State of Gold

GuestRob Stutzman - Fmr. Schwarzenegger Director of CommunicationsGuest Bio Rob Stutzman is a veteran California political strategist, communications expert, and founder of Stutzman Public Affairs. He served as Communications Director for Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and has advised numerous political and corporate leaders across the state. Known for his sharp insight and nonpartisan approach, Rob brings a decades-long lens on what’s broken in California politics — and what needs to change.Show SummaryIs Gavin Newsom’s Prop 50 campaign about saving democracy — or simply positioning for a 2028 presidential run? In this candid episode, Rob Stutzman breaks down California’s growing political dysfunction and the high-stakes fight over redistricting. With a veteran insider’s view, he exposes what Prop 50 really means, why independent commissions matter, and how careerism is shaping everything from Newsom’s pivot to affordability politics.From broken climate policy to an affordability failure, Rob argues that California is wasting its promise — and only a bold realignment can restore balance. Whether you’re left, right, or independent, this episode challenges the political status quo.Chapters00:00 – The Prop 50 Power Grab Debate01:15 – Why Newsom’s Record Is Hard to Defend03:05 – Newsom’s Political Pivot: MAGA Podcasts to Democratic Savior04:45 – What’s Really at Stake with Redistricting06:10 – The Cost of Political Cynicism07:45 – Independent Commissions vs. Political Self-Interest09:15 – California’s Political Realignment11:10 – Affordability Crisis: Still the #1 Issue12:45 – Can Democrats Solve Affordability Before 2026?14:00 – King for a Day: What Needs to Change15:00 – Misconceptions About California Voters16:00 – The Pendulum Is Starting to Swing16:40 – California Is Wasting ItselfConnect with RobX: https://x.com/robstutzmanWebsite: https://stutzmanpa.com/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-stutzman-136bb85/Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com

Guest:Laura Powell — Civil Rights AttorneyGuest Bio: Laura Powell is a civil rights attorney and founder of the Californians for Equal Rights Foundation. A fearless advocate for parental rights, free speech, and equal treatment under the law, Powell has emerged as a bold voice challenging the political corruption of California’s public institutions. Through high-impact legal efforts and public advocacy, she’s fighting to restore balance, reason, and constitutional principles to the Golden State.Show SummaryIs California still a land of opportunity — or is it becoming a state of control? In this powerful episode, civil rights attorney Laura Powell joins Jon Slavet to discuss the growing wave of bureaucratic overreach in California and what it means for families, students, and everyday citizens. From school choice and gender policy to CEQA reform and free expression, Powell unpacks how legal systems once meant to protect rights are being weaponized for political agendas. She also shares how regular people can reclaim their voice and push back through the courts and the ballot.Chapters00:00 – California Is Turning on Its Own People01:25 – Meet Laura Powell: Civil Rights Attorney03:15 – Parental Rights in the Crosshairs05:30 – How Public Education Became a Battleground08:10 – CEQA and the Fight for Common Sense11:02 – The Political Capture of Institutions13:45 – Legal Tools to Reclaim Our Rights16:22 – Why Speech and Equity Are Being Twisted19:00 – Fighting Back Through Courts and Community21:15 – Final Thoughts on Hope, Justice, and ReformConnect with LauraTwitter: https://x.com/LauraPowellEsqEnjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com

Guest:Edward Ring – Director of Water & Energy Policy, California Policy CenterGuest Bio: Edward Ring is the Director of Water and Energy Policy at the California Policy Center and a founding member of the think tank. He is also the author of The Abundance Choice: Our Fight for More Water in California. With decades of experience analyzing state infrastructure, environmental policy, and governance, Edward offers a data-backed and often controversial lens on what’s fueling California’s decline — and how to fix it.Show SummaryWhat if California’s biggest environmental crises — from water shortages to wildfires — were actually manmade policy failures? In this compelling episode, Edward Ring unpacks the unintended consequences of the state’s well-meaning but often disastrous legislation. From banning dredging that would increase water flow, to mismanaging forest land and outsourcing oil refining to countries with no environmental standards – he exposes how California’s current path is both ineffective and regressive. Whether you agree with his take or not, this episode will leave you thinking differently about California’s future.Chapters00:00 – California's Environmental Crises Are Manmade01:12 – Meet Edward Ring: Policy Expert and Author03:02 – How Dredging Could Solve the Water Shortage05:28 – Water Management Is Being Politicized07:41 – Wildfires: Mismanagement vs. Climate10:35 – The Myth of Net Zero and Global Emissions13:15 – Why California's Energy Policy is Failing15:42 – CEQA's Role in the Housing Crisis18:30 – The Downside of Green Energy Dogma21:00 – The Case for Common-Sense Infrastructure23:25 – Why Refinery Closures Are Hurting California26:00 – Can We Have Both Growth and Conservation?28:45 – How Policy Reform Could Restore Affordability31:20 – Final Thoughts on California’s Path ForwardConnect with EdwardTwitter: https://x.com/edringLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-ring/Website: https://californiapolicycenter.org/people/edward-ring/Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com

