Southern Californians may be short on time but they are never short on curiosity. Every Friday, Spectrum News 1 political reporter and anchor Alex Cohen gives listeners the important local news and information SoCal needs to know in one fell swoop. In just about 17 minutes, listeners will get informed on the issues affecting Southern California. Featuring occasional interviews with SoCal newsmakers, “SoCal in 17” is the definitive weekly podcast for those living in and around Los Angeles.
California's primary election is a little over two weeks away, and big money is making its way into local races — pitting moderate Democrats against progressive Democrats.
Plus, the Senate race heats up with Rep. Adam Schiff launching ads featuring Republican Steve Garvey. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and co-host Sara Sadhwani look into whether Schiff could be trying to elevate his profile to his benefit.
Finally, tides shift when it comes to campaigning, with many candidates pivoting from traditional exposure outlets like debates to joining TikTok.
Rep. Adam Schiff continues in the lead in California's Senate race, but former professional baseball player Steve Garvey poses a threat to another Democrat that aspires to make it to the general election ballot.
Plus, after Nikki Haley's embarrassing defeat in Nevada, what her candidacy brings to the presidential race.
Finally, "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and Ben Oreskes from the LA Times discuss the latest blow to journalism and what the future of their profession looks like amid a changing landscape.
Immigration seems to be the No. 1 issue across the country, and Republicans are attempting to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas over it.
The issue will play out in some congressional districts in California, potentially shifting the balance of power in the House. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down those races in the Golden State.
Then, Rep. Katie Porter's U.S. House seat is open as she runs for Senate, and two Democrats are battling each other to keep it blue.
And cleanup on aisle 6. Gov. Gavin Newsom went shopping at Target and you won't believe what happened.
Republican strategist Anne Hyde Dunsmore joins "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen to dissect former President Donald Trump's sweeping win in New Hampshire and how Nikki Haley has managed to get under his skin.
Plus, Republican Steve Garvey joins three Democratic candidates on stage in the Senate race, but his chances of making it on the ballot could depend on one Democrat in particular.
Finally, the plan that could already be in play by democrats to have Gov. Gavin Newsom replace President Joe Biden on the presidential ticket.
As "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen is on a much-deserved break, co-host Sara Sadhwani is joined by Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez to discuss her role in selecting the LA Police Department's next chief of police.
Plus, as a member of the Housing and Homelessness Committee, Rodriguez comments on the cost of Mayor Karen Bass' Inside Safe program and a settlement to provide 20,000 beds for homeless people.
Finally, Rodriguez shares her thoughts on the efforts of another councilmember to ban rodeos in the city.
Gov. Gavin Newsom revealed his budget plans to address an almost $38 billion deficit this week. During the presentation, he slammed the Wall Street Journal for a recent wealth tax editorial.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break it down.
Then, there's been some notable departures in leadership in Los Angeles. Both the LA Times executive editor and the LADWP president stepped down from their roles.
And Hunter Biden caused a commotion in Congress before his court appearance in downtown LA.
In This Episode * Read the Governor's Budget Summary * Read the Politico piece on Anthony York
A local bakery closed its doors after three decades and blamed the high cost of doing business in California.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani look at the trend that could further impact the states' $68 billion deficit.
Also, the attempt to get former President Donald Trump off of the primary ballot in California highlights a divide between Gov. Gavin Newsom and his lieutenant governor.
Lastly, they discuss the disruption that protesters calling for a cease-fire in Gaza caused on the first day of California legislative session.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen wraps up the year by interviewing California Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, who Politico recently described as an "ambitious politician."
Bryan comments on that label and explains why he opposed a bill to make the sex trafficking of a minor a serious crime in California.
Plus, he outlines his priorities as the new chair of the Natural Resources Committee.
As we wrap up the year, "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen is bringing listeners conversations with politicians who are ones to watch in 2024, including California's Attorney General Rob Bonta.
Bonta discusses his approach to fighting climate change and recent changes in school districts through litigation, his successful lawsuits against the Trump administration and his interest in running for governor.
Bonta was tapped to be the new attorney general when Xavier Becera took on a new role in the Biden administration.
Malibu's own Hunter Biden, beaten down and his reputation in the mud, makes his case for redemption — on the steps of Congress.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the additional scrutiny he is facing.
Then, traffic jams are nothing new in Los Angeles, but a recent one that impacted the 110 Freeway was politically motivated.
What message did it send and will it change anyone's mind?
And it's the most wonderful time of the year, with a number of elected officials celebrating their year anniversary. LA Mayor Karen Bass was one of them, and the hosts look back at her time in office and impact.
Kevin McCarthy has had enough and is heading home. Hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the startling development and what it means for both Congress and California.
Plus, President Joe Biden is coming to town. They look at his fundraising plans in Southern California amid his reelection campaign and Israel-Hamas cease-fire calls.
Then, Lindsey Horvath recently became the youngest Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors chair, which is telling of how age is playing a role in current politics — especially in thinking about the upcoming presidential election.
And finally, a look at the new LA report detailing how 6 out of 10 city employees don’t actually live in LA. Alex and Sara discuss the catch-22 tied to the report.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani deconstruct the red state, blue state debate between Ron DeSantis and Gavin Newsom that came with a side helping of Sean Hannity. Who won? Does anyone care?
Speaking of Newsom, his plan to help those struggling with mental health issues launches in Los Angeles County. What kind of legacy will Care Court be for him?
And a breakdown of the independent redistricting coming to Los Angeles.
Then a look at the late Sandra Day O'Connor's connection to California. She was the first woman to serve in the U.S. Supreme Court.
As tradition has it, November is full of surprises in the world of politics, and Thanksgiving week was no different.
Coming off the heals of the Democratic Convention in Sacramento, Rep. Tony Cárdenas declared he would not seek reelection next year for the 29th Congressional District seat representing the San Fernando Valley.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani explain the significance of Cárdenas making his announcement after the convention.
Plus, back from the event, Sara reports on the Israeli-Palestinian protests that shut the convention down.
And a look at who's in and who's out for the most powerful posts in the California Assembly.
Lastly, something to be thankful for. The reopening of Interstate 10 happened sooner than expected following a fire.
While the smoldering 10 Freeway slowed to a stop, the blame game was full speed ahead. Gov. Gavin Newsom confirmed the fire was believed to be arson, but there were plenty of opinions flying around.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and guest host Kate Cagle run headfirst into the fire zone and attempt to sort out the mess.
This week, the Los Angeles City Council also approved a 4% increase in rents next year for units under the city's rent stabilization ordinance. Is an eviction tsunami on the way?
Then, they discuss the first LA County district attorney debate, featuring the incumbent George Gascón.
Down in Santa Ana, the recall effort failed, allowing Santa Ana City Councilmember Jessie Lopez to hang on to her seat.
And finally, 'tis the holiday season and the LA Police Department opens its shop for those looking for gifts.
Buckle up. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani try to make sense of the "topsy-turvy" events in local politics.
This week, brawls broke out at the Los Angeles Museum of Tolerance when a film screened about the Hamas attack on Israel. And earlier in the week, an altercation at a Westlake Village rally tied to the Israel-Hamas war led to a man's death. Sara, who works on a college campus, explains how students are fired up as the Middle East situation intensifies.
Meanwhile, Gov. Gavin Newsom's popularity has declined amid negative headlines and his recent trip to China, despite the fact that his policies remain popular. California voters also seem generally unhappy with President Joe Biden as of late.
On more local levels, Alex and Sara address LA Councilmember John Lee suing the Ethics Commission after it accused him of violations. Meanwhile, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo remains in hot water after she recently crashed into two vehicles and was booked on suspicion of DUI.
And down in Orange County, a judge has refused to halt an ongoing recall election against Santa Ana Councilmember Jessie Lopez.
The situation in the Middle East continues to have ripple effects in Southern California, causing a divide even among those on the left. Protest at college campuses and across the city have given a rise to antisemitic events.
Earlier this week, one such event took place at Canter's Deli, where slurs were spray painted on the side of the building.
And another salacious scandal rocks Los Angeles City Hall — this time after a councilman's aide makes Holocaust jokes about comedian Amy Schumer on social media.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani have the inside scoop on the fallout.
Then, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green introduced a motion to censure Rep. Rashida Talib for her response to the hospital bombing in Gaza and later went on Tucker Carlson's show to call out Rep. Young Kim from Orange County.
And the latest Cook report was released, and it's unclear if some Republicans in California will be able to hold on to their seats. A look at how the Golden State could play a big role in the 2024 elections.
And finally, there’s so much going on in Santa Ana, including redistricting, elections and recalls. Get a breakdown.
More than three weeks after the ouster of Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the saga to find the next speaker of the House is finally over - will the left's simmering rage at the election of Speaker Mike Johnson mean trouble for SoCal Republican representatives? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani weigh the possibilities.
And a look at the job that Laphonza Butler said she will not run for after she's done filling the Senate seat left vacant by Dianne Feinstein's death.
Then, a look at what Gov. Gavin Newsom did and did not do during his visits to Israel and China.
Finally, why Mark Gonzalez, the LA County Democratic Party chair and candidate for Assembly District 54, didn't make the list of endorsements by The Stonewall Democrats.
It's been a wild ride in the ongoing House speaker vote and so has it been for the conflict in the Middle East.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss how the battle for leadership in Congress and the Middle East war have roiled Southern California politics.
Recently, a Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors meeting turned contentious when they took up a resolution condemning the attack on Israel. And protesters stood in front of Vice President Kamala Harris' Brentwood home demanding a cease-fire.
Then, a candidate forum for the district attorneys race gave voice to those in the race vying to replace George Gascón.
And finally, a former TV journalist enters the race for the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein's seat, joining Reps. Katie Porter, Adam Schiff and Barbara Lee.
The Palestinian and Israeli conflict that has lit up the Middle East has drawn battle lines in SoCal as well. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani dig deep into the ripple effect it's had on local politics.
Then, this past week was the one-year anniversary of the leaked City Hall recordings. Find out what the impact has been in Los Angeles.
And in the race for the White House, Californian candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has decided to run as an Independent. Alex and Sara look into what that might do to this election.
Chaos in the House overshadowed the passing of Sen. Dianne Feinstein, with SoCal native Kevin McCarthy being ousted as speaker this week.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani get their arms around the life and legend of the late senator. They also discuss what it means for the U.S. Senate and Laphonza Butler's appointment to complete the late senator's term.
Then they dive into the historic ouster of McCarthy and look at what's next for the California native.
And they dive into what former President Donald Trump's presence in Anaheim means for the future of the California GOP.
