Advertise on podcast: Laguna Talks

We spoke with veteran beach volleyball players Mark Dawson and Brian Lewis about their love of the sport, Laguna's impact, and the upcoming Laguna Beach Open professional tournament

We discuss the upcoming "Art Matters" event at the Rivian Theater on Wednesday, September 9, and Jorg's debut documentary "Globalschism."

We talk with Victoria skimboard founder Charles "Tex" Haines, Garth "The Worm" Wyckoff, and Amber "The Rabbit" Torrealba about the upcoming 49th annual competiton and the history of this amazing sport that is so integral to Laguna Beach culture.

Laguna talks with longtime resident Sam Goldstein about his early career as a jazz drummer, and his later transition to Laguna arts supporter who started the bed tax to benefit our arts organizations.

Hip-hop legend and filmmaker Ice Cube calls in to announce the highly anticipated fourth Friday movie and his groundbreaking "Every Day's Friday" celebration event. From NWA to Hollywood mogul, Cube discusses his incredible crossover success, the creative process behind the beloved franchise, and how he's turning Friday into an annual fan convention experience.

Fuel (Families United for Education in Laguna) Board Members Newth Morris amd Shaheen Sheik-Sadhal unpack the firing of School Superinendent Jason Glass and turmoil at the Board.

Join host Billy Fried for an in-depth conversation with Laguna Beach City Manager Dave Kiff as he discusses the city's financial challenges, innovative solutions like becoming a charter city, and his vision for sustainable growth. From parking enforcement automation to cannabis revenue potential, Kiff shares candid insights about managing one of California's most unique coastal communities while balancing preservation with progress.

Mayor Mark Orgil joins host Billy Fried to discuss Laguna Beach's strategic priorities for 2026, including the potential transition to a charter city, revenue challenges with flat tourism income, and critical infrastructure needs. The conversation covers everything from cannabis dispensary possibilities to Mission Hospital's planned closure, offering residents insight into the city's decision-making process and future planning.

City Councilwoman Sue Kempf joins host Billy Fried for an in-depth discussion about Laguna Beach's current projects and future priorities. From the exciting promenade construction beginning today to fire safety initiatives and economic challenges, Sue provides insider insights into the city's operations and her vision for maintaining Laguna's unique character while addressing modern challenges.

On this episode I speak with Newth Morris, Laguna resident, Entrepreneur, Venture Capatilist and family man. Newth is a passionate advocate for education reform in Laguna through the FUEL (Families Unified for Education in Laguna) organization.

Lindsay Spindle is the Board Director and President of the Samueli Family Philanthropies, which gifted $11 million this year to over 100 Orange County mom-profit. Lindsay talks about the process and impacts made to Orange County.

Laguna Talks open with our monthy check in with 5th District County Supervisor Katrina Foley, followed by musician, composer and multi-instrumentalist Matt Costa, talking about the past weekend's Coast Film Festival, his set at the Irvine Bowl, and his jam with Jack Johnson and friends.