California Underground: Your Sane Insight into California Politics

California Underground
  • 4.1 (58)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to California Underground, the most trusted podcast for all things California politics. Each week, we tackle the pressing issues facing our state through engaging interviews and roundtable discussions with political candidates and passionate Californians. Join us for clear, rational commentary that helps you stay informed about the complexities of California governance. Tune in for your trusted perspective on the political landscape!

  1. California Is Broken. A Libertarian Wants to Fix It. | Tom Woodard for Governor 2026

    12H AGO

    California Is Broken. A Libertarian Wants to Fix It. | Tom Woodard for Governor 2026

    California has spent $24 billion on homelessness. It got worse. Gas prices are the highest in the country. And in 2026, nobody knows who's going to be the next Governor. Tonight we sit down with Libertarian candidate Tom Woodard — and ask the questions Sacramento won't. --- This week on California Underground, Phil and Camille sit down with Tom Woodard — Libertarian candidate for California Governor 2026. Tom is an entrepreneur, conservationist, and business executive with 40+ years of experience building organizations, creating jobs, and solving complex problems across the U.S. and Mexico. He's also a father who lost a son to addiction and homelessness — and he's running on the belief that California's two-party system has had its chance and blown it. In this episode: 🔹 The cost of living crisis — Why California gas prices and electricity rates are among the highest in the nation, what state mandates are driving the cost, and what a governor can actually do about it on Day 1. 🔹 Homelessness — $24 billion spent. The problem got worse. Tom shares his personal story, challenges the "Housing First" model, and lays out what a different approach looks like in practice. 🔹 The 2026 race — Newsom is term-limited, the Democratic field is fragmented, and for the first time in decades California's governor's race is genuinely uncertain. We ask Tom the hard questions: Is he running to win or running to move the conversation? And what's his pitch to voters who've never considered a third-party candidate? --- 📌 LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED • Tom Woodard campaign site: https://www.woodardforgovernor2026.com/ • Tom on X: https://x.com/woodard2026 • Tom on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodardforgovernor2026/ • Ballotpedia — 2026 California Governor's Race: https://ballotpedia.org/Tom_Woodard • California State Auditor — Homelessness Spending Report: https://www.auditor.ca.gov/reports/2021-112/index.html • CalMatters Homelessness Tracker: https://calmatters.org/housing/homelessness/ • California Air Resources Board — Cap and Trade Program: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/cap-and-trade-program • 2026 California Gubernatorial Election Overview: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_California_gubernatorial_election --- 📺 California Underground airs LIVE every Tuesday at 8PM PST on YouTube. 🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss an episode. 💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments — we read them. --- #CaliforniaUnderground #California #CaliforniaPolitics #Governor2026 #TomWoodard #Libertarian #CaliforniaHomelessness #CostOfLiving

    56 min
  2. Hollywood is Collapsing - And California Killed It ft. Guest Jim Agnew

    MAR 25

    Hollywood is Collapsing - And California Killed It ft. Guest Jim Agnew

    Hollywood’s Golden Era is not just fading — it’s decaying in front of our eyes. Once the shining jewel of California’s economy and culture, the film industry is now a ghost town, abandoned by studios that chase greener pastures elsewhere. Production hubs have shifted out of state, and the iconic Hollywood lots sit eerily silent — relics of a once-thriving empire that now resembles a ghost town. But what caused this collapse? And why is California so aggressively handing its Hollywood crown to other states and countries? In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with veteran screenwriter and producer Jim Agnew — a behind-the-scenes insider who's seen Hollywood's decline firsthand. Jim shares shocking stories about how California’s outdated policies, suffocating union costs, and ridiculous bureaucratic hurdles are bleeding the industry dry. He reveals how neighboring states like Georgia and Kentucky are swooping in with 30% cash rebates, making it cheaper to shoot blockbuster films out of state, even when you’re based in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, California’s own incentives are a patchwork system that discourages production, strangled by bureaucracy and bad policy. You'll discover: The real reasons Hollywood’s glamor is disappearing — and how political correctness and cultural shifts accelerated the decline.Why even major stars and studios are fleeing California for business-friendly states with better tax breaks.How outdated incentives and union costs push production companies abroad, costing thousands of local jobs.The impact of streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+ on California’s once-booming industry — and how their shift to global locations leaves California in the dust.Why California’s tax incentives are a joke compared to other states’ models, and how that’s actively killing the industry here.The hidden consequences of Hollywood’s decline — from local economies suffering to California losing its cultural influence.Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics. Original air date  3.24.26 *The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.* Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live Join the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order Follow California Underground on Social Media   Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground  X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA

    57 min
  3. LA Hospice Fraud Reaches MSM

    MAR 18

    LA Hospice Fraud Reaches MSM

    In this episode of California Underground, we reveal shocking truths about billions lost in hospice care fraud, rising gas prices driven by political power plays, and California's ongoing budget crisis impacting education and public services. Californians deserve to know how mismanagement, corruption, and politicized decisions are shaping their daily lives. In this episode: Billions of dollars are being siphoned through hospice care fraud, with California leading the nation in billions lost to scam providers.Trump’s recent order to reopen the offshore Sable pipeline amid legal battles and environmental concerns.The real reasons behind California's skyrocketing gas prices, including refinery closures and political blame game.Thousands of teachers and school employees face layoffs due to declining enrollment and misallocated COVID relief funds.The state’s chronic budget mismanagement, inflated claims of job creation, and the push for a complete government overhaul.Resources: Billions in hospice fraud uncovered by CBS NewsTrump reopens Santa Barbara offshore oil pipeline - ForbesCalifornia gas prices surge - LA TimesGavin Newsom’s COVID relief funding and budget mismanagement — California Budget ReportCalifornia underground news channel This show advocates for informed, independent thinking—no political endorsements here. If you’re interested in local governance and policy, join our Telegram community to discuss these issues more deeply: Telegram Link Timestamps: 00:00 - California hospice fraud scandal: billions lost to fake providers01:15 - The offshore pipeline reopening: Trump’s push vs California regulators02:44 - Rising gas prices: How policies and geopolitics collide in California04:20 - The truth about refinery shutdowns and environmental concerns05:54 - California’s education crisis: Thousands of jobs on the line amid budget cuts07:32 - The deep-rooted government mismanagement and taxpayer betrayal09:00 - Why California’s “progressive” policies are failing its people10:36 - The call for a government reset: Burn it down and rebuild12:00 - Local government’s role and the importance of community-level reforms13:45 - Public resistance to taxes and government waste: The frustration boils over15:20 - Gavin Newsom’s political ambitions and the strange dynamics within California politics17:00 - The importance of local elections: city councils, school boards, and more18:50 - California's potential for greatness: What’s holding us back?20:00 - The danger of overcentralizing power: Why executive decisions can go wrong21:45 - The real impact of federal relief funds and California’s financial deception23:30 - The urgency of informed voting and primary elections25:00 - The need to start from scratch: Rebuilding California, one step at a time Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics. Original air date  3.17.26 *The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.* Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live Join the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order Follow California Underground on Social Media   Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground  X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1

    1h 7m
  4. Don't Vote for Me, Vote for Us - Elaine Culotti Gubernatorial Candidate

    MAR 13

    Don't Vote for Me, Vote for Us - Elaine Culotti Gubernatorial Candidate

    In this episode of the California Underground podcast, Elaine Culotti shares her unconventional journey and bold vision for California, emphasizing the need to rethink the state's political and economic systems. She advocates for no-party preference candidacy, fiscal responsibility, and grassroots campaigns to bring real change. Key Topics: The rise of no-party preference candidates and what it means for California politicsWhy California’s political establishment is broken and how to fix itReorganization of cities and counties through Chapter 9 bankruptcy to cut costs and improve accountabilityThe influence of billionaires, NGOs, and special interests on California’s governanceCountering unfunded mandates like sanctuary city policies and high-density housing regulationsThe importance of economic development and creating 2 million jobs to revitalize the stateHow to leverage small, clean campaigns with grassroots donations instead of big-money influenceThe concept of building a "Great American Credit Union" and alternative funding modelsAddressing California’s housing crisis by reducing red tape and enabling entrepreneursRestoring water infrastructure and resource management for sustainable growthThe call for a political revolution and genuine leadershipResources: Elaine Kalati's Campaign WebsiteInstagram: Colotti for GovernorInstagramWebsite Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics. Original air date  3.10.26 *The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.* Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live Join the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order Follow California Underground on Social Media   Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground  X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA  Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/