Hot on the heels of the Republican presidential debate in Simi Valley, all eyes turn to Anaheim, which is hosting the California Republican Convention. Among those attending is former President Donald J. Trump.
In this episode taped before the news of California Sen. Dianne Feinstein death was announced, “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the debate and name the winners: unfazed Trump and Gavin Newsom — and neither was at the Ronald Reagan Library.
Then, the race for LA City Council District 14 is also heating up with a lot of candidates, including incumbent Councilmember Kevin de León. De León, who did not resign after the leaked City Hall tapes, recently announced he will seek reelection next year.
And speaking of the tapes, Nury Martinez will tell her side of the story for the first time in a podcast with LAist.
On this week’s episode, GOP strategist and fundraiser Anne Hyde Dunsmore joins “Inside the Issues” podcast host Alex Cohen to break down the NPP (no party preference phenomenon) and how it is weakening the GOP.
As the gap between Democrats and Republicans grows, Dunsmore says some voters believe the two-party system can be the biggest obstacle to solutions.
Dunsmore breaks down the gender, age and income of those who choose NPP, and discusses the results of a recent poll that could give the GOP a glimmer of hope with voters as the 2024 presidential election kicks into high gear.
Former Los Angeles Sheriff Alex Villanueva, thrashed in his re-election bid, announces a run for a county supervisor.
"Inside the Issues" podcast hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani wonder whether he's motivated by public service or revenge on the supervisors who made his term one long political slugfest.
Also on this week's episode, LA City Council's redistricting commission and Alex talks to Republican presidential candidate Douglas James Burgum, who discusses what Californians can learn about the world of high-tech.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass had a meeting of the minds this week at City Hall about homelessness. Along with other city mayors, they meet with Biden senior adviser Tom Perez.
Perez preached optimism, not futility, when discussing LA homelessness. When is a fed not a fatalist?
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani examine this "Kumbaya" attitude change and what it means for SoCal.
Plus, a look at new polls. One shows former President Donald Trump has a lead among Republican voters in California for the March 5 primary. The other looks at the Senate race heating up in California and shows Rep. Adam Schiff leading.
And the hot labor summer is now dragging into fall. This week, President Biden congratulated dockworkers on their contract, but what about all the other work stoppage?
Finally, the campaign of a politician running for office sent out the wrong photo of the candidate. How Kevin Sabellico reacted to the mess up and what it says about him.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass had a meeting of the minds this week at City Hall about homelessness. Along with other city majors, they meet with Biden senior adviser Tom Perez.
Perez preached optimism, not futility, when discussing LA homelessness. When is a fed not a fatalist?
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani examine this "Kumbaya" attitude change and what it means for SoCal.
Plus, a look at new polls. One shows former President Donald Trump has a lead among Republican voters in California for the March 5 primary. The other looks at the Senate race heating up in California and shows Rep. Adam Schiff leading.
And the hot labor summer is now dragging into fall. This week, President Biden congratulated dockworkers on their contract, but what about all the other work stoppage?
Finally, the campaign of a politician running for office sent out the wrong photo of the candidate. How Kevin Sabellico reacted to the mess up and what it says about him.
This week, former Supervisor and Los Angeles City Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison, with the judge specifically saying they wanted to make an example out of him.
Ridley-Thomas dug in his heels with a statement before the sentencing, but was convicted anyway. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani take a look at the man who majored in ethics at USC, then was busted for an ethics violation in a case involving USC.
Then a sex trafficking bill introduced by state Sen. Shannon Grove in Sacramento is causing a kerfuffle with all sorts of LA implications.
Also, will the debate between Gov. Gavin Newson and Gov. Ron DeSantis actually happen?
And a look at how a political force in the San Fernando Valley is being honored for her work after being recently diagnosed with terminal cancer.
The first event of the 2024 presidential election cycle took place in Milwaukee. And California took center stage when participants brought up the topic of crime and safety. It happened on the same night a mass shooting in Orange County claimed the lives of four people, including the gunman.
The Republican debate, sans Donald Trump, had a lot of oratory, but was there any substance? “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break it down and talk the candidates’ strategy.
Then a discussion about the controversy surrounding LGBTQ youth that has protesters facing off over parental rights. It’s gotten so heated that just this week, a store owner in Lake Arrowhead was killed over a Pride flag.
Finally, it’s been busy at City Hall. Last week, the Los Angeles City Council rejected LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia’s pick for the ethics commission and this week, they approved the LA Police Department contract.
There is now a fourth indictment against former President Donald Trump, and while it's all playing out in Georgia, there's a California connection: a former dean and professor at Chapman law school.
Trump attorney John Eastman, who was among the 19 indicted, does not want to be disbarred, and he does not want to be disgraced — will he be successful at either? "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani breakdown this battle royale.
Then a look at the latest developments in the Bulgari hotel project that has divided neighbors who have concerns about its impact.
And they dive into the politics of a recent spate of smash-and-grab robberies in SoCal.
Los Angeles City Council member Curren Price returned to City Hall this week after being booked on corruption charges.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Sara Sadhwani and co-host Kate Cagle, who is filling in for Alex Cohen, discuss his return. Will he pay a price for his alleged transgressions, or will all be forgiven?
This week also saw the hot labor summer continue to heat up with LA city workers hitting the picket lines just like writers, actors and hotel workers.
And some new LA council members have gotten into trouble with activists, including Council member Eunisses Hernandez. She questioned whether preserving the home of Morris Kight would be the right move because of the city's housing crisis when the council debated its historic monument designation.
Some serious presidential politics are happening across Southern California. Former President Donald Trump announced he'll attend the GOP convention in Anaheim. The second GOP primary debate will take place at the Ronald Reagan Library. And the California GOP recently held a fundraiser for Kennedy scion Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The anti-mask and anti-vax Democrat stormed into the Southland seeking supporters and donators.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani analyze his campaign and wonder whether RFK Jr. can sway people.
And Los Angeles isn't the only SoCal city with corruption concerns. A look at what is going on in Anaheim and the allegations made regarding $1.5 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
Then, LA City Council members return from recess as the eviction moratorium ends. Could an eviction tsunami be on the way?
And even Taylor Swift's concerts at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood have gotten political. Some politicians, including Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, have asked Swift to postpone her shows in support of striking hotel workers.
While workers battle for wages on the ground, our representatives look to the sky - is it a bird, is it a plane, or is it a UFO?
California Rep. Robert Garcia was the leading Democrat on the subcommittee held on Unidentified Aerial Phenomena. He said the American people deserved transparency.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani ask whether you believe. Do you believe the truth is out there? Do you believe those striking will get what they're asking for?
UPS workers already have, and they're on the verge of avoiding a strike. Their deal just needs to be ratified with a vote. But the hot labor summer continues, as hotel workers continue with a third wave of their strike that's having some unintended consequences.
This week, protesters showed up at the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors meeting just like they have at the LA City Council meetings. And a newly elected council member is calling for more decorum.
And finally, a former employee at the Federation of Labor is being investigated in connection with the City Hall leaked tapes.
Trouble at the border, trouble in the sheriff's office and trouble in Hollywood. The long hot summer has things sizzling in Southern California.
And it's been made even more complicated due to a memo that came from City Hall cautioning elected officials not to take sides.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and guest co-host Kate Cagle break down the strikes and their impact on the city.
Plus, an explanation on why another bus of migrants recently arrived in Los Angeles. And the latest on the use-of-force incidents for which the LA County Sheriff's Department is under investigation.
Finally, a look at who won at the Echo Park Lotus Festival dragon boat races over the weekend.
Homelessness is up in the county and city of Los Angeles, according to the latest homelessness count. Host Alex Cohen recounts her trip to Portland that shed light on how bad the situation can get. Could LA be next?
She and "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" co-host Sara Sadhwani dive into the nitty gritty. Plus, what LA can do to avoid the same fate?
Then, the latest on the Skid Row Trust and the LA City Council District 6 special election.
Plus, how the Council avoided the timing of the certification by making Imelda Padilla a temporary member. And City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto avoids protesters.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" revisits a past episode with former Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Bonin. He and his family were the targets of the vicious, racist City Hall recordings — he talks about their cause and effects.
It is that time of the year when lawmakers are trying to figure out what can be done with the money the state has.
A $32 billion, with a capital "B," deficit would terrify most politicians, but not Anthony Rendon — he's got this.
On this special episode, Rendon joins "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen to discuss the state budget, his journey to becoming a politician and why he is leaving his post as the assembly speaker after seven years.
Plus, what he's most proud of accomplishing.
Days after being voted as the new president pro tempore amid the latest Los Angeles City Hall scandal, Council member Marqueece Harris-Dawson joins "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen.
Harris-Dawson, who represents Council District 8, replaced Council member Curren Price. Price stepped down as president pro tempore after being charged with embezzlement, perjury and conflict of interest.
On this special episode, Harris-Dawson opens up about whether racist prosecutors target Black politicians.
"It feels like we are being hunted," Harris-Dawson said.
It's been an extraordinary week in Southern California politics, with the fourth City Council politician facing criminal charges in four years.
Councilman Curren Price was charged earlier this week with 10 counts of embezzlement, perjury and conflict of interest.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down what it means for folks in District 9. Plus, why now and why are other local politicians saddened by the situation?
Plus, a look at the parallels with former President Donald Trump's indictment.
And the connection to the Council District 6 election, which has candidates Marisa Alcaraz and Imelda Padilla, who is currently the environmental policy director and deputy chief of staff to Price, running the spot vacated by former LA City Council president Nury Martinez.
Glendale school parents erupted and disrupted in protest outside the district's headquarters — all over a Pride proposal.
Last week, a similar situation happened in North Hollywood, where parents disagreed on what should and shouldn't be taught in schools.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss the issues and ask why now and who should be responsible for teaching children?
Then, the immigration debate heats up again with the latest edition of Gov. Gavin Newsom vs. Gov. Ron DeSantis. Just this week, migrants seeking asylum were flown and dropped off in
Sacramento in a move indicating they were California's responsibility.
And more on the housing crisis with a string of eviction notices leading to growing concerns about a Skid Row receiver that city officials installed to oversee the buildings.
Plus, the Ad Hoc City Governance Committee's final public hearing at City Hall is happening Monday. It's the last opportunity for residents to weigh in on independent redistricting and increasing the size of the LA City Council.
"Don't agonize, organize!" That was the theme of the state Democratic Party convention held over the weekend in Los Angeles.
