LIZ’S COFFEE CONNECTION

Mandana Dayani’s story begins in Tehran—where, as a child, she lived with bomb sirens, fear in the streets, and the pressure to hide her Jewish identity. By age five, her family fled on a one-day visa, leaving everything behind. Resettled in Queens with nothing, she went on to live the American dream she now fiercely defends. Mandana shares what pushed her into action after witnessing the 2018 child separation policy, why she founded I Am A Voter, and how she uses branding and behavioral science to drive change—from voter participation to fighting antisemitism after October 7th. She also reflects on parenting, community, and why joy isn’t a luxury—it’s a responsibility.

Welcome to Liz’s Coffee Connection (formerly The Capitol Coffee Connection)! New Year, new season, new name, same heart. I’m still bringing you conversations with diverse leaders about heart, humanity, and hope—things we all need more of in 2026. Subscribe to Liz’s Coffee Connection and join me every week.

Opal Vadhan opens up about her journey from a Queens childhood, raised by Indian immigrant parents, to working for Secretary Hillary Clinton and Vice President Kamala Harris. She shares stories of sacrifice, cultural identity, gratitude practices, career twists, mentorship, and the ordinary moments that bring her the deepest joy. A heartfelt look at the humanity behind a woman who embodies the American dream — and lifts others as she rises.

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.