SacTown Talks

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jarrett hosts Andy Walz, President of Chevron of the Americas, for an in-depth conversation about the energy sector, Chevron's role, and the future of fuel. Andy shares his 35-year journey with Chevron, which took him and his family around the globe, from San Diego to Singapore. He discusses the division of Chevron into upstream and downstream operations, Chevron's longstanding history in California, and the challenges and transformations the energy industry faces due to environmental policies, highlighting California's pioneering role. Andy talks about the complexities of producing and pricing fuel in California, including the impact of taxes, regulations, and the state's isolation from national pipeline networks. They also delve into renewable fuels, the transition towards greener energy, and the potential of natural gas and hydrogen as future energy sources. Additionally, the conversation covers Chevron's efforts in producing renewable gasoline blends and the broader challenges of meeting global energy needs while reducing carbon emissions. Andy emphasizes the importance of collaboration between policymakers and the energy sector to ensure energy remains affordable, reliable, and increasingly cleaner.This Episode was record on 5/9/2400:00 Welcome to SacTown Talks: A Dive into California Politics00:20 Meet Andy Walls: Chevron's Journey and Global Experiences01:47 Exploring Chevron's Operations and Innovations in the Americas02:30 California's Environmental Leadership and Chevron's Role04:39 The Evolution of Fuel: From Ethanol Blends to Renewable Diesel06:57 Navigating California's Green Transition and Fuel Affordability09:41 Legislative Impacts and the Economics of Fuel in California12:24 The Complexities of Fuel Pricing and California's Unique Challenges15:39 Refinery Dynamics and the Future of Fuel in California20:54 The Challenges of Electric Vehicle Adoption21:47 Evolving Demand for Electric Cars Amidst COVID-1923:17 The Role of Natural Gas in a Clean Energy Future25:15 Exploring Hydrogen's Potential in Reducing Carbon Emissions26:40 The Importance of Diverse Energy Solutions29:53 Innovations and Alternatives in Fuel Technology31:16 The Efficiency and Future of Oil and Gas33:06 Global Energy Needs and Environmental Responsibility35:17 Navigating Energy Policies Across Different Jurisdictions38:17 Collaboration for a Sustainable Energy Future

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Jarhett Blonien welcomes Assembly Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan to discuss a range of topics from her personal background to her legislative work in California. Bauer-Kahan reflects on her undergraduate experience at the University of Pennsylvania, her thoughts on the current state of academic institutions and student protests, and the influence of her grandparents' Holocaust survival story on her commitment to public service. She outlines her legislative focus areas, including addressing mental health, regulating artificial intelligence, ensuring data privacy, and advancing environmental protections. Specific efforts mentioned include the 988 mental health crisis hotline, AI legislation, privacy laws in the context of social media and data brokers, and initiatives to ban plastic bags in grocery stores. The conversation also touches on broader issues such as the impacts of COVID-19, homelessness, healthcare, transportation, and climate change in California. Bauer-Kahan emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation with safety and privacy protections and the role of legislation in tackling pressing societal challenges.This Episode was record on 5/2/2400:00 Welcome to SACTown Talks: A Dive into California Politics01:00 Getting Personal: Assembly Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan's Journey01:26 Navigating Student Protests and University Challenges04:13 Reflections on Assembly Tenure and COVID-19 Impact05:40 Tackling Privacy, Consumer Protection, and AI Regulation08:55 Addressing the Mental Health Crisis and Social Media's Role12:20 Privacy in the Digital Age: Rights and Regulations16:03 Legislative Impact: From Personal History to Policy Making17:52 Budget Priorities and Legislative Package for the Year22:47 Looking Ahead: Climate Change Initiatives and AI Regulation24:14 Closing Remarks and Future Aspirations30:59 Adapting to Post-COVID Legislative Dynamics33:30 Oversight and Accountability in Legislation34:16 Addressing Homelessness and Insurance Challenges39:38 Personal Insights: Commuting and Podcasts41:12 Concluding Thoughts and Future Goals

This episode of SacTown Talks features a detailed conversation with Senator Bill Dodd, covering his decade-long political career, contributions, and views on various issues affecting California. Senator Dodd discusses his transition from business to politics, his achievements including the passage of over a hundred bills, and his work on wildfire management, education, and community safety. He also shares insights into the challenges of maintaining a strong legislative staff, navigating the budget deficit, the significance of community colleges, and the importance of addressing the state's insurance and homelessness crisis. The senator reflects on the impact of term limits, the shifting dynamics in the Senate and Assembly, and his commitment to legislative oversight and community wellbeing in his final year in office.This Episode was record on 5/1/2400:00 Welcome to SACTown Talks: A Dive into California Politics02:22 Senator Bill Dodd's Journey: From Business to Politics06:03 Tackling Wildfires: Legislative Efforts and Achievements10:01 Facing California's Budget Deficit: A Legislative Perspective12:18 Championing Community Colleges: A Personal and Political Mission14:14 Addressing Police Staffing Challenges in Vallejo18:29 Navigating Committee Season: Legislative Package and Challenges19:52 Focusing on Student Success and Charter Schools20:24 Navigating Legislative Processes and Charter School Concerns21:17 International Relations: Sister State Relationships and Ukraine22:35 Reflections on Senate vs. Assembly Roles24:09 Term Limits and Legislative Experience26:02 Approaching Legislation with a New Perspective29:16 Innovations in Restaurant and Hospitality Legislation30:59 Adapting to Post-COVID Legislative Dynamics33:30 Oversight and Accountability in Legislation34:16 Addressing Homelessness and Insurance Challenges39:38 Personal Insights: Commuting and Podcasts41:12 Concluding Thoughts and Future Goals