Nancy Pelosi was in town, and so were other U.S. Senate contenders. Adam Schiff, who is serious about being serious, let his inner comedian loose at the convention.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss the potential factors that voters may use to decide who will replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein.
And a major factor in the state's tourism industry is the disruption that Airbnb and Vrbo have caused by contributing to the housing crisis. They also break down new laws that might come down the pipeline regarding this hot topic.
Plus a look at the power of Asian American voters in Los Angeles City Council elections, and a look ahead at what is happening during Pride Month.
The Dodgers invited, then rescinded and then invited back the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, an order of queer and trans nuns, after receiving backlash from local and national politicians chiming in.
Then, the Los Angeles City Council is all for an independent redistricting commission — as long as it reports to them. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the fight for control.
And the Council approved the city's budget with Council member Eunisses Hernandez being the lone vote saying no.
The "robot dog" was also approved by the Council with some members absent.
And the latest on luxury hotels, including the LVMH luxury hotel project that Beverly Hills residents voted on to decide its fate.
This week, Council member Katy Young Yaroslavsky lost her bid to block a controversial development in Benedict Canyon.
And on Mother's Day, Los Angeles political firebrand Gloria Molina died after a battle with cancer. Her influence has left its mark in City Hall and in the community that continues to mourn the trailblazer.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss her political legacy and why her purity made her so special.
And a look at why LA Mayor Karen Bass is unconcerned that the City Council is weighing in on her budget. Bass also traveled to Sacramento to lobby for more money for her homelessness budget.
Then, Gov. Gavin Newsom's explanation of why the state budget has grown to $31.5 billion.
And former LA Mayor Eric Garcetti is back as ambassador to India. He sent his first dispatch from India and it was pure Eric Garcetti.
After an extended absence, Sen. Dianne Feinstein returned to the Capitol this week in a wheelchair. Should she walk away from the Senate?
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani wonder if the legendary legislator is way too far past her prime.
Feinstein's return happened during a pretty big week for the Biden administration, when Title 42 and the COVID-19 public health emergency are set to end.
The Biden-Harris campaign also announced its 50-member board, including eight Californians. Notably missing from the list is Feinstein.
It's also budget season and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has been getting some pushback on hers from the City Council.
And things got a little spicy on Cinco de Mayo when Councilman Kevin de León gave a presentation that got disrupted by a protester, who had a knife.
A recent Los Angeles Times report estimated that SoCal's snowpack level is at 254% above normal and most of the state is no longer in a drought. But what will happen when the temperatures warm?
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" co-host Sara Sadhwani and climate guru Dr. Michael Mendez look at a looming problem: the inevitable consequences of a melting mass of mountain snow sliding onto SoCal.
They also dive into the intensifying Los Angeles City Council District 14 race to replace Council member Kevin de León, who has been roiled by controversy following the leaked racist tape scandal.
This week also marked May Day, also known as International Workers' Day. They break down how the labor movement is also embracing the mitigation of climate change, since farmworkers are being disproportionately impacted.
It's official. President Joe Biden announced his reelection bid this week.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss all the California angles, including the Californians running against him and Gov. Gavin Newsom's Biden endorsement. Could Newsom's allyship pay off?
Loyalty is a word usually not associated with politicians, except if that politician is Biden — just ask Eric Garcetti.
Then, allies form in Sacramento in the debate over fentanyl in an attempt to curb its use.
And taxpayers spent $400,000 on security at City Hall in the wake of the leaked racist conversation. Was that too much?
In Orange County, the election shuffle continues with Harley Rouda bowing out of the congressional race. Who is still in the running?
Los Angeles is not where it should be, but a new LA is possible. That was the message that Mayor Karen Bass delivered during her first State of the City address.
A day later, Bass announced her $13 billion city budget, which includes a push to hire more LA Police Department officers. She described it as an investment.
“Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down Bass’ announcements.
Then, they discuss how the city, LAPD and police union are spinning the “undercover cop” scandal, which began when the LAPD released police officer information to a journalist and it was published.
And the latest on the political musical chairs.
It was a messy week in SoCal politics at the national level with calls for Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s resignation. And locally, some were not happy with the Los Angeles City Council appointing Heather Hutt to complete the remainder of the term of former Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas.
“Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani delve into the council races, where one will get a special election but not Council District 10.
They also discuss LA Assemblyman Miguel Santiago’s announcement that he will seek to unseat embattled Councilman Kevin de León.
Then, they break down the accusations of workplace harassment that LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia is facing.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani talk about the man, the myth, the convicted felon: enigmatic former Los Angeles politician Mark Ridley-Thomas.
And they discuss the future of District 10 and the potential for a special election and what it may cost the city to hold one.
Plus, Alex and Sara break down the latest results in the District 6 special election and preview what Friday’s results could tell us.
Also, they talk about Gov. Gavin Newsom’s new political action committee where he has pledged to boost Democrats in the reddest of red states ahead of the 2024 election in preparation for what could be a future run for president.
The bribery trial of former Los Angeles City Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas continues as the LA Unified School District strike ended.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani look into the federal trial of Ridley-Thomas, who was charged with 19 counts of bribery and corruption.
And they discuss another council member, Hugo Soto-Martinez, who made a bold move this week by having the fence around Echo Park come down.
Plus, they break down the special election of council District 6 and the politics of the three-day LAUSD walkout.
This week officially marked the first 100 days of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in office.
Bass touted her homeless stats, but were they hopeful, or just hype?
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss the impact she has had on the city so far.
And they look at the political implications of the LA Unified School District strike, which overshadowed Bass' 100th day when members of the Service Employees International Union Local 99 took to the picket lines amid stalled labor talks to demand a salary boost.
Then, former LA Mayor Eric Garcetti — who facilitated the end of the 2019 teachers' strike — finally got the votes to become the next United States ambassador to India following a long confirmation process.
Gov. Gavin Newsom is forgoing a typical State of the State address this year. Instead, he is opting for a statewide tour to highlight his major policy goals.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down Newsom's unique take on the address.
They also discuss the Los Angeles City Council District 6 special election to replace former President and Councilwoman Nury Martinez following her resignation amid the City Hall scandal.
Plus, President Joe Biden recently visited California to talk about international relations and gun control. Alex and Sara discuss the significance of Biden selecting the state.
And they chat about Ed Begley Jr. The actor is showing up all over the place from riding Metro to the Oscars to making political endorsements.
Is Los Angeles ready for a 300-pound crime-fighting canine?
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen and special co-host Kate Cagle bite into the robodog controversy.
Then, LA doubles down on becoming a sanctuary city by taking a step forward from the current symbolic measure to wanting to codify policies. They discuss what it would mean for undocumented immigrants.
And LA District Attorney George Gascón had a very bad, no-good week after losing a retaliation case. With 16 similar suits waiting in the wings, could this be a grim omen for him?
President Joe Biden on Tuesday nominated Julie Su to lead the U.S. Department of Labor. If confirmed, the former head of the California labor department would become the first Asian American cabinet secretary in the Biden administration.
“Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss Su’s politically charged, probably difficult, path to become Biden’s labor secretary.
They also analyze former Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti’s journey to becoming the U.S. ambassador to India after the president renominated him.
And they talk about the Los Angeles County supervisors considering an expansion of their five-member board that represents nearly 10 million residents.
This week, Rep. Barbara Lee officially announced her campaign for the U.S. Senate in California, joining a competitive Democratic primary to fill retiring Sen. Dianne Feinstein's seat.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the candidacy of Lee, who has the reputation — but it takes more than street cred to win an election. It takes big bucks — and Rep. Adam Schiff has the bankroll.
And they look at the battle heating up between State Sen. Maria Elena Durazo and the Los Angeles City Council over how to draw district lines fairly and equitably.
It wasn’t a shock when Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s office announced she would step down, but the news still made headlines. A staffer had to correct the 89-year-old about the statement announcing her decision to retire from her Senate seat.
“Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani ruminate on the “maybe she did, maybe she didn’t" announcement of Feinstein’s retirement.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen sits down with former Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Bonin, who gets personal about the City Hall tape scandal, the effect on his family and his own future.
This week, Californians saw the ripple effects of recent mass shootings in the state with lawmakers trying to revive legislation to strengthen the state's restrictions on who can carry loaded firearms in public.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani examine Gov. Gavin Newsom's no holds barred political war on concealed weapons.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen sits down with two members of Congress this week.
Rep. Judy Chu, who used to be the mayor of Monterey Park, tries to make sense of the mass shooting that left eleven dead and a community in mourning over the Lunar New Year weekend.
Also, Rep. Adam Schiff, who has announced he is running for Senate, explains why he was kicked off the House Select Intelligence Committee.
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The more things change, the more they stay the same — at least at Los Angeles City Hall, where the City Council voted to create and transfer $50 million into an emergency fund for Mayor Karen Bass to use at her discretion.
It was a show of support for her efforts to address the homelessness crisis, but why now and why this way? At the county level, the Board of Supervisors is having a hard time agreeing on the best way to launch CARE court — a new statewide approach to treatment for people struggling with serious mental illness.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss the new normal that is making it tough to get anything done.
Rep. Katie Porter tossed her hat in the ring for Sen. Dianne Feinstein's Senate seat. Los Angeles City Councilman Kevin de León continues to show up at LA City Council meetings amid protests. And Kevin McCarthy became the speaker of the House after 15 votes.
From Capitol Hill to LA City Hall, "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss the bold moves of these California politicians.
From immigrant to mayor of Long Beach to the U.S. Congress, "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" co-host Sara Sadhwani welcomes Robert Garcia. The newly elected, openly gay congressman talks about his remarkable journey.
From child star to a revered politician, former Los Angeles County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl joins “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” host Alex Cohen to discuss her career arc in a free-swinging interview.
Karen Bass, who was sworn in as Los Angeles' first female mayor less than two weeks ago, has hit the ground running by declaring a state of emergency on homelessness on Day 1 of her administration. "Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen speaks with Mayor Bass on her plans for getting a handle on homelessness, her dream project of beautifying LA and building her administration.
It was the Oscars of Los Angeles politics. Former Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti was there and so was Vice President Kamala Harris, who swore in the city's first woman and the second Black person to be elected mayor in the City of Angels.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down LA Mayor Karen Bass' inauguration and its political repercussions.
From a new initiative on redistricting being advanced by the state to Sheriff Robert Luna officially assuming duties and appointing his undersheriff, it was a busy week in local politics.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down the changes.
Angelenos did away with many incumbents during the elections and voted for many political newcomers, including Kenneth Mejia. Now comes a period of transition, where he and others must decide who they want on their team.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss one of Mejia's appointments, and point out that getting the job and doing the job are two different things.
