Shows
East Bay InsidersAsk Kevin Jenkins anythingWhile Oaklanders are figuring out who will be their next mayor, Interim Oakland Mayor Kevin Jenkins sat down with us for coffee in a wide-ranging interview. Jenkins, who also serves East Oakland's District 6 council seat, chatted about juggling two big jobs at once, the upcoming budget process, his optimism about the Coliseum deal, a casino by the airport, his background as a county staffer, and telling his son a tall tale about dropping 60 points in a basketball game.2025-03-131h 02
East Bay InsidersLive from Buffalo Bill's Brewery with State Sen. Aisha WahabShawn Wilson was overjoyed to be back in his hometown of Hayward. At our live recording at historic Buffalo Bill's Brewery, Shawn came loaded with Hayward trivia and some friends. Cat Man, Mayor Mark Salinas and Councilmember Julie Roche stopped by before we chatted with State Sen. Aisha Wahab. The first-term state senator discussed her plans for Bay Area transit consolidation, Fremont's camping ban, and housing, her signature issue.2025-03-031h 06
East Bay InsidersEast Bay Insiders UnfilteredRecalled Alameda County DA Pamela Price is starting a podcast. Meanwhile, the newly appointed DA takes the reins. What does she need to do to stabilize the DAs office? Barbara Lee keeps making unforced errors. We take a look at recent polling that shows her support is dropping. Fremont wants to focus only on local issues. We talk about cats.2025-02-201h 00
East Bay InsidersJudgment DayThe big three applicants for the Alameda County DA appointment hit the stretch run to Tuesday's decision. We handicap the race. FBI raids come to San Leandro, and public doesn't seem to care. Plus, sanctuary cities, and Shawn makes his early Super Bowl picks.2025-01-281h 02
East Bay InsidersLive from Castro ValleyThe East Bay Insiders Podcast hits the road with a live recording in Castro Valley. Thank you to the Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce and the Moose Lodge for having us. There's a lot to talk about: The FBI raid in San Leandro, impending indictments, seven D.A. applicants move ahead to the interview stage of the appointment process, the Oakland special mayoral election, and the pending sale of the Oakland Coliseum. We also take a look at the issue of incorporation in Castro Valley.2025-01-171h 01
East Bay Insiders2nd Annual Insidey AwardsWe wrap up 2024 with the 2nd Annual Insidey Awards, recognizing the best and worst in Alameda County politics. Plus, we remember Rickey Henderson. Thank you for listening. See you next year! INSIDEY NOMINEES -Best Recall Campaign Pamela Price Sheng Thao Ryan Jergensen/Linda Hurley -Best performance by an elected official Janani Ramachandran, Oakland George Syrop, Hayward Jack Balch, Pleasanton Nate Miley, Alameda County -Best political appointment Melissa Hernandez, BART Kathy Kimberlin, Fremont Ana Apodaca, Newark Michael McCorriston, Dublin ...2024-12-311h 01
East Bay InsidersThe AftermathWe wrap up the November General Election with analysis of Alameda County's two recall campaigns. What comes next? Who will be Oakland's next mayor? Who wants to be Alameda County's next DA? Plus, the surprsing result in the Board of Supervisors race, and more.2024-12-141h 03
East Bay InsidersEast Bay Insiders Centenary with Loren Taylor and Supervisor Nate MileyRecorded live at Humble Sea Brewing Co. in Alameda, Steve, Shawn and Dan reminisce about the podcast, its beginnings, highlights, hijinks, and lowlights. Oakland special mayoral election candidate Loren Taylor made his pitch to voters, Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley talked about the Coliseum deal and the state of Oakland, and Shawn was roasted by his kids, and much more! 2024-11-181h 22
East Bay InsidersHow 'bout them recalls?!!Alameda County and Oakland voters just recalled two recently elected officials. We break down how and why, in addtion to analysis of early election results from some of the biggest East Bay races. Plus, we leave a voicemail with the likely Pleasanton mayor-elect to apologize for doubting his success during the last podcast.2024-11-081h 03
East Bay InsidersElection 2024 Preview ShowElection Day in the East Bay is just days away. Steve, Shawn, and Dan give their bold predictions for Alameda County's biggest fall races. Plus, results, analysis of the Oakland Chamber poll, the recalls, and Alameda Councilmember Trish Spencer's long night in Long Beach.2024-10-261h 20
East Bay InsidersScam AlertOakland is again plunged into chaos over the emergence of a "new" Coliseum land deal and questions about its legitimacy. Shawn recevies a call from his creditors, and we chat about the recalls, Campaign Finance 101, and much more toward the stretch run to Election Day.2024-10-091h 06
East Bay InsidersWelcome to the Shawn Wilson podcastA now-former Fremont councilmember slams Shawn for making inappropriate comments on "his podcast." For the first time, Steve gives his blow-by-blow account of the "Throwdown in the 'Dro Town." Plus, analysis of the Pleasanton mayoral race and supervisorial candidate Nikki Bas' attack website against opponent John Bauters.2024-09-201h 05
