Keeping It Real: Conversations with Jillian Michaels
Episode: How Blue Cities Collapse: California’s Warning To America
Release Date: August 12, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of "Keeping It Real: Conversations with Jillian Michaels," host Jillian Michaels engages in a robust discussion with author Chris Moritz about his provocative new book, "Failed State: A Portrait of California in the Twilight of an Empire." The conversation delves deep into California's transformation from the emblematic "Golden State" to what Moritz describes as a "failed state," exploring the multifaceted issues plaguing the region and serving as a cautionary tale for the rest of America.

California's Decline: A Portrait of a Failed State

Jillian Michaels opens the dialogue by highlighting Moritz's critical perspective on California's deteriorating state, both socially and economically. She recounts discovering Moritz's insights through his discussions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), specifically referencing his analysis of the transgender care industry as a significant factor contributing to California's challenges.

Chris Moritz introduces his book, emphasizing California's shift from the fifth to the fourth largest economy globally, attributing this growth to the disproportionate contribution of a few technology giants. He underscores the stark economic disparities, noting, "almost 40% of the state's population is on some form of social welfare" (03:25) and the massive wealth gap between the top 1% and the bottom 20% (04:17).

Criminal Justice Reforms and Their Consequences

A significant portion of the conversation addresses California's criminal justice reforms, particularly focusing on legislation like AB109 and Proposition 47. These policies aimed to reduce the prison population by reclassifying certain non-violent crimes and shifting offenders to local jails. However, Moritz argues that these reforms have backfired, leading to a surge in property crimes and a decline in public safety.

Chris Moritz explains, "Prop 47... reclassified theft under $950 as a misdemeanor...[resulting] in a 114% increase in property or retail theft over ten years" (20:33). He criticizes the superficial definitions of non-violence in these laws, which have inadvertently released individuals with violent histories back into the community, escalating crime rates.

Rising Crime Rates and Their Drivers

Michaels shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the severity of California's crime epidemic, including her own experiences with home invasions and vehicle thefts. These stories resonate with Moritz's assertion that the state's decriminalization policies have led to rampant lawlessness.

Jillian Michaels recounts a harrowing event: "two nights in a row on one weekend...my family house in Santa Monica was burglarized" (09:00). This personal account underscores the tangible impact of the discussed policies on everyday Californians.

Chris Moritz adds, "In Los Angeles county under George Gascon, we have a situation of decriminalization of a host of crimes. Property crime in particular was considered basically a non-offense" (14:55). He emphasizes that this leniency has eroded trust in the justice system, as evidenced by frequent under-enforcement and lenient sentencing.

Homelessness, Gangs, and Public Safety

The discussion transitions to the intertwined crises of homelessness and gang violence. Moritz highlights the rise of gangs recruiting minors, leading to an increase in violent crimes. He cites alarming statistics, noting that black and Hispanic youths represent 80% of juvenile prosecutions in California.

Chris Moritz states, "gangs are recruiting children as young as 10 years old for hijackings, assault, and even murder" (62:57). This recruitment is fueled by inadequate juvenile detention facilities and lenient judicial processes, allowing these youths to reoffend repeatedly.

Jillian Michaels echoes these concerns, sharing her own unsettling incident where her car was stolen, and the subsequent lack of police response, illustrating the state's failing law enforcement: "They were like, oh, yeah, no, we're not coming" (25:28).

Political Influence and the Role of Key Figures

A critical analysis is devoted to the influence of political figures and financial backers in shaping California's policies. Moritz discusses the role of George Soros in funding District Attorney races, particularly his significant investment in LA County DA George Gascon's campaign.

Chris Moritz asserts, "Soros spent $15 million on Gascon's race...control over the largest jurisdiction in the United States" (46:00). He contends that such financial influence has led to policies that prioritize ideological agendas over public safety.

Jillian Michaels adds, "Why is the money wanting criminality to run wild?" (38:29), questioning the underlying motives of wealthy backers who benefit from the ensuing chaos.

Financial Institutions and Real Estate Exploitation

The conversation explores the alarming consolidation of wealth and property by major financial institutions like BlackRock, State Street, and Vanguard. Moritz warns of these entities potentially owning a significant portion of U.S. homes by 2030, as RFK Jr. predicts, highlighting the risks of monopolistic control over real estate.

Chris Moritz mentions, "BlackRock was at the very top...they own 89% of the S and P and they own each other" (42:08). He fears that economic destabilization would allow these firms to acquire assets at discounted prices, exacerbating wealth inequality.

Environmental Catastrophes and Mismanagement

The episode also tackles California's environmental crises, particularly the devastating wildfires exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure and policy failures. Moritz criticizes Governor Gavin Newsom's administration for mismanaging resources, leading to uncontrolled fires that have destroyed communities and released toxic pollutants.

Jillian Michaels shares her personal experience with the Palisades fire, noting the delayed and inadequate response: "They claim they were there in seven minutes. But video footage shows no response for 45 minutes" (73:07).

Chris Moritz adds, "We know about the winds. So if you know about a problem, you have to prepare for it" (78:33), emphasizing that preventive measures were neglected, resulting in catastrophic outcomes.

Global Influences and National Implications

Moritz extends the discussion beyond California, positing that the state's collapse serves as a harbinger for potential nationwide issues. He highlights the interconnections between state policies and broader national challenges, such as the opioid crisis, influenced by foreign drug trafficking predominantly entering through California's ports.

Chris Moritz warns, "Propagated policies have fueled an environment where a small number of offenders commit most of the crimes" (40:04), suggesting that similar policy failures elsewhere could lead to similar or worse outcomes.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with a somber reflection on the precarious state of California and its implications for the United States. Moritz urges listeners to recognize the signs of systemic failure and take proactive measures to address the root causes of these crises. Jillian Michaels reinforces the urgency, urging Californians and Americans alike to stay informed and advocate for meaningful policy changes to prevent their own communities from following California's troubled path.

Notable Quotes

• Chris Moritz ([03:25]): "Almost 40% of the state's population is on some form of social welfare."
• Jillian Michaels ([09:00]): "Two nights in a row on one weekend...my family house in Santa Monica was burglarized."
• Chris Moritz ([14:55]): "Property crime in particular was considered basically a non-offense."
• Chris Moritz ([20:33]): "Prop 47... resulted in a 114% increase in property or retail theft over ten years."
• Jillian Michaels ([25:28]): "They were like, oh, yeah, no, we're not coming."
• Chris Moritz ([46:00]): "Soros spent $15 million on Gascon's race."
• Jillian Michaels ([73:07]): "They claim they were there in seven minutes. But video footage shows no response for 45 minutes."
• Chris Moritz ([78:33]): "If you know about a problem, you have to prepare for it."

Final Thoughts

"How Blue Cities Collapse: California’s Warning To America" offers a stark examination of California's systemic issues, positing that the state's challenges are not isolated but indicative of broader national vulnerabilities. Through personal anecdotes, expert analysis, and a detailed exploration of policy failures, Jillian Michaels and Chris Moritz provide listeners with a sobering perspective on the importance of safeguarding public institutions, enforcing just laws, and maintaining economic and social stability.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of California's decline and its implications for the United States, Moritz's book promises an eye-opening exploration backed by extensive research and firsthand accounts.

Join the Conversation:
If you found this summary insightful, tune into the full episode on your preferred podcast platform. Engage with the discussion by sharing your thoughts and experiences related to California's current state and its potential lessons for the rest of the country.