Flor Unmuted

What Does College Owe Rural California? Susie Nava for College of the Sequoias Ward 5

Susie Nava knows College of the Sequoias from the student side of the equation. As a single mother attending COS, she remembers juggling work, transportation and childcare while trying to earn her degree. Now she’s running for the College of the Sequoias Board of Trustees in Ward 5, which includes Hanford. In this episode of Flor Unmuted, Nava joins me to talk about what access to higher education actually looks like from some of the Central Valley’s smaller communities — and where she believes COS can do more. We talk about transportation between campuses, childcare, internet access, expanding programs in Hanford and creating stronger pathways between community college and jobs needed here in the Valley. Nava also discusses her interest in behavioral-health workforce programs and how her professional background in quality assurance shapes the way she thinks about measuring whether programs are actually working. We also get into some of the harder questions that come with governing: her support from organized labor, the responsibility trustees have to the district as a whole, what she would do during a budget shortfall, and the increasingly political fights surrounding diversity, inclusion and higher education. Nava talks openly about trying to navigate those questions as a candidate in a rural and politically conservative part of the Central Valley — while making the case that students should feel welcomed at COS regardless of who they are or where they come from. In this episode: • Rural access to higher education • Transportation and childcare barriers • Expanding programs at COS Hanford • Behavioral-health and workforce pathways • Labor, adjunct faculty and trustee responsibilities • Budgets, data and measuring student outcomes • Diversity, inclusion and the politics surrounding higher education • What Nava hopes to accomplish in Ward 5 Follow Susie Nava’s campaign on Facebook and Instagram at Nava for COS. Subscribe to Flor Unmuted for more conversations about the people, politics and decisions shaping California’s Central Valley. We are a voice, together. Susie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/navaforcos?igsi=anRnNzV3YTdsYTNs

• Transcript

Candidate Conversations: What Should High School Prepare You For? with Dave Wescott for KHSD Area 1

Dave Wescott is running for Kern High School District Trustee Area 1. A Bakersfield native, Marine veteran, newly licensed attorney and parent with children approaching high school, Wescott says his path into politics began by showing up at public meetings and speaking during public comment. Now, he’s asking voters to put him on the other side of the dais. In this episode, we talk about what a school board trustee can actually control, KHSD spending and staffing priorities, academic outcomes, career and apprenticeship pathways, religion and politics in public schools, and how Wescott believes trustees should respond to the people who show up at public comment. Wescott also talks about his own unconventional path after high school — from barely graduating, to serving in the Marine Corps, working in several industries, earning college degrees and eventually becoming an attorney. One of the central questions in the conversation: What should high school actually prepare students for? Wescott argues that students should have greater exposure to union apprenticeships and skilled-trade careers alongside the more familiar college and military recruitment options. He also explains why he believes his experience as a parent, veteran, attorney and former public commenter would shape how he approaches the board. In this conversation: Why Wescott decided to run for KHSD Trustee Area 1 His criticism of some of the board’s recent political priorities What he believes should happen when district budgets get tight Teacher staffing and administrative spending How he would measure success after four years Apprenticeships, unions and career pathways after graduation His own experience as a struggling high school student Religion, constitutional limits and litigation risk in public schools How he would work with trustees who disagree with him What an elected official owes the person standing at public comment Why he believes Area 1 needs new representation And, to end on a lighter note, what 18-year-old Dave would think of the person he became Guest: Dave Wescott Race: Kern High School District Trustee, Area 1 Flor Unmuted is an independent political media platform covering California politics through the Central Valley — local government, education, campaigns, voter behavior and the politics of everyday life.

