MHD Off the Record

MHDCD8
  • 5.0 (27)
  • GOVERNMENT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

MHD Off the Record takes you inside Los Angeles City Hall with Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson. Each episode explores the culture, politics, and policies shaping life in Los Angeles from housing and homelessness to city planning, public safety, and immigrant rights. Focused on uniting neighborhoods across the city, the MHD Off the Record podcast blends political insight with community-driven solutions. Listeners hear conversations with civic leaders, activists, and community stakeholders that reveal how multicultural organizing, music, and personal stories influence the direction of Los Angeles. If you’re curious about how Los Angeles City Council makes decisions, want to learn about city resources, or care about the future of South LA and beyond, this podcast gives you the context and voices behind the policies that impact Angelenos every day.

  1. 4D AGO

    Ep. 41: What Happens When Black Women Lead? (feat. Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker, Bernita Walker, and Brandy Muñiz)

    On this episode, LA City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson sits down with three trailblazing leaders featured in the current City Hall exhibition, "When Black Women Lead, Communities Thrive, Everybody Wins". In honor of African-American Heritage Month, the group discusses the pivotal, often unrecognized role Black women play in shaping Los Angeles through housing, health equity, and community advocacy. The conversation explores the "underground railroad" of support that exists among women leaders, the challenges of balancing direct service with upstream policy change, and the personal sacrifices required to lead community institutions. Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker, Founding President of Ward Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), who has led the development of more than 400 units of affordable housing and serves on the LA County Metro Board.Bernita R. Walker, CEO and Co-founder of Project: PeaceMakers, Inc., a survivor, longtime advocate, and retired Deputy Sheriff whose work in domestic violence prevention spans more than four decades.Brandy Muñiz, Executive Director of All Peoples Community Center, an 84-year-old institution where she leads housing initiatives and community-centered programs addressing poverty and systemic inequities in Historic South Central. Community Announcements When Black Women Lead: Communities Thrive, Everybody Wins Exhibition 3rd Floor Bridge Gallery, Los Angeles City Hall, 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012February 2–26, 2026 | Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (Closed weekends)Free and open to the public (visitor badge required after security screening)

    58 min

  2. FEB 2

    South LA Highlight: Here to Help

    Tamekia Strayhorn is the Founder Executive Director of Here to Help Foundation, a South Los Angeles–based community development corporation focused on housing stability, economic opportunity, and support services for individuals and families navigating housing insecurity. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its reach by centering dignity, access, and long-term stability for residents often overlooked by traditional systems. Resources: Website: www.heretohelpcdc.org Address: 7409 Crenshaw Blvd Phone: (323)305-6631 Community Announcements When Black Women Lead: Communities Thrive, Everybody Wins Exhibition 3rd Floor Bridge Gallery, Los Angeles City Hall, 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012February 2–26, 2026 | Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (Closed weekends)Free and open to the public (visitor badge required after security screening)

    35 min

  3. JAN 19

    [Re-Air] Ep 7: What is the Role of Community Connection in Mental Wellness? feat. Dr. Cheryl Grills

    Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson and co-host Chavonne Taylor discuss the importance of viewing psychology and mental wellness from a community perspective with Dr. Cheryl Grills. Dr. Cheryl Grills is a Clinical Psychologist with a current emphasis in Community Psychology. She is also a full-time Professor and director of the Psychology Applied Research Center at Loyola Marymount University as well as a Governor appointee on the California Reparations Task Force and Chair of LA County Sybil Brand Commission. www.bellarmine.lmu.edu/psychology/parc/ourteam/cherylgrillsphd Episode Spotify Playlist

    34 min

  4. JAN 5

    [Re-Air] South LA Highlight: Wellnest

    On this episode, Chavonne Taylor speaks with Paco Retana, Vice President of Programs at Wellnest, a nationally acclaimed, and leading provider of emotional health and wellness services to children, young adults, families, and their communities. As Vice President of Programs at Wellnest, he is responsible for all clinical services, including program evaluation and training. He also oversees the areas of outpatient, early intervention, intensive services and life learning/transition age youth services. He is a licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Masters in Social Welfare from UCLA. Resources: www.wellnestla.org www.wellnestla.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Wellnest-2021-Annual-Report.pdf Ring the Alarm The Crisis of Black Youth Suicide in America

