01 Importance of Networking and Mentorship

21:32 Events and Programs of the Association

25:35 Outreach and Future Plans

31:16 Conclusion and Contact Information

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 7/19/24

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:25 Meet Symphony Barbee

01:52 Meet Capri Walker

02:45 Founding the Association

05:08 Challenges and Achievements

06:20 Mentorship and Support

08:47 Fellowship Experiences

10:43 Personal Backgrounds

21:46 Navigating Career Paths

25:20 Imposter Syndrome

29:14 Collaboration with the Black Caucus

31:43 Future Plans and Events

37:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

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 Talks

00:20 Meet Andy Walz, President of Chevron Americas

00:34 Andy's Journey with Chevron

01:14 Living Around the World with Chevron

01:47 Chevron's Operations in the Americas

02:30 California's Impact on Chevron's Business

04:39 The Evolution of Fuel and Renewable Energy

06:57 Challenges and Future of Renewable Fuels

09:41 California's Gas Prices and Legislation

12:26 The Impact of California's Policies on Chevron

20:54 Concerns About California's Energy Strategy

21:47 Impact of Electric Cars on Demand

23:17 The Role of Natural Gas in the Energy Future

25:15 Exploring Hydrogen as an Alternative Fuel

27:52 The Efficiency of Gasoline vs. Alternatives

31:16 Future of Oil and Technological Innovations

33:06 Global Energy Needs and Challenges

38:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 recorded on 6/18/24

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:25 Mark Berman's Early Life and Career Beginnings

01:54 Campaign Experiences and Political Insights

02:41 Reflections on Political Campaigns and Colleagues

05:08 Transition to Law School and Community Involvement

08:21 Running for City Council and Assembly

12:56 Election Night and Initial Assembly Experience

13:52 Impact of COVID-19 on Legislative Work

16:24 The Ghost Town Capitol

17:11 Building Relationships During COVID

18:36 Politics of Palo Alto

18:56 Housing Crisis and Environmental Impact

23:36 Legislative Focus and Tech Education

28:11 Budget Challenges and Priorities

30:01 Business and Professions Committee Insights

32:28 Conclusion and Farewell

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 recorded on 6/13/24
 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:29 Jennifer's Background and Early Career

01:17 Working in the Governor's Office

03:07 Transition to Economic Development

04:52 International Trade and Travel

08:16 Economic Crisis and Recovery Task Force

10:39 Transition to Jerry Brown's Administration

13:25 Modernizing Government Technology

18:28 Starting Golden Bridge Strategies

22:39 Early Clients and Pandemic Impact

23:45 Navigating Government Procurement

24:39 Growing the Team

25:09 Procurement Lobbying

26:53 Challenges in Government Contracts

31:11 Public Procurement Process

41:17 Adoption of AI in Government

45:42 Conclusion and Contact Information