• Transcript

Candidate Conversations: The School Board Most Kern Voters Never Think About with Anastasia Hopper

Most voters will never attend a Kern County Board of Education meeting. Many probably couldn’t tell you what the board actually does. But the decisions made there can reach students across Kern County — particularly students navigating expulsion appeals, interdistrict transfers, county-run programs, special education, homelessness, transportation barriers, and other challenges that can push families deeper into the education system. In this episode of Flor Unmuted, I sit down with Anastasia Hopper, candidate for Kern County Board of Education Trustee Area 3. We talk about what the county board actually oversees, who trustees are ultimately responsible to, the growing influence of national culture-war politics on local education boards, special education, literacy, attendance, transportation, and the financial decisions facing county education programs. Anastasia also talks about her experience as a special education parent, why she decided to run, what she would prioritize during her first year in office, and why she believes Area 3 is ready for new representation after more than three decades under the same trustee. And I ask her one of the questions at the center of this race: When a trustee’s personal beliefs, the loudest parents in the room, and the best available evidence point in different directions, which one should guide the decision? Listen to the full conversation. Learn more about Anastasia Hopper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590334954413&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiaforkcboe3 Donate or Volunteer: https://tinyurl.com/ty5vnmsu

• Transcript

The Local Office Behind Tulare’s Hospital with Jevon Price

Some of the most consequential offices on your ballot are also the ones you hear the least about. Jevon Price serves as the Area 3 Director and Treasurer for the Tulare Local Healthcare District. He was elected four years ago and, with no challenger filing against him this year, is set to serve a second term. In this episode of Flor Unmuted, we look at what a local healthcare district actually does — and why Tulare offers a particularly important case study. Tulare Regional Medical Center closed in 2017 following years of financial and governance problems and the district's bankruptcy. The hospital eventually reopened under Adventist Health, but the public healthcare district still owns the facility and other assets. Today, the district is navigating the unfinished hospital tower, its relationship with Adventist Health, healthcare workforce shortages, and California's approaching 2030 seismic requirements. Jevon and I discuss: What healthcare district directors actually control The governance failures surrounding Tulare's hospital closure Financial safeguards implemented since the district's bankruptcy The relationship between the public healthcare district and Adventist Health What could happen if Adventist eventually leaves Tulare The unfinished hospital tower and plans to complete it in phases California's 2030 hospital seismic requirements Emergency transportation and healthcare access in rural communities Nursing, physician and healthcare workforce shortages in the Central Valley Financial pressure facing hospitals serving large Medi-Cal populations Why healthcare, transportation, housing, food access and quality of life are difficult to separate in the Valley Why obscure down-ballot offices deserve more attention from voters Jevon and I are friends and have worked alongside each other in Central Valley politics. That relationship is disclosed in the episode and does not change Flor Unmuted's editorial independence or the questions asked. This conversation is less about one election than the layer of local government most of us don't think about until we need it — and what Tulare's history can teach other Central Valley communities about who is responsible for keeping healthcare close to home.

• Transcript

Candidate Conversations: The Future of Visalia Unified, Area 1 with Stacy Boyce

Candidate Conversations continues with Stacy Boyce, candidate for the Visalia Unified School District Board of Trustees, Area 1. In this conversation, Stacy discusses what motivated her to run for office, her background in special education and trauma-informed practices, the Redwood High School incident, school safety, diversity, accountability, rebuilding trust with families, and what she believes effective school board leadership should look like. We also discuss: Why she decided to run for office Trauma-informed education and childhood adversity Student safety and school climate Working with colleagues who disagree Parent engagement and transparency Her priorities if elected Two updates occurred after this interview was recorded. First, at the end of our conversation I asked Stacy where listeners could donate to her campaign. The following morning she let me know she had decided not to accept campaign donations at this time. Instead, she hopes to build a volunteer-powered campaign and says the greatest way supporters can help is by volunteering, introducing her to community members, hosting meet-and-greets, distributing campaign materials, or offering endorsements. Second, after announcing this interview, a member of the Visalia community reached out with a question regarding the district's proposed bond, staffing reductions, and public trust in district finances. I shared that question with Stacy after the interview and invited her to respond. In part, Stacy wrote: "I understand why some community members feel this way. Before asking taxpayers to invest additional dollars, the district has to demonstrate that it is being a careful steward of the resources it already has." She went on to say that questions about previous bond measures, staffing reductions, and administrative spending deserve clear, factual answers, that fiscal oversight and transparency are among a school board's most important responsibilities, and that the district should do more to help parents understand school finance while making participation more accessible—including providing interpretation for Spanish-speaking families at School Site Council meetings. You can read Stacy Boyce's complete written response here: [INSERT LINK] As always, Flor Unmuted welcomes thoughtful questions from the community. When relevant issues arise after an interview has been recorded, I'll do my best to bring those questions directly to candidates so listeners can hear their responses in context.

