The Sacralegis Podcast

In their customary bi-weekly conversation, Josh and Susan discuss recent political developments, focusing on Supreme Court rulings, immigration policies, and the evolving dynamics within the Democratic Party. They explore the implications of these changes on American identity and the political landscape.

In this episode, hosts Josh and Susan reconnect to discuss a range of pressing topics, including the current conflict with Iran, the implications of war, and the leadership style of Donald Trump. They reflect on personal experiences and societal disparities, emphasizing the importance of accountability in leadership. The discussion also touches on cultural events and their role in shaping public p...

In this edition of The Sacralegis Podcast, hosts Susan Eggman and Josh Newman discuss a range of pressing issues, including the Trump administration's controversial energy policies, the recent ruling on voting rights and its likely contribution to the ongoing gerrymandering wars. Along the way, they also explore the disconnect between elected officials and the public, the complexities of political...

In this episode, Susan and Josh dig into California’s political turbulence — from the fallout around Eric Swalwell to the shifting dynamics of the governor’s race. They talk civic engagement, book‑swap politics, the top‑two primary’s unintended consequences, and why energy reliability and polarization are reshaping the state’s governing reality.

In this episode of The Sacralegis Podcast, Susan and Josh discuss various pressing issues, including shifts in political affiliations, the role of religion in politics, the morality of war, and the implications of negotiation tactics on global stability. They also delve into California's ongoing hydrogen supply crisis and what it says about challenges around governance in the state in their usual...

In this installment of the Sacrah-Ledgis podcast, Susan and Josh touch on a wide range of topics, from the recent revelations about labor legend Cesar Chavez to the war in the Middle East to yet another Trump tirade against the recently deceased to the latest developments in the race for California Governor.

This episode of the Sacralegis Podcast explores American attitudes toward morality and each other; political polarization; and some really impactful recent events, including the spiraling conflict in the Middle East, developments in the California gubernatorial race, and the broader, not always encouraging state of American civic affairs.

In this episode of TSP, Susan and Josh ruminate on the unique and uniquely intense world of political conventions, the intricacies of California's primary system, and the current state of politics, comparing insights on campaign strategies, civic engagement, and the impact of media on political discourse, both at the state and national levels.

In this episode, Josh and Susan discuss various political themes, including the impact of Trump's leadership on international relations, the power of words in politics, and the current legislative landscape in California. They delve into the No Kings Act, accountability in law enforcement, and the complexities of budgeting and political initiatives. The conversation highlights the challenges faced...

In this episode, Susan and Josh discuss a variety of pressing topics, including new legislation in California, the state's budgetary challenges, the evolving role of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the sometimes unseemly aspects of campaign finance. They also delve into the use of ballot measures, international politics surrounding Venezuela, and domestic issues related to law...

In this reflective conversation, Josh and Susan revisit the tumultuous year of 2025 and ruminate on some of the year’s significant political events and trends, concerns, challenges, and the impact of media on public perception. They discuss California's role in national politics, the war on DEI, and shifts in foreign policy, while also sharing personal reflections and aspirations for the upcoming...

In this episode of the podcast, Josh and Susan explore various topics ranging from the current vibe in National Guard-occupied DC to the impact of celebrity tragedies on public sentiment. They also touch on the implications of tobacco taxes on public health funding, the role of endorsements in political campaigns, and the political and military exploitation of the fentanyl crisis. The conversation...

In this conversation, Josh and Susan discuss various pressing issues in California, including community violence, gerrymandering, the governor's race, budget challenges, healthcare affordability, and the implications of e-bikes. They also touch on the raises of CSU presidents and the ethical considerations surrounding military conduct.

Susan and Josh welcome Gary Kremen, a seasoned tech entrepreneur, investor, and civic innovator whose latest venture, Voter.vote, aims to bring the power of AI, predictive analytics, and behavioral targeting to the democratic process. We’ll be talking about the evolving intersection of technology and politics and the promises and perils of data-driven democracy—and why Gary believes that the right...

Susan and Josh discuss the evolving political landscape in California, focusing on the implications of recent elections, particularly Prop 50. They explore the polarization within the state, the scramble for congressional seats, and the generational changes in politics. The role of social media, the impact of redistricting, and the diminishing belief in the American dream are also examined. The di...

On this guest-free episode of The Sacralegis Podcast, Susan and Josh discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal reflections on birthdays and zodiac signs to the challenges of new jobs and the dynamics of California politics. They delve into the gubernatorial race, public protests, and recent policy updates, including environmental legislation and the importance of bees in agriculture.

Just a quick note to let our loyal listeners know that The Sacralegis Podcast is going to a bi-weekly format...

In this episode of The Sacralegis Podcast, Josh and Susan sit down with Dan Schnur, former candidate for California Secretary of State, longtime political strategist, and civic educator, to dissect the disappearance of the political middle in California and beyond. They explore how polarization has reshaped political incentives, why compromise has become a liability, and what it means for leaders...

In this episode, Dr. Fred Smoller discusses the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon and its implications for California's environmental policies. He shares his journey from witnessing the federally funded Solar Decathlon in DC to creating the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon to emphasize the importance of engaging universities in climate change solutions. The conversation also touches on...

State Senator Brian Jones, who serves as Senate Minority Leader, joins The Sacralegis Podcast to discuss the evolving role of social media in politics, reflect on the impact and implications of Proposition 50, and offer his personal perspective on the current state of partisan politics in California. From memes to legislative maneuvers, this episode explores how digital platforms shape public perc...

Susan and Josh sit down with Josh Fryday—former Navy officer, Director of the Governor’s Office of Service, and current candidate for Lieutenant Governor—to explore how civic engagement and public service can reshape California’s future. From Climate Corps to community resilience, Fryday shares his vision for a state where service isn’t just a value—it’s a core feature and an antidote to polarizat...

Economist Andrew Zimbalist joins The Sacralegis Podcast to explore the high-stakes economics of hosting the Olympic Games. From ballooning budgets to elusive legacies, we explore why “mega-events” like LA 2028 often promise civic glory but deliver fiscal hangovers. Is Los Angeles sprinting toward a global showcase—or hurdling into a financial trap? A candid look at the politics, profits, and pitfa...

Susan and Josh welcome to the podcast Fiona Ma for a conversation that reflects on service, strategy, and stepping into the spotlight—charting her path from San Francisco supervisor to State Treasurer, and now as a candidate for Lieutenant Governor of California. With decades of public finance experience and a reputation for political savvy and tireless travel, Ma makes the case for why ambition a...

Susan and Josh welcome to the podcast Tim Myers, a successful musician, founding member and former bassist for the popular rock band One Republic, and current candidate for Lieutenant Governor of California. Tim’s a self-described outsider, a newcomer to politics. The conversation delves into his motivation for running and his plans to use the “bully pulpit” of the office of Lieutenant Governor to...

Susan and Josh welcome former Stockton mayor and current candidate for California Lieutenant Governor Michael Tubb. In 2016, at just 26 years old Tubbs became the youngest mayor of a major American city, pioneering bold initiatives like universal basic income and community-based justice reform. As a candidate for Lieutenant Governor, he’s advocating for housing affordability and expanding educatio...