East Bay InsidersCall me incompetent all day longOakland Mayor Sheng Thao said this week, "call me incompetent all day long." Is it too late for Thao to save her job? Alameda County Democrats created yet another embarrassing scene. We take a look at the recalls, and Fremont's unusual moves to replace its departing councilmember.2024-09-071h 00
East Bay InsidersCarson asks Bauters to the couchAlameda County Supervisor Keith Carson's big endorsement could be a gamechanger in a tight District 5 race this fall. We take a look a what the endorsement means and how the race between John Bauters and Nikki Fortunato Bas may evolve. Fremont needs a new councilmember, and an Oakland candidate is searching for way back onto the ballot. Plus, Steve gets a pep talk and East Bay Regional Parks District Board Director Olivia Sanwong podcast-bombs the show. 2024-08-2738 min
East Bay InsidersPamela Price's worst nightmareBrenda Grisham, co-leader of the DA Pamela Price recall campaign, provides personal insights about the begining of the recall and her interactions with Price in this special edition of the East Bay Insiders Podcast. Later, we remember Ellen Corbett, one the East Bay's political greats. Shawn Wilson, who worked for Corbett during her first stint in the assembly, has a funny story about his old boss.2024-08-161h 06
East Bay InsidersBreaking Bad PollingElection 2024 takes center stage with the release of devastating polling for Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and DA Pamela Price. John Bauters released his own poll in the Alameda County District 5 supervisorial race. We breakdown the numbers, in addition to a look at a peculiar campaign strategy in Fremont's competivie mayoral race.2024-08-051h 02
East Bay InsidersHigh-stakes hot takesWe take a local angle at the attempted assassination of President Trump, update the developing scandal in the East Bay, and break down Alameda County supervisorial candidate Nikki Bas' peculiar survey to voters. Along the way, Steve provides a view from the future on Oakland's city budget, the fates of the A's, Roots, and Ballers.2024-07-1856 min
East Bay InsidersLife of ThaoThe FBI raids on Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and others on June 20 have set the East Bay afire with rumors, speculation, and expectations of the worst. We breakdown down what appears destined to be one of the biggest stories in East Bay political history.2024-06-291h 04
East Bay InsidersHandicapping the recallsIt's becoming increasingly likely two high-profile recalls will be on the ballot in Alameda County this November. We handicap the potential recall of Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and the recall against DA Pamela Price. Plus, we take a look at the changing of the guard in Dublin, and Shawn reminisces about call-waiting.2024-06-0857 min
East Bay InsidersReally?!!Co-host Dan Mendoza is out on assignment. Really?!! Tavares! Really?!! Capt. Wilson. How does Alameda County DA Pamela Price avoid a recall this fall? We break down how the recall campaign may go down. Homelessness is down a bit in Alameda County. Which cities are doing better than others? Hayward is begrudingly moving to district-based elections, plus who will be the next BART Board member? Really?!!2024-05-2046 min
East Bay InsidersOur comms expert Justin Berton is back!The communications director for former Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf offers some tips for Oakland's incoming police chief, and the "greater crime against communication" that was the San Leandro mayor's cringeworthy state of the city. We also remember East Bay legend Delaine Eastin, along with much more! *Birthday boy Shawn Wilson is on vacation this week.2024-04-291h 06
East Bay InsidersAisha Knowles and The ApologyAlameda County Board of Education Trustee Aisha Knowles joins the show to chat about "The Apology," the acclaimed documentary about the forced relocation of Russell City; the push for reparative justice for its former residents and descendents; and her future political plans.2024-04-081h 08
East Bay InsidersBack to basicsWe debut our new recording equipment, even though we didn't test it beforehand. With the primary election in the books, we're going back to basics. Oakland finally has a new police chief. We weigh-in on the rollout, along with the Russell City documentary "The Apology," the intra-county rivalries stoked by the proposed regional housing bond measure, and questions being raised by members of the Alameda County Election Commission. Plus, did you know Mt. Eden High in Hayward once had a secret bar for students?2024-03-231h 13
East Bay InsidersPrimary AnswersThe March Primary in the East Bay provided a few surprises. We break down the biggest races. East Bay Insiders Podfather Matt Santos sits in as guest and recording engineer, and recalls Steve Tavares' first foray into politics, among other embarrassing tidbits, and we reminisce about our first-ever live recording.2024-03-111h 05
East Bay InsidersLoren Taylor: Live in front of a studio audienceThe first-ever East Bay Insiders LIVE was a smashing success! We sat down in front a live studo audience with Alameda County Democratic Central Committee candidate and former Oakland mayoral candidate Loren Taylor at Awaken Cafe in Oakland. Loren laid out his vision for Oakland, the Alameda County Democratic Party, his views on ranked choice voting, the recalls, and a few jabs at current Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao's job performance.2024-02-291h 15