This episode of SacTown Talks features an engaging conversation with Damola Ogundipe, co-founder and CEO of Plural, a company dedicated to improving the analysis of public policy documents through technology. Damola discusses the inception of Plural, its focus on utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate the understanding and tracking of legislation and regulations across all 50 U.S. states. The discussion covers Plural's journey from raising venture capital to developing AI-driven features that precede the ChatGPT explosion, highlighting the importance of AI in legislative tracking. Damola details the challenges of catering to different jurisdictions, Plural's emphasis on collaboration in public policy, and the significant impact of early investor and customer support from major organizations. The conversation also explores the future of AI in policy analysis, the strategies behind Plural's growth, the importance of a free version for public access, and Plural's unique data acquisition methods, concluding with Damola's basketball musings.This Episode was record on 4/17/24SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!00:00 Welcome to SacTown Talks: Introducing Damola Ogundipe00:24 The Genesis of Plural: Revolutionizing Legislative Tracking02:36 The Power of AI in Public Policy Analysis07:12 Expanding Horizons: Plural's Nationwide Coverage and Challenges09:06 The Entrepreneurial Journey: From Idea to Innovation13:24 Building a Diverse and Dynamic Team at Plural14:52 Looking Ahead: The Future of Plural and Policy Tracking18:17 The Importance of Accessibility in Public Policy Information21:44 The Challenge of Creating a Standout Tech Product24:35 Plural's Unique Approach to Legislative Tracking27:04 How to Connect with Plural and Final Thoughts

This episode of SacTown Talks features Anne McLeod from the Private Essential Access Community Hospitals (PEACH) discussing the role and challenges of safety net hospitals in California. The state has about 440 hospitals, with roughly 90 designated as safety net hospitals serving vulnerable populations. These hospitals fill the gap in healthcare coverage in regions not served by the sparse public hospitals. Despite the critical services they provide, safety net hospitals face financial difficulties, with many operating at a loss due to inadequate Medi-Cal reimbursement rates, among other challenges. The discussion also touches on the impacts of COVID-19, hospital funding, the conception of a state definition for safety net hospitals, and the potential steps forward to address the system's sustainability.This episode was recorded on 4/16/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!00:00 Welcome to SACTown Talks: A Deep Dive into Peach Hospitals00:29 Understanding Peach Hospitals: The Safety Net for Vulnerable Populations03:37 The Landscape of California's Hospitals: Ownership, Mission, and Challenges06:27 The Impact of COVID-19 on Community Safety Net Hospitals13:05 Financial Struggles and the Future of Safety Net Hospitals24:50 Addressing Homelessness and Healthcare Inequity29:13 The Complex Economics of Hospital Funding in California31:32 Exploring the Financial Dynamics of Healthcare32:07 The Complexities of Hospital Funding During COVID32:30 Debating the Viability of Single Payer Healthcare33:44 The Challenge of Equitable Healthcare Financing34:15 Learning from Other States: A Comparative Approach34:43 Innovative Funding and Regional Healthcare Solutions41:21 Navigating Hospital Costs and Pricing Mysteries45:33 From Banking to Healthcare: A CEO's Journey47:55 Policy Making and Advocacy in Healthcare54:28 Strategic Initiatives for Hospital Sustainability57:44 Navigating Legislative Challenges in Healthcare58:59 Looking Ahead: Potential Solutions and Voter Engagement59:25 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

In this episode of SacTown Talks, Chris Micheli, a seasoned Attorney, Lobbyist, Author, & Professor shares insights into his move back to solo practice, his writing process for books and manuals aimed at simplifying complex legislative and lobbying processes, and his observations on changes in legislative activities and office dynamics post-COVID. Chris Micheli, who has penned multiple practical guides and is preparing for the publication of a revised lobbying manual, discusses the importance of being present in the Capitol to stay informed and influence effectively. The conversation also touches upon his teaching endeavors, the evolution of lobbying techniques, and how technology has altered legislative interactions. Finally, Micheli encourages listeners to engage with him on social media for educational content.This episode was recorded on 4/12/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more! 00:00 Welcome to SacTown Talks: A Sunny Day in Sacramento00:41 Diving into Chris Michelii's Literary World02:44 The Transition to Solo Practice and Office Moves05:16 Navigating the Legislative Landscape: AI, Budgets, and Hot Topics07:01 The Impact of Homelessness Funding and Budget Surpluses11:08 A Deep Dive into Legislative Data and Writing Process15:32 The Art of Writing: From Inspiration to Publication20:27 Navigating the Complexities of Case Books21:05 The Role of AI in Legal Analysis and Education21:47 Teaching Law in the Digital Age21:52 Insights into California's Legislative Process24:18 The Evolution of Legislative Practices32:32 Challenges and Strategies in Lobbying36:42 Adapting to Technological Changes in Lawmaking40:02 Connecting and Learning in the Digital Era