Angelenos did away with many incumbents during the elections and voted for many political newcomers, including Kenneth Mejia. Now comes a period of transition, where he and others must decide who they want on their team.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani discuss one of Mejia's appointments, and point out that getting the job and doing the job are two different things.
Kenneth Mejia, a 32-year-old accountant, defeated three-term Los Angeles City Councilman Paul Koretz in the race for LA city controller.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Alex Cohen talks to the newly elected Mejia to discuss campaign tactics, the thrill of winning and his plans for the LA Police Department.
U.S. Rep. Karen Bass defeated developer Rick Caruso in the Los Angeles mayoral race, becoming the first woman elected to lead the city.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" host Sara Sadhwani and guest, UCLA professor of political science and psychology Efrén Pérez, break down the nail-biting SoCal political races, including the hotly contested mayoral race between Bass and Caruso and the congressional battle between Mike Garcia and Christy Smith.
On Election Day, Rick Caruso went to Boyle Heights to cast his vote. While he doesn't live in the area, it was a strategic move for the LA mayoral candidate.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani point out Caruso's not-so-secret campaign strategy: woo the votes of the oft-ignored Latino and Asian American electorates.
Election season brought forth several scandals, including the Los Angeles City Hall audio leak and the attack of Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband. But in California, another battle is brewing, thanks to the top-two primary system.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani dive into the vicious Democrat versus Democrat political races in SoCal.
Rep. Karen Bass and billionaire developer Rick Caruso, who are vying to become the next mayor of Los Angeles, faced off in the latest, and final, mayoral candidate forum.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani dissect the forum held at the Jewish Federation of Greater LA.
LA City Councilman Kevin de León has announced he will not resign amid an uproar over a leaked tape that revealed him participating in a meeting in which Latino officials made racist remarks.
"Inside the Issues: The Podcast" hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani have plenty to say about de León's defiant resistance to the calls for his resignation.
About the Podcast In the official companion podcast to her nightly show, "Inside The Issues,” Spectrum News 1 political anchor Alex Cohen brings listeners inside the world of SoCal politics. From the personalities to the races and what goes on behind closed doors, Alex and political science professor Sara Sadhwani cover it all. Join every Thursday for a spirited discussion that's as informative as it is fun.
A leaked conversation between three Los Angeles City Council members and a top labor leader that included racist remarks has roiled City Hall. “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani dive headfirst into the scandal and fallout.
About the Podcast In the official companion podcast to her nightly show, "Inside The Issues,” Spectrum News 1 political anchor Alex Cohen brings listeners inside the world of SoCal politics. From the personalities to the races and what goes on behind closed doors, Alex and political science professor Sara Sadhwani cover it all. Join every Thursday for a spirited discussion that's as informative as it is fun.
This week, it came out that billionaire developer Rick Caruso, who is trying to become the next mayor of Los Angeles, has already spent more than $60 million in the race against Rep. Karen Bass. “Inside the Issues: The Podcast” hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down how the candidates are spending the money.
On the debut episode of the new "Inside the Issues: The Podcast," hosts Alex Cohen and Sara Sadhwani break down a contentious county supervisor race and discuss the ramifications of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade back in June, which has become a hot topic this election season.
In the official companion podcast to her nightly show, "Inside The Issues”, Spectrum News 1 political anchor Alex Cohen brings listeners inside the world of SoCal politics. From the personalities, to the races and what goes on behind closed doors, Alex and political science professor Sara Sadhwani cover it all. Join every Thursday for a spirited discussion that's as informative as it is fun.
Former Long Beach Police Chief Robert Luna has picked up the endorsement of all five Los Angeles County supervisors and all the other candidates for sheriff he defeated in the primary.
He joins us this week to talk about why he got into law enforcement and what he would do about alleged deputy gangs if elected.
Plus, a special announcement from the SoCal in 17 team.
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As Southern California faces blistering heat, we're joined by Los Angeles Chief Heat Officer Marta Segura, who is one of just three in the country. Segura opens up about how her parents' struggle with heat-related illness informed her approach to this new and critical role, and she shares her vision for the job.
Plus, LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger on why we cannot let ourselves think this week was just a weird, warm fluke.
As classes resume at the University of Southern California, we are joined by professor Manuel Pastor, who teaches a course called “Los Angeles and the American Dream.” He shares how LA holds a special place in the American narrative — a land of great opportunity but also great disparity.
We then speak with Joaquin Esquivel, chair of the State Water Resources Control Board, about how his upbringing in the Coachella Valley has influenced his strategy on conservation.
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This week, Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva is back with us to discuss why he has not shown up at recent hearings of the LA County Civilian Oversight Commission investigating deputy gangs. He also shares his thoughts about the approved measure that will allow voters to decide whether the LA County Board of Supervisors can remove a sheriff.
Then, Inspector General Max Huntsman offers his take on the sheriff's behavior and what has been happening within the department for decades.
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Show Notes:
Sheriff Alex Villanueva @lacosheriff
LA County Civilian Oversight Commission @LACountyCOC
This is an encore episode. To listen to the original episode from Feb. 18, 2022, click here.
What would California look like if we eliminated poverty? According to former Stockton mayor Michael Tubbs, that's no science fiction plot but rather a plausible version of our future. Tubbs recently launched a new initiative called End Poverty in California. He joins us to explain his EPIC vision and how important personal narratives are when it comes to understanding the lives of poor people.
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In this Episode * Visit the EPIC website * Find EPIC on Twitter @EndPovertyCA
This is an encore episode. To listen to the original podcast from Dec. 17, 2021, click here.
Republicans talk in headlines, Democrats speak in fine print, so how can those on the Left do a better job of messaging?
Last December, Ben Meiselas, host of "The MeidasTouch" podcast, joined us to talk about creating an effective political message and why many Democrats are lousy at it.
Plus, Rep. Katie Porter shared her approach for selling the American public on the Build Back Better Act.
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This is an encore episode. To listen to the original podcast from Sept. 3, 2021, click here.
In 2021, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Assemblyman Rob Bonta to the role of California Attorney General after Xavier Becerra was confirmed as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.
Bonta sprung into action in his first hundred days by combating hate incidents against the Asian American Pacific Islander Community and cracking down on privately owned prisons and immigration detention centers. Bonta joined "SoCal in 17" to discuss these actions and what he sees as his role as California's first Filipino attorney general.
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This is an encore episode. To listen to the original podcast from Oct. 1, 2021, click here.
Last fall, after weeks of speculation, Rep. Karen Bass made it official she was running to be the next mayor of Los Angeles.
At the time, she joined us to share why.
Find out more about just how deep her LA roots go and why she almost did not get into politics at all. Plus, we discuss what went wrong with the bipartisan police reform bill she co-authored and Congress failed to pass.
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This is an encore episode. To listen to the original podcast from Feb. 4, 2022, click here.
As tensions escalate between Russia and Ukraine, we're bringing you a conversation with Russia expert Dr. Fiona Hill, who dives into her experience working in the Trump administration and what it was like to testify before Congress on Russia's interference in the 2016 presidential election. Hill recently penned a memoir called "There is Nothing for You Here," where she reveals a lot about her life, work and how gender has played into her career in politics.
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This is an encore episode. To listen to the original podcast from July 30, 2021, click here.
This week, Gov. Gavin Newsom and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia duked it out on Twitter over vaccines.
Find out why politicians thrive on spewing COVID-19 falsehoods and why regular Joes are using codewords like Maxine instead of vaccine and Moana instead of Moderna with former White House COVID-19 adviser Andy Slavitt.
The "In the Bubble" podcast host explains why he's not too concerned about vaccinated folks getting COVID-19 and why requiring vaccinations or regular testing for city and state employees is the right move right now.
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This is an encore episode. To listen to the original episode from March 11, 2022, click here.
Oscar-nominated filmmaker Adam McKay is with us to talk about his latest film “Don’t Look Up” and how life imitated art, which imitated life. The man behind the “Anchorman” franchise also opens up about his beef with broadcast news and how he thinks it could be better.
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As a filmmaker, mother of four and wife of California’s governor, Jennifer Siebel Newsom knows a thing or two about trying to balance work and family. Her new documentary “Fair Play” looks at the imbalanced gender dynamic that exists in many American households and the toll it takes on our society. The first partner joins host Alex Cohen to discuss the film, her own personal experiences in this realm and her thoughts on Roe v. Wade.
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In this Episode * Follow Jennifer Siebel Newsom on Twitter: @JenSiebelNewsom * "Fair Play" website: https://www.fairplaylife.com/documentary
As the House Committee on Jan. 6 wraps up its fifth public hearing, we're joined by member Adam Schiff of Burbank. The Democrat breaks down what the goals of the committee are and how they hope to get there.
Plus, Brian Levin, director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at Cal State University, San Bernardino, discusses the role of groups like the Proud Boys and the Oathkeepers and why their rhetoric resonates so strongly in places like Southern California.
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This Father's Day weekend, we talk about dads and how they are portrayed on television with Geena Davis. Her Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media recently published a new report titled "This is US? How TV Does and Doesn't Get Men's Caregiving."
Davis explains why Hollywood needs to do better than bumbling dads like Homer Simpson.
Plus, local writer and mom Suzanne Barston sheds light on the long-standing debate over formula feeding and why it's getting more heated as formula has been scarce.
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One big night with so many contests — this week, voters cast their choices on dozens of political contests with huge implications for California’s future. We break down the results with “Inside Golden State Politics” host Sherry Bebitch Jeffe and CalMatters reporter Ben Christopher.
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California Senate leader Toni Atkins — who has repeatedly made history in state politics — joins us to talk about her experiences as an openly gay legislator.
She also discusses her work at Southern California clinics, which offer abortions and how that has shaped her views on reproductive rights.
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California's First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joins us to talk about gender and guns. On the gender front, she responds to a recent ruling by a judge overturning a state law which requires companies based in California to have at least one woman on their boards. Siebel Newsom shares why that's important, plus, how she plans to fight back against the decision.
As the mother of four young kids, the First Partner responds to this week's horrific mass shooting in Texas.
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After the killing of George Floyd in Minnesota, millions of dollars poured into the accounts of the Black Lives Matter Global Foundation Network.
Critics, including BLM leaders, have complained about how the money has been spent. This week, investigative journalist Sean Campbell joins host Alex Cohen to discuss the investigation on the organization and its acquisition of a $6 million house in Studio City.
One of Black Lives Matter's original founders, Dr. Melina Abdullah, also joins us to respond to the concerns.
