Coffee, Culture, and the Capitol

California Family Council
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California Family Council's weekly show giving you the latest news on Life, Family, and Liberty, live from Sacramento!

  1. 2d ago

    103: Pronouns, Your Job & the WNBA: Gender Ideology Hits a Breaking Point

    California now requires every employer with five or more employees to run staff through state-approved sexual harassment training, and that training teaches that using the wrong pronoun or a person's pre-transition name is illegal harassment. Greg Burt took the state's supervisor course himself, and he walks Sophia through what he found, including the videos and screenshots CFC published this week. Then the conversation turns to sports, where WNBA player Sophie Cunningham refused to back down after speaking up for female athletes, and two former NBA players declared for the 2027 WNBA draft to expose the league's own self-identification rules. Plus a preview of the Life, Family, Liberty Gala on September 16 with Seth Dillon of The Babylon Bee. LinksLife, Family, Liberty Gala, September 16 Tickets, tables, and sponsorships: https://watchdog.californiafamily.org/fundraising/e/2026-galaAll CFC events: https://watchdog.californiafamily.org/rsvp/events Story 1: California says you must affirm gender ideology to keep your job CFC article with the training screenshots: https://www.californiafamily.org/2026/08/ca-says-you-must-affirm-gender-ideology-to-keep-your-job/The state's free training portal (take it yourself): https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/shptGovernment Code 12950.1, the mandate: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV§ionNum=12950.1Related, teachers and the PRISM training: https://www.californiafamily.org/2026/07/the-faith-test-california-makes-teachers-take-and-how-to-refuse-it/ Story 2: Sophie Cunningham and women's sports ESPN, Cunningham says she wants to get back to basketball: https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/49538591/amid-tension-cunningham-says-wants-get-back-basketballTimeline of the controversy: https://sports.yahoo.com/wnba/article/sophie-cunningham-controversy-timeline-of-the-latest-discourse-around-the-wnba-what-caitlin-clark-has-said-221320700.html Story 3: Two former NBA players declare for the 2027 WNBA draft Enes Kanter Freedom's declaration: https://www.mediaite.com/media/sports/enes-kanter-freedom-officially-declares-for-wnba-draft-as-pressure-campaign-on-leagues-trans-policy-ratchets-up/Royce White follows: https://www.foxnews.com/outkick-sports/former-nba-player-royce-white-declaring-next-wnba-draft-enes-kanter-announcementThe WNBA's response, calling the debate bad faith: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2026/aug/12/wnba-denounces-bad-faith-transgender-women-debate-says-league-no/ABC News explainer: https://abcnews.com/GMA/Culture/wnba-faces-controversy-transgender-eligibility-nba-players-declare/story?id=135516906 Watch and follow Sign up for the weekly newsletter: https://www.californiafamily.org/sign-up/Give: https://www.californiafamily.org/give/

  2. Aug 7

    102: Faith Under Fire in California Schools

    In Episode 102 of Coffee, Culture & the Capitol, Sophia and Greg discuss California’s new LGBT competency training requirements for teachers and how Christian educators can stand firm in their faith without compromising their beliefs. They also unpack SB 685 and its impact on religious schools providing special education services, highlight the importance of courageous pastors and Christians, and discuss the power of prayer at California’s State Capitol. Links Prayer Vigil Nov 1 https://watchdog.californiafamily.org... 2026 Life, Faith, and Family Gala https://watchdog.californiafamily.org... The Faith Test California Makes Teachers Take and How to Refuse It : https://www.californiafamily.org/2026... Sacramento Says Yes To Religious Schools But Only If They Stop Praying: https://www.californiafamily.org/2026... Action Center : google.com/url?q=https://californiafamily.quorum.us/action_center/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1786130576626633&usg=AOvVaw2SnhbTSoEjIo3OKJd4Joot

  3. Jul 20

    101: Parents Just Got Their Power Back in Schools, But NEED to Take Action!