In a compelling conversation, Curt Pringle, former Speaker of the California State Assembly and Mayor of Anaheim, sheds light on California's political landscape. He discusses the detrimental effects of single-party rule and education failures that hinder progress. Pringle shares insights on the housing crisis and regulatory burdens that stifle development, while critiquing the influence of teachers' unions. With decades of experience, he offers a candid view on the urgent need for collaborative governance to steer California towards a brighter future.

Guest:Sonja Trauss – Founder & Exec Director of YIMBY LawGuest Bio: Sonja Trauss is the founder and executive director of YIMBY Law, a groundbreaking organization using litigation and advocacy to enforce housing laws and expand all types of housing across California. A former math teacher turned activist, Sonja helped ignite the Yes In My Backyard (YIMBY) movement and has become one of the state’s most passionate and fearless voices for housing abundance, zoning reform, and environmental accountability.Her work challenges entrenched interests and weaponized regulations — and she’s not afraid to call out CEQA abuse, NIMBYism, or political hypocrisy. Sonja is based in the Bay Area and continues to push for real solutions to California’s affordability crisis.Show SummaryCan California be affordable again — and who’s actually fighting for it? In this episode, Jon Slavet sits down with housing warrior Sonja Trauss to unpack the real story behind the state’s housing shortage.From CEQA lawsuits and zoning gridlock to political cowardice and rising homelessness, Sonja reveals how bad policy and entrenched interests have weaponized the environmental movement against the very people it’s meant to protect. She also breaks down the YIMBY movement’s legal and grassroots strategy for building more homes, faster — and why local activism is the key to turning California around.Chapters00:00 – The Housing Crisis Is Political01:30 – Meet Sonja Trauss: From Math Teacher to Activist03:00 – Why CEQA Lawsuits Are Killing Housing05:22 – How the YIMBY Movement Took Off07:18 – What Environmentalists Get Wrong09:05 – How Local Governments Block Growth10:40 – Holding Politicians Accountable with Lawsuits12:11 – What It’ll Take to Actually Build13:35 – The Future of California Depends on ThisConnect with SonjaTwitter: https://x.com/SonjaTraussInstagram: ​​https://instagram.com/sonjatraussd6Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonja-trauss-02002968Website: https://yimbyaction.org/Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com

Guest:Alexandra Macedo – Member of the California State AssemblyGuest Bio: Alexandra Macedo is California’s youngest-ever Republican assemblywoman, a fourth-generation farmer, and a fierce advocate for agriculture, entrepreneurship, and common sense reform. Raised in the Central Valley with deep roots in dairy and farming, she’s built her own environmental compliance business, earned her law degree while working full-time, and is now fighting for policies that serve working families, not bureaucratic agendas.Show SummaryHow did a young woman from a farming family become one of California’s boldest political voices? In this powerful episode, Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo joins Jon Slavet to share her journey from agriculture to the statehouse — and why she’s fed up with Sacramento’s war on working Californians.From crushing regulations to water mismanagement and labor instability, Alexandra breaks down the real cost of California’s political dysfunction — and what needs to change. With passion, grit, and deep insight into both policy and business, she represents a rising generation of leaders who refuse to give up on the Golden State.Chapters00:00 – Meet Alexandra Macedo: Central Valley Roots01:20 – From Ag to Law School to Sacramento03:45 – $1,600 Per Acre: The Crushing Cost of Compliance06:10 – The Water Crisis: Droughts, Floods & Failed Infrastructure08:30 – Why Sacramento Doesn’t Understand Agriculture10:00 – California’s Labor Crunch & Migrant Workforce Realities13:00 – Fixing Immigration Without the Fear-Mongering15:20 – Who’s Really to Blame for California’s Problems?17:40 – Medi-Cal Cuts, Wildfires, and the Trump Blame Game20:10 – Winning Over Gen Z with Real Talk22:00 – Rapid Fire: Infrastructure, Reagan, Hope & the FutureConnect with AlexandraTwitter: https://x.com/AsmwomanMacedoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/macedoforassembly/?hl=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/assemblywomanmacedo/Website: https://www.alexandramacedo.com/Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com