• Transcript

Can a Candidate Win Without Endorsements? | Sandra Van Scotter on Independence, and CD-20

What does it mean to run for Congress without accepting political endorsements or PAC money? Can a candidate remain independent while still building the relationships necessary to govern? In this episode of Flor Unmuted, host Flor Olvera sits down with Sandra Van Scotter, Democratic candidate for California's 20th Congressional District, for a wide-ranging conversation about healthcare, immigration, Social Security, political independence, and the future of the Central Valley. A respiratory therapist and disability advocate, Sandra explains why she entered politics after witnessing firsthand how federal policy changes affected the people she serves. She discusses her decision to reject PAC and corporate funding, why her campaign isn't seeking traditional political endorsements, and how she believes members of Congress can remain accountable to constituents while working across the aisle. The conversation also explores: The role of endorsements in modern campaigns Healthcare access and the impact of the 2025 federal budget legislation Social Security and disability benefits Immigration policy and federal detention facilities Coalition building, governing, and congressional leadership The unique challenges facing California's Central Valley Whether you agree with Sandra's positions or not, this episode offers listeners an opportunity to hear directly from a candidate seeking to represent California's 20th Congressional District in Congress. About Flor Unmuted Flor Unmuted is an independent California political podcast covering the Central Valley, state politics, local government, education, elections, and the people shaping public policy. Through long-form conversations with candidates, elected officials, and community leaders, Flor Unmuted focuses on governance, leadership, and the issues that matter most to Californians. Connect with Sandra Van Scotter Website: https://www.electsandravanscotter.com/meet-sandra Campaign Links: https://linktr.ee/sandraforcongress Email: TeamSandra@Sandra4CD20.com

• Transcript

Leading Rural: Mayor Sal Solorio-Ruiz on Courage, Community & the Future of the Central Valley

How do you lead a rural community during one of the most politically divided moments in recent history? In this episode of Flor Unmuted, I sit down with Delano Mayor Sal Solorio-Ruiz for a conversation about leadership, public service, and the future of California's Central Valley. We discuss what it takes to move rural communities forward, why local government matters more than many people realize, and how elected officials can stay connected to the people they serve. We also explore the recent Supreme Court decision on birthright citizenship, Delano's proposed ICE ordinance, proclaiming Pride Month, mentoring the next generation of leaders, and the changing political dynamics shaping the Democratic Party. Whether you're interested in local government, California politics, or leadership, this episode offers an honest look at governing through disagreement while keeping community at the center. In this episode: Why rural communities deserve greater autonomy and investment Growing Delano while preserving community identity The role of civic engagement in local government Delano's proposed ICE ordinance and leading through controversy The Supreme Court's birthright citizenship decision and its local impact Progressive vs. establishment politics in today's Democratic Party Building a stronger bench of future leaders Mentorship, public service, and leading with values Lessons learned from serving as mayor

Open Secrets: Power, Silence, and How Political Stories Break with Michael Trujillo

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of alleged sexual misconduct, including rape, abuse of power, and the treatment of victims. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode of Flor Unmuted, I sit down with political strategist Michael Trujillo for a conversation that pulls back the curtain on how campaigns actually operate and what happens when private behavior becomes public reality. We begin at the start of Michael’s career, working on Antonio Villaraigosa’s campaign, where he witnessed firsthand how narrative, media, and race can influence the outcome of an election. That early experience shaped how he approaches politics to this day. From there, we move into a deeper and more complex discussion around Eric Swalwell, including what Michael says he had been tracking for years, the role of opposition research, and the challenges of bringing forward allegations in spaces where power, reputation, and risk all collide. We also explore the idea of “open secrets” in politics, the role of silence and self-preservation within political circles, and how social media particularly female-led platforms—can shift the balance when traditional systems fail to act. This episode touches on sensitive topics, including alleged sexual misconduct and abuse of power. Listener discretion is advised. This is a conversation about timing, accountability, and the realities behind the headlines.

