THE CAPITOL COFFEE CONNECTION

Senator Joni Ernst opens up about family, farm roots, military service, gratitude, risk-taking, and why she’s leaving the Senate after her second term. A deeply personal conversation about joy, purpose, and going back to the people who made her who she is.

From a shy pastor’s son delivering newspapers to becoming the governor of Oklahoma — Kevin Stitt reveals the surprising story behind his biggest dream, why he almost erased it, and the one rule he lives by.

What does a Congressman admit he values more than politics? Brad Schneider gets real…  Congressman Brad Schneider sits down with Liz for a personal conversation that focuses on the humanity behind leadership. Brad opens up about family, marriage, fatherhood, coaching, teachers who shaped him, how he approaches decision-making, and what brings him joy — an intimate look into the person behind the public role.

Discover how Kay Sides turned conscious design and radical kindness into a global movement with her brand ROAM. This episode will change how you think about success, showing that when you “build it kind,” the ripple outruns the revenue.

Bullied kid to congressman—Randy Fine opens up on faith, family, and the fight for all people. Raw, real, and unforgettable. This episode was recorded on September 15, 2025

Senator Andy Kim sits down with Liz to share his personal journey from a son of Korean immigrants to the U.S. Senate, reflecting on public service, imposter syndrome, and the meaning of courage in politics. They discuss family life, balancing work and parenting, the importance of belonging and mentorship, and Kim’s call to reignite a spirit of service and hope across America.

Designer Ripley Rader shares her journey from a small-town childhood and sewing lessons to building a thriving Los Angeles-based fashion brand focused on comfort, inclusivity, and garments made in America. She discusses growing the business over 15 years, the importance of community and factory partnerships in downtown L.A., empowering young women through mentorship and her "Younger But Wiser" project, and balancing creativity with ethical production. The episode highlights perseverance, practical advice for aspiring creators, and how joy, belonging, and radical self-acceptance drive both her life and her work.

Host Liz Hirsh Naftali interviews Congressman Mike Lawler about his Rockland County upbringing, his family life, and his humanitarian work to bring hostages home. They discuss personal influences, the impact of his father’s words, and the core values that shape his public service. The episode also covers the challenge of balancing congressional duties with family, moments of joy and resilience, and the importance of kindness and humanity in leadership.

In this episode of Capitol Coffee Connection, host Liz sits down with the remarkable Sal Litvak — a true renaissance man whose work spans creativity, leadership, and inspiration. While many past guests have been political leaders, Liz broadens the conversation this time to explore what leadership really means today — not just in politics, but in everyday life. Together, they dive into how genuine leaders make others feel seen, heard, and valued — and how they bring a sense of joy and purpose to those around them. Liz shares her excitement (and a bit of fan energy!) as she uncovers Sal’s fascinating journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Join us for a warm, insightful, and uplifting conversation about leadership, humanity, and finding meaning in the modern world.

Liz interviews Noa, an 18‑year‑old evolutionary biologist and Stanford admit, about her path into science, the mentors who shaped her, and how curiosity and courage drive her work. Noa explains comparative biology with vivid examples (giraffes, guppies), describes her talk "Guppies in the Boardroom," and shows how she connects research with activism, fundraising for the Pad Project. The episode also shares personal details—family, reptiles, favorite moments—and Noa’s advice to young people: stay curious, optimistic, and pursue your passions.