Best Assemblymembers Podcasts (2025)

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Breaking the School-to-Prison Pipeline and Building Resilient Communities with Assemblymember Corey Jackson 24:54

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4d ago24:54

24:54

In this episode of Policy Chats, hosts Rachel Strausman and Dori Pham sit down with Assemblymember Corey Jackson of California’s 60th Assembly District. Together, they explore his journey from founding SBX Youth and Family Services to serving in the legislature, and how his lifelong commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities has shaped his appr…

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LEAD Talks September 11 2025 Assemblymember Jonathan Rivera from Buffalo 12:05

14d ago12:05

12:05

Welcome to LEAD Talks! Where communities can come together. This week we are honored to have as our guest, Assemblymember Jonathan D. Rivera. He is the Assemblymember for New York State’s 149th Assembly District, representing parts of the cities of Buffalo and Lackawanna, the town of Hamburg including the villages of Blasdell and Hamburg, and the h…

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LEAD Talks September 26 2025 Clean+Healthy NY Bobbi Wilding and Gabrielle Gonzales 10:03

3h ago10:03

10:03

Bobbi Wilding is the Executive Director and co-founder of Clean+Healthy, an organization dedicated to creating a just and sustainable society, in which every community and neighborhood is free of toxic chemicals. Wilding is the recipient of a 2019 Children’s Environmental Health Champion award from the NYS Children’s Environmental Health Centers. G…

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LEAD Talks September 19 2025 Darlene Medley Mother of Lead Affected Children 11:06

1d ago11:06

11:06

Darlene is a mother of lead affected children and an activist in Syracuse, NY.

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Protecting Birthright Citizenship 22:25

6d ago22:25

22:25

Birthright citizenship is a fundamental right that has been enshrined in the Constitution for over 150 years. In the wake of the federal government’s assault on this core principle, Assemblymember Alex Lee authored legislation affirming the California Legislature’s commitment to birthright citizenship. Assembly Joint Resolution (AJR) 5 passed the S…

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Remote Podcast: Inside the Burbank Historical Society's Member Appreciation Day 1:15:39

2M ago1:15:39

1:15:39

Step through the unassuming doorway of the Burbank Historical Society and prepare to be transported through time. What looks modest from the outside—marked by the iconic Little Blue House and freshly-restored F-104 Starfighter on Olive Avenue—opens into a sprawling 20,000-square-foot wonderland of history that ranks as the second-largest museum per…

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Catching Up With Assemblymember Nick Schultz 1:08:18

2M ago1:08:18

1:08:18

Behind the scenes of California lawmaking, Assemblyman Nick Schultz reveals what his first year representing Burbank in Sacramento has truly been like. Far from the stereotypical politician, Schultz shares how he balances flying back twice weekly to be with his young family while chairing the powerful Public Safety Committee—an unusual responsibili…

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Menstrual Equity and Period Poverty in Higher Education 39:43

2M ago39:43

39:43

In this episode of Policy Chats, host Dori Pham sits down with Assistant Director Marisol Torres and Policy Intern Germaine Ho from The Well, UC Riverside’s student health promotion department. Together, they explore the topic of menstrual equity, the challenges students face in accessing period products, and how policies are working to address per…

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Immigration Stories - Keeping Families Together 21:10

2M ago21:10

21:10

SACRAMENTO, CA – Today, Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez (D-San Fernando) introduces her first bill in the 2025-26 legislative session, AB 495 – The Family Safety Plan Act, which will provide support to immigrant and mixed-status families by ensuring safety plans are in place in the event of immigration enforcement actions. “The threats from the fed…

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Live Panel: Navigating Higher Ed w/ A Criminal Record 1:09:23

3M ago1:09:23

1:09:23

In this episode, Policy Chats hosts our second live podcast recording, featuring researchers, practitioners, and individuals with lived experiences discussing the current policies that shape reentry, higher education, and employment access post-incarceration. This panel was produced in collaboration with the UCR Presley Center for Crime and Justice…

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Episode 5 - Redemption 23:03