    38 min

  5. 12/22/2025

    Ep. 40: What Does it Take to Lead a Global City? (Feat. Eric Garcetti)

    In this episode of MHD Off the Record, Council President Marquise Harris-Dawson sits down with former Los Angeles Mayor and U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti. Returning to his roots in the San Fernando Valley, Garcetti reflects on his journey from the youngest City Council President in LA history to representing the United States on the world stage. Ambassador Garcetti served as the 42nd mayor of LA from 2013 to 2022 after 12 years on the City Council, including six as Council President. As mayor, he led major initiatives such as raising the city’s minimum wage to $15, securing the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and launching LA’s Green New Deal. He later served as U.S. Ambassador to India from 2023 to 2025, strengthening diplomatic and strategic ties between the two countries. He currently serves as Chair of C40 Cities, the global network of mayors focused on tackling the climate crisis. Resources: www.ericgarcetti.com Community Announcements: If you or someone in your household relies on Medi-Cal, now is the time to act. Apply or renew your Medi-Cal benefits today at dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal. If you need help navigating the process, the Mayor’s Fund We Are LA Hotline is available at 213-584-1808.

    49 min

  6. 12/08/2025

    [Re-Air] Ep. 33 Are Community Resources Truly Accessible? (Feat. Rocsii Woolley and Lauren Brazile)

    Los Angeles is a huge city with many resources and opportunities. However, figuring out how to get access to the right resources—whether it’s housing, jobs, or financial support—can be overwhelming. So who should be responsible for making sure people get the help they need? Should the government be doing more, or are community organizations better equipped to step in? Are we empowering ourselves, or are we asking too much from the system? Sitting down with Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson to answer these questions are Lauren Brazile, President of We Grow LA, an organization dedicated to empowering communities through resources, education, and support, and Rocsii Woolley, Founder & CEO of The Source LA, who has helped thousands secure jobs, housing, and business opportunities while advocating for community-driven solutions ***************************************************** Sign up for our newsletter at beacons.ai/mhdcd8 ****************************************************** Resources Lauren Brazile is the president of We Grow LA (WGLA), an organization dedicated to empowering communities through resources, education, and support. Under her leadership, WGLA strives to create a more equitable and just society for all. She has been instrumental in providing the community with essential tools and knowledge, as evidenced by her participation in events like the Know to Grow Masterclass, where she collaborated with figures such as comedian Watts Homie Quan, choreographer Storm DeBarge, and educator Champ Reggie Foster. Lauren is also an active member of GLAAAC, NAACP, and Forbes BLK and is currently a fellow in the Black Girl Ventures 2025 cohort and BMO Bank 2025 Venture cohort. Her commitment to economic empowerment and community advocacy continues to shape opportunities for those historically excluded from access to resources and support. Website: www.wegrowla.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/wegrowla (@wegrowla) Rocsii Woolley is a devoted wife, mother, woman of faith, entrepreneur and community leader. As the Founder and CEO of The Source LA, she has been a driving force in providing housing, employment, and essential resources to underserved communities. With over a decade of HR experience, she’s helped hire over 10,000 community members and supported more than 400 individuals in securing stable housing. She also manages the Watts Business Source Center at Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (VSEDC), offering business solutions to local entrepreneurs, and serves as Chapter Advisor for The Black Professionals Network, strengthening professional connections and fostering community development. Rocsii’s impact has earned her numerous accolades from the County and City of Los Angeles, Inglewood, Compton, Long Beach, and the state of California, including the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and medallion. A marketing expert with a large social media following, she also provides strategic social media services through her consulting agency, helping businesses expand their reach and impact. As a mentor and business visionary, Rocsii remains committed to creating pathways for others to succeed and thrive. Website: www.thesourcela.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesourcela Want to learn more about Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson and LA's Council District 8? Follow @mhdcd8...