East Bay InsidersHe's just KenThe March Primary is around the corner. Don't forget to vote! Alameda County District 5 supervisorial candidate Ken Berrick joins the program to talk about his plans for the county--fixing Santa Rita Jail, caring for children, and helping Oakland. Later, we break down the big March Primary races in Alameda County, along with predictions.2024-02-241h 16
East Bay InsidersNewsom's coupGov. Gavin Newsom is tired of the mayhem on the streets of Oakland and the East Bay, essentially sending in the troops and taking over the district attorney's office. We break down the unprecedented moves with Alameda County District 5 supervisorial candidate Chris Moore. Later, the boys dish on "Super Dan," Vegas' mayor telling the A's to go home, campaign commercials, and the anonymous article slamming Supervisor Nate Miley.2024-02-121h 17
East Bay InsidersHas the entire county gone nuts?Alameda County Democrats went berserk earlier this month, now their brethren across the aisle are trying to match their lunacy. Is there something in the water? A Hayward school boardmember made an incendiary comment toward a staffer, Rep. Eric Swalwell's opponent releases attack ad, BDS movement joins Gaza conversation in the East Bay, plus much more!2024-01-281h 15
East Bay InsidersWhat's up with that, Dems?It was a wild first two weeks of 2024. Alameda County Democrats held a meeting that evoked a skit on Saturday Night Live, a judicial candidate undermined his own impartiality, and Vicki-Sparkle-Titz joined our political lexicon. We kickoff the new year with analysis on the demise of the Democratic Central Committee, legislation banning tackle football for kids, Libby Schaaf's return, and the Board of Supervisors primary races, and more.2024-01-151h 07
East Bay InsidersInsidey AwardsThe first annual Insidey Awards, already the least prestigious honor in Alameda County politics, makes it debut. Tune in for the best and worst performance by an elected official, best hair, and mayor of the year, among other categories, including the ultimate honor, Quote/Rant of the Year. We also chat up the Oakland Police situation and Gaza resolutions. Happy New Year!2024-01-021h 07
East Bay InsidersShawn is back!The long wait is over. Shawn Wilson makes his triumphant return to the podcast. He has a new title and lays out his first directive as the podcast's president of code compliance, censorship, and content filtering. With the filing deadline for the March Primary past us, we preview the big races for the Alameda County Board of Supervisors and State Senate. Merry Christmas and thank you for spending time with us this year.2023-12-151h 02
East Bay InsidersSeneca Scott vs. Oakland ProgressivesOakland has a population of more than 400,000 and most of them will be listening to find out if Oakland raconteur Seneca Scott said anything about him. Scott joins the podcast for a second time and had plenty of barbs ready for Oakland progressives. He also recounted recently saving a woman from being robbed while shopping in Oakland. Plus, our big announcement.2023-12-091h 18
East Bay InsidersEast Bay poster child for how the GOP has lost suburban votersIn part two of our discussion with former East Bay Assemblymember Catharine Baker: President Trump was not the reason why she lost re-election in 2018. "Candidates are responsible for either winning or losing their campaigns," Baker said, but "Trump was the single most dominant issue in my race." Her 16th Assembly District, she added, is the poster child for why Republicans across the country are losing support in suburban districts. Plus, more.2023-11-2149 min
East Bay InsidersLast of the East Bay RepublicansFormer East Bay Assemblymember Catharine Baker joins the podcast for a lengthy discussion on the lack of civility in local and national politics, and how we can fix the problem. Baker served from 2014 to 2018. She is the last Republican elected from the East Bay to serve in the state Legislature. Baker, now a member of the state Fair Political Practices Commission, also gives a lesson in government transparency. Look for Part 2 of the discussion on Monday!2023-11-1741 min
East Bay InsidersState of Alameda County's safety net hospitalsEast Bay labor leader Doug Jones of SEIU-UHW dishes on the Alameda County labor movement, including insights in the big 7th State Senate primary race, and helps us understand the dire state of safety net hospitals in Hayward, Alameda, and San Leandro, and what may come next.2023-11-071h 09
East Bay InsidersSheng ShowFrom unceded Ohlone land, Steve Tavares and Dan Mendoza welcomed Justin Berton, former director of communications for Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, to breakdown current Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao's first state of the city address, and other issues facing the city. Later, the latest developments in the recall of Alameda County DA Pamela Price.2023-10-211h 16