3M ago23:03

23:03

After years of carrying the weight of lead, Shannon and Cooper find a path out from under the darkness and into the sunlight. LEAD: how this story ends is up to us is an audio docudrama series that tells the true story of one child, his mysterious lead poisoning, and his mother's unwavering fight to keep him safe. A true story written by Shannon Bu…

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Chrome and Community: Inside the 34th Annual Road Kings Charity Car Show 2025 1:52:28

3M ago1:52:28

1:52:28

Under an overcast sky at Johnny Carson Park, the heart of Burbank comes alive with chrome, color, and community spirit. The 34th Annual Road Kings Charity Car Show transforms this peaceful park into a dazzling showcase of automotive history, where over 300 classic vehicles draw thousands of admirers while serving a greater purpose. What makes this …

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Building an Affordable Future 15:04

3M ago15:04

15:04

Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson Advances Legislation to Lower Home Prices and Increase Housing Stock SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) has taken decisive action to address California’s housing crisis by authoring AB 317, the First Time Homeowner Act, a bill designed to boost affordable housing production by elim…

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Episode 31: The Big Beautiful Bill, Senator Padilla’s Forced Exit, No Kings Protests, and the Military Parade 38:53

3M ago38:53

38:53

Send us a text to let us know what you think of this episode. We would love to hear from you. In this episode, the guys dig into the controversial “Big Beautiful Bill” passed by House Republicans this spring — a large package that cuts billions from food aid, relaxes regulations, supports fossil fuel projects, and includes tax breaks like the no-ta…

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Episode 30: LA Protests, Immigration Crackdowns, and the Legal Limits of Presidential Power 37:51

3M ago37:51

37:51

Send us a text to let us know what you think of this episode. We would love to hear from you. In this episode of Kabatalks, John and Brian square off over one of the most explosive headlines in California politics: the deployment of federal troops to Los Angeles amidst ICE raids and growing street protests. Was it a necessary response to chaos—or a…

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Going Down the Rabbit Hole - Burgers in Burbank 1:30:41

4M ago1:30:41

1:30:41

Ever wondered where to find the ultimate burger in Burbank? Look no further than this mouthwatering deep dive into the city's rich burger history with a special appearance by current Burbank Mayor Nikki Perez – not in her official capacity, but as a lifelong resident, dedicated foodie, and self-described "pregnant lady who wants burgers at 3 AM." F…

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Episode 4 - The Long Haul 18:16

4M ago18:16

18:16

As the deficits from the lead poisoning continue to intensify, Shannon looks to hold the people who hurt her son responsible. LEAD how this story ends is up to us is a true story written and produced by Shannon Burkett. Co-produced by Jenny Maguire. Directed by Alan Taylor. Starring Merritt Wever, Alessandro Nivola, Cynthia Nixon, and Cooper Burket…

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Episode 3 - Fraying at the Edges 21:42

4M ago21:42

21:42

As the effects of the lead starts to take its toll on Cooper, Shannon desperately tries to navigate the severity of their new reality. LEAD how this story ends is up to us is a true story written and produced by Shannon Burkett. Co-produced by Jenny Maguire. Directed by Alan Taylor. Starring Merritt Wever, Alessandro Nivola, Cynthia Nixon, and Coop…

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Ask the Mayor with Nikki Perez - May 2025 1:29:01

4M ago1:29:01

1:29:01

In this compelling conversation with Mayor Nikki Perez, Burbank residents gain valuable insights into the city's remarkable financial stability during challenging economic times. Unlike many neighboring municipalities struggling with deficits, Burbank maintains a budget surplus while preparing thoughtfully for future challenges. Mayor Perez doesn't…

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Episode 2 - Stop the Spiral 10:41

4M ago10:41

10:41

As the lead takes its toll on Cooper's development, Shannon searches for answers. Desperate to get a handle on what was happening to her son, she grabs onto a life boat - nursing school. Andy tries to piece together the past to make sense of the present. LEAD how this story ends is up to us is a true story written and produced by Shannon Burkett. C…

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Immigration Stories – Assemblymembers Fong and Muratsuchi 37:33

