California, as the wealthiest and most populated state in the nation, carries many leading roles in policy making, economic growth, cultural influences and technology development. California Insider, hosted by Siyamak Khorrami with The Epoch Times Southern California, showcases leaders and professionals across the state with inside information about trending topics and critical issues. Our mission is to inform California residents through the experiences and knowledge of our guests.
Siyamak sits down with Shawn Sahbari founder and CEO of Komodo Fire Systems, to examine why California’s wildfire response has not kept pace with growing risks. As wildfires intensify, concerns rise …
A landslide in Rancho Palos Verdes was accelerating, moving up to 50 feet per year—far beyond its historical rate—tearing through homes and infrastructure. Former Mayor John Cruikshank explains how t…
For years, San Francisco’s open-air drug markets have drawn people from across the country—some seeking help, others sinking deeper into despair. Recovery expert Cedric Akbar has lived it, fought to …
California’s zero-emission truck mandate hit a major roadblock. High costs, infrastructure gaps, and legal challenges led the state to withdraw it. What does this mean for trucking, supply chains, an…
California’s insurance market is at a critical juncture as an exodus of insurers from high-risk areas leaves homeowners with fewer options. Rex Frazier, CEO of the Personal Insurance Federation of Ca…
Mark Johnson built a multimillion-dollar business from scratch, but instead of just enjoying the rewards, he chose to give back—through philanthropy, leadership, and education. His journey from overc…
California’s population is growing again—but what does that mean for the economy? Innovation professor Marshall Toplansky analyzes the latest data, noting that while the numbers show an increase, the…
California has invested billions in rail projects, promising convenient access to public transportation for millions. In this episode, we sit down with Marc Joffe, a visiting fellow at the California…
MacArthur Park, once a historic landmark in Los Angeles, is now overrun by gangs, open-air drug markets, and fires threatening businesses daily. John Alle, a longtime property owner in the area, reve…
As Los Angeles prepares to host the Olympics, billions in investment are set to reshape the city. But will these events bring lasting benefits or deepen displacement? We sit down with State Senator L…
The cost of an average home in California is about $870,000. To afford a mortgage that includes taxes and insurance on such a home, a household would need an income exceeding $250,000 per year. Howev…
Entire schools have been reduced to ashes, leaving families and educators scrambling for solutions. Ian McFeat, Superintendent of Aveson Schools, and Shawn Brown, Founder of Pasadena Rosebud Academy,…
Karl Susman, an insurance expert, explains the realities of wildfire insurance in California, from payout delays to rising costs. With entire communities affected, homeowners face tough decisions—reb…
California remains one of the world’s largest agricultural producers, yet its farmers confront intensifying water restrictions. In this comprehensive analysis, Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig …
In the aftermath of the Los Angeles fires, many Californians have started the road to recovery. But what’s really happening on the ground? Families are searching for housing, insurance claims are pil…
“How do you break the poverty cycle? You know what child in this country is going to cure a strain of cancer?” asked Jamie Green, superintendent of Trinity Alps School District. “We are America, we a…
California’s insurance crisis is deepening. Former Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones discusses the impact of LA fires, rising premiums, and potential FAIR Plan assessments. Learn about the financial …
Amid the ongoing Los Angeles fires, regional water management issues and infrastructure gaps are revealed. Water expert Brett Barbre delves into current systems, policy impacts, and strategies for en…
In this episode, Carl DeMaio discusses Reform California’s approach to key state policy issues, including tax rates, public safety, and government transparency. He explores the power of collaboration…
Siyamak sits down with real estate expert Matt McCormick. Together, they dive into the driving factors behind the continuous rise in housing costs in California and explore how this trend is contribu…