East Bay InsidersMarch Primary ResetA U.S. Senate appointment could shake up the East Bay's primary election in several ways. Castro Valley school boardmember Mike Kusiak makes a cameo appearance while bearing empanadas, and Lee Thomas returns a co-host. We discuss Sen. Dianne Feinstein's passing, the epic rant by Hayward Mayor Mark Salinas, and how DA Pamela Price should handle the recall threatening her first-year administration.2023-10-021h 18
East Bay InsidersMore Oakland woes: 'You're starting to see all kinds of cracks in this administration'You're not going to sleep tonight after listening to the platinum episode of the East Bay Insiders Podcast. Steve Tavares, Dan Mendoza, and guest co-host Lee Thomas visit Joe's Pho in San Leandro. Lee gives his take on San Leandro Police Chief Abdul Pridgen being placed on administative leave. We tackle the astonishing news in Oakland that city officials dropped the ball on millions in state money to combat retail theft; an update on the DA Pamela Price recall, Barbara Lee seeking endorsements, plus an update on labor negotiations with co-host Shawn Wilson2023-09-171h 10
East Bay InsidersLabor StrifeHappy Labor Day Weekend! There's labor strife within the East Bay Insiders. Don't let the happy talk fool you. This week we delve into Oakland's 9-1-1 response-times; the real power behind the Oakland A's stadium lease issue; more on the DA Pamela Price's recall; Fremont's mayoral race; and the benefits state Sen. Aisha Wahab will receive for carrying Gov. Gavin Newsom's constitutional convention resolution.2023-09-021h 05
East Bay InsidersAssemblykid gets timeoutAssemblymember Alex Lee got caught playing with the bad kids in the neighborhood, and the recall effort against Alameda County DA Pamela Price is almost in full-swing. From downtown Pleasanton, the East Bay Insiders chat about 16- and 17-years old voting in school board elections, a glimpse inside the Alameda County Republican Central Committee, and much more!2023-08-191h 10
East Bay InsidersYou don't have to lie to kick it with East Bay InsidersWe clear the air with insights on Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao's pay raise controversy, an analysis of possible recall campaign strategies for and against Pamela Price, Jennifer Esteen's chances against Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley; Holy shirts, rent control, and more!2023-07-221h 14
East Bay InsidersDan the Man is the Man for Dublin, Man and lsland BoyIt's post 4th of July, but the East Bay Insiders still have some fireworks to be lit. Shawn Wilson joins the show while on vacation in Hawaii. Some local cities are beefing with Alameda County. We look Hayward's lawsuit against county social services and how staffing shortages may be fueling rising discontent and dangerously poor service levels, and much more!2023-07-071h 15
East Bay InsidersSend your impact fee checks to Oakland City HallA's, crime pays, and Oakland's problems were created by you, Alameda County cities - the Oakland mayor's impact fee idea. Our correspondent reports back from the U.S. Conference of Mayor, Madame DA Pamela Price's latest moves, and the debut of the 30-second speed round (We didn't grasp the 30-second part). 2023-06-121h 06
East Bay InsidersThis title was created by A.I.ChatGPT and A.I. is on the verge of changing how elections are run in the East Bay. We look at the early pitfalls of the new technology and its potential, Barbara Lee's new senate poll, oversight of the Alameda County Sheriff's Office, and other tangents and rabbit holes, along with a Dublin Mayor Melissa Hernandez sighting on the streets of Pleasanton.2023-05-261h 04East Bay InsidersDinner rolls, pizza, and steakFill yourself up on some dinner rolls, pizza, steak, and early March Primary outlooks for Alameda County supervisor and San Leandro. Adds a side dish of Oakland sideshows and Madame DA Pamela Price's plan to spend $128,000 to remodel her office.2023-05-091h 05East Bay InsidersIt's all about PamAlameda County DA Pamela Price is the breakout star of 2023. She's everywhere, except in front of reporters and taking questions. Is a recall looming? Dan Mendoza takes his seat at the News Desk. What makes for a good elected official? Elisa Marquez joins the Board of Supervisor, along with other hijinks.2023-04-171h 03East Bay InsidersEve of DestructionThe future of Alameda County politics is on the line as the Board of Supervisors begin the interview and deliberation process for choosing an appointment to its ranks. A shift to center could take hold or a move back to the left is at stake. We take you through the process and the storylines in this special edition. Also, Shawn Wilson talks about his trip to Mexico.2023-03-2853 minEast Bay InsidersMarch Madness in Alameda CountyThe road to who will be selected as the next Alameda County supervisor in District 2 starts here, bro. We look at the applicants and the obstacles they face in getting the appointment to one of the plum jobs in local politics, bro. Along the way we make a few pitstops, bro, with the A's and Howard Terminal, bro, and the county's recount, bro, and much more, bro!2023-03-191h 08East Bay InsidersAuthority SongLaw and order is the topic of the week. Alameda