Guest

Joel Fox, "On California" Publisher

Guest Bio 

Joel Fox is one of California’s most respected policy voices, known for his leadership of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, his work on Prop 13, and his longtime role as publisher of Fox & Hounds. With decades of experience in Sacramento, Joel served as a senior advisor to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and remains a go-to analyst on elections, tax reform, and political strategy.

Show Summary

Joel Fox passed away shortly after this episode was recorded. His decades of service to California politics, policy, and public discourse left an enduring legacy. We’re honored to share one of his final interviews.

Why has California become politically uncompetitive — and what will it take to turn things around? In this conversation, Joel Fox unpacks the rise of one-party rule, the collapse of Republican unity, and why policies like Prop 13 still matter nearly 50 years later.

He also shares insights from his time with Governor Schwarzenegger, discusses the uphill battle Rick Caruso faces in LA, and explains why the “new direction” voters crave might be closer than it seems — if the right candidates step up.

Chapters

00:00 – Why California’s One-Party Rule Is Failing

01:50 – How Republicans Can Win Again

03:00 – Stop the In-Fighting: 80% Allies Aren’t Enemies

04:40 – The Legacy & Future of Prop 13

07:58 – Working With Schwarzenegger: A Tax Story

09:00 – Can Rick Caruso Win LA Mayor in 2026?

11:30 – The Unexpected Poll Finding on Newsom

12:25 – Caruso vs. Buetner in the Westside Primary

12:50 – Rapid Fire: Fixing Representation

13:20 – What Makes Joel Hopeful

13:46 – California Is… “Dominant”

Connect with Joel Fox

• Substack: https://joelfox1.substack.com/

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Connect with State of Gold

• X: https://x.com/realjonslavet
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Guest:

Katy Grimes, Editor of the California Globe 

Guest Bio: 

Katy Grimes is the Editor of the California Globe and author of California’s War Against Donald Trump. A veteran investigative journalist with decades of experience covering Sacramento politics, she’s known for her fearless reporting on corruption, policy failures, and the unchecked power of public unions. Her work consistently challenges the status quo and gives voice to Californians who feel left behind by the system.

Show Summary

From education breakdowns to energy dysfunction, California is in crisis — and Katy Grimes is not holding back. In this hard-hitting episode, Katy joins Jon Slavet to talk about the deep-rooted problems affecting California’s schools, housing, and energy grid. She unpacks how powerful public unions, misaligned incentives, and entrenched political interests have led to rising costs, failing schools, and an exodus of residents.

Grimes also shares her perspective on the ongoing feud between Gavin Newsom and Donald Trump, and why she believes voters are hungry for real reform. Whether you agree with her or not, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

Chapters
00:00 – Welcome & Trump vs. Newsom: The War Rages On

03:10 – Democrat Supermajority: Rigging the System?

06:20 – What Happened to Balance in CA Politics

08:45 – Is the Trump-Newsom Feud Just Theater?

11:00 – Education Meltdown: What’s Gone Wrong

13:50 – The Role of Teachers Unions in the Crisis

16:05 – Why K-12 Budget Mandates Hurt Reform

18:45 – New Leadership & Breaking the CTA’s Hold

21:00 – The Governor’s Race & Poll Skepticism

24:00 – What Californians Actually Want from Government

27:05 – Defund Sacramento: Shrinking State Bureaucracy

28:50 – Rapid Fire: Hope, Change & Fixing California

Connect with Katy Grimes

• X: https://x.com/KATYSaccitizen
• X:https://x.com/CaliforniaGlobe
• Website: https://californiaglobe.com/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecaliforniaglobe/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/californiaglobe/?hl=en

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

Connect with State of Gold

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• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/about
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Guest:

Legendary Talk Show Host John Kobylt

Guest Bio: 

John Kobylt is a legendary California talk radio host and co-host of the long-running “John and Ken Show” on KFI AM 640. Known for his sharp wit, no-filter commentary, and relentless scrutiny of California politics, John has spent decades exposing the state’s political dysfunction — from homelessness to taxation to public safety failures. He’s interviewed presidents, grilled governors, and continues to be a provocative and passionate voice in the Golden State.