4M ago37:33

37:33

Bill would protect immigrant children from President-elect Donald Trump’s stated plan for mass deportations Torrance, CA – Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), Chair of the Assembly Education Committee, introduced Assembly Bill 49, a bill that would protect immigrant children from actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) offi…

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Episode 1 - The Monster in the Walls 21:20

4M ago21:20

21:20

When a mysterious dust fills her apartment, Shannon, pregnant, living with her husband and their small child, was repeatedly told there was nothing in the dust. The truth begins to unravel when she gets a call from the pediatrician - the monster deep in the walls had been unleashed and was wreaking havoc on their son. LEAD how this story ends is up…

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myBurbank's Best 2025: Unveiling the Winners 1:27:46

4M ago1:27:46

1:27:46

Discover the cream of the crop in Burbank as Craig Sherwood, Ross Benson, and Ashley Erickson unveil the winners of the fifth annual Burbank's Best awards. With participation skyrocketing—over 1,500 new voters this year—this celebration showcases nearly 240 local businesses that have captured the hearts and loyalty of community members. The trio di…

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Uniting Local Communities: Equity, Housing, and Local Leadership w/ Councilmember Denise Davis 31:21

4M ago31:21

31:21

In this episode, City of Redlands Councilmember Denise Davis, talks with students from the UC Riverside School of Public Policy about her work advancing equity, tackling homelessness, and building stronger, more connected communities at the local level. About Denise Davis: Denise Davis was elected in 2018, and is proudly the first openly LGBTQ Coun…

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Burbank Fire Service Day 2025 1:17:24

5M ago1:17:24

1:17:24

Step into the heart of Burbank's emergency services as we broadcast live from the 2025 Police and Fire Service Day. This eye-opening episode pulls back the curtain on the diverse roles and responsibilities that make the Burbank Fire Department one of the nation's elite emergency response teams. From the bustling film sets to your front door, Burban…

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Episode 29: Assemblymember Laurie Davies on Bipartisanship, GOP Revival, and California’s Political Future 31:42

5M ago31:42

31:42

Send us a text to let us know what you think of this episode. We would love to hear from you. In this episode, we sit down with Assemblymember Laurie Davies to explore the evolving mood in Sacramento—Is it tense? Collaborative? Or somewhere in between? A former small business owner, Davies offers her take on how bipartisan cooperation can still thr…

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LA Fires - After the Burn 25:51

5M ago25:51

25:51

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin fire recovery videos https://a42.asmdc.org/videos California Volunteers (Ca Service Corps) Josh Fryday californiavolunteers https://www.californiavolunteers.ca.gov/By Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, Josh Fryday, Don Andrews, Mahalia LeClerc

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Immigration Stories with Assemblymembers Soria and Ortega 22:03

5M ago22:03

22:03

California’s Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas and the Assembly Democratic Caucus are working to protect the people of California, its communities and economy by supporting the rights of immigrants. While the new federal administration has shown it has no respect for immigrants, Speaker Rivas and Assembly Democrats are listening to and supporting every…

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LEAD - Trailer 2:05

5M ago2:05

2:05

*HOW THIS STORY ENDS IS UP TO US* LEAD: An audio docudrama series inspired by the true story of one child, his mysterious lead poisoning and his mother’s unwavering fight to keep him safe. Written and Produced by Shannon Burkett Co-Produced by Jenny Maguire Directed by Alan Taylor FEATURING Merritt Wever (Unbelievable, Severance) Alessandro Nivola …

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Human Rights, Social Equity, and the Future of Immigration Policy w/ Pierre Berastaín 40:35

6M ago40:35

40:35

In this episode, Dr. Pierre Berastaín, the Centre for Public Impact's Regional Director for North America, talks with students from the UC Riverside School of Public Policy about his journey from Peru and his extensive work in addressing systemic challenges like immigration, gender-based violence prevention, and restorative justice. About Pierre Be…

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Episode 28: Senator Tom Umberg on California's Legislative Challenges and Bipartisanship Opportunities. 36:27