After the Debate: Who Actually Showed Up with Brian Murillo

In this episode of Flor Unmuted, I sit down with Brian Murillo from Fresno for a real conversation following the California gubernatorial debate. We’re both in public service and union members, and we see firsthand how decisions made at the top actually play out on the ground. That perspective shaped how we watched this debateand how we break it down. This isn’t a polished recap or a play-by-play of who said what. It’s an honest conversation about what actually stood out, who helped themselves, who didn’t, and what might be getting overlooked. Brian brings a sharp, thoughtful perspective throughout grounded, clear, and rooted in real experience. It made for a conversation that goes beyond surface-level reactions. If you’re looking for something more real than the usual post-debate noise, this one’s for you.

Betty Yee on Immigration, Water, and California’s 2026 Governor Race

In this episode of Flor Unmuted, Flor Olvera sits down with former State Controller and 2026 gubernatorial candidate Betty Yee for a policy-focused conversation about California’s future. The discussion explores the scope of a governor’s authority in relation to federal immigration enforcement, the limits of sanctuary state policy, and what state leadership can realistically do when federal decisions impact local communities. They also discuss water sustainability and agricultural policy in the Central Valley, air quality and public health, oil and energy transition planning, artificial intelligence and workforce disruption, data center infrastructure, healthcare access in rural regions, and affordability challenges facing working families across the state. Yee outlines her year-one priorities, her approach to economic resilience, and how she views long-term environmental and workforce transitions in California. This episode is part of Flor Unmuted’s ongoing candidate conversation series ahead of the 2026 election cycle, focused on substance, policy, and accountability.

Who the Justice System Centers First

In this solo episode, Flor reflects on how power and proximity shape the justice system, even when procedures are followed. This is not a dismissal of mental health care or an accusation of wrongdoing. It is a thoughtful examination of how access, media framing, and institutional caution can shift focus away from the people most affected, including children and family safety. A conversation about accountability, compassion, and who the system centers first when influence is involved.

Deported by Design: How ICE Raids and License Revocations Are Reshaping the Central Valley

In this episode of Flor Unmuted, immigration attorney Raj Singh breaks down what immigration enforcement actually looks like under the Trump administration in 2025 — from ICE street pickups in Bakersfield to people being quietly transferred to detention centers in Texas and Louisiana. We talk about disappearing due process, fired immigration judges, blocked bond hearings, and why attorneys are suddenly limited in how they can represent their clients. Raj explains how people detained in California end up in the Fifth Circuit, where the laws are harsher and the chances of winning a case drop dramatically. We also bring the conversation home to the Central Valley: 17,000 commercial trucking licenses revoked, immigrant drivers sidelined, and local trucking companies — many in communities that voted for Trump — now facing financial collapse. Raj unpacks how these federal rules collide with California’s agriculture-driven economy and what this means for farmworkers, truckers, and food supply chains. This episode covers ICE raids, immigration courts, denaturalization attempts, constitutional erosion, and the economic fallout hitting Kern County right now. If you care about immigration, democracy, the Central Valley, or simply understanding what’s happening behind the headlines, this conversation is essential.

