Valley Views

The Maddy Institute
  • 3.7 (3)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Valley Views

The Valley Views podcast, presented by The Maddy Institute, explores how state and federal policies impact the San Joaquin Valley. Each episode features in-depth discussions on local, state, and national issues, with diverse voices from across the political spectrum. Fostering balanced and engaging conversations, the podcast keeps listeners informed on the topics that matter most to the Valley, providing insights into the policies shaping its future. Valley Views is available on-air every Sunday at 10 AM on NewsTalk 580AM/105.9FM (KMJ) and as a podcast.

  1. JUN 8

    School Board Politics in Education: Good or Bad?

    On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante sits down with Dr. Bob Nelson, Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership at Fresno State and former Superintendent of Fresno Unified School District, for a thought-provoking conversation on “School Board Politics in Education: Good or Bad?”Together, they explore the evolving role of school boards in shaping public education, examining how political dynamics at the local level influence everything from curriculum decisions to district leadership.Drawing from his experience as a superintendent and educator, Dr. Nelson offers valuable insights into the benefits and drawbacks of political engagement in school governance—and what it means for students, teachers, and communities across the Central Valley. For more resources, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

    50 min

  2. JUN 1

    California’s Regulatory Environment: Impact to Business

    On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante sits down with Clint Olivier, CEO of the Central Valley Business Federation, for an in-depth conversation on “Sacramento Legislation and Valley Businesses.” Together, they explore how current and proposed policies in the state legislature are influencing the economic landscape of the Central Valley. From regulatory changes to business incentives, the discussion highlights the real-world impact of Sacramento's decisions on local employers, workforce development, and the future of the region’s economy. Olivier offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Valley businesses—and how legislative engagement can drive meaningful change. For more resources, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

    47 min

  3. MAY 25

    What's the Impact of Tariffs in California?

    On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Levi Sumagaysay of CalMatters, Ryan Jacobsen of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, and Karen Ross, Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Together, they examine the impact of tariffs in California—especially on agriculture and the broader economy. The discussion delves into how global trade policy affects local producers, consumers, and workers, while shedding light on the state’s response to shifting international markets. This conversation offers expert insights into the intersection of trade, policy, and agriculture in California—and the importance of strategic decision-making to protect and promote the state’s economic resilience. For more resources, ⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

    49 min

  4. MAY 19

    Housing Supply, Demand, and Affordability in the Central Valley

    On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante engages in a thought-provoking conversation withDarren Rose, President/ CEO at Building Industry Association of Fresno and Madera Counties and Kyle Chaney, Fresno Association of Realtors. Together, they explore the state of housing in the Central Valley, highlighting how public policy, industry trends, and local governance shape housing access and affordability. This conversation offers expert insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the region’s housing market—and the critical role policy plays in building stronger, more sustainable communities. For more resources, ⁠⁠click here⁠⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

    45 min

  5. MAR 30

    Approaches to Education: Pepperdine School of Public Policy

    On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director Blake Zante engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Pete Peterson, the Dean of the School of Public Policy at Pepperdine University. Together, they delve into the importance of public policy in shaping society and how the intersection of government, law, and social issues drives meaningful change. With a focus on effective governance, Peterson offers insights into the role of education in cultivating future leaders who can navigate the complexities of policy-making. This discussion sheds light on the challenges and opportunities within public policy and its significant impact on communities nationwide. For more resources, ⁠click here⁠ to stay connected with The Maddy Institute.

    49 min

  6. MAR 30

    A Crash Course in California Water

    On this episode of Valley Views, our Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Lois Henry, CEO and Editor of SJV Water, to share California's water challenges. As one of the most critical issues facing our state, water policy is at the center of agriculture, communities, and ecosystems across the Central Valley. Lois brings her extensive experience in reporting on water issues to discuss the current state of water policy, the implications of drought, and what’s next for California’s water future.

    50 min

  7. MAR 2

    A Conversation with Ashley Swearengin

    On this episode of the Maddy Report: Valley Views Edition, Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Ashley Swearengin, President/CEO, Central Valley Community Foundation.

    47 min

  8. FEB 18

    What's Happening with California's Budget?

    On this episode of Valley Views, Executive Director, Blake Zante, is joined by Gabe Petek a Legislative Analyst from the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO).

    48 min
See All (154)

Ratings & Reviews

3.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Valley Views podcast, presented by The Maddy Institute, explores how state and federal policies impact the San Joaquin Valley. Each episode features in-depth discussions on local, state, and national issues, with diverse voices from across the political spectrum. Fostering balanced and engaging conversations, the podcast keeps listeners informed on the topics that matter most to the Valley, providing insights into the policies shaping its future. Valley Views is available on-air every Sunday at 10 AM on NewsTalk 580AM/105.9FM (KMJ) and as a podcast.

Information

  • Creator
    The Maddy Institute
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    154
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Maddy Institute
  • Show Website
    Valley Views

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