Guest:Steve Hilton, Republican Candidate for Governor of CaliforniaGuest Bio: Steve Hilton is a political commentator, former senior advisor to British Prime Minister David Cameron, and now candidate for Governor of California. In the U.S., he's best known as the host of The Next Revolution on Fox News and for his passionate advocacy around housing, common sense governance, and community-led solutions. A California resident for nearly a decade, Steve co-founded Golden Together, a movement committed to reviving the Golden State through bold ideas and practical policy reforms.Show SummaryWhat happened to California’s promise — and can it be saved? In this urgent and insightful conversation, Steve Hilton joins Jon Slavet to unpack the state’s biggest challenges, from the housing disaster to political dysfunction, and what’s really stopping progress. Drawing from his experience in both U.K. and U.S. politics, Hilton explains how California’s one-party rule has stifled reform, why CEQA is still sabotaging affordability, and how a new common-sense movement might be the key to turning things around. If you care about California’s future, this one’s a must-listen.Chapters00:00 – Steve Hilton on Why He Came to California02:10 – What Makes the State So Broken03:55 – The Real Reason Housing Is Unaffordable06:00 – How CEQA Became a Weapon08:25 – Gavin Newsom’s Broken Promises10:40 – Why Reform Doesn’t Happen12:15 – How One-Party Rule Hurts Progress14:50 – The Problem with Top-Down Leadership16:35 – Golden Together: A Movement for Change19:00 – How California Can Actually Be Fixed21:20 – Final Thoughts on Hope, Power, and Citizen-Led ChangeConnect with SteveTwitter: https://x.com/SteveHiltonxInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevehiltonxWebsite: https://www.youtube.com/@stevehiltonxEnjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com

Guest:Fox News LA Anchor Elex MichaelsonGuest Bio: Elex Michaelson is the co-anchor of Fox 11 News in Los Angeles and host of the weekly political show The Issue Is. Known for his thoughtful interviews and debate moderation, Elex has spoken with some of the nation’s most influential political leaders and received eight Emmy Awards and seven Golden Mikes. A native Californian, he brings deep insight into the state’s political dynamics, media landscape, and upcoming elections.Show SummaryFrom Gavin Newsom’s calculated media strategy to Kamala Harris’s next move and the growing appeal of centrist disruptors like Rick Caruso, this episode is a masterclass in California’s political future. Award-winning journalist and political commentator Elex Michaelson joins Jon Slavet for a candid conversation on what’s really happening behind the scenes — from deepening divides in LA to the state’s national image, and whether Republicans even stand a chance in 2026. Chapters00:00 – Newsom’s New Persona: The Left’s Anti-Trump01:12 – Meet Elex Michaelson02:20 – What’s Dividing Los Angeles04:30 – Mayor Bass: Firestorm Fallout vs. Political Wins06:40 – Fires, Permitting, and AI Solutions08:30 – Rick Caruso’s Next Move10:42 – Newsom’s Media Playbook and 2028 Ambitions13:10 – Authenticity and the Problem with “Shifting”15:50 – Kamala vs. Caruso: What’s Next in 2026?18:20 – Can Republicans Win in California?21:10 – Why Local Issues Get Derailed by National Politics24:15 – Prop 36, Party Pushback, and the Center-Left Surge26:00 – Rapid Fire: Education, Stereotypes, and Hope for CAConnect with ElexX: https://x.com/elex_michaelsonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/elexmichaelson/Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elexmichaelsonLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elexmichaelson/Website: https://www.youtube.com/elexmichaelsonEnjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com

