We Are San Francisco TOP Thought Leader and Ben Kaplan

In this episode host Ben Kaplan sits down with Chesa Boudin, former San Francisco district attorney and the new founding executive director of UC Berkeley's Criminal Law and Justice Center. They dive into the pressing issues that define urban public safety, from the entanglements of homelessness to the complexities of judicial reform in the city. Chesa shares his candid insights on the systemic failures at City Hall to address visible problems on the streets of San Francisco, despite the allocation of substantial funds meant to combat homelessness. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of local judicial decisions and the critical need for genuine solutions over political blame games. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on how legal and political dynamics are shaping the future of public safety and civic responsibility in urban landscapes.

In this episode, Ben Kaplan sits down with Catherine Stefani, the District 2 Supervisor of San Francisco, for a candid discussion on her aspirations, her tenure, and the pressing issues facing the city. As Stefani shares her insights, we delve into the heart of San Francisco's political landscape, examining the roles of public safety, housing, and education in shaping the future. A staunch advocate for law enforcement and public service, she outlines her strategies for enhancing safety and fostering community trust. The conversation also explores Stefani's legislative efforts to combat corruption and improve city governance, highlighting her dedication to transparency and accountability. From her personal journey to her vision for a thriving San Francisco, join us as we uncover the depth of commitment and passion Stefani brings to her role as a supervisor and a candidate for the California State Assembly.

The second episode of the 'Meet The Candidates' series features Ahsha Safai, a current member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, as he discusses his background, career in city government, and mayoral candidacy with host Ben Kaplan.

Born in Iran and raised in the United States, Safai provides insights into his journey from an immigrant family to a position of leadership in San Francisco. He outlines his work with the Board of Supervisors, focusing on his contributions to city planning, housing, and labor rights.

In the first episode of We Are San Francisco's special 'Meet The Candidates' series host Ben Kaplan delves into the city's political landscape with mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie. Known for his philanthropic leadership at Tipping Point Community and his ties to the Levi Strauss family, Lurie discusses his motivations for running for mayor, emphasizing his concern for the city's direction and his desire for a San Francisco that maintains its pride and integrity for future generations.

In this episode of "We Are San Francisco," host Ben Kaplan dives into an interesting conversation with Todd David, a prominent figure in San Francisco's political landscape. Todd's journey from a concerned parent to a key player in local politics showcases the power of grassroots activism and the impact of community involvement. The episode delves into the complexities of San Francisco's political culture, addressing pressing issues like housing, transportation, public safety, and the intricacies of local elections. Engaging and thought-provoking, this episode sheds light on the potential for positive change in San Francisco and the role every citizen can play in shaping their city's future. Join us for a deep dive into the heart of urban politics and the stories of those driving change in one of America's most dynamic cities.

In this episode, we delve into the intricate web of San Francisco's political landscape with Mary Jung, former chair of the San Francisco Democratic Party and a key political powerbroker in our city. We explore the city's shift from a collegial to a polarized environment, dissecting the dynamics between moderates and progressives. Mary shares her perspective on the impact of kindness culture on political progress, the consequences of recent recalls, and the importance of voter engagement in upcoming elections. We also discuss the influence of money in politics, the challenge of representation in rank choice voting, and the role of political insiders versus outsiders. Join us for a deep dive into the complexities of San Francisco's political scene and the strategies for navigating its future.



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