    Coffee Culture and the Capitol, Episode 101: Parents Just Got Their Power Back For decades California schools told parents they could opt out of one thing: sex ed. That era is over. Sophia and Greg break down three major court rulings, Mahmoud v. Taylor, Mirabelli v. Bonta, and Huntington Beach v. Newsom, that hand parents new authority to pull their kids from gender ideology lessons, CRT, DEI programming, and any curriculum that conflicts with their faith. They walk through how to use OptOutCA.org to notify your school district in minutes. Then the conversation moves to the UC system, where four students are suing after a new sexual harassment policy forced them to affirm gender ideology just to register for classes. Greg explains why this is a First Amendment fight, not a policy footnote, and why silence is not an option for Christians on campus. Finally, Greg and Sophia expose what happened to AB 2691, a bill that started as a straightforward ban on convicted sex offenders holding office. After Senator Scott Wiener's amendments in the Senate Elections Committee, it would have carved out exemptions for adults who commit felony sexual acts against minors ages 14 to 17. Greg's viral committee testimony pushed back hard, and this episode explains exactly what was at stake and why it matters. The episode closes with a call to show up. Lobby Day is August 4 in Sacramento. The Life, Family, Liberty Gala is September 12, featuring Babylon Bee CEO Seth Dillon. Don't just get angry. Get involved. Links: Donate:https://www.californiafamily.org/donate/ Events: https://www.californiafamily.org/savethedate/ Opt out: https://www.optoutca.org/optout Viral reel: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DaQL4JJTqWE/

  4. Jun 27

    100: Greg and Sophia Give all the Glory to God and Share What He has Done During Their Time at CFC

    This week marks a major milestone—100 episodes of Coffee Culture & the Capitol! Instead of our usual legislative update, Sophia Lorey and Greg Burt take a look back at the incredible journey that brought them to California Family Council and reflect on some of the biggest victories God has accomplished over the past several years. From Greg's miraculous hiring story to Sophia's unexpected rise as one of California's leading voices defending girls' sports, this episode is filled with personal stories of God's faithfulness, behind-the-scenes moments, and reminders that showing up in faith can have an impact far beyond what we imagine. They also revisit some of CFC's most significant wins—from defeating legislation that threatened free speech and biblical counseling, to launching California's parental rights movement and helping change the national conversation on protecting girls' sports. Whether you've been listening since Episode 1 or you're just discovering the podcast, this special episode is a celebration of what God has done through faithful supporters like you and a look ahead to what He may have in store for the next 100 episodes. Thank you for being part of the Coffee Culture & the Capitol community. Here's to the next 100 episodes! Links: California Public Library Silences Female Athlete https://www.californiafamily.org/2023/08/california-public-library-silences-female-athlete/ Ninth Circuit Blocks CA’s Gender Secrecy Law, AB 1955, Affirms Parents’ Right to Know https://www.californiafamily.org/2026/06/ninth-circuit-blocks-cas-gender-secrecy-law-ab-1955-affirms-parents-right-to-know/ Donate:https://www.californiafamily.org/donate/ Events: https://www.californiafamily.org/savethedate/

  5. Jun 19

    99: Hate Speech, Free Speech, and Sacramento's New Training Mandates

    In this episode of Coffee Culture and the Capitol, Sophia Lorey and Greg Burt break down AB 1803 and AB 1578—two controversial proposals that would require mandatory anti-hate training for employees and elected officials across California. Supporters say the bills combat discrimination, but critics warn they could be used to silence dissenting viewpoints and pressure Californians to conform to government-approved beliefs. Sophia shares her experience testifying against AB 1803, while Greg discusses his testimony on AB 1578 and the heated exchanges that followed in committee hearings. Together, they examine the growing debate over free speech, religious freedom, gender ideology, and whether Sacramento is crossing the line from education into ideological reeducation. They also discuss California Family Council's upcoming Lobby Day, how everyday citizens can engage directly with lawmakers, and why showing up matters in the fight for life, family, and liberty. Links: Lobby day: https://www.californiafamily.org/2026/06/join-cfclobby-day-june-24th/Gala: https://watchdog.californiafamily.org/fundraising/e/2026-galaAb 1578 full hearing: https://youtu.be/S3evfM3_8IA?si=AYi0BKgOkcBBb0t- AB 1803 full hearing: https://youtu.be/MVXIFYi_4wI?si=JBrdMDZwAIAc8gfHDonate: https://www.californiafamily.org/donate/

  6. Jun 12

    98: Boys in Girls' Sports, Race Preferences Return, and California's Push for More Late-Term Abortions