6M ago36:27

36:27

Send us a text to let us know what you think of this episode. We would love to hear from you. What makes California's legislative environment a breeding ground for cooperation, even amidst political supermajorities? Join us as we promise a deeper understanding of the unique dynamics within the California Senate, courtesy of our conversation with St…

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Gender Parity in the State Legislature 17:59

6M ago17:59

17:59

Not long ago women in the California State Legislature were rare. Today 58 of the 120 state lawmakers are women. That’s double what it was less than 10 years ago. In this episode of Look West, we sat down with the Chair of the Legislative Women’s Caucus, Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, at the Women Inspire exhibit in the California Museum in …

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Ask the Mayor with Nikki Perez - March 2025 1:26:36

7M ago1:26:36

1:26:36

Mayor Nikki Perez brings a uniquely personal perspective to Burbank governance as both a lifelong resident and the city's first pregnant mayor. Her deep roots in the community—from attending Roosevelt Elementary to graduating from Burroughs High School—fuel her passionate approach to civic leadership, where she's equally comfortable signing autogra…

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Covid Turns 5 23:59

7M ago23:59

23:59

Five years ago, on March 19th, the Governor issued the stay at home order California needed to survive the Covid pandemic. Covid changed our lives. Some of those changes, like Zoom, are here to stay. Assembly Democrats legislative initiatives helped Californians survive the pandemic. On this episode we look back at the onset of the coronavirus pand…

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Where is the Watchdog: Technology, Media Disruption, and the Future of Government w/ Deb Aikat & Host Lloyd Levine 1:13:39

7M ago1:13:39

1:13:39

In this episode, Deb Aikat, University of North Carolina Professor of Journalism and Media, talks with the UC Riverside School of Public Policy about how technology impacts government processes and media communication. They discuss the media's crucial role during the pandemic and emphasize the importance of providing balanced news to support a heal…

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Immigration Know Your Rights 47:07

7M ago47:07

47:07

California’s Assembly Democrats are pushing back against the Trump administration’s overreach when it comes to immigration. Even before the new administration took office, exactly one month ago today, Assembly Democrats have been providing immigration information and support to all Californians. Assemblymembers Juan Carrillo and Jose Luis Solache j…

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Episode 27: California's Wildfires Ingnite an Even Greater Political Firestorm. 37:12

7M ago37:12

37:12

Send us a text to let us know what you think of this episode. We would love to hear from you. California's wildfires are not just a force of nature; they're a battleground for misinformation and political agendas. Join us, the brothers Kabateck, as we unravel the tangled web of false narratives surrounding Governor Gavin Newsom during these crises …

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SPECIAL: Ensuring Burbank's Safety and Preparedness with Eric Baumgardner 59:18

7M ago59:18

59:18

What does it take to keep a city like Burbank safe and prepared for emergencies? Join us as we highlight insights from Eric Baumgardner, the Emergency Management Coordinator for the Burbank Fire Department, who shares his extensive expertise in handling the intricacies of emergency management. Discover the essential role of collaboration in emergen…

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Ask the Mayor with Nikki Perez - January 2025 1:11:33

8M ago1:11:33

1:11:33

What drives someone from a lifelong residency in Burbank to the mayor's office? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Nikki Perez, Burbank's newest mayor, whose deep-rooted connection to the city fuels her mission to improve the lives of its residents. From her upbringing in local schools to her career as a social worker, Nikki's personal …

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Closing the Gap: Broadband, eGovernment, and Access to Healthcare w/ Cara Chiaraluce & Host Lloyd Levine 57:59

8M ago57:59

57:59

In this episode, Cara Chiaraluce, Santa Clara University Professor of Sociology, talks with the UC Riverside School of Public Policy about the impact of internet access on health outcomes. This is the sixth episode in our 11-part series, Technology vs. Government, featuring former California State Assemblymember Lloyd Levine. About Cara Chiaraluce:…

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SPECIAL: Financial Resilience and Recovery After LA County Fires with Layla Kashani of CBIS Datatax 35:29