Unmuted with Christian Romo: Fighting for Kern County’s Future

Summary In this conversation, Flor Olvera discusses the political landscape in rural California, particularly in Kern County, and the challenges faced by the Democratic Party. She emphasizes the importance of unity, voter engagement, and building trust with constituents. The discussion also touches on the impact of Prop 50, gerrymandering, and the role of unions in supporting Democratic candidates. Olvera advocates for grassroots efforts, canvassing, and connecting with voters on a personal level to ensure that their needs are met and voices heard. Takeaways The political landscape in rural California is often overlooked. Unity within the Democratic Party is crucial for success. Voter engagement should focus on personal connections rather than partisan divides. Building trust with voters is essential for electoral success. Experience in political campaigns can significantly impact outcomes. Democrats must adapt their messaging to resonate with local constituents. Gerrymandering poses a significant challenge to fair elections. Unions play a vital role in supporting Democratic candidates and policies. Grassroots efforts and canvassing are effective strategies for mobilizing voters. Prop 50 represents a critical opportunity for Democrats in Kern County. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Political Landscape 02:31 Challenges of Leadership in a Pandemic 05:28 Election Dynamics and Candidate Endorsements 08:10 Connecting with Voters on Core Issues 10:54 Building Trust with Constituents 13:46 The Role of Experience in Politics 16:19 The Impact of Trump on Local Politics 19:26 Winning Strategies for Democrats in Kern County 22:00 Voter Engagement and Prop 50 24:38 Media Representation and Political Messaging 31:47 The Impact of Gerrymandering on Democracy 36:52 The Role of Canvassing in Political Engagement 45:00 Revitalizing the Democratic Party in Kern County 52:29 Addressing Food Insecurity and Community Support

The Human Behind the Hustle | Councilmember Andrae Gonzales on Service, Faith & Politics

In this episode of Flor Unmuted, Bakersfield City Councilmember and State Assembly candidate Andrae Gonzales opens up about the journey that shaped him—from growing up on the Bakersfield College campus where his father dedicated his life to helping first-generation students, to navigating the emotional toll and responsibility of public service. We talk about faith, burnout, criticism, and the importance of keeping humanity at the center of leadership. Andrae also shares why he still believes in community, collaboration, and hope—despite the noise of politics. “God will ask, what did you do with the tools you were given?” This episode reminds us that purpose and service are sacred work. Available now wherever you listen to podcasts.

Is This What Integrity Looks Like? with Dr. Randy Villegas, Congressional Candidate- District 22

In this episode of Flor Unmuted, I sit down with Randy Villegas, educator, school board trustee, and congressional candidate for California’s 22nd District, to discuss what real representation looks like for working-class and immigrant communities in the Central Valley. We dive into his personal journey from growing up in a family that relied on public assistance like Medicaid, to becoming the first-generation PhD, to running for Congress to challenge cuts to essential services. We also unpack how districts like CA-22 are shaped by funding, voter suppression, and how local people can reclaim power. Whether you’re in Kern, Tulare, care about flipping the House of Representatives or anywhere in CD-22, this episode gives you a clearer view of who’s running, what’s at stake, and how you can push beyond the usual politics to demand more. You can learn more about Randy's campaign at: https://www.villegasforcongress.com/

Part 2 Prop 50: Fair Play or Power Grab? with Catherine Romely and Carter Beardsley

In this powerful follow-up episode, Flor Olvera continues the deep dive into California’s Prop 50 this time featuring longtime voting rights advocate Carter Beardsley and a heartfelt conversation with community mentor Cathee Romley. Together, they unpack what’s really at stake: not just a proposition, but the future of Congress and democratic representation itself. We tackle GOP misinformation, political fatigue, and why Prop 50 is a direct response to voter suppression and radical redistricting efforts across the country. Whether you're confused, skeptical, or just tired of politics, this episode breaks down what you need to know before you vote and why your vote still matters. Key Topics: What Prop 50 really does Redistricting power grabs in Texas and Florida Why California is fighting back Voter suppression, political fatigue, and misinformation The myth of “neutral” redistricting Why your vote (and voice) still matters The dangerous rise of political apathy and how to push back Call to Action: Vote YES on Prop 50. Then tell 5 friends why it matters. Democracy doesn’t protect itself we do.

