The John Phillips Show

Latest Episodes:

They Tried to Bribe a Reporter to Hide THIS (Caught on Tape) Sep 29, 2026

Show notes

This episode is a wild ride, folks, as we dive into the latest on the Shang-Yi Tao corruption trial and a bizarre burglary story that'll leave you scratching your head. The former Oakland mayor's case is getting messier by the day, with new allegations of bribery and corruption coming to light. Meanwhile, in the San Francisco Bay Area, a Vietnam War veteran takes matters into his own hands when a burglar breaks into his home, leaving a trail of blood and a very surprised dog behind.

We're talking about a case that involves a former mayor, a corrupt businessman, and a cast of characters that would make a Hollywood movie. The speaker breaks down the latest developments in the Shang-Yi Tao trial, including a judge's decision to allow a key piece of evidence to be presented to the jury. We also explore a bizarre burglary story that's got everyone talking, from a homeowner who shoots a would-be thief in the butt to a dog that's left behind in the chaos.

The conversation gets real when the speaker discusses the implications of the Shang-Yi Tao case and what it says about the state of politics in Oakland. We also hear from a local expert who shares his insights on the city's crime wave and what's being done to address it. It's a thought-provoking episode that'll keep you on the edge of your seat.

So, if you want to hear more about the Shang-Yi Tao trial, the bizarre burglary story, and the state of crime in the Bay Area, tune in to this episode. The speaker breaks down the details and shares his expert analysis, giving you a deeper understanding of the issues at play. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that's got everyone talking.

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The REAL Reason Xavier Becerra is Dodging the Press | John Thomas Sep 29, 2026

Show notes

This episode of the podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in California politics. The state is facing some of its biggest challenges yet, from rising crime rates to a crippling economy, and the homelessness crisis shows no signs of slowing down. But amidst all the chaos, one thing is clear: the state needs a leader who can step up to the plate and make tough decisions. In this episode, our guest John Thomas, a Republican political strategist, shares his insights on the upcoming gubernatorial election and the candidates vying for the top spot.

The conversation touches on the strategies of the main contenders, including Javier Becerra, the Democratic candidate who's been keeping a low profile since the primary. Thomas breaks down Becerra's approach, which involves relying on his team to set the agenda and major influences to dictate the state's direction. He also discusses the challenges California faces, from devastating natural disasters to crippling economic woes, and how a governor who's not up to the task could spell disaster for the state.

Thomas also weighs in on the L.A. mayor's race, where Nithya Raman is currently leading in the polls. He shares his analysis of the latest poll numbers and what they mean for the outcome of the election. Additionally, he discusses the billionaire tax, Prop 40, which has sparked controversy among Californians. Our guest shares his thoughts on the measure and why it's not as straightforward as it seems.

If you're interested in staying up-to-date on the latest California politics and want to hear more from our expert guest, tune in to this episode to hear the full conversation.

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Xavier Becerra Broke His Media Silence for THIS?! Sep 29, 2026

Show notes

This episode of the podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in California politics, as the speaker takes a closer look at the state's gubernatorial election and the Democratic nominee, Javier Becerra. But what's really going on here? Is Becerra a serious candidate, or is he just not taking the campaign seriously? The speaker breaks down a cringeworthy interview with Becerra, where he's asked a series of bizarre questions by a comedian from the San Francisco Standard. The result is a trainwreck of an interview that leaves the speaker questioning Becerra's ability to lead the state.

The conversation starts off with a discussion about Becerra's lack of engagement with the press, and how he's only done one interview in months. The speaker highlights the contrast between Becerra's behavior and that of his opponent, Steve Hilton, who has been everywhere and has done every legitimate interview. The speaker also touches on the topic of the California dream, and how Becerra's campaign is not doing much to inspire voters.

One of the most striking moments in the interview comes when Becerra is asked about his views on various topics, including 9/11 and the opioid crisis. His responses are awkward and cringeworthy, and the speaker wonders if he's taking the campaign seriously. The speaker also critiques Becerra's lack of knowledge about basic issues, such as the name of the mayor of San Francisco.

If you want to understand what's really going on in California politics, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's take on Becerra's campaign and the implications for the state's future. Listen to the full episode to hear the speaker's analysis and critique of Becerra's performance in the interview, and to get a better understanding of the issues at play in the gubernatorial election.