8M ago35:29

35:29

What if your personal accountant could offer more than just tax advice, becoming a vital ally in navigating life's financial twists and turns? In this episode, I sit down with Layla Kashani from CBIS Data Tax to uncover the hidden benefits of having a dedicated financial guide. Layla shares why a personal touch can make all the difference, especial…

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SPECIAL: Is Burbank Going to become a Sanctuary City? City Council to Decide 20:50

8M ago20:50

20:50

Can Burbank afford to risk over $30 million in federal funding to become a sanctuary city? We're tackling this provocative question head-on, revealing the complex layers of a decision that could redefine the city's future. As the City Council gears up for a pivotal vote, we break down the potential benefits of fostering trust within immigrant commu…

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Episode 26: Reflection and Projection With Former Senator Scott Wilk. 40:50

8M ago40:50

40:50

Send us a text to let us know what you think of this episode. We would love to hear from you. Former state Senator Scott Wilk joins us on Kabatalks to provide a reflective and candid exit interview, if you will, sharing insights from his 12 years in the California State Legislature. With keen observations on the 2012 term limits change, Scott discu…

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SPECIAL: Inside the First 90 Minutes of the Eaton Fire Response 1:38:34

8M ago1:38:34

1:38:34

Not a podcast, just the audio of the first 90 minutes of what became known at the Eaton Fire. Hear the details as we pull the scanner feed and listen along. Here is what the AI says about it: Discover the inner workings of emergency response as you gain a front-row seat to the action-packed world of firefighting during the Eaton Fire. Feel the tens…

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Disaster Preparedness, Go-Bags, and Evacuation Routes 10:01

8M ago10:01

10:01

The wildfires raging in the Los Angeles area and the 7.3 earthquake off the North Coast of California just over a month ago has put disaster preparedness back in the spotlight. State Assemblymember Chris Rogers knows quite a bit about disaster preparedness. He has hands on experience with wild fires, floods and earthquakes. His advice – prepare now…

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myBurbank Talks Special: What's coming up in 2025 4:25

9M ago4:25

4:25

As we step into 2025, the vision for Burbank News is evolving. Our aim is to better serve the community by addressing the needs and interests of our audience. Over the past few years, we’ve monitored listener engagement and realized that lengthy content didn’t resonate as strongly as we hoped. Although our podcast began as a comprehensive resource …

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myBurbank Talks Special: Behind the Scenes of Burbank's Rose Parade Magic 1:21:51

9M ago1:21:51

1:21:51

What goes into crafting a float that glides down Pasadena's streets on New Year's Day? Join us as we uncover the secrets behind Burbank's cherished tradition of float building with our esteemed guest, Jon Reeves. A veteran of over two decades with the Burbank Tournament of Roses Association, Jon takes us on his remarkable journey from a curious vol…

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Filter Bubbles, Media Bias, & Bridging Gaps Amongst Political Polarization w/ AllSides CEO John Gable 37:17

9M ago37:17

37:17

This week, we’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes from last year! In this episode, AllSides Co-Founder and CEO John Gable talks with students from the UC Riverside School of Public Policy about how understanding media bias and filter bubbles can help better bridge gaps amongst political polarization. Thank you so much to our generous sponsor…

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eGovernment, Technology, and the Future of Government Service w/ Julliana Maria Trammel, Laura Robinson, & Host Lloyd Levine (Technology vs. Government Ep. 5) 1:14:56

9M ago1:14:56

1:14:56

In this episode, Juliana Maria Trammel, Associate Professor of Journalism & Mass Communications and Laura Robinson, Professor of Sociology talk with the UC Riverside School of Public Policy about the challenges and vulnerabilities with delivering information and services using eGovernment. This is the fifth episode in our 11-part series, Technology…

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Assembly Democratic Caucus Welcomes 17 new Members 20:32

9M ago20:32

20:32

Meet the other new Members of the Assembly Democratic Caucus in these two episodes: https://look-west-how-california-is-leading-the-nation-22f6dfb5.simplecast.com/episodes/freshman-class-filled-with-moms-dads-teachers-doctors-and-more https://look-west-how-california-is-leading-the-nation-22f6dfb5.simplecast.com/episodes/new-faces-join-the-assembly…