THE CAPITOL COFFEE CONNECTION

In this episode, Liz sits down with Congressman Jeff Jackson from North Carolina. Jeff shares insights on his journey in public service, his candidacy for Attorney General, and his commitment to honesty and decency in politics. Rep Jackson discusses the diverse and representative nature of North Carolina, both demographically and politically, as well as his unique upbringing in Chapel Hill. He reflects on his experience in the Army, inspired by the events of 9/11, and the values instilled in him by his family and community. Delving into his personal life, Jeff talks about the incredible support from his wife and the joy he finds in being a father. He also shares his thoughts on the importance of staying informed, offering advice to young people interested in politics. In a rapid-fire round, we learn about Jeff's favorite things, from his preferred ice cream flavor to his ideal vacation spot. Finally, Jeff reflects on the concept of joy and how he finds it in feeling useful and productive in his role as a public servant. Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation that goes beyond politics to explore the humanity behind the headlines.

Join us on this inspiring episode of the Capitol Coffee Connection podcast as Liz Hirsh Naftali takes us beyond the realm of politics and into the heart and humanity of one of our nation's dedicated leaders, Congresswoman Haley Stevens of Michigan's 11th district. From the bustling suburbs of Metro Detroit to the halls of Congress, Haley Stevens shares her journey of passion, bipartisanship, and the personal influences that have shaped her into the powerhouse she is today. In this candid conversation, we delve into Stevens' pivotal role in Michigan's economic revitalization, her bipartisan efforts in Congress, including her work on the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad, and the importance of working across the aisle to make a real difference. Haley opens up about her love for flowery perfumes, sushi, classic rock, and the joy she finds in nature and organizing. Discover the stories of family, mentorship, and the transformative experiences that have fueled Stevens' commitment to service and leadership. Whether discussing her planned trip to India, her favorite ice cream flavor, or the profound advice that has guided her, this interview is a testament to the power of purpose, passion, and the human spirit. Don't miss this opportunity to get to know the person behind the politics. Subscribe to our channel for more heartfelt conversations with our elected leaders, and join us every Tuesday for a new episode of the Capitol Coffee Connection. Together, let's explore the heart and humanity that drives our nation forward.

Steve Scalise, House Majority Leader from Louisiana, shares his inspiring journey of resilience after surviving cancer and gun violence. He discusses the emotional toll of the October 7th Hamas attacks and the importance of solidarity. Scalise also reflects on Louisiana's rich culture, including the vibrancy of Zydeco music and Cajun cooking, highlighting family values and the need for civil discourse in politics. His stories emphasize passion, perseverance, and the contagious power of positivity, inspiring listeners to embrace a hopeful outlook.

Liz sits down with Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic Leader and Representative of New York's eighth district. They delve into Jeffries' groundbreaking role in Congress, the rich cultural diversity of his district, and the power of bipartisan cooperation. From personal stories of resilience to the unifying joy of sports, this conversation sheds light on the humanity behind political leadership and the importance of staying connected to community roots. Join us for a cup of coffee and a deep dive into the heart and humanity that drives one of America's most influential political figures.  Key Highlights and Takeaways: Diversity as Strength: Jeffries highlights the incredible diversity of New York's eighth district, emphasizing the unity found within its mosaic of cultures.   Bipartisan Efforts: The discussion reveals how bipartisan cooperation, especially during crises, showcases the potential for unity in American politics.   The Importance of Family: Jeffries credits his family's influence and the sacrifices of public servants' families as foundational to his success.   Resilience Through Adversity: Sharing personal anecdotes, Jeffries discusses the importance of calm and resilience in the face of challenges.   Joy in Unity: The conversation touches on the joy found in community events, particularly sports, as a unifying force.   Subscribe to The Capitol Coffee Connection for more heartfelt conversations with leaders from across the political spectrum, and don't forget to hit subscribe to receive notifications for new episodes. Join us weekly for more insights into the hearts and minds shaping our world.

On this episode of The Capitol Coffee Connection podcast, Liz Hirsh Naftali sits down with former Congresswoman and current U.S. Senate candidate Debbie Mucarsel-Powell from Florida. Join us as we delve into Debbie's inspiring journey from her roots as an immigrant from Ecuador to her leadership roles in the United States. Discover the strength and resilience that propelled her forward, fueled by the courage of her mother and the support of her family. Debbie shares heartfelt stories about her upbringing, the impact of losing her father to gun violence, and the importance of education in her life. We also touch on the challenges and rewards of balancing family life with a political career, the significance of women's leadership, and the power of unity in achieving common goals.  Through candid anecdotes and insightful reflections, Debbie reveals the heart and humanity behind her public service. She also shares her love for ceviche, wine, and music by Lizzo and Taylor Swift especially the song Florida. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with personal experiences, wisdom, and a reminder of the joy found in life's simple moments.

