Welcome to The San Francisco Experience, a data-driven news commentary podcast with a truly global reach, serving curious listeners in more than 65 countries. If you are looking for sharp, independent analysis delivered straight from a California and Silicon Valley perspective, you have found your new favorite destination for intelligent conversation.
About the show
Hosted from the Bay Area, our mission is to cut through the noise and give you succinct, fact-based analysis that remains proudly non-ideological and independent. We tackle the complex issues shaping our world today—from the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into our healthcare systems to the shifting dynamics of global alliances like the 36th NATO Summit in Ankara. We sit down with newsmakers, authors, and thought leaders to explore the policies, technologies, and cultural shifts defining our era, offering clarity without partisan spin.
What you'll discover
- Unvarnished, data-backed commentary on the latest developments in tech, policy, and global affairs.
- In-depth interviews with authors and leading experts discussing everything from the vital contributions of women at the NSA to the radical and paradoxical legacy of the Declaration of Independence.
- Ground-level perspectives on urban evolution, community development, and local innovation—ranging from the management of historic waterfront destinations to the preservation of iconic architectural landmarks.
- Explorations of how our physical surroundings impact our daily lives, including the intersection of architecture and human wellbeing.
- Unique human-interest stories, spanning the gritty reality of experiencing homelessness on city streets to epic overland journeys across the roads of South America.
- Discussions on digital transformation, GovTech innovations, and how modern software is making public sector agencies more user-friendly.
Who this podcast is for
This podcast is built for the intellectually curious listener who values substance over soundbites. Whether you are a professional tracking the intersection of technology and public policy, an expat keeping a pulse on global trends, or simply someone who appreciates thoughtful, fact-oriented dialogue, The San Francisco Experience meets you at the intersection of local insight and global perspective.
Meet the host
Your host, Jim Herlihy, brings a uniquely worldly and accomplished background to the microphone. A published author whose novel “Deceit and Dirty Money” is available online, Jim served as President of the San Francisco Public Library Commission from 1992 to 1996. His career also includes working as a foreign stringer for The Economist, The Times, and the *BBC* while stationed in Latin America. Today, he remains actively engaged in international diplomacy as a director on two of San Francisco’s sister city boards: Bangalore, India, and Cork, Ireland.
Start listening
Dive into our catalog of conversations today, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, and join a global community of listeners who crave smarter, independent commentary.