Santa Monica’s Fiercest Advocate: Former Mayor Phil Brock Talks Homelessness, Hope, and Civic Pride on The Good Government Show

When you think of Santa Monica, you probably imagine surfboards, sunshine, and the iconic pier stretching into the Pacific. But in a revealing and often candid conversation on The Good Government Show, former Mayor Phil Brock reminded us that paradise comes with real-world problems—and real leaders rise to meet them.

“I ran for council to help my neighbors,” Brock told host Dave Martin. “And sometimes, that means saying the hard things and pushing for real change.”

In his appearance on the podcast, Brock tackled Santa Monica’s most pressing issues head-on, from rising homelessness and mental health crises to public safety concerns impacting residents and small businesses. He detailed new initiatives like Inside Pathway Home, a transitional housing program, and psychiatric outreach efforts launched in 2024. “It’s not compassionate to leave people suffering on the streets,” Brock emphasized. “And it’s not safe for anyone—not residents, not businesses, and not those who are unhoused.”

But it’s not all challenges. Brock also shared wins—like the city’s $100 million stormwater recycling plant and plans to transform the Santa Monica Airport into one of California’s largest public parks. And his pride in his hometown is infectious. “I walk this city every day,” he said. “It’s the honor of my life to serve the place I was born.”

From planting trees to fighting for an elected mayor system, Brock proves good government starts with showing up—and listening.

You can hear the full conversation with Phil Brock on The Good Government Show at GoodGovernmentShow.com or wherever you get your podcasts. Come for the beach vibes—stay for the civic lessons.