Show Summary

Why does California keep voting the same way while everything gets worse? In this fiery conversation, longtime talk radio host John Kobylt joins Jon Slavet to pull back the curtain on the deep-rooted dysfunction driving the state’s decline. From skyrocketing gas prices and homelessness spending scams to Gavin Newsom’s baffling popularity and what 2026 could hold, this episode takes aim at the policies — and voter psychology — that keep California stuck.

John also shares his experience interviewing Trump, his frustrations with media narratives, and why he still believes California is worth fighting for — if we can wake up.

Chapters

00:00 – Why Newsom’s Approval Rating Keeps Rising

01:12 – California’s Self-Inflicted Wounds

03:00 – Trump, Law Enforcement & Public Perception

06:45 – Is 2026 a Turning Point for Republicans?

07:50 – What Other States Are Doing Better

08:40 – Why California Gas Prices Are Outrageous

09:45 – LA’s Dysfunction & Government Collapse

11:15 – The Homeless Housing Scam Exposed

12:20 – Can Rick Caruso Make a Comeback?

13:30 – Social Media’s Role in Voter Apathy

14:45 – Rapid Fire: Kobylt’s Fix for California

15:15 – What Gives Him Hope

16:30 – California Needs an Intervention

17:00 – Why He Still Loves California

Connect with John Kobylt

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnandkenshow/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnkobyltradio/
• Twitter: https://x.com/JohnKobyltRadio
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnkobyltradio
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnKobyltShow

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

Connect with State of Gold

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Show Summary

What do leading Californians actually think about the state they call home? From frustration with government policy to unwavering pride in the state’s beauty and diversity, this bonus episode features a series of raw, honest, and surprising reflections from leaders who’ve appeared on State of Gold this season.

Hear perspectives on everything from the state’s budget crisis and housing issues to its enduring magic and promise. This isn’t about political soundbites — it’s about real voices, real opinions, and a deeper look at what makes California both broken and beautiful.

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

Connect with State of Gold

• X: https://x.com/realjonslavet
• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/about
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=en
• Website: www.stateofgold.com

Guest:

Mike Madrid, GOP Political Consult

Guest Bio: 

Mike Madrid is a veteran political strategist, co-founder of The Lincoln Project, and one of the most insightful voices on Latino voter behavior in America. A lifelong Republican and fierce critic of Trumpism, Mike has spent over three decades analyzing demographic shifts and advocating for policy-driven, people-first governance in California. He’s also the author of The Latino Century and a frequent media commentator on U.S. politics.

Show Summary

Why are Latino voters leaving both political parties behind — and what does it mean for California’s future? Mike Madrid joins Jon for a hard-hitting conversation on the evolving Latino electorate, the failures of both Democrats and Republicans, and how California’s manmade policy disasters are hurting the very people the Democratic political elite claim to support.

Mike doesn’t hold back as he critiques Republican messaging, Democratic hypocrisy on issues like CEQA, and the urgent need for bold leadership. From housing and healthcare to immigration and affordability, this episode offers a no-BS look at what’s broken in California — and how it can be fixed.

Chapters

00:00 – Latinos & California Politics

02:03 – Misconceptions About the Latino Vote

03:38 – Immigration Views Within the Latino Community

06:06 – The GOP in California: 30 Years Later

07:19 – Republican Policy Ideas vs. Party Perception

10:14 – Do Republicans Have Solutions?

12:11 – The Health Care Policy Gap

12:47 – Are Democrats Serious About Affordability?

14:40 – CEQA Reform for the Rich?

16:09 – The Irony of Democratic Policies

18:14 – What Mike Told the Senate Dems

18:37 – King for a Day: Fixing Housing

18:52 – Why Mike Is Hopeful

19:23 – Wildest Political Moment?

19:48 – Final Thoughts: California Is Broken But Fixable

Connect with Mike Madrid

• X: https://x.com/madrid_mike
• LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-madrid-5b787356
• Threads: https://www.threads.com/@madrid_mike1

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

Connect with State of Gold

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• Website: www.stateofgold.com

Guest:

Lance Christensen, Vice President of the California Policy Center 

Guest Bio: 

Lance Christensen is a policy expert and former candidate for California Superintendent of Public Instruction. He currently serves with the California Policy Center, advocating for education reform, school choice, and smarter government. With a bold voice on California’s economic and energy challenges, Lance is a leading thinker on how to restore prosperity and common sense across the state.