    1h 11m
  5. $300 Billion. Zero Oversight. Herb Morgan Wants to Change That.

    MAR 4

    $300 Billion. Zero Oversight. Herb Morgan Wants to Change That.

    Understanding the Power and Responsibility of California's State Controller with Herb Morgan In this episode, Herb Morgan, a candidate for California state controller, breaks down the often-overlooked yet critically important role of the controller and how it holds more power than many realize. We explore California's financial challenges, transparency innovations, and the potential for reform in government spending and accountability. Key Topics The true role and influence of the California State ControllerHow a single office can impact statewide fiscal health and trustThe flaws in current financial reporting and transparencyInnovations like blockchain and AI to revolutionize government accountabilityThe scandals and inefficiencies within NGOs and public sector spendingStrategies for Republican victory in a predominantly blue stateThe "Golden Ticket" coalition and its plan to change California politicsDay-one priorities if Herb Morgan is elected: implementing radical transparency and reforming financial systemsThe importance of restoring trust in government and institutionsHow effective oversight can reduce waste, fraud, and abuseTimestamps (0:00) – Introduction to the importance of the California State Controller(1:35) – Meet Herb Morgan and his background(4:02) – Explaining the power and duties of the controller(6:00) – Examples of fiscal oversight and impact(8:34) – California’s dismal metrics despite high revenue(11:09) – The trust deficit in government and elections(14:27) – Critique of current officeholders and their qualifications(20:24) – The fight against fraud and waste in government(24:14) – The innovative use of AI and blockchain for transparency(33:13) – Why transparency scares those in power(36:42) – Exposure of NGO and public sector fraud scandals(43:43) – The criminal enterprise in public spending(49:24) – How the "Golden Ticket" coalition can win in California’s political landscape(56:05) – Immediate actions upon taking office(62:39) – Final thoughts and support informationResources Herb Morgan for California ControllerHerb Morgan’s Campaign WebsiteCalifornia Doge PlatformHerb Morgan on Social MediaAdditional campaigns & investigationsConnect with Herb TwitterWebsite Note: This episode provides an in-depth look at how reform-minded individuals can leverage the power of fiscal oversight to rebuild trust and eliminate corruption in California government. Don’t miss the innovative ideas for transparency and accountability that could shape the future of governance.

    1h 3m
  6. Newsom Insults Black Voters

    FEB 25

    Newsom Insults Black Voters

    Phil and Camille bring you the latest in California politics! In this episode, Phil and Camille discuss Newsom's recent racial gaffe in Atlanta, the California Democrats can't agree on a candidate for Governor, and BART is being bailed out by taxpayers...again. Original air date 2.24.26 *The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.* Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live Join the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order Follow California Underground on Social Media   Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground  X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1 Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/

    1h 5m
  7. Why is Newsom in Munich?

    FEB 20

    Why is Newsom in Munich?

