This episode features Mark Pestrella, Director of LA County Public Works, leading the nation’s largest municipal public works agency. He walks through how Public Works touches everyday life—from capturing stormwater in dams for groundwater recharge and preventing floods after wildfires, to maintaining roads and transit options (including the Beach Bus), managing sewers and wastewater issues, and planning the County’s solid-waste system. The conversation spotlights resilience and climate readiness, community safety, and the behind-the-scenes coordination required to keep 10 million residents moving. Personal reflections on his LA story and a lifelong connection to water frame a leadership approach rooted in service, prevention, and long-term infrastructure stewardship.

Host: Rodney Collins

Producers: Ramla Javed, Flavio Guzman Magaña, Tina Curry

Editor: Alban Kalasa

Guest: Mark Pestrella

Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all.From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose.The podcast kicks off with the Living Library Series, a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.