    In this episode of Coffee Culture and the Capitol, Sophia Lorey and Greg Burt break down some of the most significant battles unfolding at the California State Capitol. First, they discuss the growing controversy over male athletes competing in girls' sports following the CIF State Track and Field Championships and share highlights from California Family Council's press conference defending fairness and safety for female athletes. Next, they examine ACA 7, a proposed constitutional amendment that would weaken Proposition 209's ban on race-based preferences in public education. Sophia and Greg unpack the heated committee debate and what the measure could mean for California schools. Finally, they cover AB 1973, legislation that would allow nurse practitioners, certified nurse-midwives, and physician assistants to perform second- and third-trimester abortions. Hear testimony from a former abortionist and medical professionals who warned lawmakers about the serious risks this bill poses to women. Plus, learn how you can make your voice heard through CFC's upcoming Lobby Day at the State Capitol. Links: Dr. Wong interview with greg https://youtu.be/HfDYs336lC0?si=5wecsM5AWq7z149_ Dr. Wong's testimony https://youtu.be/KElYYTnJiLA?si=-yI_Va-qjqfrGtn3 AB 1973 full hearing: https://youtu.be/2F64dWqBO_4?si=GiK2XkeHAISvwLZ8 ACA 7 full hearing https://youtu.be/XQKnlYhFwfw?si=hs8ZMxoOLGk-AScp DonationCalifornia family Website Lobby day https://watchdog.californiafamily.org/rsvp/2026-june-lobby-day Gala https://watchdog.californiafamily.org/fundraising/e/2026-gala

  7. May 15

    97: Governor Newsom Responds to Save Girls’ Sports Movement

    In Episode 97 of Coffee, Culture, and the Capitol, Sophia Lorey and Greg Burt break down the latest controversy surrounding girls’ sports in California after another male athlete dominated multiple girls’ track and field events at CIF prelims. Sophia shares behind-the-scenes details from a powerful press conference where brave female athletes spoke out for fairness, safety, and equal opportunity, even as Governor Newsom’s office accused critics of “bullying.” Sophia and Greg discuss why teenage girls should not be left alone to defend their own rights, the growing national attention on the Save Girls’ Sports movement, and why parents, pastors, and leaders must finally speak up. They also unpack AB 2017, a California bill that would expand religious holiday observances in public schools, and what it reveals about the state’s approach to religion and education. Plus: practical ways listeners can take action, support female athletes, and stay involved in what’s happening at the Capitol! Watch the press conference here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMhaGFBkvv0 Sign the Petition urging CIF to follow Title IX: https://www.xxonly.org/petition/ AB 2017 Article: https://www.californiafamily.org/2026/05/california-wants-to-give-public-schools-permission-to-celebrate-the-end-of-ramadan/

  8. May 1

    96: Chaos at the Capitol: Hate Speech Bill Without a Definition & Abortion Bill Hits Headlines

    In this episode of Coffee Culture & The Capitol, the team breaks down a chaotic and high-stakes week in California politics—from testimony at the State Capitol to national media coverage. They unpack AB 1973, a controversial bill expanding who can perform second and third trimester abortions, raising serious concerns about medical safety and standards of care. The conversation then turns to AB 1578, a so-called “anti-hate” training bill that sparked intense debate after lawmakers struggled to define what “hate speech” actually means. With powerful testimony, sharp questioning from legislators, and a moment that left the room silent, the episode highlights the growing tension between free speech, faith, and public policy. After their testimony gained attention from major media outlets like the New York Post, the hosts reflect on how local advocacy can shape national conversations—and why staying informed and engaged has never been more important. Links: New York Post Article: https://nypost.com/2026/04/28/us-news/california-dems-plot-to-let-nurses-perform-late-term-abortions/ Action center AB 1973 https://californiafamily.quorum.us/campaign/160547/ AB 1973 Hearing https://youtu.be/6uBTmrAN2uc Action Center AB 1578 https://californiafamily.quorum.us/campaign/161032/ AB 1578 Hearing https://youtu.be/ce4dovJo60M National Day of Prayer https://www.californiafamily.org/2026-national-day-of-prayer/ America Reads the Bible https://youtu.be/5UKbmaHFcpc California family Website https://www.californiafamily.org/

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Ratings & Reviews

3.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

California Family Council's weekly show giving you the latest news on Life, Family, and Liberty, live from Sacramento!

Information

  • Creator
    California Family Council
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    102
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 California Family Council
  • Show Website
    Coffee, Culture, and the Capitol

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