County DA Pamela Price is definitely shaking up jurisprudence in the East Bay. Friendly-looking police uniforms in San Leandro? We also breakdown the end of the county's eviction moratorium, defeated rent ordinances, and more on the upcoming Board of Supervisors appointment.2023-03-061h 02East Bay InsidersJockeying for positionRep. Barbara Lee is aiming for the open U.S. Senate seat in 2024. That's means her seat in the East Bay 12th Congressional District could be up-for-grabs. Some of the same potential candidates may also have their eyes on Nancy Skinner's termed out seat in the 7th State Senate District. If that's not enough, who might be angling to replace the late Alameda County Supervisor Richard Valle in South County's District 2? We answer those question and more on this episode of the East Bay Insiders Podcast.2023-02-2157 minEast Bay Insiders2022 Wrap-up: Post-gender era in East Bay politics and the Modern American manThe end of the year is near. We take a look back at some of year's highlights in East Bay politics and lowlights. Bryan Azevedo's comedy, election upsets, troubles at the Registrar of Voters office and Fremont, and much more. We hand out our first annual Insidey awards and look forward to 2023. A recession perhaps on the horizon? 2023-01-011h 09East Bay InsidersThe election that went up in smokeHappy Thanksgiving! Steve Tavares, Shawn Wilson, and Dan Mendoza wrap up the 2022 election in the East Bay. While smoking cigars and sipping Bourbon at the Ohlone Cigar Lounge in Fremont, Steve and Shawn nearly fought about the county registrar, but not before breaking down this fall's election results and what they mean.2022-11-241h 19East Bay InsidersEast Bay Election Preview ShowIt's time to put up or shut up in big races all over Alameda County. Steve Tavares and Shawn break down how these races for district attorney, county supervisor, Oakland mayor, and two legislative races, and more, will shake down. Predictions included! Also, included, special guest, former Fremont Mayor Bill Harrison.2022-11-051h 08East Bay InsidersLoren Taylor: Oakland mayoral multitaskerWith a week until Election Day, Oakland mayoral candidate Loren Taylor joins the podcast in East Oakland to discuss his campaign, ideas for combating homelessness, the A's and Howard Terminal, his relationship with labor, ranked-choice voting, all the while earning from passerby at least four votes.2022-11-011h 03East Bay InsidersIt's the Power of IEsSpending by Independent Expenditures Committees has skyrocketed not only in East Bay legislatives races, but down to the local level as we head into the stretch run to the November Election. Dublin's First Man Dan Mendoza (he came bearing gifts) sits in with Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson to discuss the deluge of IE money, along with looks at other big races in the East Bay this fall.2022-10-241h 13East Bay InsidersOakland according to Seneca ScottWe're back in Jack London Square, this time with Oakland mayoral candidate Seneca Scott, who minces no words about the state of his city and why labor is backing an opponent, among other insights. 2022-09-011h 10
East Bay InsidersThe WorstSeason 5 Premiere Episode! We're back and well-rested after a grueling June primary season and ready for the November election. Shawn Wilson vacationed in Mexico, Steve Tavares became a fan of ASMR. Recorded in Oakland's Jack London Square, we talk about the city's chronic problems, the Foot Massage Special Tax, in addition, to an in-depth look at gaffe-prone San Leandro mayoral candidate Bryan Azevedo. 2022-08-2659 min
East Bay InsidersJune Primary AutopsyUpsets were aplenty, money was spent unwisely, progressives and labor candidates prospered, and a number of races will head to November rematches. We break down how Yesenia Sanchez defeated Alameda County Sheriff Greg Ahern, and other races in a thrilling June primary election season.2022-06-221h 11
East Bay InsidersEast Bay Insiders Live - Ballot Cheat SheetWe took the East Bay Insiders to Twitter Space so our listeners could ask us questions about the June primary ballot, then we couldn't figure out how to allow people to talk. No problem, we laid out the latest narratives in all the Alameda County races this June, and more. Don't forget to vote!2022-05-3051 min
East Bay InsidersEast Bay June Primary Preview, Part 2We move to the local races in the state Legislature that feature potentially expensive November rematches in the 20th Assembly District and 10th State Senate District. Shawn and I also look at Fremont's 24th Assembly District races, and Alameda County Board of Education and superintendent of schools contests, along with a report on the Alameda County Dems in disarray.2022-05-1947 min
