On this episode of Civic Encounter, Simi Situ and Amelie Wu interview Matt Petersen, who is the President and CEO of the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI), where he leads efforts to build an inclusive green economy by incubating startups, transforming markets through strategic partnerships, and enhancing communities through workforce development. LACI focuses on accelerating transportation electrification, clean energy, and sustainable cities. Previously, Petersen served as Los Angeles’ first Chief Sustainability Officer under Mayor Eric Garcetti, where he helped author the Sustainable City plan, advanced the city’s leadership in electric vehicles, and co-founded Climate Mayors.

On this episode of Civic Encounter, Georgia Lewis and Simi Situ sit down with Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang to discuss the work if the Assessor’s office as LA County reaches a year of recovery efforts following the LA fires in the Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and more. Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang was elected in 2014 as the 27th Assessor for the County of Los Angeles and re-elected in 2018 and 2022. His office has played a pivotal role in making sure affected LA County residents get the information and resources they need to navigate rebuilding, taxes, and much more in the wake of the fires.

Assessor Prang is Civic Encounter’s first-ever returning guest, having previously joined the podcast in 2025. To learn more about his journey—from pioneering policy on the West Hollywood City Council to modernizing government technology as Los Angeles County Assessor—listen here.

On this episode of Civic Encounter, Georgia Lewis and Ava Sanchez speak with CA State Senator Caroline Menjivar about her journey from aspiring firefighter to EMT, Marine, and the second youngest state senator in California. Senator Menjivar shares how growing up in the San Fernando Valley and serving on the front lines shaped her leadership and commitment to public safety.

The conversation explores her legislative work on health and consumer protections, including SB 20 to prevent silicosis and SB 68 requiring food allergen disclosures, as well as broader issues like child care affordability, public transportation, and the impact of immigration raids on local communities.

Senator Menjivar closes with a powerful message for young people: don’t wait to lead—organize, advocate, and create change now.