Today we welcome Adam Probolsky, a renowned pollster from Probolsky Research, discusses the recent election outcomes, voter sentiments, and the apparent disconnect between Californian policymakers' progressivism and the electorate's views.This episode was recorded on 4/10/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!00:00 Exploring the Disconnect in California's Political Landscape00:45 Welcome Back to SacTown Talks with Adam Probolsky01:00 Analyzing California's Election Surprises and Voter Sentiments01:47 The Public's Disconnect with Progressive Policies and Homelessness Issues03:56 Polling Insights: Californians' Views on Taxes, Housing, and Desalination06:53 Election Trends and the Impact of Voter Turnout Models14:07 The Role of Negative Campaigning and Voter Perception19:22 Adapting Polling Strategies to Reach Diverse Voter Demographics28:30 Comparing California's Unique Challenges to Other States30:23 Deep Dive into Community Sentiments and Polling Techniques32:12 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Today we welcome Adam Kovacevich, CEO and founder of the Chamber of Progress. We discuss the founding of the Chamber of Progress, the evolution of tech policy, the potential of autonomous vehicles, safety concerns, employment impact, the future of AV technology and more.This episode was recorded 3/26/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome Nick Warner of Nick Warner Consulting. After 30 years of experience in lobbying, Warner is a dedicated business coach, and hosts his own podcast 'Together at the Top'. We discuss the value of mentorship, meaningful client connections, the significance of personal development, podcasting for businesses and more.This episode was recorded 3/19/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome to the program Assemblymember Chris Ward. Ward represents AD78, serves as Chair of the Assembly Housing, the Community Development Committee, as well as the Select Committee on Biotechnology. We discuss housing affordability, homelessness, utility pricing, elder scams and more.This episode was recorded 3/13/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome to the program, Assemblymember Alex Lee. Lee represents Assembly District 24 and currently serves as Chair of the Committee on Human Services, the Select Committee on Social Housing, and the Legislative Progressive Caucus. We discuss voter enthusiasm, LGBTQ+ rights, tax policies and more.This episode was recorded 3/7/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome to the program Aaron Vad, Chief of Staff to Assemblyman Connolly. Vad is one of the youngest staffers to hold a Chief of Staff position. We discuss Aaron's journey in politics, the challenges and rewards of working in the Capitol, the importance of communication and networking, and more.This episode was recorded 3/5/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome back to the program Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry. Aguiar-Curry represents the 4th California Assembly District. We discuss local housing, public infrastructure, mental health, supporting families and more.This episode was recorded 2/22/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome former Mayor of West Sacramento, and current Senate candidate, Christopher Cabaldon. Cabaldon is running for Senate District 3. We discuss Cabaldon's experience as Mayor of West Sac, restoring communities, economic development, climate protection, education and more. This episode was recorded 2/8/2024 SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome back, now full-time staffer for Senator Brian Dahle, Andrew Nickens. Nickens is a UC Davis graduate and has already gained exposure fighting hard legislative battles, and we are following Nickens' journey in the Capitol. Today we discuss all he's learned in his first year, what has been most helpful, advice for fellows and more.This episode was recorded 1/26/24SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome back to the program, Assemblymember Kevin McCarty. McCarty, a Sacramento native, represents Assembly District 06. We discuss issues in Sacramento such as homelessness, housing, public safety, and more.This episode was recorded 1/26/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome the great visionary Herby Kay to the program. Kay is the founder of the 1964 plan. We discuss Kay's journey from crime to visionary, the 1964 Plan, issues in crime, drug legalization, homelessness and more.This episode was recorded 1/24/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome Assemblymember Matt Haney to the program. Haney represents AD 17. We discuss Haney’s path to politics, issues in San Francisco such as Fentanyl, housing, as well as a look ahead to goals for 2024.This episode was recorded 1/10/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome back to the program Lance Hastings, President and CEO of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association. We discuss the artificial intelligence, the future of technology, California manufacturing and more.This episode was recorded 1/09/2023SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!

Today we welcome back Kristina Bas Hamilton, of KBH Advocacy, to the program. Hamilton also hosts her own podcast, Blueprint for California Advocates. We discuss Hamilton’s current focuses, the affordability crisis, organizing, the California Budget and more.This episode was recorded 1/08/2024SacTown Talks is a podcast about California politics, policy and culture. We feature interviews with California political leaders, and analysis by experts and insiders focusing on the Capitol. Like, share, and subscribe to learn more!