The LA Podcast
May 12 2025 Episode 252

On the Chopper Block

Mike, Alissa, and Rachel discuss how LA’s budget crisis could lead to an LAPD with fewer officers and more accountability around its helicopter fleet. Metro hires a chief for its new in-house police department. Plus, why LA County approved a $4 billion settlement for thousands of sexual abuse claims, and what this means for survivors.

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A news podcast for people who live in Los Angeles.

FROM THE BLOG
LA Podcast Listener Survey
by David Levitus
February 22, 2025

We’re excited to have re-launched LA Podcast under the umbrella of LA Forward and it’s important for us to get feedback from our listeners to see what we’re doing well and how we can improve and grow. 

We’d be grateful if you’re able to fill out this survey by Sunday, March 2. You may choose to complete it anonymously although we’d love to follow up on feedback if you leave your name and contact info.

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RECENT SHOWS
May 12, 2025 Episode 252

Mike, Alissa, and Rachel discuss how LA’s budget crisis could lead to an LAPD with fewer officers and more accountability around its helicopter fleet. Metro hires a chief for its new in-house police department. Plus, why LA County approved a $4 billion settlement for thousands of sexual abuse claims, and what this means for survivors.

Support LA Podcast — become a paid subscriber today at thinkforward.la

Listen Now
May 5, 2025 Episode 251

Scott, Hayes, and Alissa dive into the LA City budget fallout: how positions were eliminated, which departments are getting funded, and why LA’s liability payouts are so much higher now. 100 days out from the fires, LA hits major recovery milestones. And former LA County sheriff Alex Villanueva is evaluated for emotional distress.

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April 28, 2025 Episode 250

Alissa and Mike are joined by guest co-host Oscar Zarate, director of external affairs at CHIRLA, to discuss how workers are mobilizing for immigrant rights on May Day. The Real ID deadline is on May 7, creating another barrier to travel in Trump’s America. And the first phase of LAX’s long-awaited rail connection has an opening date, while Inglewood’s pricey people mover gets revamped as a much better transit solution.

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