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Royal Oakes And Mark Hood Sep 26, 2026

Show notes

**Rappelling Down 25 Stories for a Cause**

Imagine rappelling down the side of a 25-story building for a good cause. That's exactly what our hosts and producers did at the Union Rescue Mission's Over the Edge event, where they raised money to help fight homelessness in LA. But today's episode is about more than just the thrill of the rappel – it's about the people and the issues that matter.

In this episode, our hosts talk to Royal Oaks, a renowned lawyer and host of the Too Many Lawyers podcast, about the environmental and public health disaster in Boyle Heights, where a fire at a cold storage facility left a trail of destruction and raised questions about the city's response. They also discuss the high-speed rail project, which has been plagued by waste, fraud, and abuse. And, they delve into the world of celebrity estates, where family members and friends often clash over finances and power.

But the main focus of the episode is on the Union Rescue Mission and its CEO, Mark Hood. He shares his insights on the root causes of homelessness and the importance of addressing addiction, mental health, and trauma. He also talks about the mission's approach to helping people get back on their feet and become independent.

If you're interested in learning more about the issues affecting our community and the people working to make a difference, tune in to this episode. Our hosts and guests offer a unique perspective on the challenges we face and the solutions that are working. Listen to hear their stories and insights, and find out how you can get involved in the fight against homelessness.

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Dennis Zine and Frank Mottek Sep 26, 2026

Show notes

**Join the Conversation on Homelessness and Politics in Los Angeles**

This episode of the VIX California Hour podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the complexities of homelessness and politics in Los Angeles. The conversation is raw, honest, and thought-provoking, with a former Los Angeles Councilman and LAPD Sergeant sharing his insights on the city's current state and the upcoming mayoral election.

The speaker discusses the pressing issues of homelessness, crime, and public safety in Los Angeles, highlighting the need for effective solutions and leadership. He shares his concerns about the city's current state, citing the high crime rate, homelessness crisis, and the impact of the city's policies on its residents. He also delves into the mayoral election, discussing the differences between the current mayor, Karen Bass, and her challenger, Nithya Raman.

The conversation touches on the importance of public safety, the role of the police department, and the need for effective leadership in addressing the city's challenges. The speaker shares his experiences working with the Union Rescue Mission, an organization that provides critical services to those experiencing homelessness. He emphasizes the importance of supporting organizations like the Union Rescue Mission, which offer a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness.

If you're interested in learning more about the complexities of homelessness and politics in Los Angeles, tune in to this episode of the VIX California Hour podcast. Join the conversation and hear the speaker's candid thoughts on the city's current state and the challenges it faces. Listen now and discover the importance of effective leadership and community support in addressing the city's pressing issues.

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The LAX Peoplemover And Susan Dyer Reynolds Sep 26, 2026

Show notes

The PeopleMover project at LAX has been plagued by delays and controversy, with a new target opening date of January 6th, 2027, still uncertain. This episode delves into the latest developments on this project, which has been in the works since 2019.

The conversation starts at the Union Rescue Mission's Over the Edge event, where the hosts are live from the Universal Hilton. They discuss the project's history, including its original promise to be completed in 2023, and how it has been delayed multiple times. The hosts also touch on the project's cost, which has tripled to $3.3 billion, and the disputes between the contractor and LAX over the schedule and costs.

The discussion also covers the recent news about California's Attorney General Rob Bonta, who has been involved in a high-profile case against the Duong family, who are accused of running a prostitution and ketamine sales ring. The hosts and their guest, Susan Dyer Reynolds, editorial director and CEO of The Voice of San Francisco, discuss the case and its implications for Bonta's future as Attorney General.

The conversation is lively and informative, with the hosts and their guest sharing their insights and opinions on the topics at hand. If you're interested in staying up-to-date on the latest news and developments in California politics and beyond, tune in to this episode to hear more.

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Man Crawls Out of Dumpster and Does THIS to a Neighborhood Sep 25, 2026

Show notes

The California Crime Blotter is back, and this time it's a wild ride. A burglary suspect in the San Fernando Valley was caught after being found covered in leaves and stuck in a dumpster. The victim's daughter says the suspect locked her mom's door behind him and started breaking things, but the LAPD only charged him with burglary. The speaker questions the charges, saying it's a home invasion robbery and the suspect should have been charged with a more serious crime.

This episode of the show covers a range of topics, from the California crime blotter to a discussion about the state of the Democratic Party. The speaker and their guest, Dan Ball, talk about the upcoming election in Los Angeles, where voters will choose between incumbent mayor Karen Bass and DSA candidate Nithya Raman. The speaker expresses their frustration with the lack of strong candidates and the influence of socialist ideology in the Democratic Party.

