Government Speak: A Contra Costa County Podcast

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.

Episode 10: Public Works and Preparing for Storms

From potholes to sandbags, Public Works Director Warren Lai shares more about how the department helps keep the community safe and running smoothly and what actions residents can take to prepare for stormy weather.
 
Guests: Public Works Director Warren Lai, Public Works PIO Kelly Kalfsbeek, and Host Kristi Jourdan

Episode 9: How Contra Costa Libraries are Turning the Page on Stereotypes

In this episode, County Librarian Alison McKee talks about how libraries can address the national literacy crisis, serve unhoused populations, and save communities money.
 
Guests: County Librarian Alison McKee and Host Kristi Jourdan
 
20-25 minutes