East Bay InsidersEast Bay June Primary Preview, Part 1With vote-by-mail ballots in your possession, this is why you listen to the East Bay Insiders podcast. In Part 1 of our East Bay June Primary Preview, Shawn and I break down the big Alameda County District Attorney race, Alameda County Sheriff contest, and the campaign to replace Wilma Chan on the Alameda County Board of Supervisors in District 3. We also take a look at some of best and worst mailers of the primary season. Listen to Part 2 on Thursday (AD20, SD10, AD24, Education races)2022-05-171h 03East Bay InsidersLivermore Whine TastingJust minding our own business in downtown Livermore when Alameda County Board of Education candidate Eric Dillie and possible Livermore mayoral candidate Mony Nop dropped by to talk about Livermore's parcel tax measure, Eric's campaign, the Alameda County DA "sh*tshow," as Shawn Wilson calls it, and much more!2022-04-1357 minEast Bay InsidersLibby Schaaf and special guest Casey Pratt2022-03-191h 10
East Bay InsidersMasks off, pay your rentThe mask mandate in Alameda County is gone and more changes toward a return to normalcy are being seen in local government, including pandemic-era housing moratoriums. San Leandro's councilmember-in-chief called the White House and held a rally for Ukraine, and we further breakdown the latest developments in the big Alameda County DA's race, and much more.2022-03-0758 minEast Bay InsidersSore LoserFormer San Leandro Councilmember Ed Hernandez on the state of the city's politics and being called a "sore loser," plus a cameo appearance from 20th Assembly District candidate Shawn Kumagai, and we break down the newest candidates in the Alameda County Board of Supervisors race. 2022-02-211h 08
East Bay Insiders1-877-KARS-4KOPS. Donate to Ahern Today.The Season 4 premiere features a breakdown of the money situation in several big East Bay political races, including ALCO Sheriff Greg Ahern's big haul from car dealers; Shawn Wilson's shiner; Ro Khanna's new book; ALCO Supervisor Dave Brown's film aspirations; Valentine's Day plans, and more from the Bryan Azevedo Comedy Show. 2022-02-0756 minEast Bay InsidersBryan vs. the TsunamiThe Season 3 finale is chocked full of news, analysis, and comedy. The latter compliments of a San Leandro councilmember who told his constituents that he would defend them from a tsunami. This episode includes discussion on the Alameda County DA and sheriff's race, assembly and state senate contests, and much more.2022-01-211h 02
East Bay InsidersCompany Christmas PartyHoliday cheer abounds as Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson talk about Christmas shopping, the repeated tragedies involving pedestrian violence, the newly-redrawn county lines and the East Bay 20th Assembly District and 10th State Senate District maps, Assemblymember Bill Quirk's retirement, along with some Christmas carolling.2021-12-241h 02
East Bay InsidersRedistricting Border WarsThe state and federal redistricting maps are nearly finalized. Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson break down the proposed boundaries for the East Bay Assembly and state Senate seats and what they mean for elections over the next decade, and more.2021-11-2545 min
East Bay InsidersRemembering Wilma Chan and what comes nextWe dedicate this episode to Alameda County Supervisor Wilma Chan, who was tragically killed on Nov. 3. We look back at her long legacy of fighting for the most vulnerable among us. And what comes next? We also look at the possible candidates for appointment and the ramifications for the Board of Supervisors and her district's residents.2021-11-1236 min
East Bay InsidersVet appointment with Fremont Councilmember Raj SalwanFremont Councilmember Raj Salwan is a veterinarian by day and likable elected official by night. We jam him up about what goes on behind the doors at your pet's vet appointment, in addition, to a discussion about the growing, but stalling, Indian American political power in the Tri-Cities, and what might be really going down with Fremont's city manager scandal. 2021-10-141h 03
East Bay InsidersChilling and Grilling with Lee ThomasUnder a new state law, former San Leandro Councilmember Lee Thomas's home BBQ business GrilleeQ is the first permitted micro-business in Alameda County. He talks San Leandro politics, including the infamous controversy over his fence, and offers new insights into the furor back in 2018. Lee also brought a selection of grilled sausages and beer with him for good measure,2021-09-091h 16
East Bay InsidersAssessing the situation with Alameda County Assessor Phong LaAlameda County Assessor Phong La is the elected offices who determines the value of your property. A valuable property is good until your property tax bill arrives. But despite the sleepy bureaucratic office he holds, La is viewed as one of Alameda County's rising political stars. He chats about Chinatown's rise in crime, assessing Howard Terminal, along with some of the local upcoming races, among other issues.2021-08-1058 min
East Bay InsidersIgnacio De La Fuente, Part 2: 'F--king blow this sh-t up'The second half of our interview with former Oakland Councilmember Ignacio De La Fuente includes his stated interest in running for Oakland mayor in 2022. "Why not give it one last shot? I have nothing to lose, nothing to gain, so I will have the freedom to f--cking blow this sh-t up and rebuild." he says. In addition, he details his advocacy for A's great Ricky Henderson to run for the same seat, and IDLF's further insights on Oakland city politics.2021-07-2248 min