Prop 50: Fair Play or Power Grab? Part 1

In this first part of our Flor Unmuted Prop 50 mini series, we break down the facts, the fear tactics, and the future of democracy in California. Ballots are landing this week and Prop 50 has become the center of a high stakes battle over gerrymandering, congressional maps, and representation. We cut through the noise and bring you voices from the ground Guest: Rebecca Sayed Grassroots organizer with national experience mobilizing voters on redistricting, voting rights, and election defense Guest: Paul Reed Retired Teamster, local delegate, and political activist from Kern County In this episode What Prop 50 really does and does not do How Texas and Florida's gerrymandering triggered this response Why mailers are lying to voters in California What is at stake for rural Latino and working class communities The truth behind independent redistricting versus power hoarding How to fight back through local action Ballots are being mailed starting October 7 Election Day is November 4 2025 Visit kernvote dot com to check your registration or drop box location Do not miss Part 2 of this series dropping tomorrow Flor Unmuted is a Central Valley based podcast covering politics culture and power from the front lines. Subscribe on Spotify Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen

TRUTH Act in Kern with Oliver Ma with Steps for Action

The TRUTH Act forum is Kern County’s once-a-year public reckoning on how the Sheriff’s Office interacts with ICE. On paper, it’s about transparency. In reality, it’s where official talking points and community truth often collide. In this episode of Flor Unmuted, attorney Oliver Ma from the ACLU of Southern California joins me to break down what the TRUTH Act really does, why Kern’s political climate shapes law enforcement culture, and what past forums reveal about the gap between reported numbers and what’s actually happening. We’ll talk about the role of the Board of Supervisors, the influence of national immigration politics, and how residents can show up in force to demand accountability. When: Tuesday, August 19, 2025 (regular Board of Supervisors meeting schedule)Time: 9:00 AM (typical Board meeting start time unless otherwise noted)Where: Kern County Administrative Center, Board of Supervisors chambers, Bakersfield, CA

Political Gaslighting and Mental Health with Ramon Sanchez, MSW

When systemic racism, ICE raids, and political violence hit home, the damage isn’t just political it’s deeply personal. In this episode of Flor Unmuted, therapist Ramon Sanchez, MSW joins Flor Olvera for a raw, urgent conversation about protecting your mental health in the face of fear, injustice, and economic uncertainty. We talk about what happens to children whose parents are detained, how to care for youth living under constant threat, and why our collective numbness to tragedies — from Gaza to our own neighborhoods — is so dangerous. Whether you’re a guardian navigating crisis, a first- or second-generation American dealing with cultural guilt, or simply someone struggling to stay human in a desensitized world, Ramon offers practical, real-world tools for resilience.

Conoce Tus Derechos: Cómo Sobrevivir un Arresto Como Inmigrante with Criminal Defense Attorney H.A. Sala

In this urgent and compassionate episode of Flor Unmuted, Flor sits down with renowned criminal defense attorney H.A. Sala to talk directly to undocumented immigrants and mixed-status families who are living in fear. What do you do if you're arrested and can’t reach a lawyer? What if you’re pulled over for something small—like driving without a license—but end up in immigration custody? How can families prepare now, before the worst happens? If you or someone you love is afraid to leave the house, answer the door, or speak up—this episode is for you. We cover: What rights you still have, even without legal status What to say—and what not to say—to police How criminal charges can trigger immigration consequences Why plea deals can be traps for immigrants How to prepare a “go-bag” with documents, contacts & protection What to do if you’re arrested with no access to a lawyer or phone How to resist the system without being reckless This episode is in Spanish. Share it widely—this information can save lives. Español: En este episodio urgente y lleno de compasión, Flor conversa con el reconocido abogado defensor penal H.A. Sala, directamente para inmigrantes indocumentados y familias con estatus mixto que viven con miedo. ¿Qué hacer si te arrestan y no puedes contactar a un abogado? ¿Qué pasa si te detienen por algo menor—como manejar sin licencia—y terminas en manos de inmigración? ¿Cómo puede prepararse una familia antes de que llegue lo peor? Si tú o alguien que amas tiene miedo de salir de casa, abrir la puerta o alzar la voz—este episodio es para ti. Hablamos sobre: Tus derechos, aunque no tengas papeles Qué decirle (y qué no decirle) a la policía Cómo un cargo criminal puede afectar tu situación migratoria Por qué los "plea deals" pueden ser trampas Qué incluir en una bolsita de emergencia Qué hacer si te arrestan y no tienes acceso a un abogado o teléfono Cómo resistir sin ponerte en más peligro Este episodio está completamente en español. Compártelo—esta información puede salvar vidas.