An Honorable Profession

Recording from the 15th Annual NewDEAL Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C., host Ryan Coonerty talks with New Hampshire State Representative and Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson about the importance of ethical leadership in these troubled times, how she approaches her legislative priorities, and how her weekends as a minister in her community informs how she does her job as a legislator. Ryan and Simpson also discuss New Hampshire's status as a swing state and "picker of presidents," and what all Americans need to know about how the state evaluates those who pursue our nation's highest office. Tune in to this insightful conversation. IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:04] How State Representative Alexis Simpson's role as a clergywoman informs her work in the legislature. • [04:34] The role that faith plays in helping her to find hope in troubled times and to navigate political life. • [07:51] Her journey from ministry to serving in New Hampshire's citizen legislature. • [10:43] Solution-based leadership based on an experience she had serving on the Environment and Agriculture Committee. • [12:38] Systems to organize New Hampshire's minority Democratic Party. • [14:27] Navigating struggles with the cost of living due to rising rental costs, taxes, and basic needs. • [16:29] The political state of play in New Hampshire in 2025. • [21:28] New Hampshire's key role as the picker of presidents. • [24:53] What State Representative Simpson most wants people to know about her state. • [26:57] Why social crises are more urgent than ever before. • [29:11] The importance of not losing hope in people across political barriers.

Recorded at the 15th Annual NewDEAL Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C., host Ryan Coonerty talks with Durham, NC, Mayor Leonardo Williams. They talk about how the mayor built a career grounded in community service and leadership, and how his experiences equipped him with what he needs most to be a successful mayor. In addition, they unpack what it means to lead when there are ICE raids in your community, causing kids not to want to go to school and people not to want to go to work, and what it takes to have a vibrant community with flourishing small businesses. Tune in to learn about Mayor Williams' path from award-winning music teacher to principal, policy adviser, small-business owner, and, finally, mayor. IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:03] An introduction to Durham, North Carolina, Mayor Leonardo Williams and his city. • [04:33] A Mayor's role in the context of instilling hope in the context of national jurisdiction. • [08:53] Mayor Williams' path to public service. • [14:08] What his role has revealed about the social health of his city. • [16:47] Setting a culture of vitality through sacrifice and competition. • [18:49] How democrats can better support small businesses. • [22:08] The state of politics in North Carolina today. • [24:36] Free and fair elections in 2026 and Mayor Williams' plans for the next two years. • [27:03] How his background as a teacher and a drum major has shaped his approach to leadership.

Happy Thanksgiving! While our team is off for the holiday, we want to take this opportunity to revisit our conversation with Commissioner Lesley Briones from Harris County, TX. Host Ryan Coonerty and Briones explain her role representing the third-largest county in the country with a population larger than 26 U.S. states and 34 cities. They discuss her journey as a Harvard and Yale Law School graduate who became a public school teacher and then a judge, and how her parents instilled in her the belief that she should always help others. Briones talks about navigating the chaos of the Trump administration—including Governor Abbott's redistricting plan —how faith continues to ground her work, and how growing up as a daughter of teachers and a proud Latina on the Texas–Mexico border has made her resilient. Tune in to learn why Commissioner Briones believes Texas can become a swing state (spoiler: it's closer than you might think). IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:03] Commissioner Briones' background and entry into public service. • [02:16] The role of a County Commissioner and what that means in Harris. • [04:07] Federal challenges that Harris County faces under the Trump administration. • [10:30] Attempts to work collaboratively in the face of troubling bills. • [13:13] Staying hopeful and engaged for the generation to come. • [17:06] Sentiment towards the current administration in Harris County. • [18:51] How Commissioner Briones' background informs her work in local government. • [22:55] Her path to public service in 2019 and how it differs from working as a judge. • [30:15] Embracing faith and inclusivity as a Democratic leader.

In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Harris County, TX, County Commissioner Lesley Briones, who explains her role representing the third-largest county in the country with a population larger than 26 U.S. States and 34 cities. Ryan and Briones discuss her journey as a Harvard and Yale Law School graduate who became a public school teacher and then a judge, and how her parents instilled in her the belief that she should always help others. Briones talks about navigating the chaos left by the Trump administration—including Governor Abbott's redistricting plan —how faith continues to ground her work, and how growing up as a daughter of teachers and a proud Latina on the Texas–Mexico border has given her resilience. Tune in to learn why Commissioner Briones believes Texas can become a swing state (spoiler: it's so close). IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:03] Commissioner Briones' background and entry into public service. • [02:16] The role of a County Commissioner and what that means in Harris. • [04:07] Federal challenges that Harris County faces under the Trump administration. • [10:30] Attempts to work collaboratively in the face of troubling bills. • [13:13] Staying hopeful and engaged for the generation to come. • [17:06] Sentiment towards the current administration in Harris County. • [18:51] How Commissioner Briones' background informs her work in local government. • [22:55] Her path to public service in 2019 and how it differs from working as a judge. • [30:15] Embracing faith and inclusivity as a Democratic leader.