East Bay InsidersIgnacio De La Fuente on Oakland city leaders: 'They have no f-----g clue'; Bottom of the 9th for the A's, Part 1 Oakland City Council legend Ignacio De La Fuente has much to say about the proposed Howard Terminal ballpark term sheet and even more about the current City Council in Part 1 of this special edition episode. "The council and the mayor, they are nice individuals, but they have no f-----g clue," he said. --Coming Wednesday, De La Fuente weighs in on the state of Oakland, while again mulling a run for mayor next year. 2021-07-2035 min
East Bay Insiders'I came here to end my political career'After a disappointing result in the recent 18th Assembly District special election primary, Alameda Vice Mayor Malia Vella offers her inside view of her own campaign and her opponents, and handicaps the Aug. 31 special election runoff. Will she offer an endorsement in the race?2021-07-091h 11
East Bay InsidersPost-Covid Reunion; AD18 preview; Howard Terminal; Ahern; O'MalleySeason 3 of the East Bay Insiders brings back Steve Tavares, Shawn Wilson, along with special guest host, former Fremont Mayor Bill Harrison. We preview this week's 18th Assembly District special election; the fate of the A's and the Howard Terminal ballpark project; and next year's big Alameda County sheriff and district attorney races.2021-06-291h 11
The Steve Warne Project - The SWP525: Golf Returns in Ontario; Leafs Lose Game 1 and John Tavares; Nazem Kadri Suspended Again??Just in time for the May 2-4 long Weekend, Ontario opens up outdoor recreation, including golf! Montreal opens with a 2-1 win over Toronto.
So the Leafs lose their opener and their captain, John Tavares, who suffered a scary head/neck injury. Speaking of brutal hits, Nazem Kadri is going to get suspended again for his Game 2 hit on Justin Faulk. Tony LaRussa's Chicago White Sox are rolling so he's apparently decided to alienate them.2021-05-2146 min
East Bay InsidersRetirement and the Legend of Cracker McCrackerIt's already a tumultuous 2021. Steve is hanging up his notebook and tape recorder and Shawn is under fire for calling a white guy a "Cracker McCracker" in Episode 29. Down to business, we look at the undercurrent of opposition in Alameda County to Rob Bonta's bid for state attorney general, and analyze the early 2022 campaigns for Alameda County DA and sheriff.2021-02-011h 18
East Bay Insiders2020 wrap-up, 2021 crystal ballAnnus Horribilis is behind us. Coronavirus, masks, hand sanitizer, defund the police, recession, George Floyd dominated a memorable, yet forgettable year. We also look ahead to 2021 and the changes that may happen in the new year. Happy New Year!2021-01-011h 19
East Bay InsidersSwalwell and the Fang Gang Christmas specialRep. Eric Swalwell and Fang Fang, the Chinese spy who shagged him, is riveting the 15th Congressional District. What might be Swalwell's future? An Alameda County elected official won two races last month and one jurisdiction wants him and the other, not so much. Plus, the rise of the councilmember/public works employee.2020-12-231h 10
East Bay InsidersElection recap: Trash talk and infighting beginsThe covid-19 election in the East Bay is in the books. There were some upsets and voters were clearly apprehensive about too much change during a year of uncertainty. But the election also revealed fissures within the local Alameda County Democratic Party as one of the own, although tacitly supported, took one on the cheek on Election Night.2020-11-141h 24
East Bay InsidersElection Night ExtravaganzaIt's Election Day! How will the night shakedown in Alameda County and the East Bay? We take a look at some of the races and offer insights and some bold predictions. Plus, a look ahead to 2022.2020-11-031h 31
East Bay InsidersRemembering CharlieShortly after this episode was recorded, Eden Health District board director Charlie Gilcrest passed away. At the beginning and end of this episode, Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson remember the man who gave so much to San Leandro. Also, the fall election season is here. We take quick looks at races in Alameda and Fremont, and Oakland races destined to be dominated by the movement to defund police.2020-08-051h 26
East Bay InsidersRaise your glass to freedomHamilton, baseball and politics, and another round of sneak peaks for the fall election season in the East Bay. In particular, two races that are big in both consequence and size-Oakland's up-for-grabs District 7 council seat and the four seats on the Hayward City Council, plus much more.2020-07-161h 14
East Bay InsidersSeason 2 - Time travelersA new election. A new season of the East Bay Insiders. Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson travel from the future to fix a wrong that will occur on Sept. 20, 2020.2020-07-041h 06
East Bay InsidersLIberate the podcastEast Bay Insiders Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson, wearing masks and social distancing, are together for the first in-person episode since the pandemic started. Two candidates in San Leandro might be showing how campaign outreach will be done this year. Should 16- and 17-year-olds be able to vote? Plus, A's rent strike.2020-05-2656 min
