Live From LA County

Live From LA County

Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites you into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County.

  1. 4d ago

    What Every LA County Employee Should Know About LACERA

    What does it take to safeguard the retirement future of more than 200,000 LA County employees and retirees?On this episode of Live from LA County, host Rodney Collins sits down with Luis A. Lugo, Chief Executive Officer of the Los Angeles County Employees Retirement Association (LACERA), for a conversation about retirement security, leadership, innovation, and the responsibility of managing one of the nation's largest county pension systems.Lugo takes us inside an organization responsible for more than $90 billion in assets and nearly $5 billion in annual benefit payments. He explains why employees should engage with LACERA long before retirement, the importance of keeping beneficiaries and power-of-attorney information current, and how LACERA is exploring digital tools and AI to better serve members.The conversation also goes beyond the numbers. Lugo shares his journey from growing up in the South Bronx to public service, the mentors who changed his trajectory, and the leadership philosophy he brings to LACERA today: empower, inspire, and motivate.Whether you're beginning your County career, approaching retirement, or simply interested in leadership and public service, this conversation offers something you can use. Host: Rodney Collins Producers: Tina Curry, Ramla Javed, Alban Kalasa, Mark Whitney, Sofia Khan Editor: Alban Kalasa Guest: Luis A. Lugo Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose. The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.

    What Every LA County Employee Should Know About LACERA

  2. Aug 3

    Dr. Debra Duardo Leading the Nation's Largest Regional Education Agency

    What does it take to overcome adversity and become one of the most influential education leaders in the nation? In this episode of Live from LA County, Rodney Collins sits down with Dr. Debra Duardo, Superintendent of the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE), to discuss her remarkable journey from growing up in Los Angeles as the daughter of Mexican immigrants to leading the nation's largest regional education agency. Dr. Duardo shares powerful lessons on perseverance, leadership, educational opportunity, and the responsibility of preparing future generations for success. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact that one person can have on millions of lives. Host: Rodney Collins Producers: Tina Curry, Ramla Javed, Alban Kalasa, Mark Whitney, Sofia Khan Editor: Alban Kalasa Guest: Dr. Debra Duardo Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose. The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.

    Dr. Debra Duardo Leading the Nation's Largest Regional Education Agency

  3. Jul 20

    Why Curiosity Changes Lives: A Conversation with Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga

    What role do museums play in shaping the future of our communities? In this episode of Live from LA County, Rodney Collins sits down with Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga, President and Director of the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County, to explore how science, education, culture, and curiosity come together to inspire millions of visitors every year. From the world-famous Natural History Museum and La Brea Tar Pits to groundbreaking scientific research and educational outreach, Dr. Bettison-Varga shares how museums are helping people better understand our planet, our history, and our future. Host: Rodney Collins Producers: Tina Curry, Ramla Javed, Alban Kalasa, Mark Whitney, Sofia Khan Editor: Alban Kalasa Guest: Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose. The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.

    Why Curiosity Changes Lives: A Conversation with Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga

  4. Jul 6

    Rafael Carbajal on Consumer Protection, Housing & Opportunity in LA County

    What does the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs actually do and how does it impact your everyday life? In this episode of Live from LA County, host Rodney Collins sits down with Rafael Carbajal, Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA), to discuss how the department protects consumers, supports workers, empowers small businesses, and helps residents navigate housing, financial wellness, and wage protections. Rafael also shares his inspiring personal story from immigrating to the United States as a child to rising through County service from an entry-level position to leading one of Los Angeles County’s most impactful departments. Host: Rodney Collins Producers: Tina Curry, Ramla Javed, Alban Kalasa, Mark Whitney, Sofia Khan Editor: Alban Kalasa Guest: Rafael Carbajal Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose. The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.

    Rafael Carbajal on Consumer Protection, Housing & Opportunity in LA County

  5. Jun 22

    Los Angeles County Assessor Jeffrey Prang on Property, Public Service, and Modernization

    In this episode of Live from LA County, host Rodney Collins sits down with Los Angeles County Assessor Jeffrey Prang to discuss the role of the Assessor’s Office, how property valuesare determined, why transparency matters, and how technology is helping modernize services for residents and businesses. Host: Rodney CollinsProducers: Tina Curry, Ramla Javed, Alban Kalasa, Mark Whitney, Sofia KhanEditor: Alban Kalasa Guest: Jeffrey Prang Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode featuresinterviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestonesto creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose. The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers acloser look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County storyunique.

    Los Angeles County Assessor Jeffrey Prang on Property, Public Service, and Modernization

  6. Jun 8

    County Librarian Dr. Skye Patrick on Innovation, Access, and the Future of Libraries

    What does a modern public library really do? In this episode of Live From LA County, we sit down with SkyePatrick, Director of LA County Library, to discuss how libraries are evolving to meet the needs of communities across Los Angeles County. From literacy and digital access to workforce resources and innovation, Skye shares how LA County Library is helping residents thrive far beyond bookshelves. Host: Rodney Collins Producers: Tina Curry, Ramla Javed, Alban Kalasa, Mark Whitney, Sofia Khan Editor: Alban Kalasa Guest: Skye Patrick Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose. The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.

    County Librarian Dr. Skye Patrick on Innovation, Access, and the Future of Libraries

  7. May 26

    The Work Behind the Numbers: LA County Auditor-Controller Oscar Valdez

    In this episode of Live From LA County, host Rodney Collins sits down with Oscar Valdez, Los Angeles County Auditor-Controller, for a behind-the-scenes conversation on public finance, accountability, transparency, and the systems that help keep one of the nation’s largest local governments running. Oscar shares his journey through public finance, his transition into LA County, the importance of financial oversight, and how the Auditor-Controller’s office supports employees, vendors, departments, and the residents served across the County. Host: Rodney Collins Producers: Tina Curry, Ramla Javed, Alban Kalasa, Mark Whitney, Sofia Khan Editor: Alban Kalasa Guest: Oscar Valdez Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose. The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.

    The Work Behind the Numbers: LA County Auditor-Controller Oscar Valdez

  8. May 11

    Kelly LoBianco on Workforce Development and Economic Equity

    In this episode of Live From LA County, host Rodney Collins sits down with Kelly LoBianco, Director of the Department of Economic Opportunity, for a conversation about workforce development, economic equity, community empowerment, and the work being done to support workers and businesses across Los Angeles County. Kelly reflects on her journey to LA County, why Los Angeles became her chosen home, and how her background in economic development shaped her approach to public service. The conversation also explores the importance of breaking down silos and creating pathways to opportunity for residents, businesses, and communities throughout the region. Host: Rodney Collins Producers: Tina Curry, Ramla Javed, Alban Kalasa, Mark Whitney, Sofia Khan Editor: Mark Whitney and Alban Kalasa Guest: Kelly LoBianco Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose. The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.

    Kelly LoBianco on Workforce Development and Economic Equity
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Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all. From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites you into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County.

Information

  • Creator
    Live From LA County
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Live From LA County
  • Show Website
    Live From LA County

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