    Gavin Newsom is galavanting in Munich and pretending to be President, Nancy Pelosi has made her selection for 2028 Democratic Presidential nominee, and we ask why is California ok with shipping gasoline all the way from the Bahamas when we could produce it here. Key Takeaways Gavin Newsom’s trip to Munich and his shadow campaign tacticsCalifornia’s hypocrisy in energy and environmental policiesThe potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidatesPelosi’s backing of Gavin Newsom for presidentCalifornia’s oil and gasoline imports from the BahamasThe economic and environmental implications of importing fuelHypocrisy around California’s offshore drilling bans versus importsPolitical narratives and vulnerabilities for California leadersThe influence of historical and familial ties in California politics Time Stamps 00:00 - Gavin Newsom’s Munich trip and international diplomacy00:43 - What Newsom says about Trump’s temporary status02:13 - California’s political direction and Newsom’s shadow campaign04:33 - The narrative of Newsom’s presidential ambitions05:25 - California’s energy policies and importing oil from the Bahamas06:30 - The hypocrisy of environmental regulations and offshore drilling07:46 - The timeline of EPA regulations and climate policies09:29 - Leadership responsibilities and Newsom’s absence11:10 - Newsom’s memorandum with the UK and international stances13:35 - Democratic contenders for 2028: AOC, Kamala, and others15:17 - AOC’s comments on Taiwan and foreign policy17:39 - The history of California’s oil wealth and current energy crisis18:35 - Pelosi’s endorsement of Newsom for 202824:05 - Family ties between Pelosi and Newsom26:38 - Left-wing media’s critique of Newsom28:59 - California’s economic record and challenges37:50 - California’s import of gasoline from the Bahamas40:13 - The state’s oil reserves and import strategies43:24 - Environmental hypocrisy and the costs of global oil imports47:55 - CO2 emissions from oil tankers and environmental impact50:13 - Comparing emissions from cows and ships52:52 - Final thoughts and community comments William Newsom Jr. - Family of Gavin NewsomNancy Pelosi - LinkedInGavin Newsom - Official WebsiteEPA Endangerment Rule TimelineJones Act - Maritime LawBloomberg on California Gas ImportsCalifornia Oil Reserves - EIA Connect with the Hosts Phil (@CaliforniaUnderground) - TwitterCamille (@Camille.Bethany) - Twitter

    56 min
  8. Candidates for Governor Debate...Sort Of

    FEB 11

    Candidates for Governor Debate...Sort Of

    In this episode, we break down last week's California gubernatorial debate, highlighting the lack of substantive discussion, notable gaffes, and the absence of real solutions from the candidates. If you're tired of political grandstanding and empty promises, this summary is for you. Original air date 2.10.26 Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and debate overview01:17 - Initial thoughts: debate’s tone and candidates’ performances03:53 - The debate’s lack of depth and candidate grandstanding10:32 - Steve Hilton’s surprising poll victory and candidate differentiation15:48 - Key moments: attacks on Bianco, immigration, and policy gaffes22:52 - The recurring theme of empty promises and unrealistic solutions38:08 - Misconceptions about abolishing ICE and federal versus state powers44:04 - Critical analysis of proposed solutions for housing and economic growth50:22 - The role of California’s budget and mismanagement criticisms60:26 - Candidates’ unrealized solutions and opportunistic positioning65:56 - Final thoughts: debate’s lack of substance and future expectations Are you a Californian who feels isolated and alone in your political views in a deep blue state? Feel like you can’t talk about insane taxes, an overbearing government, and radical social experiments without getting a side eye? Then join us on the California Underground Podcast, the most trusted podcast on all things California politics. *The California Underground Podcast is dedicated to discussing California politics from a place of sanity and rationality.* Check out our full site for more information about the show at www.californiaunderground.live Join the Members Only California Underground Telegram —>  https://im.page/7c0306da  For more in depth California political news coverage, make sure to subscribe to our Substack at https://caunderground.substack.com  Check out our sponsor for this episode, StopBox, by going to www.stopbox.com/californiaunderground to get 10% off your order Follow California Underground on Social Media   Instagram: www.instagram.com/californiaunderground  X: https://twitter.com/CAUndergound Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@californiaunderground?_t=8o6HWHcJ1CM&_r=1 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj8SabIcF4AKqEVFsLmo1jA  Read about our Privacy Policy: https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/privacy-policy/

    1h 11m
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Welcome to California Underground, the most trusted podcast for all things California politics. Each week, we tackle the pressing issues facing our state through engaging interviews and roundtable discussions with political candidates and passionate Californians. Join us for clear, rational commentary that helps you stay informed about the complexities of California governance. Tune in for your trusted perspective on the political landscape!

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