East Bay InsidersSteve's girlfriend busts his chops; Fantasy City Council League updateAfter Steve talked smack about his girlfriend during the shelter in place, she surprises him and talks smack back. Steve and Shawn add perspective to the shooting of a 33-year-old black man at Walmart by San Leandro Police. Meanwhile, how will Alameda County balance its $72 million deficit? And by popular demand, the results for the first quarter of the first-ever Fantasy City Council League are in!2020-05-051h 03
East Bay InsidersYou down with PPE? Yeah, you know me!Alameda Councilmember Jim Oddie joins Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson discuss his profanity-laced comments against delaying the minimum wage in Alameda, and the island city's potentially grim budget outlook. And what about the time a constituent invited Jim to discuss city matters in her hot tub? Also, coronavirus conspiracy (Putin did it), and VP, local campaign talk.2020-04-191h 17
East Bay InsidersCovid-15 minimum wage delayThe shelter in place continues. Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson, however, sort of like the new routine presented by the covid-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, they discuss the potential for delays in raising the minimum wage spreading across the East Bay. Happy Easter!2020-04-121h 11
East Bay InsidersShelter in placeAfter a nearly month-long hiatus as Steve Tavares and Shawn Wilson help save Alameda County from the coronavirus, "We're baaaaaaaack!" Shawn moved in with his better half right in the smack of the shelter in place. Meanwhile, our lives, like yours, surrounds solely around stories about going to the grocery store. Then there's the question of how will campaigns be run this fall in the era of covid-19?2020-04-0455 min
East Bay InsidersLove songs and election returns after darkThe votes are in, but Alameda County voters and candidates eagerly awaiting all of the ballots to be counted. We look at the returns in all the March primary races in Alameda County. But things also got steamy and Shawn Wilson explained his battle back from backside surgery.2020-03-071h 11
East Bay InsidersElection Day special with Assemblymember Rob BontaEighteenth District Assemblymember Rob Bonta is upset about insults hurled against him recently by East Bay Insiders co-host Shawn Wilson. "I thought he was my friend," a downtrodden Bonta said. In this Election Day special podcast, Bonta discusses his California Green New Deal legislation, pedestrian safety in Alameda, and the recent firing of Oakland's police chief.2020-03-0419 min
East Bay InsidersThis election is a pain in the buttCo-host Shawn Wilson busted out of his hospital room to record the March Primary Election Preview. Despite hand and buttocks injuries, Shawn persisted (with help from pain killers). It's the loopiest episode yet. We look at the big Alameda County supervisors race in District 1, critique some mailers, and give our predictions.2020-03-0159 min
East Bay InsidersThe Winners, Part 2 - Cliffhanger revealedAn enlightened conversation with water district official Olivia Sanwong is interrupted by retiring Alameda County Supervisor Scott Haggerty. "I've got news for you, nobody likes you guys," Haggerty said, in response to the show's tagline. But he also offers unvarnished takes on a number of issues. He even falls off his chair. (We thought he was having a heart attack.)2020-02-2048 min
East Bay InsidersThe Winners, Part 1Zone 7 Water District Boardmember Olivia Sanwong joins the East Bay Insiders podcast as the first official to appear on the show who has not lost their last election. She chats about her district, espionage, the presidential race, Thai food, Pete Stark and Kobe Bryant's passing, and the Alameda County Democratic Central Committee. Then, like a photobombing, the show was "podcastbombed" by a surprise guest. Find out who in Part 2, coming next week.2020-02-1459 min
East Bay InsidersThe Big Man joined the bandFormer Fremont Mayor Bill Harrison loves gangster rap, but dislikes Bacon. The Big Man joins the podcast to dish about Fremont, why he gave to John McCain, and brandishes some tough words for his former colleague who is running for the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. Plus, lots of singing.2020-01-281h 04
East Bay InsidersThe Original KDKevin Dowling, a former Hayward councilmember and Pete Buttigieg supporter, has seen a whopping 19 Democratic presidential candidates in the flesh. He gives his thought on the race, along with analysis of the big Alameda County Board of Supervisors primary contest.2020-01-211h 15
The Pulp Hockey ShowShow 147: Ferraro on NHL trade deadline, Sens, VGK, Jets, Preds, Tavares, being traded and moreTSN's Ray Ferraro talks about the winners and losers of the NHL trade deadline, being in the studio all day, did the Jets and Preds do enough, the Sens rebuild starts now, his own experience as a player on deadline day, Tavares going back to the Island, answers your tweets and more2019-02-271h 06The Pulp Hockey ShowShow 126: Ferraro on NHL Awards, Trotz, Hoffman and Domi Trades, Tavares, Dave Manson and moreTSN's Ray Ferraro checks in with his thoughts on the NHL Awards, Taylor Hall, Barry Trotz leaving the Capitals, the flurry of NHL trades, Doug Wilson, Dave Manson, Tavares and more2018-06-211h 17