Show Summary

Is California’s K-12 system beyond repair — or just in need of bold reform? In this energetic conversation, Lance Christensen joins Jon to unpack the deep-rooted challenges in public education, from low literacy rates to union influence, and why many teachers still don’t know about their right to opt out of unions. They also dive into California’s failing energy policy, sky-high living costs, and the long-term economic damage of misguided climate mandates.

Lance shares what he’d do on day one if he were Governor, and why real change requires more local accountability, not just new policies. Whether you’re a parent, policymaker, or frustrated Californian — this one’s for you.

Chapters

00:00 – Why Education Affects Everyone

01:29 – California's Failing K-12 System

02:15 – The Federal Tax Credit No One’s Using

03:41 – The Power of Teachers Unions & Janus Decision

05:25 – The Impact of DEI in Schools

07:45 – The Economic Fallout of Policy Failures

09:15 – Why California Sends Jobs to Other States

10:37 – What’s Driving Sky-High Energy Prices

12:42 – We Need an “All of the Above” Energy Plan

13:37 – Wildfires Are Undermining Climate Goals

15:24 – First Moves as Governor: Expand the Legislature?

17:06 – California Leader Lance Most Admires

17:50 – Why California Is Still Worth Fighting For

Connect with Lance Christiansen

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lancechristensen
• X: https://x.com/Lance4CASuper
• Website:lancechristensen.com/ 

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

Connect with State of Gold

• X: https://x.com/realjonslavet
• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/about
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Guest:

Ethan Penner, Independent Candidate for Governor 

Guest Bio: 

Ethan Penner is a prominent investor and finance innovator best known for helping to create the modern commercial mortgage-backed securities market. Now, as an independent candidate for California governor, he’s proposing sweeping reforms—from an audacious flat tax plan to a state-run insurance mutual and a unified solution to homelessness. A thought leader who blends economic insight with a community-first vision, Penner offers a bold roadmap for revitalizing the Golden State.

Show Summary

In this compelling episode, independent gubernatorial candidate Ethan Penner lays out his radical blueprint for a better California. He breaks down his proposal to eliminate all state income and corporate taxes in favor of a single 15% consumption tax—with a built-in “prebate” for lower-income residents to avoid regressive impacts.

Penner also unveils his plan for a public, non-profit property insurance mutual to address California’s insurance crisis, plus his vision to replace the “homeless industrial complex” with one accountable statewide model. He finishes with powerful insights on education reform, including pay-for-performance family incentives, extended school hours, and working around entrenched systems like CTA to honor great teachers.

Whether you agree or not, Penner's ideas will challenge your thinking and spark conversation.

Chapters
00:00 – Ethan Penner’s Bold Tax Proposal

01:46 – Making the Tax Non-Regressive with a Pre-bate

03:51 – Tax Implications for High Earners & Behavioral Impact

06:32 – Audit Spending, Not Income

08:08 – A New Public Insurance Model for CA

11:16 – Rewarding Good Behavior with Premiums

12:54 – Statewide Fire Prevention + Early Warning Systems

14:12 – Fixing the Homelessness Crisis with One Plan

16:05 – Why the Incentive Structure Must Change

17:25 – The Education Crisis: Real Incentives for Families

18:28 – Rethinking Time in School & Homework Support

20:04 – The CTA Barrier and Talking Directly to Teachers

22:22 – Rapid Fire: First Action & Final Thoughts

Connect with Ethan Penner

• Website: https://www.pennerforgovernor.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pennerforca/
• Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pennerforca?_t=ZP-8yGvZjgEJGZ&_r=1
• X: https://x.com/pennerforca?s=21

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

Connect with State of Gold

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Guest:

Graham Knaus CEO, California State Association of Counties

Guest Bio: 

Graham Knaus is CEO of the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) – whose mission is to serve, support, and advocate for the state's 58 counties to ensure they can effectively serve their communities. With deep experience in public finance and governance, Knaus has been a fierce advocate for empowering counties to address core issues like homelessness, affordability, housing, and disaster response. He believes in a commonsense formula: Let the state set the goals, and let local governments decide how to get the job done.