In this week's episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with Arizona State Representative Stephanie Simacek. They talk about how her journey from teacher to legislator, including how a concern with her daughter's education drove her to run for office and how she flipped a seat in one of the state's most competitive districts. Simacek explains what she's learned about using her voice in a divided state government, and how Democrats in Arizona have found creative ways to deliver wins for families despite being in the minority in both chambers of the legislature. The conversation also delves into the growing strain on working parents as federal programs face cuts, and why she believes listening to and amplifying everyday voices is essential to rebuilding trust in government. Tune in for a timely conversation about courage, collaboration, and what it takes to make lasting change. IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:01] Introduction to Representative Stephanie Simacek and her first year in the Arizona House. • [02:13] Winning in a tough year for Democrats through a single-shot strategy in a purple district. • [04:13] From teacher and mom to school-board member, and how that led to public office. • [07:11] Balancing her dual roles as school-board member and state legislator, and how that perspective deepens her understanding of how state policy impacts local schools. • [08:15] Serving on the Education Committee and confronting Arizona's funding challenges. [10:53] Learning to use her voice in committee hearings and on the House floor. • [12:25] The "Democrats Deliver" tour and seeing the real-world impact of those investments. • [15:52] Working with Senate Republicans to pass a fairer budget that serves all Arizonans. • [18:46] Reintroducing her health-insurance reform bill and finding new ways to be heard. • [22:32] Addressing SNAP benefit cuts and pressing for bipartisan support to aid Arizona families. • [28:04] Speaking out on Arizona's unsworn congresswoman and the need for accountability in democracy. • [29:44] Closing reflections on persistence, collaboration, and using your voice for change.

In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Michigan State Senator Sarah Anthony. They talk about her achievements and her many ''firsts' in politics - including her path to becoming the first African American woman elected to the Michigan Senate and the first to Chair the Senate Appropriations Committee -- and the obstacles she has overcome along the way. Anthony explains how she is trying to improve equity and opportunity for all Michiganders and the challenges of leading the effort to shape what she calls the "people's budget." In addition, she offers insights into how the Trump Administration's efforts are impacting Michigan, especially in regards to tariffs, and talks about what her prior work as a County Commissioner taught her. Tune in to learn about her guiding principles and what gives her hope. IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:04] Introducing today's guest, Senator Sarah Anthony. • [02:23] Her journey into public office and what it's like to be 'the first' in so many areas. • [04:52] The internal struggles she's faced in her position and how she overcomes them. • [06:52] How Anthony has tried to make systems work for people better than they do. • [08:51] Managing chairing appropriations and making the budget a 'people's budget'. • [14:47] Anthony shares what things are like in Michigan politically at the moment. • [18:06] How the tariffs are playing out in Michigan and how they're affecting people. • [21:09] What motivated Sarah to run for the County Commission, and what it taught her. • [24:42] Why she hasn't struggled to maintain her guiding principles during her time in office. • [26:26] Prioritizing outcomes over going viral and what gives her hope for the future.

We're celebrating our 300th episode of An Honorable Profession! Thank you to our listeners for being part of this journey and we look forward to introducing you to more inspiring leaders from across the country over our next 300 episodes. In this special episode, hosts NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan and Ryan Coonerty are joined by former Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, a longtime NewDEAL Leader and one of the podcast's early guests. Buttigieg discusses the lessons he has learned from politics and leadership on his journey from South Bend Mayor to a cabinet member. The conversation delves into his advice for communicating with Americans of all political stripes in a highly polarized environment and why it's critical for leaders to go everywhere to meet people in the physical and virtual spaces where they are. In addition, Debbie, Ryan, and Buttigieg talk about how Democrats move forward with an agenda to rebuild damage from the Trump Administration without going back to a past status quo. Buttigieg also reflects on fatherhood and finding perspective beyond politics, sharing how family helps keep his actions grounded in hope. Tune in for a full-circle conversation that honors public service and looks ahead to a new generation of hopeful and pragmatic leaders. Help us celebrate our 300th episode by sharing this episode and subscribing to An Honorable Profession wherever you listen to podcasts, and giving us a five star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Subscribe to our Substack, The Roadmap here Subscribe to our YT Channel here NewDEAL Website NewDEAL Forum Website IN THIS EPISODE: • [00:00] Celebrating the 300th episode milestone of An Honorable Profession. • [02:24] Remembering Buttigieg's first appearance on the show as a young mayor. • [03:57] Lessons from local leadership that continue to guide his perspective. • [06:23] Buttigieg's advice on when and how Democrats should take principled, effective stands. • [08:53] Defining what it means to "fight" as democrats: standing for what's right, not just against opponents. • [10:14] Communicating beyond echo chambers and reaching audiences across divides. • [12:24] The messages that resonate as we head into the 2026 midterm elections. • [15:11] How Democrats can prepare now to rebuild government and restore public trust. • [19:43] Using AI to solve real problems while guarding against its unintended harm. • [23:36] Rebuilding community through shared service and belonging beyond politics. • [27:00] Democrats' effort to reclaim freedom, faith, and patriotism as inclusive American values. • [29:11] Finding hope and perspective through fatherhood and a renewed sense of purpose