    34 min

  7. 11/24/2025

    Keys to the City: Mayor's Office of Community Safety

    On this episode, we’re exploring how Los Angeles is redefining public safety beyond enforcement. The Mayor’s Office of Community Safety, led by Deputy Mayor Karen Lane, is building a citywide network of programs rooted in prevention, healing, and opportunity. We’ll be discussing everything from youth mentorship and violence interruption to reentry support and community-led crisis response. Karen Lane launched the city’s first Office of Community Safety under Mayor Karen Bass. With deep roots in criminal justice reform and philanthropy, she leads efforts to invest in community-driven safety strategies and sustain programs that strengthen families and neighborhoods. Gilbert Johnson leads the City’s Strategic Reentry Initiatives, connecting justice-impacted Angelenos with employment, housing, and support services. A South Central native and longtime community organizer, Gilbert’s work centers on helping people rebuild their lives after incarceration and contribute meaningfully to their neighborhoods. Community Announcements LA Mobility Plan - www.mobilityactionplanla.org Justice Fair 2025 - www.justicefair.org

    53 min

  8. 11/10/2025

    Ep. 39: How Do We Turn Cultural Influence Into Economic Power? (Feat. James Fauntleroy)

    On this episode, LA City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson sits down with singer, songwriter, producer, and artistic creator James Fauntleroy. James is a four-time Grammy Award winner and one of the most influential songwriters of his generation. He recently co-wrote "Die With A Smile" by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, which won an award at the 2025 Grammys, hit No. 1 (5 wks) on Billboard and became the fastest song to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify on its way to topping the platforms global chart for 200+ days - the longest in the apps history. James also co-wrote seven songs on Bruno Mars’ multi–Grammy-winning album 24K Magic, including That’s What I Like, which earned Song of the Year and made him the first [pure] songwriter to ever win an Album of the Year Grammy. Driven by a belief in access and opportunity, Fauntleroy builds platforms that merge creativity with community impact. In addition to a number of creative initiatives, he founded Laboratory, a workforce and entrepreneurship hub located in the Crenshaw District, and co-founded the 1500 Sound Academy, an international music school expanding access for creatives worldwide. Through partnerships with leading brands such as Disney, NFL, Roland, and others, James continues to build projects that bridge music, design, and education. Across all of his initiatives, Fauntleroy is dedicated to creating opportunities for all voices and building pathways to sustainable careers Resources www.goodwillsouthflorida.org/about-goodwill/spirit-goodwill-band www.grammy.com/artists/james-fauntleroy/17853 Community Announcements: Food Resources in LA www.instagram.com/p/DQaSSGjEm1U/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Brotherhood Crusade Turkey Giveaway Where: Algin Sutton Recreation Center 8800 S Hoover St, Los Angeles, CA 90044 When: Thursday, November 20th from 10am to 1pm. Note: First come, first served. Drive Thru ONLY.  More info: Stacy Hill-Williams (323)846-1649 swilliams@brotherhoodcrusade.org

    47 min
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5
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

MHD Off the Record takes you inside Los Angeles City Hall with Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson. Each episode explores the culture, politics, and policies shaping life in Los Angeles from housing and homelessness to city planning, public safety, and immigrant rights. Focused on uniting neighborhoods across the city, the MHD Off the Record podcast blends political insight with community-driven solutions. Listeners hear conversations with civic leaders, activists, and community stakeholders that reveal how multicultural organizing, music, and personal stories influence the direction of Los Angeles. If you’re curious about how Los Angeles City Council makes decisions, want to learn about city resources, or care about the future of South LA and beyond, this podcast gives you the context and voices behind the policies that impact Angelenos every day.

Information

  • Creator
    MHDCD8
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    114
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 MHDCD8
  • Show Website
    MHD Off the Record