This is Promote the Vote California, The Podcast
This is Promote the Vote California, The Podcast is back with a powerful three-episode season featuring a diverse roundtable of experts in civic engagement, business leadership, and community organizing.
This season explores how democracy shows up in our everyday spaces—workplaces, businesses, and neighborhoods—and the vital role each plays in strengthening voter participation. Together, we’ll share practical strategies to push back against misinformation and build community trust.
Tune in. Stay Informed. Stay Vote-Ready. Subscribe.
Listen to seasons 1 and 2 available on 
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the California Secretary of State’s office.
Episode 3: The Impact of Your Vote and Handling Misinformation
In the season finale of This is Promote the Vote California, The Podcast, we explore the personal impact of voting—why we show up, what happens when we don’t, and how our choices shape our lives and communities. We’ll discuss ways to help each other prioritize voting, especially in local elections, and how to foster a culture of voter participation. With so much misinformation out there, we’ll also share tips for spotting credible sources and making informed choices about the issues that matter most. Featuring panelists: Clarissa Laguardia, Executive Director of the California Center for Civic Participation, Ivette Chaidez Villarreal, Civic Engagement Program Director and Communications for Valley Voices and Justin Hirai, Election Security Unit Manager, California Secretary of State, Elections Division. Download the panelist bios to learn more about the voices featured in this episode.
Episode 2: The Business Case for Voter Engagement
In this episode, we dive into how voter engagement supports business growth and how advocacy organizations can help build authentic connections and community trust. We’ll tackle barriers to participation and share practical strategies to align voter engagement with company goals—boosting brand integrity, morale, and expanding community impact. Featuring panelists: Kim Alexander, President of the California Voter Foundation, and Maria Salinas, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.
Episode 1: Celebrating Progress, Strengthening Democracy:
Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act
Recorded live at the California Secretary of State’s office, this special episode marks the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Panelists reflect on its national legacy and California’s leadership in expanding ballot access for underserved communities—while underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance, reform, and civic empowerment. Featuring panelists: California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D.; Willie Brown, former Mayor of San Francisco and Speaker of the California State Assembly; Melba Pattillo Beals, journalist and educator; Adam Cain, Inside Programs Associate, Initiate Justice; and Lexie Tesch, Outreach Coordinator for the League of Women Voters. Moderated by Guy Marzorati, KQED correspondent.
