The Maddy Report

On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante sits down with Clint Olivier, CEO of the Central Valley Business Federation, for an in-depth conversation on “Sacramento Legislation and Valley Businesses.” Together, they explore how current and proposed policies in the state legislature are influencing the economic landscape of the Central Valley.

From regulatory changes to business incentives, the discussion highlights the real-world impact of Sacramento's decisions on local employers, workforce development, and the future of the region’s economy. Olivier offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Valley businesses—and how legislative engagement can drive meaningful change.

For more resources, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Levi Sumagaysay of CalMatters, Ryan Jacobsen of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, and Karen Ross, Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Together, they examine the impact of tariffs in California—especially on agriculture and the broader economy. The discussion delves into how global trade policy affects local producers, consumers, and workers, while shedding light on the state’s response to shifting international markets.

This conversation offers expert insights into the intersection of trade, policy, and agriculture in California—and the importance of strategic decision-making to protect and promote the state’s economic resilience.

For more resources, ⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante engages in a thought-provoking conversation withDarren Rose, President/ CEO at Building Industry Association of Fresno and Madera Counties and Kyle Chaney, Fresno Association of Realtors. Together, they explore the state of housing in the Central Valley, highlighting how public policy, industry trends, and local governance shape housing access and affordability. This conversation offers expert insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the region’s housing market—and the critical role policy plays in building stronger, more sustainable communities.

For more resources, ⁠⁠click here⁠⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Pete Peterson, the Dean of the School of Public Policy at Pepperdine University. Together, they delve into the importance of public policy in shaping society and how the intersection of government, law, and social issues drives meaningful change. With a focus on effective governance, Peterson offers insights into the role of education in cultivating future leaders who can navigate the complexities of policy-making. This discussion sheds light on the challenges and opportunities within public policy and its significant impact on communities nationwide.

For more resources, ⁠click here⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

On this episode of Valley Views, our Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Lois Henry, CEO and Editor of SJV Water, to share California's water challenges. As one of the most critical issues facing our state, water policy is at the center of agriculture, communities, and ecosystems across the Central Valley. Lois brings her extensive experience in reporting on water issues to discuss the current state of water policy, the implications of drought, and what’s next for California’s water future.

On this episode of the Maddy Report: Valley Views Edition, Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Ashley Swearengin, President/CEO, Central Valley Community Foundation.

On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Gabe Petek a Legislative Analyst from the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO).

On this episode of the Maddy Report: Valley Views Edition, Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Clovis Mayor Vong Mouanoutoua and Clovis Mayor Pro Tem Diane Pearce.

On this episode of the Maddy Report: Valley Views Edition, Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Clovis Mayor Vong Mouanoutoua and Clovis Mayor Pro Tem Diane Pearce.

On this episode of the Maddy Report: Valley Views Edition, Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Michael Lyman, President, Pediatric Day Health Care Coalition (PDHCC); Katelyn Ashton, President & CEO, Loretta's Little Miracles and Katie Bewarder, Valley resident and Parent.