Government Speak: A Contra Costa County Podcast

Episode 18: East Contra Costa County Voices: Supervisor Diane Burgis on Representation and Resilience

In this episode of Government Speak, we sit down with Contra Costa County Supervisor Diane Burgis to talk about her work representing East County and her dedication to community service. From her roots as a nonprofit leader to her role on the Board of Supervisors, Diane shares how her passion for protecting open space, strengthening local services, and ensuring all voices are heard continues to guide her leadership. Tune in as we explore the unique challenges and opportunities in East Contra Costa County and hear firsthand how Supervisor Burgis is working to make government more accessible and responsive to the people it serves.

Episode 17: Preparing for an Aging Contra Costa

By 2030, one in four Contra Costa residents will be over the age of 60. In this episode of Government Speak, we explore what it means to grow older in our community and how the County is preparing to support a rapidly aging population.
 
Guests: Aging & Adult Services Director Tracy Murray, Area Agency on Aging Division Program Manager Alicia Espinoza, and Host Kristi Jourdan

Episode 16: Veterans’ Voices – Serving Those Who Served

In this episode of Government Speak, Contra Costa County Veterans Service Officer Josh Zebley explains how his office supports veterans and their families — from benefits to community resources — ensuring those who served receive the care they’ve earned.
 
Guests: Veterans Service Officer Josh Zebley and Host Kristi Jourdan
 

Episode 15: Uncovering the Past: Mapping Prejudice in Contra Costa County

In this episode of Government Speak, we’re digging into the hidden history written into the deeds of homes across Contra Costa County. The Clerk-Recorder’s Office discuss the Mapping Prejudice Project—a powerful nationwide initiative uncovering racially restrictive housing covenants that once shaped who could live where in our communities.
What does it mean to map these covenants today? How does this work help us better understand modern-day housing inequities? And where do we go from here?
 
Guests: Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Kristin Connelly and Host Kristi Jourdan

Episode 14: Fur Real – Inside Contra Costa County Animal Services

Contra Costa Animal Services is more than just a shelter—it’s where compassion, public safety, and community connection come together. In this episode, we go behind the scenes with the dedicated team that rescues animals, reunites families, and supports safe, healthy neighborhoods. From field officers to adoption counselors, learn how Animal Services protects both people and pets—every day.
 
Guests: Animal Services Director Ben Winkleblack, Public Information Officer Steve Burdo, and Host Kristi Jourdan

Episode 13: Flight Path – A Conversation with Contra Costa’s Airports Director

From tarmac to takeoff, Director of Airports Greg Baer shares more about how the two County-owned airports boost the local economy and are gateways to growth and innovation in the community.
 
Guests: Airport Director Greg Baer and Host Kristi Jourdan

Episode 12: Food, Air, and Safety: The Unsung Work of Environmental Health

From inspecting restaurants and responding to compost odor issues, to making sure our drinking water is safe — Environmental Health is working behind the scenes to keep our communities healthy. In this episode of Government Speak, we sit down with Director Kristian Lucas to talk about the vital, everyday work of Contra Costa County’s Environmental Health Division. Learn how they respond to emerging issues, enforce safety standards, and help build a cleaner, safer future for everyone.
 
Guests: Environmental Health Director Kristian Lucas and Host Kristi Jourdan

Episode 11: EV-olution: How Contra Costa County is Leading the Charge on Electrification and Energy Management

In this episode, we’re exploring how Contra Costa County is driving change toward a more sustainable future. Energy Manager Brendan Havenar-Daughton joins us to talk about the County’s efforts in energy management, expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, and building a greener tomorrow.