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In this Episode * Find Sean Campbell on Twitter: @Sean_Kev * Find Melina Abdullah on Twitter: @DocMellyMel * Black Lives Matter LA: “This is not a Drill” sessions * Read Sean’s article
This Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, host Alex Cohen is joined by voiceover artist Rosalie Chiang who got a huge break when she landed the leading role of Meilin Lee in the Disney/Pixar film "Turning Red."
Chiang shares what it was like to go through puberty at the same time as her animated character.
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This Mother’s Day weekend, we are joined by local author and mom Anna Malaika Tubbs. Her new book, “The Three Mothers,” shines a light on the difficult and often overlooked work of Black mothers, and explores the lives of the women who birthed and raised Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X and James Baldwin.
She and host Alex Cohen also talk about the best gifts one can give to mothers everywhere. Hint: It’s NOT flowers or chocolate!
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In this Episode * Find Anna Malaika Tubbs on Twitter: @annas_tea_
On April 29, 1992, a jury in Los Angeles found four police officers not guilty of use of excessive force in the beating of Rodney King. A video of that beating had gone viral and had set the city on edge.
In this week's episode, we hear about the days of unrest that followed which resulted in more than 50 deaths and approximately a billion dollars worth of damage. First, journalist Héctor Tobar talks about covering the story for the LA Times, and former LA County district attorney Gil Garcetti, who is also Mayor Eric Garcetti's father, shares how the experience influenced his career as the region's top prosecutor.
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In this Episode * Find Héctor Tobar on Twitter: @TobarWriter * Find Gil Garcetti on Instagram
This Earth Day weekend, “SoCal in 17” brings you a special episode featuring Wade Crowfoot, California’s Natural Resources Secretary, talking about the drought. Crowfoot explains why he and Gov. Gavin Newsom do not think it is time just yet for mandatory water cutbacks.
Plus, Sanden Totten from the “Brains On!” podcast drops by to talk about their new book, “Earth Friend Forever,” and how to talk to kids about sustainability without freaking them out.
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In this Episode * Find Wade Crowfoot on Twitter: @wadecrowfoot * Find Sanden Totten on Twitter: @sandentotten * Find "Brains On!" on Twitter: @brains_on
The contest to replace Eric Garcetti as the next mayor of Los Angeles is heating up. Which candidate will get your vote?
This week, we bring you a special episode, featuring four of the leading candidates. They shared their stances on everything from homelessness to traffic with host Alex Cohen at a forum sponsored by the LA Business Council.
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In this Episode * Find Karen Bass on Twitter: @KarenBassLA * Find Joe Buscaino on Twitter: @JoeBuscaino * Find Kevin de Leon on Twitter: @kdeleon * Find Mike Feuer on Twitter: @Mike_Feuer * Find the Los Angeles Business Council on Twitter: labctweets
Frustration over years of watching Muslim women depicted as either super timid and ruled by men or hypersexualized, casting director Serena Rasoul decided it was time for a change. Through a partnership with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, Rasoul developed "Surviving to Thriving: Muslim Women on Screen Test."
Rasoul and filmmaker Iman Zawahry join host Alex Cohen to talk about how Hollywood can do better on this front.
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In this Episode * Find Serena Rasoul on Twitter: @serenarasoul and @MuslimCasting * Find Iman Zawahry on Twitter: @imanzawahry * Find the Geena Davis Institute on Twitter: @GeenaDavisOrg * Muslim Women On-Screen Test
On Monday, the Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to vote on Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, President Joe Biden’s pick for the Supreme Court. Rep. Barbara Lee joins us to discuss Jackson’s confirmation hearing and how race and gender shaped the intense questioning Jackson faced as the first Black woman nominated to the court.
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California has led the nation when it comes to laws designed to bring gender equity to the workplace. This week, in honor of Women’s History Month, we chat with one of the architects of several of those laws — former State Sen. Hannah Beth Jackson. The Democrat who spent over two decades in the state Legislature opens up about why she fought for the rights of women and families during her time in office.
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In this Episode * Visit the California Partners Project website
California has led the nation when it comes to laws designed to bring gender equity to the workplace. This week, in honor of Women’s History Month, we chat with one of the architects of several of those laws — former State Sen. Hannah Beth Jackson. The Democrat who spent over two decades in the state Legislature opens up about why she fought for the rights of women and families during her time in office.
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In this Episode * Visit the California Partners Project website
Oscar winners Phil Lord and Christopher Miller join us to talk about their latest animated adventure “The Mitchells vs. the Machines,” which just won the Critic’s Choice Award. They open up about their own parents’ concerns about them becoming animated filmmakers and why they didn’t want to beat audiences over the head with the notion of a queer protagonist.
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In this Episode * Check out Lindsay Olivares on Instagram * See the Oscar tweet
Oscar-nominated filmmaker Adam McKay is with us to talk about his latest film “Don’t Look Up” and how life imitated art, which imitated life. The man behind the “Anchorman” franchise also opens up about his beef with broadcast news and how he thinks it could be better.
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The LA County Board of Supervisors is set to vote on whether to take the duty of enforcing vaccine rules away from Sheriff Alex Villanueva. The sheriff has said this move would be akin to forming a suicide pact. He joins us this week to explain why he's clashing with the board and the impact it could have on staffing issues and crime rates in the region.
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In this Episode * See the Kern County ad
Most Angelenos know Roy Choi as a legendary chef and the pioneer of the gourmet food truck movement. It turns out he's also an incredibly talented TV show host, but not the typical celebrity chef you see on the small screen. This week, Roy Choi joins us to talk about his show on KCET called "Broken Bread." In it, he travels throughout our region, making food, eating food and digging into some of the most pressing issues facing Southern California.
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In this Episode * Visit the "Broken Bread" show website
What would California look like if we eliminated poverty? According to former Stockton mayor Michael Tubbs, that's no science fiction plot but rather a plausible version of our future. Tubbs recently launched a new initiative called End Poverty in California. He joins us to explain his EPIC vision and how important personal narratives are when it comes to understanding the lives of poor people.
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In this Episode * Visit the EPIC website * Find EPIC on Twitter @EndPovertyCA
Andy Slavitt, host of the wildly popular pandemic podcast "In the Bubble," is back with us this week to answer the question we're all thinking about: How the heck will we know when the worst of COVID is behind us? It turns out he's got some questions for host Alex Cohen, too.
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In this Episode * Read the Twitter thread mentioned
As tensions escalate between Russia and Ukraine, we're bringing you a conversation with Russia expert Dr. Fiona Hill, who dives into her experience working in the Trump administration and what it was like to testify before Congress on Russia's interference in the 2016 presidential election. Hill recently penned a memoir called "There is Nothing for You Here," where she reveals a lot about her life, work and how gender has played into her career in politics.
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More than a half-century ago, Dolores Huerta helped found the United Farm Workers Labor Union. Since then, her life and work have been honored in all sorts of ways, including having local high schools named after her to a pair of Vans shoes. The labor leader joins us to talk about the challenges facing farmworkers and what she makes of the debate on race in this nation.
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In this Episode * Dolores Huerta Foundation
Los Angeles-based conservative radio host Larry Elder won more votes than any other candidate vying to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom last fall. And yet, Elder says he won't be running for governor again in 2022. This week, Elder shares what's behind his decision and why he's not yet ruling out politics as a career choice.
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In this Episode * Larry Elder's website Elder for America
With kids back at school and the omicron variant all around, there is more need for tests than ever. But lately, they've been hard to come by, and results have been delayed as labs are inundated. We're joined by Ann Lee, who, along with Sean Penn, started CORE Response, one of the largest providers of tests in the nation. Plus, Dr. David Agus of USC explains the role of communication in fighting COVID-19 and how scientists may have failed us on that front.
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COVID-19 cases are exploding across the state as the omicron variant surges and hospitalizations rise once again. Nurse practitioner James Q. Simmons opens up about the tremendous emotional toll of exhaustion and depression roiling California's health care workers two years into the pandemic. Plus, Dr. Catherine Blish of Stanford University gives us the skinny on fat and why people who are obese and overweight may develop some of the most severe cases of COVID-19.
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In this Episode * Watch Simmons' Instagram video from a year ago
More people have died of COVID-19 in California than in any other state in the nation, putting the state's funeral industry under tremendous strain. Back in March, when case numbers were declining, host Alex Cohen and mortician Caitlin Doughty discussed what the pandemic revealed about America's attitude toward death.
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The man, the myth, the maestro Gustavo Dudamel joins us this week to talk about the grand opening of the new permanent home of the Youth Orchestra LA in Inglewood. The Venezuelan conductor shares his thoughts on the value of learning and playing music amid a pandemic. Plus, he reveals how audiences have been changed by COVID-19 — for the better.
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Republicans talk in headlines, Democrats speak in fine print, so how can those on the Left do a better job of messaging? This week, Ben Meiselas, host of "The MeidasTouch" podcast, joins us to talk about creating an effective political message and why many Democrats are lousy at it. Plus, Rep. Katie Porter shares her approach for selling the American public on the Build Back Better Act.
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When the world is in turmoil, how do you even begin to think about planning for a massive event seven years away? This week, we're joined by Casey Wasserman, chair of LA28, the group spearheading the effort to bring the Olympics to Los Angeles. Wasserman discusses what it's like to plan during a pandemic and why he believes LA was born to host the Olympics. He also shares his hot take on the massive Crypto.com naming rights deal at Staples Center.
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A stunning new article in New York Magazine details allegations of sexual harassment by one of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti's former chief advisers. Reporter Alissa Walker and Naomi Seligman, Garcetti's former director of communications, join us to discuss power and politics in the City of Angels.
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After a bleak Thanksgiving 2020, when many folks stayed safer at home, travelers are back at it again. As we adapt to this new normal, COVID-19 expert Dr. Bob Wachter of the University of California, San Francisco joins us to talk about how he is assessing personal risks and how you can make smart, yet socially active, choices, too.
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Sheriff's deputies and police officers are tasked with enforcing local rules, but are they ready to abide by them? Although many have complied with rules around COVID-19 vaccines, plenty are refusing to get the shots. This week, host Alex Cohen is joined by Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva and LAPD Chief Michel Moore on why they have such radically different responses to the vaccine requirements.
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Next week, the new season of the hit show "Star Trek: Discovery" blasts off. The hit show made history as the first of its kind to feature an openly gay character, Lt. Cmdr. Paul Stamets, played by our guest this week, Anthony Rapp. The actor talks about his groundbreaking role on the show and how he's also been able to push back against gender binaries off-screen after being elected to the board of the actors' union, SAG-AFTRA.