Show Summary

What if California’s most expensive problems—homelessness, housing, affordability—aren’t being solved simply because no one knows who’s responsible? In this episode, Graham Knaus delivers a powerful breakdown of why top-down state mandates keep failing and what it will take to rebuild from the bottom up.From misaligned funding and broken incentives to the absence of clear accountability regarding homelessness, Knaus calls for a simple but radical shift: give local governments the authority, tools, and flexibility to meet their communities’ needs. He also shares candid insights into California’s affordability crisis, overregulation, CEQA’s unintended consequences, and what it would really take to let our counties thrive. If you're ready to understand California’s dysfunction—and how to fix it—this episode is a must.

Chapters

00:00 – The Role of Counties vs. the State

01:30 – Why Homelessness Efforts Keep Failing

04:25 – Who Should Be Accountable?

06:00 – Where the $30B Homeless Funds Went

07:25 – A Broken Housing System

09:30 – Planning for Water, Disasters & the Future

11:55 – Affordability Crisis and Overregulation

13:30 – California’s Hidden Strengths

14:08 – Rapid Fire: Governor for a Day, Jerry Brown, and What Outsiders Get Wrong

Connect with  Graham Knaus

• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graham-knaus-4102596b/

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

Connect with State of Gold

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• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/about
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=en
• Website: www.stateofgold.com

Guest Bio: 

Harmeet Dhillon is the U.S. Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, a nationally recognized constitutional attorney, and a former Republican National Committeewoman for California. Known for her legal battles on behalf of free speech and equal protection, Dhillon has taken on cases involving Big Tech censorship, UC Berkeley, and controversial DEI policies. A former candidate for RNC Chair, she now leads the federal government’s Civil Rights Division under the Trump administration, steering it in a bold new direction focused on protecting the rights of all Americans.

Show Summary

In this no-holds-barred conversation, Harmeet Dhillon joins Jon Slavet to talk about her powerful new role reshaping the Civil Rights Division of the DOJ. She discusses her ongoing investigation into UC Berkeley’s response to violent protests, explains why DEI policies may be on their way out, and shares how she's pushing back against the old status quo.

Dhillon also offers a candid diagnosis of California’s legal system, why she calls it the "utopian petri dish of bad ideas," and what she would do—if King for a day—to fix the state. Her views are bold, controversial, and grounded in decades of legal experience. Whether you agree or disagree, you’ll walk away thinking differently about the future of civil rights and California politics.

Chapters
00:00 – Why Civil Rights Should Protect All Americans

00:49 – Free Speech & Violence at UC Berkeley

02:29 – State of Free Speech on College Campuses

03:09 – Competing Trends: Conservative vs. Anti-Speech Culture

05:50 – Race in Admissions: What’s Really Changing

08:23 – Rewriting the Mission of the Civil Rights Division

11:30 – Comparing Civil Rights Priorities Under Past Administrations

13:09 – How Lawsuits & DEI Are Hurting California

15:45 – Corruption & One-Party Rule in Sacramento

17:16 – Why Californians Still Vote Blue

18:02 – If King for a Day: Dhillon’s Top Fix

18:14 – What Gives Her Hope About the State

19:31 – Admired Political Leaders & California’s Future

Connect with Harmeet Dhillon

• X: https://x.com/HarmeetKDhillon
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pnjaban/
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/harmeet-k-dhillon-543773/

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

Connect with State of Gold

• X: https://x.com/realjonslavet
• Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/about
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=en
• Website: www.stateofgold.com

Show Summary

In the Rapid-Fire close to each episode Jon asks every guest “which California leader do you most admire?” – and we’re proud to bring you some of those answers from our guests in 2025. From Ronald Reagan’s optimism and Pete Wilson’s pragmatism to Pat Brown’s legacy of building – the answers reveal a longing for principled leadership, effective governance, and the return of California’s bold vision. This is a unique reflection on the values Californians still hold — and what they want to see in the state’s future.

Chapters

00:00 – Which California Leaders Still Inspire Respect?

02:15 – Why Ronald Reagan’s Style Still Resonates

04:20 – Pete Wilson and the Art of Practical Politics

06:00 – Remembering Pat Brown’s Bold Infrastructure Vision

08:10 – Pat Brown’s Balance of Environment & Economy

09:45 – The Leadership of George Deukmejian

11:00 – Scott Wiener’s Policy Persistence

12:05 – The Power of Bipartisanship & Compassion

13:45 – Lessons from Hiram Johnson’s Reform Era

15:20 – What We Need from Today’s Leaders

17:10 – A Call for Dignity, Respect & Results

Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcast

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