The conversation also touches on the issue of homelessness and crime in California, with the speaker sharing a story about a woman who was attacked by a homeless man outside an empanada shop in Oakland. The speaker questions the effectiveness of the city's response to the issue and suggests that more needs to be done to address it.

If you're concerned about the state of California and the country, you won't want to miss this episode. The speaker and their guest dive into the issues that matter most, from crime and politics to social justice and personal freedom. Tune in to hear their thoughts on the latest news and trends, and join the conversation by sharing your own opinions and experiences.

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Bass In Disbelief About Polling Below Nithya Raman Sep 24, 2026

Show notes

The L.A. Mayor's Race is Heating Up

The latest poll numbers are in, and it's clear that the L.A. mayor's race is getting intense. A new survey by the UC Berkeley's Institute for Governmental Studies, co-sponsored by the L.A. Times, shows Councilwoman Nithya Raman with a double-digit lead over incumbent Mayor Karen Bass. The poll results are striking, with 39% of respondents supporting Raman and 28% backing Bass, leaving 33% undecided. This is a significant shift from previous polls, which had Bass in the lead.

The conversation on this episode delves into the details of the poll and what it means for the election. The hosts discuss the implications of the results, including the demographics that are driving Raman's lead and the challenges facing Bass's campaign. They also touch on the city's current issues, such as the homelessness crisis and the recent outbreak of West Nile virus. The hosts share their thoughts on the candidates and the election, offering a unique perspective on the situation.

One of the most striking aspects of the poll is the demographics that are driving Raman's lead. Young people are breaking for her at a 66% rate, which is a significant shift from previous polls. The hosts discuss the implications of this trend and what it means for the election. They also talk about the challenges facing Bass's campaign, including her high unfavorable rating among voters.

If you want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the L.A. mayor's race, tune in to this episode to hear the hosts' analysis and insights. They'll break down the poll numbers and discuss the implications for the election. Don't miss this episode to stay informed and join the conversation.

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Gavin Newsom Takes Credit for Elon Musk's Success at UN Sep 24, 2026

Show notes

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in California politics and the state's energy policy. The speaker takes a humorous approach to dissecting the claims made by California Governor Gavin Newsom during his recent trip to the United Nations, where he touted California's energy policy as a model for the world. Newsom's speech was filled with boasts about the state's supposed achievements, but the speaker isn't buying it.

The episode delves into the details of Newsom's claims, pointing out the flaws in his argument and highlighting the contradictions in his statements. The speaker also discusses the cap and invest program, which is a key part of California's energy policy, and how it's actually increasing energy costs for residents. The conversation also touches on the state's high-speed rail project, which is still nowhere near completion, and the governor's claims about the state's energy independence.

The speaker isn't afraid to call out Newsom's hypocrisy, pointing out that he's more concerned with appearing environmentally friendly than actually addressing the state's real energy needs. The conversation also covers the city of San Francisco's attempt to take over PG&E, the state's largest utility company, and the potential implications of this move.

If you're interested in learning more about the behind-the-scenes politics of California's energy policy and the governor's claims, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear the speaker's take on the latest developments and the real story behind California's energy policy.

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California's Criminal Justice Reform Needs Reform Sep 24, 2026

Show notes

This episode of the podcast is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the state of California's justice system. A recent incident in Placer County, where a 76-year-old woman was killed during a shootout with a suspect who had been arrested multiple times in the past month, has sparked a heated discussion about the state's bail reform laws. The speaker delves into the details of the case, highlighting the flaws in the system that allowed the suspect to be released on bail multiple times despite his history of violent crimes.

The conversation also touches on the broader implications of California's bail reform laws, which prioritize the rights of criminals over those of victims. The speaker argues that the system is failing to hold repeat offenders accountable, and that the consequences of this failure can be devastating. The discussion also explores the role of politics in shaping the state's justice system, and how politicians' rhetoric often fails to match their actions.

The episode also covers the crackdown on smoke shops in Stockton, California, where 13 shops have been shut down for selling illegal products. The speaker shares their personal experience with smoke shops, highlighting the often-seedy nature of these businesses. The conversation also touches on the intersection of politics and commerce, and how the interests of developers and politicians can influence policy decisions.

If you're concerned about the state of California's justice system and want to hear more about the issues discussed in this episode, tune in to the full podcast to hear the speaker's insightful analysis and commentary.

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