Guest:Fmr. San Francisco Mayor Willie BrownGuest Bio: Willie Brown is a legendary figure in California politics — the first African American Speaker of the California Assembly and former two-term Mayor of San Francisco. Known for his unmatched political savvy, deep relationships, and bold leadership style, Brown served in public office for over 40 years and helped launch the careers of many of California’s most prominent leaders. He remains an influential voice in shaping the state’s political direction and public policy discourse.Show SummaryWhat does it take to lead — and last — in California politics? In this rare and candid sit-down, Jon Slavet is joined in person by former California Speaker and San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown for a wide-ranging conversation on power, leadership, and the real challenges facing California today. From behind-the-scenes stories of Gavin Newsom’s early political rise to bracing advice for Kamala Harris and reflections on homelessness, CEQA reform, and the next governor’s race — this episode delivers straight talk from one of the sharpest minds in American politics.Chapters00:00 – Willie Brown on Positivity, Longevity & Leadership02:00 – California’s Exploding Budget: Why We Spend So Much05:15 – Mission Bay, Baseball, and Transforming San Francisco07:50 – Gavin Newsom’s Unlikely Rise (and How It Started)11:45 – Advice to Newsom: Be Bold, Be Known, Be Everywhere13:30 – San Francisco’s New Mayor & Homelessness Promises17:00 – What It Takes to Solve the Crisis in SF18:50 – Private-Public Partnership: The Missing Piece20:20 – The “Farmer Newsom” Strategy for Statewide Homelessness23:00 – Kamala Harris: Her Strengths, Her Path, and Missed Opportunities26:00 – Who Might Really Run (and Win) in 202628:30 – CEQA Reform & What Newsom Got Right31:30 – Jerry Brown’s Late-Career Power Move33:00 – Political Lessons from a Lifetime of Power39:00 – Final Thoughts: Relationships, Listening & Leading in PersonEnjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com

Guest Catherine Reheis-Boyd - President & CEO, Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA)Guest BioCatherine Reheis-Boyd is President and CEO of the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA), representing major petroleum companies in California and the western U.S. With decades of experience, she’s one of the most influential energy advocates in the state, leading policy discussions on refinery closures, energy affordability, and environmental regulation. She has testified before the legislature, served on numerous state commissions, and remains a powerful voice in the push for balanced energy policy that safeguards both the economy and the environment.Show SummaryWhy are California’s gas prices the highest in the country — and what’s really driving refinery closures and rising costs? In this candid conversation, Catherine Reheis-Boyd breaks down the policy decisions and regulatory bottlenecks that have put California’s energy supply — and economy — at risk. From importing crude oil from Iraq and Ecuador to shutting down local pipelines and refineries – Catherine and Jon Slavet explore how political decisions have created a perfect storm of costs, confusion, and bad consequences for consumers. With upwards of 500,000 California jobs on the line, Catherine offers a powerful case for pragmatism, collaboration, and urgent action before it’s too late.Chapters00:00 – Intro: Refinery Closures and Job Loss01:20 – Why Is Gas So Expensive in California?03:40 – Hidden Taxes and Regulatory Costs06:05 – Are We Managing in Crisis Mode?08:10 – Why We Import Oil While Sitting on Reserves10:30 – Greenhouse Emissions Hypocrisy12:35 – Politics Over Policy: The Kern County Crude Debate14:50 – Pipelines at Risk: A Real-Time Infrastructure Problem16:45 – Can the Industry Meet Environmental Standards?19:15 – The Real Cost of a Gallon of Gas21:30 – Workforce Impact and Job Losses in Oil & Gas23:50 – What a “Just Transition” Really Means25:00 – What Should Change in 2027?27:40 – Solutions: CEQA Reform, Collaboration, and Balance29:25 – Why “Hope is Not a Plan”31:10 – What Happens if We Don’t Act?32:30 – Rapid Fire: Hopes, Leadership, and California’s FutureConnect with Catherine:Twitter: https://x.com/WSPAPrezLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-reheis-boyd-71964411/Website: https://www.wspa.org/staff/catherine-reheis-boyd/Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and join the conversation on Instagram and LinkedIn with the hashtag #stateofgoldpodcastConnect with State of GoldX: https://x.com/realjonslavetLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stateofgold/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofgoldpodcast/?hl=enWebsite: www.stateofgold.com