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"Watermelon head," "little pencil neck" and "sleazy" are just some of the PG-rated insults former President Donald Trump has called Rep. Adam Schiff. The Democrat from Burbank opens up about the impact it took on his home life and shares some of the funnier and scarier anecdotes from his new memoir "Midnight in Washington."
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Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Joe Biden's chief medical advisor, responds to recent allegations that he funded studies that abused beagles and covered up studies that led to COVID-19 at a lab in Wuhan, China. Fauci also weighs in on the upcoming rollout of Pfizer vaccines for kids ages 5 to 11.
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The man, the myth, the maestro Gustavo Dudamel joins us this week to talk about the grand opening of the new permanent home of the Youth Orchestra LA in Inglewood. The Venezuelan conductor shares his thoughts on the value of learning and playing music amid a pandemic. Plus, he reveals how audiences have been changed by COVID-19 — for the better.
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Although many Los Angeles city employees have complied with the new vaccine mandate, there are still plenty of holdouts. For example, more than 870 firefighters recently filed an intent to sue over the new rule, seeking $2 million per plaintiff. LA Mayor Eric Garcetti sits down with us to discuss why he has such little patience for those who call the vaccine mandate an infringement of their rights. Plus, the mayor weighs in on the rights of protesters who show up at the homes of elected officials.
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Two SoCal Democrats tackling hot-button issues — offshore oil drilling and abortion — join us this week. Former Rep. Harley Rouda shares what it's like to see a massive oil spill hit the district he lost to Rep. Michelle Steel last fall. And Rep. Judy Chu opens up about her personal experiences with pregnancies, abortions and the current battle over reproductive rights in the U.S.
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After weeks of speculation, Rep. Karen Bass made it official. She's running to be the next mayor of Los Angeles, and she joins us to share why. Find out more about just how deep her LA roots go and why she almost didn't get into politics at all. Plus, we discuss what went wrong with the bipartisan police reform bill she co-authored and Congress failed to pass.
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Now that California's gubernatorial recall race is in the rearview mirror, the slightly vitriolic, always entertaining Larry Elder joins us to rehash what went right and wrong in his campaign to unseat Gov. Gavin Newsom. Plus, why he thinks he garnered most of the votes out of the recall candidates. His answer might surprise you.
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Although the 2021 gubernatorial recall election won't be certified until late October, Gov. Gavin Newsom achieved a clear and significant victory. So, was spending perhaps as much as $300 million of taxpayer money worth it? Are California's recall laws in need of a revamp? We dive into these questions with state Sen. Josh Newman and Rep. Karen Bass. Bass also weighs in on a possible run to be Los Angeles' next mayor. Plus, a cameo appearance from candidate Caitlyn Jenner, who might have garnered fewer votes than billboard star Angelyne.
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For those opposed to the recall election, that pesky second question has proven vexing! This week, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis makes the case why keeping it blank is the best option, even though her sons want to write her in as their pick. California's first female lieutenant governor also opens up about her thoughts on that infamous French Laundry dinner. Plus, a special guest cameo from Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti who says you don't have to love Gov. Gavin Newsom to "just say no" to the recall.
Missed our conversation with Larry Elder? Catch it here.
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Earlier this year, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Assemblyman Rob Bonta to the role of California Attorney General after Xavier Becerra was confirmed as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. So far, the state's top cop has sprung into action in his first hundred days by combating hate incidents against the Asian American Pacific Islander Community and cracking down on privately owned prisons and immigration detention centers. Bonta joins "SoCal in 17" to discuss these actions and what he sees as his role as California's first Filipino attorney general.
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For much of 2021, government and public health officials have been offering everything from cash incentives to vacation giveaways — even free marijuana — to get more shots in arms across the state. But now, with COVID-19 cases skyrocketing with the rise of the delta variant, officials are switching to a tough-love approach. Los Angeles County Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer joins us to discuss the new masking, vaccine and testing requirements recently put in place. Plus, what she's been doing personally to stave off vaccine misinformation throughout the county.
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As the situation in Afghanistan quickly deteriorates, we check in with the California congresswoman who cast the lone vote against a resolution authorizing force against any nation involved in the Sept. 11 attacks. Democrat Barbara Lee is the focus of a new documentary out Friday called "Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power." She joins host (and fellow Cancerian) Alex Cohen for a powerful discussion on what it means to forge a political path on your own.
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IN THIS EPISODE * Rep. Barbara Lee on Twitter: @RepBarbaraLee * Website for the Rep. Barbara Lee documentary
Rep. Adam Schiff was there when Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol, and yet, he still has plenty of questions about what happened that day. He's part of the nine-member bipartisan committee tasked with getting to the bottom of why rioters were able to take over the building and figuring out how to prevent such an atrocity from ever happening again. Schiff opens up about some of the more emotionally difficult moments hearing testimony from the men tasked with protecting his workplace.
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After just barely making it onto the recall ballot, conservative radio host Larry Elder now finds himself at the top of the polls to unseat Gov. Gavin Newsom. If elected, he would become California's first-ever Black governor. Elder shares his vision for cracking down on crime, making housing more affordable and why he believes systemic racism is a myth.
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This week, Gov. Gavin Newsom and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia duked it out on Twitter over vaccines. Find out why politicians thrive on spewing COVID-19 falsehoods and why regular Joes are using codewords like Maxine instead of vaccine and Moana instead of Moderna with former White House COVID-19 adviser Andy Slavitt. The "In the Bubble" podcast host explains why he's not too concerned about vaccinated folks getting COVID-19 and why requiring vaccination or regular testing for city and state employees is the right move right now.
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Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore admitted "human error" caused a botched detonation of illegal fireworks in South LA. So how can the police make things right after such extensive damage and injuries? Former LAPD Chief Bill Bratton joins us with his take on how cops can repair relations with the communities they're tasked with protecting and serving. Bratton's new book, "The Profession," chronicles his time in LA and how he managed to make inroads with this city's Black community.
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President Joe Biden has nominated Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti to be the next ambassador to India, but who will be Garcetti's replacement if he's confirmed? Former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa says he's up for the job, and if tapped, he's not afraid to make big, bold moves. Plus, another native son, saxophonist Kamasi Washington, discusses making music during the lockdown and his upcoming show at the Hollywood Bowl.
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Love him or hate him, almost everyone in Los Angeles has strong feelings about LA County Sheriff Alex Villanueva. This week, host Alex Cohen has a brutally frank conversation with Villanueva about homelessness, why he consistently insults other elected officials and allegations about deputy gangs. Plus, find out what Villanueva might do if he's unsuccessful in his re-election bid.
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This week marked Austin Beutner's last as superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District. Despite the district asking him to stay on for this pivotal next chapter in education, Beutner decided not to renew his contract. So why is he leaving, and what's next? Plus, he shares his advice for his successor.
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California Gov. Gavin Newsom is now officially facing a recall election, but the huge question is when? Neal Kelley, the man in charge of elections in Orange County, says he's concerned about having it too soon, too early. Plus, former police officer Orrin Heatlie joins to talk about his gripe with Newsom that ultimately spurred him to lead the charge on the recall movement.
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Juneteenth is now a federal holiday, the first new federal holiday since 1983. So what would it mean to have a day off to commemorate the day that the last enslaved people in Texas learned they were free? Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell weighs in on this new holiday as well as the national backlash against what's known as critical race theory.
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Come Tuesday, California will scrap its four-tier system and fully reopen its economy. That means no required capacity limits, no social distancing and much looser mask mandates. But is California really ready? One of the state's leading infectious disease experts, Dr. Monica Gandhi, weighs in, and she's got some tough love for how California's elected officials have handled the pandemic.
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In 1991, the film "Silence of the Lambs" won five Oscars, including "Best Film." It was a popular thriller that featured a so-called transsexual character named Buffalo Bill, a serial killer who murdered women and skinned his victims to make a dress. Transgender activist Jen Richards said this portrayal caused much harm to the trans community. Host Alex Cohen speaks with Richards on how she is changing the narrative as a consultant and cast member on CBS' spinoff of the thriller "Clarice."
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It's the last week of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and honor the achievements of this vast and diverse community. But what happens come June? Will people stop caring about inequality and justice? On this special episode, host Alex Cohen addresses these questions with "Dear Asian Americans" podcast host Jerry Won, comedian Kristina Wong, fashion designer NiK Kacy and "SoCal in 17" producer Esther Lee on the audio app, Clubhouse.
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It's been one year since protests erupted in the city of Los Angeles in the wake of George Floyd's death. Demonstrators flooded the streets as they called for justice and police reform. Host Alex Cohen sits down with LA Police Department Chief Michel Moore to reflect on the past year. Moore says there are some things the department did right and things he wished they did differently.
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Los Angeles City Council President Nury Martinez is considering throwing her hat into the ring for the 2022 mayoral election. Martinez is already the council's first Latina president and could make history again by not only becoming the first woman mayor but the first mom to hold that position. Martinez gets candid with host Alex Cohen about the pressures of motherhood, including the difficult moments trying to protect her daughter from a life of being in the public eye.
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Get ready, Disney fans! Disneyland finally reopened its doors to the public after more than a year. Host Alex Cohen sits down with Disney Imagineer Jeanette Lomboy to talk about how she and her colleagues took advantage of a closed park to work on exciting attractions and new changes for the reopening. To quote Disney's "Frozen," "There'll be actual real live people. It'll be totally strange. But, wow, am I so ready for this change!"
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Having nude photos of you leaked to the tabloids for the world to see is humiliating, but is it illegal? Former Rep. Katie Hill believes so. After having nude photos released on the conservative website RedState, Hill filed a lawsuit against her ex-husband and publications that released the photos. She asserted that the pics were violating California's "revenge porn" laws, but she's fighting an uphill battle. Host Alex Cohen catches up with Hill to see where the lawsuits stand.
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Having nude photos of you leaked to the tabloids for the world to see is humiliating, but is it illegal? Former Rep. Katie Hill believes so. After having nude photos released on the conservative website RedState, Hill filed a lawsuit against her ex-husband and publications that released the photos. She asserted that the pics were violating California's "revenge porn" laws, but she's fighting an uphill battle. Host Alex Cohen catches up with Hill to see where the lawsuits stand.
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Earlier this week, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced his plan to launch a guaranteed income plan, one that could make LA the largest city to trial universal basic income, or UBI. This week, host Alex Cohen sits down with a former mayor who successfully made that happen in his city of Stockton. Michael Tubbs, who also made history as the nation's youngest mayor, successfully experimented with UBI and had a lot to say about what it takes to fight poverty.