In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty sits down with Houston City Councilmember Ed Pollard. They discuss being a blue dot in a red state, Pollard's approach to being "pro- growth and pro-business," and what Houston needs to do to reach its true potential. Ryan and Pollard also talk about what national Democrats get wrong about the politics of Texas and immigrant communities, Pollard's full-time job as a lawyer, and how you should spend 24 hours in Houston. Tune in to learn more from this engaging conversation! IN THIS WEEK'S EPISODE: • [01:16] Introducing today's guest, Ed Pollard. • [02:04] All about Houston and why it's not mentioned often. • [04:16] How Ed is growing economic opportunities in Houston. • [05:50] What it's like to be a blue dot in a red state. • [06:50] Ed tells us about Houston's property tax cap. • [09:35] His background in Houston and what brought him back. • [11:57] How Ed's travel experience has shaped his work. • [13:43] What it's like to engage such a diverse group of people. • [16:45] How Democrats have failed to connect with immigrant communities. • [20:12] What Houston needs to do to address quality of life issues and thrive. • [22:00] The role sport plays culturally and economically in the city. • [24:08] How Ed manages his roles as a lawyer and a council member. • [26:25] What you should do if you're in Houston for a day.

In this week's episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with New Jersey Majority Leader Lou Greenwald. They discuss Greenwald's approach to governing, including his work on the bipartisan Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program, which will invest in the state's economy, create jobs, and bring long-term economic growth. In addition, Debbie asks about this year's New Jersey governor's race and the historical trends that Democrats have to battle. They also talk about the importance of delivering for constituents and how the political landscape has changed over the past 30 years. Greenwald shares the tragic yet heartwarming circumstances that led him to elected office and his passion for his work. Tune in to discover the power and importance of restoring people's trust in government. IN THIS EPISODE: • [01:05] Introducing today's guest, Lou Greenwald. • [02:22] Lou tells us about the Next New Jersey Manufacturing Program • [06:22] Thoughts on the bipartisan co-operation in New Jersey. • [08:31] What people are looking for in the next Governor. • [12:48] The political impact he hopes the New Jersey Manufacturing Program will have. • [16:51] How Lou's members are handling the ever-changing political landscape. • [20:19] Lou tells us how his mother inspired him to get into politics. • [24:04] What he tells recruits when encouraging them to get into this line of work. • [25:19] The power of curiosity and listening to the public as a public service official.

In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty sits down with Connecticut Representative Eleni Kavros DeGraw. They discuss her work to reduce hunger in her state, pass landmark legislation to make housing more affordable despite pushback, and advance Connecticut's first criminal justice model for trauma-informed engagement with survivors of sexual assault. Kavros DeGraw also explains how her background as a journalist and English major has prepared her for politics and what motivates her to continue her work. Tune in to learn more from this engaging conversation and how Kavros DeGraw is shaping a people-first agenda for Connecticut. IN THIS EPISODE: • [02:18] Recap of the recent legislative session and what she is currently focused on. • [03:19] Explanation of the landmark housing bill, its provisions, and the politics behind it. • [04:24] How the bill addresses the housing crisis and her goal for the next legislative session. • [05:48] Hear about the adaptive reuse and mixed-use development projects underway. • [07:07] Her unexpected path into public service and what she hopes to achieve. • [09:13] Find out how her background as an English major prepared her for politics. • [10:34] The motivation behind her focus on housing despite its political challenges. • [12:10] Her strategy for communication and the value of one-on-one conversations. • [14:33] Eleni's Purple Alert project and how she is improving sexual assault investigations. • [18:33] Discover how being a woman informs her work and influences policy debates. • [20:45] Explore the challenges of finding common ground and bipartisan agreements. • [22:07] Find out how the Trump administration is impacting Connecticut and its constituents. • [24:57] What motivates her to continue in politics, and her goals for the next session.