In this episode, Liz is thrilled to feature an enlightening conversation with Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, a millennial Republican who has captured the attention of the nation by winning 70% of the vote. Join host Liz as she explores Mayor Parker's unique perspective on leadership, her commitment to youth and early childhood education, and her efforts to foster bipartisan cooperation in a rapidly growing city known for its unexpected charm. Mayor Parker shares personal stories from her upbringing in Hico, Texas, to her experiences as a mother and policy leader, offering insights into the challenges and joys of balancing family life with the demands of public service. Discover the influences that have shaped her approach to governance, from her musical tastes to the profound impact of her educators and family. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the power of connection, authenticity, and joy in leadership. Whether you're from Fort Worth or tuning in from around the globe, you'll find inspiration in Mayor Parker's vision for a community that values every voice. Listen, subscribe, and join us every Tuesday for more heartfelt conversations with the leaders who are shaping our future. Don't forget to hit the subscribe button for alerts on new episodes and exclusive content. Let's connect over coffee and uncover the stories that remind us of our shared humanity.

In this episode, Liz is joined by Minnesota's Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, a trailblazer as the first Native American woman in a U.S. executive role. Flanagan shares her inspiring journey, rooted in her Ojibwe background, and discusses the critical importance of diversity and representation in leadership. She talks about her tribe, the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, and the role of clans in Native American culture, emphasizing the contemporary existence of Native American people and the need for their voices in policy-making. Flanagan opens up about her upbringing, the impact of mentors, and how she balances her professional responsibilities with her personal life. She also offers advice for young people, stressing the importance of taking up space, being true to oneself, and finding joy in community, live music, and family time. Her story is a powerful testament to identity, resilience, and the role of community in shaping leaders. Join us for a conversation that delves into the heart and humanity of one of the most influential Native American leaders in the United States today. Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes and exclusive content.

After meeting Congressman Buddy Carter for the first time live on TV during a Newsmax interview, Liz immediately asked the Congressman to join her on The Capitol Coffee Connection. In this episode, Liz and the Congressman discuss a range of topics including his championing bipartisan healthcare initiatives like the Telehealth Modernization Act with Lisa Blunt Rochester, and the advancements in Telehealth during the pandemic. Carter shares his journey from a pharmacist to a politician, emphasizing the importance of family, hard work, and his passions for fishing, sports, and education. The episode highlights the significance of bipartisan cooperation in public service, particularly in healthcare.  Tune in every Tuesday for more conversations about heart and humanity with our elected leaders. Subscribe for updates on new episodes and exclusive content.

In this episode, Liz is joined by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. They discuss the importance of heart and humanity in politics, Mayor Bass's experience as the first woman mayor of Los Angeles, and her passion for creating systemic change. Mayor Bass emphasizes the power of inclusivity, collaboration, and kindness in her leadership approach. They also explore Mayor Bass's upbringing in a politically active family, her civil rights movement-influenced education at Hamilton High, and her dedication to addressing city issues like foster care, homelessness, and police abuse. She shares personal stories that underline the importance of community support. From her time at USC Medical School to founding an organization in response to the foster care surge during the crack cocaine epidemic, Bass advocates for policy reform and supports grandmothers in foster roles. Her work with the Community Coalition, efforts to combat homelessness, preparations for the Olympics, and connections to Africa highlight her global commitment. Additionally, Bass's hobbies and focus on leadership representation illustrate her comprehensive approach to public service and community empowerment. Join us every Tuesday for more conversations about heart and humanity with our elected leaders. Ciao! Watch the entire episode on YouTube @TheCapitolCoffeeConnection

Liz welcomes Penny Nance, the CEO and president of Concerned Women for America. Liz and Penny recount their first fateful meeting in Washington, DC, where Penny offered unwavering support during Liz’s desperate time — when her great niece Abigail had been kidnapped by Hamas terrorists on Oct 7th. This encounter sparked a powerful friendship and a shared mission against antisemitism. Together, they discuss the inspirations drawn from their family backgrounds, the influential role of young people in activism, and the need for community-driven advocacy. Tune in to hear an inspiring conversation about friendship, resilience, and the fight for justice in an increasingly challenging world.