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With his State of the City address coming up next week, a few explosive issues are top of mind for Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. Host Alex Cohen gets the inside scoop in her exclusive interview, including expediting the city's COVID-19 recovery with sewage (yes sewage!) technology.
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Actor Sacha Baron Cohen risked his life playing the fictional Kazakh journalist Borat in "Borat Subsequent Movie Film," where he bunked with QAnon believers, punked Trump adviser Rudy Giuliani, and attended and then fled a pro-gun rally. Host Alex Cohen sits down with Baron Cohen and his co-star Maria Bakalova to get the behind-the-scenes of this extreme comedy.
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Almost everyone knows Disney's iconic song A Spoonful of Sugar, but not many are aware of its distinct Southern California connection to vaccines. Host Alex Cohen sits down with producer Jeffrey Sherman, whose personal polio vaccine story inspired his father and uncle to pen the lyrics to the classic Mary Poppins song.
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Korean American filmmaker Eugene Lee Yang, known for his work with the Try Guys, was putting the finishing touches on his documentary We need to talk about anti-Asian hate when news broke of the horrific shootings in Atlanta, Georgia. In this week's episode, Yang breaks down why the model minority myth can be so dangerous and how anti-Asian racism in America traces back to a lack of education and understanding of Asian American history.
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Gov. Gavin Newsom launched his anti-recall campaign this week, making appearances on The View, CNN, and MSNBC. Meanwhile, recall organizers say they are confident they have enough signatures to trigger a recall election. In this episode, host Alex Cohen sits down with none other than former Gov. Gray Davis, the only California governor to have been recalled. Davis looks back on 2003 when he faced his own recall election and was eventually replaced by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
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Cancer patient-turned-doctor-turned-filmmaker Dr. Ryan McGarry has had quite a year. Weeks after the release of Netflix's "Pandemic," which he executive produced, the coronavirus hit the U.S., and the virus soon consumed his life. In this week's special episode looking back at a year of COVID-19, Alex Cohen sits down with McGarry, who mourns a special relationship lost during this time and shares a story about a patient he will never forget.
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How to Write a Letter to Congress About Student Loan Issues
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More people have died of COVID-19 in California than in any other state in the nation. While California has finally seen case numbers decline, the funeral industry is still under tremendous strain. This week, host Alex Cohen and mortician Caitlin Doughty discuss what this pandemic has revealed about America's attitude toward death.
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Last fall, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón defeated two-term incumbent Jackie Lacey. His victory marked the first time a sitting DA had been unseated in the county in two decades. Gascón took that victory and ran with it, pushing for progressive policies that he promised voters during his campaign. Those policies have been met with some criticism, and this week, host Alex Cohen sits down with Gascón to hear his side of the story.
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Now that Los Angeles County has met the statewide threshold to reopen elementary schools, will L.A. Unified School District bring students back to campus? Many parents have been calling for the reopening of campuses, but the decision is a complicated one. Host Alex Cohen sits down with LAUSD board President Kelly Gonez to discuss the decisions being made regarding students' education.
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California is trying to vaccinate as many people as possible and as quickly as possible. And yet, new variants are emerging throughout the world at a dizzying rate. This week, SoCal in 17 provides extensive coverage on the latest information and insight into vaccine hesitancy. Host Alex Cohen receives an update from Dr. Jerry Abraham, who is heading vaccine distribution at a South L.A. health center. Then Alex gets insight from Bishop Kenneth Ulmer of Faithful Central Bible Church in Inglewood on vaccine hesitancy within the Black community.
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Vaccine information for 5 counties within great L.A.
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As part of our celebration of Black History Month, Rep. Maxine Waters joins host Alex Cohen to talk about former President Donald Trump's Senate impeachment trial. The congresswoman is fired up about the trial and shared a few cautionary words for Republicans fearful of political blowback if they vote to convict. She also weighs in on colleague Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's controversial social media posts and claims.
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Dr. Anthony Fauci has become such a fixture in this pandemic that some are calling the COVID-19 vaccine the "Fauci ouchie." Dr. Fauci opens up to host Alex Cohen about the "strange journey" of being the face of public health with Donald Trump as president and his first week under the new Biden administration. He also touches on California's pandemic journey.
A local doctor then shares what life is like on the front lines, doling out life-saving vaccines in South Los Angeles.
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Dr. Fauci’s mask PSA
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What do Gary Coleman, an adult film star, and Arnold Schwarzenegger have in common? All three were candidates to replace then-Gov. Gray Davis back in 2003. Host Alex Cohen sits down with former colleague John Myers. As journalists, they were at the forefront of covering the 2003 recall election. They look back at what happened then and what history might reveal about the current efforts to remove Gov. Gavin Newsom from office.
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President Trump made history this week as the House voted to impeach him for his role in the Capitol siege. He's now the only president to be impeached twice. House members who voted in favor were undoubtedly influenced by their experiences on Jan. 6 as insurgents breached the Capitol. Rep. Raul Ruiz, who was at the Capitol, recounts walking his colleagues through active shooter drills as fears heightened.
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Dr. James Q. Simmons works at one of Southern California's busiest hospitals, where they are quickly running out of space. A patient, who has having a heart attack, had to wait 14 hours in the parking lot before being admitted inside.
Host Alex Cohen gets a glimpse of this terrifying reality from Simmons, who admits he cries every day on his drive home from work.
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Host Alex Cohen rings in the New Year with former California Congresswoman Katie Hill, who came roaring back to the public eye in 2020 after resigning from Congress following a scandal. She opens up about her "guilt that the sea is red" after she helped turn it blue. Hill has found a new career and is talking politics in a bold new way, but could the Democrat from District 25 be planning to run again?
Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about some "what ifs."
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How does one piece together a 17,000-person virtual choir and turn around a finished product in five weeks? California-based conductor Eric Whitacre, who is all too familiar with the process, shares with host Alex Cohen how it’s done. And in the spirit of the holidays, he describes what it means to bring a little bit of joy to people’s homes during these trying times.
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The first round of COVID-19 vaccines arrived in California this week. So what’s next? Host Alex Cohen sits down with Dr. David Agus, founding director of USC’s Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, to get answers about the science behind the vaccine, who should be vaccinated, how to distribute, and more.
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There are more than 30,000 restaurants in Los Angeles County, and many are grappling with the new orders restricting on-site dining. From staff layoffs to heater shortages, restaurant owner Caroline Styne has experienced it all, and she has a plea for local officials: let restaurants resume outdoor dining.
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In this bonus episode of "SoCal in 17," host Alex Cohen continues her discussion with Los Angeles County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl. They discuss law and order in the county, including juvenile justice and L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanueva, who some argue is not fit for his job.
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Los Angeles County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl made headlines this week following reports that she dined at a Santa Monica restaurant hours after voting to ban outdoor dining throughout the region amid the surge of COVID-19 cases. So why did she do it, and how does she respond to the critics? Host Alex Cohen has a frank, down-to-earth conversation with Kuehl.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about tough decisions.
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Outsider Nithya Raman made history when she defeated incumbent David Ryu in the race for Los Angeles City Council District 4. Not only is she the first Asian woman in this seat, but she is also the first person in 17 years to unseat a member of the L.A. City Council. In this episode, host Alex Cohen learns the secret behind Raman's successful campaign.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk campaign strategy.
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If you were awarded $625,000 to work on your dream project, what would you do? Larissa FastHorse was one of 21 individuals named a MacArthur fellow for her work as a playwright and received the no-strings-attached "genius" grant. In this week's episode, FastHorse joins host Alex Cohen to discuss bringing the indigenous experience to the theater. She also has a thing or two to say about celebrating Thanksgiving.
Then Alex and producer Esther Lee talk about their Thanksgiving plans.
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In this week's SoCal in 17, host Alex Cohen sits down with the talented hosts of "LA Podcast" to talk local and national election results and what it means for SoCal. With so much to discuss, including the role social media played in campaigns due to the pandemic, we broke our rule about keeping the episode to just 17 minutes!
In another break from tradition, Alex and Producer Esther Lee take a break from writing haikus and allow the "LA Podcast" hosts to share theirs, including one that gave Alex goosebumps.
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Check out "LA Podcast"
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This week, Democrat Katie Porter declared victory over Greg Raths for Orange County's 45th Congressional District seat. Host Alex Cohen talked to the congresswoman before and after her win. Porter discussed engaging in democracy and finding joy in the process. She also spoke about her questioning of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and how being a mother helped her prepare for the exchange.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to share how she's finding joy during election week.
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Rep. Katie Porter vs. Postmaster Dejoy
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Orange County is the fifth largest voting jurisdiction in the United States. With just a few days away from Election Day, host Alex Cohen sits down with Orange County Registrar Neal Kelley, who's in charge of this region's elections. Kelley discusses the safety measures volunteers will take due to the pandemic, what they'll do if voters refuse to wear a mask, and ways voters can cast their ballot in the county, including one not available in L.A. County.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about her college job.
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A legal battle is brewing over ballot boxes. Following last week's episode with Attorney General Xavier Becerra, host Alex Cohen sits down with California Republican Party spokesperson Hector Barajas, who explains why their unofficial ballot drop boxes play within the law.
Barajas said ballot harvesting is allowed under rules put in place by Democrats, and that Republicans can "engage in the same activity that the Democrats have been doing for the last several years."
Producer Esther Lee then joins to share her take on the ballot drop box drama.
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After reports that California's Republican Party has been collecting ballots in unofficial boxes, state Attorney General Xavier Becerra sent a cease-and-desist letter in an attempt to put a stop to the "highly illegal tactics."
In this week's episode, host Alex Cohen sits down with Becerra and Dean Logan, the man in charge of L.A. County elections, to discuss why this matters.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about her voting experience or lack thereof.
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It's been over 170 days of debilitating symptoms. That's how long this week's guest Shelby Hedgecock has been struggling with the coronavirus. SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen talks to Hedgecock about her journey as a "long hauler," a term used for those who have persistent symptoms for weeks or even months.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to share her thoughts about President Trump and the First Lady testing positive for COVID-19.
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What Could Happen if the ACA is Overturned
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The election is just about a month away, and there has been a lot of chatter about whether or not the voting process will be free and fair. On this week’s episode, SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen sits down with the man in charge of California’s elections, Secretary of State Alex Padilla, to talk election integrity.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to share her most memorable voting experience.
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Spectrum News 1
Vote by mail ballot drop-off
LA’s Voting System Gets Put to the Test Ahead of Super Tuesday
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It’s been a troubling time for the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, as a gunman recently shot two deputies point-blank while on patrol. Later deputies arrested a local reporter in front of the hospital while covering a protest stemming from the shooting. Members of the Oversight Commission have also called for Sheriff Alex Villanueva’s resignation. SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen sits down to discuss the latest developments with Ron Hernandez, president of the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, the union representing rank-and-file deputies.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to share a harrowing moment on the job.
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More info on L.A.’s Compton Station
Footage taken by Reporter Josie Huang
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In this, the second part of a two-part series, SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen continues her chat with musician Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers about his latest quarantine activity and his past traveling adventures. Also, more on California’s raging wildfires and what happened during President Trump’s visit to the state this week.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to discuss her new move.
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What’s a rock star to do during a global pandemic? In this, the first part of a two-part series, SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen talks with Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea about life, his new book adventures, and marriage.
Producer Esther Lee then shares how a much-anticipated film ditched the theater and went to streaming.
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5k Run info: https://silverlakeconservatory.org/
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Not long after the world marched for George Floyd, protestors took to the streets after Jacob Blake was shot by police in Wisconsin. This week, SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen and filmmaker Tommy Oliver revisit what some have called Los Angeles’s largest protest. Oliver's images of the Black Lives Matter Hollywood event were widely circulated.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to discuss how law enforcement is portrayed in film and TV.
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Nothing is stopping Michael Fitzpatrick of the L.A. band Fitz and the Tantrums from rocking out, not even a global pandemic. SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen catches up with the musician to hear all about his upcoming drive-in shows in SoCal.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to honor firefighters battling blazes across the state.
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Spectrum News 1
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A SoCal man was not only one of the earliest Americans to be diagnosed with coronavirus, he was the first COVID-19 patient, or “patient zero," to be admitted to Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center in Burbank. This week, Gregg Garfield shares his story of survival with SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to recall her own close call.
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As the first Black woman and Indian American on a major party presidential ticket, Kamala Harris made history as Joe Biden’s running mate. Rep. Maxine Waters, another woman who has made history, sits down with SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen to share her thoughts on Harris’ nomination. Later, a special birthday haiku for the congresswoman who celebrates her 82nd birthday on Aug. 15.
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Spectrum News 1
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Cameras can roll in Hollywood again, but what does a typical set look like amid the coronavirus? From actors disinfecting their own wardrobe to craft services pivoting from buffets to packaged meals, "90210" actress and SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris gives SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen a glimpse into the changing nature of Hollywood productions.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about how she’s working around the biggest day of her life.
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SAG-AFTRA Workshops
Dacre Montegomery’s “Billy” Audition Tape
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Comedian Deon Cole says comedy has a role to play when it comes to addressing civil unrest and systemic racism. “Comedy is going to bring awareness to this in a light way,” Cole explains. He sits down with SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen to explain why the issue of how Black people talk at work is important to him.
Producer Esther Lee then joins to discuss some funny personal stories in haiku form.
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Roger Stone, who was recently granted clemency by President Donald Trump, used a racial slur during a live interview with radio host Mo’Kelly. Stone denied it, telling him, “you’re out of your mind.” Mo'Kelly sat down with SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen to walk her through the moment and the aftermath of that interview, including what Mo'Kelly says the incident eclipsed. Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about how she reacts to unexpected moments. IN THIS EPISODE
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The Mo’Kelly Show
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L.A. County Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer and her team have been leading the charge against COVID-19 since early January. Since then, much has changed with Ferrer and other public health officials facing threats from the same people they are trying to protect. Ferrer opens up to SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen about the pressure she has endured while on the frontline of the coronavirus fight. They also discuss what it means to adjust to the “new normal.”
Producer Esther Lee then joins to weigh in on her idea of a “new normal.”
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New Department of Public Health portal
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California Rep. Karen Bass surfaced as a possible vice president pick for Joe Biden and recently co-introduced a bill pushing for police reform at a federal level. But prior to entering politics, Bass said she never thought she would be an elected official. In fact, her first job was as a physician assistant. SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen sits down with Bass to learn more about her and her work. Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about her first job as a reporter. IN THIS EPISODE
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http://cocosouthla.org/our-story/
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As we approach Fourth of July, the national dialogue continues to revolve around a bigger conversation: how can we make this world a place where everyone is heard and everyone feels free? This week, SoCal in 17host Alex Cohen sits down with Lora King, the daughter of Rodney King. She shares what it was like to grow up after her father was beaten by Los Angeles police officers and the 1992 riots that followed. Producer Esther Lee then joins Alex to talk about her thoughts on freedom in America. IN THIS EPISODE
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COVID-19 might have put a pause on actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s projects, but it has not stopped him from getting creative. SoCal in 17host Alex Cohen chats with Gordon-Levitt about his YouTube mini-series Create Together,where people from all over the world work jointly to create poetry, art, music, and content. Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about her latest creative social media adventure. IN THIS EPISODE
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Instagram account: @thenewsstand_
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SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen speaks with Melina Abdullah, the co-founder of Black Lives Matter L.A. Abdullah recounts how she joined the movement, her experience presenting the “People’s Budget” to the L.A. City Council, and her reason behind why she wants to re-imagine public safety. Producer Esther Lee then joins to celebrate Juneteenth, a day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. IN THIS EPISODE
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SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen had the chance to sit down with Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top infectious disease expert in the U.S. currently leading the charge against COVID-19. They discuss protests, COVID-19 vaccines, and Brad Pitt’s impression of Dr. Fauci on Saturday Night Live. Later, Alex talks about how doctors are using stories to help them cope with the coronavirus crisis. IN THIS EPISODE
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SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen sits down with two women who have represented law and order in the City of Angels for decades. LA District Attorney Jackie Lacey and former LAPD Sgt. Cheryl Dorsey share their differing views on law enforcement during this time of civil unrest. Producer Esther Lee then joins to talk about her lack of dialogue when it comes to racism. IN THIS EPISODE
More info on Cheryl Dorsey's Book: https://sgtcheryldorsey.com/books/
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George Floyd's name has become known nationwide as protestors took to the streets following his death. SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen speaks with Emmy-winning director Ava DuVernay on the issue of privilege, saying some live their whole lives without the fear of being racially profiled by law enforcement. DuVernay also discussed the launch of her online education platform Array 101. Producer Esther Lee then joined to talk about her observations on her daily runs through Hancock Park. IN THIS EPISODE
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Democratic Rep. Ted Lieu of California has been actively calling out President Donald Trump on Twitter, asserting that he is “going after the institutions of our democracy.” SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen sits down with Rep. Lieu to discuss these tweets. They also talk about the tragedy of Vincent Chin and how Taiwan managed to stay a step ahead in coronavirus prevention. Producer Esther Lee then joins Alex to talk about local efforts to raise money to support Asian-owned small businesses. IN THIS EPISODE
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SoCal in 17 host Alex Cohen talks with Rep. Maxine Waters of California's 43rd congressional district to remember her sister, who recently passed after contracting the coronavirus. Rep. Waters shares fond memories of Velma Moody, whom she affectionately called “sister baby.” She implores everyone to “keep your a** at home” and always wear a mask in public. Later, Alex and producer Esther Lee debate on whether they should approach someone without a mask in public to remind them to wear one. IN THIS EPISODE
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When the pandemic hit, SoCal restaurant Everytable kicked things into full gear and expanded their operation to get more food delivered to seniors, students, and other residents in need. On this episode of SoCal in 17, host Alex Cohen speaks with Sam Polk, the founder of Everytable, who talked about their latest donation from Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, a gift that will allow the restaurant to provide 500 free meals a day to Compton residents for a whole month. There's also a “how to” on car care by Spectrum News 1 reporter Ariel Wesler. Later, producer Esther Lee and Alex talk about their latest kitchen creations.
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Edina Leković of the Islamic Center of Southern California says “no two Ramadans are the same.” That rings especially true this year, as Muslims around the world face a different kind of Ramadan amid the pandemic. On this week's episode of SoCal in 17, host Alex Cohen speaks with Leković to see how the local Muslim community is observing Ramadan differently this year and if that means skipping fasting or not hosting crowded iftar meals. Alex also gives an update on Sarah and Coco’s virtual wedding, which included a lot of robot dances and face mask kisses. Producer Esther Lee also chimes in about her faith and how her church has been meeting online.
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Sarah Shewey and Colin Ho are tying the knot this week, and Alex had a chance to speak with the couple before their virtual ceremony. With over a thousand weddings under her belt, wedding planner Sarah has several ideas for the ceremony, including dinner kits and backdrops for the guests. Later, producer Esther Lee shares her own wedding plans (or lack thereof). IN THIS EPISODE
Alex's Twitter handle: @alexcoheninla
Sarah and Coco’s Save the Date Video: https://twitter.com/pinkcloud/status/1247980535273545728?s=20
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Actor Edward James Olmos’ Latino Film Institute launched live script reading sessions where cast members from shows like “Vida” and “Gentefied” perform scripts written by students. With film production coming to a halt due to the coronavirus, Olmos says he felt it was his “responsibility to do something to support.” Alex Cohen speaks with Olmos about these efforts and what his daily quarantine routine has been like. Later, Alex and producer Esther Lee share their recent vivid coronavirus dreams.
Mentioned in episode:
-SoCal in 17 Spectrum website
-Alex's twitter handle: @alexcoheninla
-idreamofcovid.com
-latinofilm.org
-youthcinemaproject.org
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On the very first episode of “SoCal in 17”, Alex Cohen followed the story of Carl and Jeri Goldman, a Santa Clarita couple quarantined aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship. For weeks, the couple chronicled their journey online, including Carl’s quarantine experience after testing positive for COVID-19. Thankfully, both are now safely back home. Alex caught up with Jeri Goldman to talk about her experience and how it has been adjusting to life and work after quarantine. Later, producer Esther Lee shares an haiku about her engagement experience. IN THIS EPISODE
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In this bonus episode, Alex Cohen speaks to L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti and the latest city efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Mayor Garcetti admits he’s had to make some really tough decisions, but says he’s “heavy of heart, but clear of mind.” Also in this episode, Mayor Garcetti answers questions submitted by our listeners.
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https://laprotects.org
https://greenbardistillery.com
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Alex speaks to "Contagion" writer Scott Burns about why he wrote a movie about a pandemic. He shares what he's learned about pandemics in the process of researching the movie and opens up about COVID-19. He reveals that he is not surprised about the fact that this is happening today and that the experts told him it's not a matter of "if," but "when."
Also in the episode, Alex and Esther discuss their guilty stay-at-home viewing pleasures. Hint: it has something to do with cats.
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