https://simplecast.com Cap Chat Texas Get to know the people behind the scenes at the Texas Legislature. We interview capitol staff, lobbyists, activists and other worker bees to help build our capitol community. en Fri, 3 Apr 2026 13:48:30 +0000 Fri, 3 Apr 2026 13:49:03 +0000 https://cap-chat.simplecast.com Cap Chat Texas https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/2477210c-09a3-4650-bacf-9004ab646126/7970e0a9-fccb-4e3f-86b4-641911c65469/3000x3000/image0.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://cap-chat.simplecast.com episodic Get to know the people behind the scenes at the Texas Legislature. We interview capitol staff, lobbyists, activists and other worker bees to help build our capitol community. Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz false https://feeds.simplecast.com/6RHGUn8N behind the scenes, dan patrick, get to know, greg abbott, knowledge, legislation, texas, texas capitol, texas government, txlege, texas tribune, moontower comedy, dustin burrows Stephanie Chiarello kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com 4f3b8cec-dc4c-4737-95d6-12d08f14fba4 S2E14 - Horses, Typewriters and Pickles with the Legendary Lawrence Olsen Over a career spanning five decades, Lawrence Olsen has done it all - senate messenger, tour guide, agency staffer, journalist, campaign aide, congressional staffer, and lobbyist.  In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Lawrence shares memorable stories from his career including the time he gave a lift to Charley Pride and an unexpected benefit of being a “nepo baby”.  

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

Bob Bullock, Jimmy Carter, Ciscos, Tom Craddick, Charles Herring, Rusty Kelley, Bob Lanier, Robert Nichols, Edward Nixon, Dave Parsons (poet laureate), David Parsons (choreographer), JJ Pickle,  Charley Pride, Charlie Schnabel, Preston Smith, John C White,  Associated General  Contractors of Texas, Austin Relativity, Texas Good Roads Association 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Fri, 3 Apr 2026 13:48:30 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz, Lawrence Olsen) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e13-horses-typewriters-and-pickles-with-the-legendary-lawrence-olsen-TMQ32kfd Over a career spanning five decades, Lawrence Olsen has done it all - senate messenger, tour guide, agency staffer, journalist, campaign aide, congressional staffer, and lobbyist.  In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Lawrence shares memorable stories from his career including the time he gave a lift to Charley Pride and an unexpected benefit of being a “nepo baby”.  

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

Bob Bullock, Jimmy Carter, Ciscos, Tom Craddick, Charles Herring, Rusty Kelley, Bob Lanier, Robert Nichols, Edward Nixon, Dave Parsons (poet laureate), David Parsons (choreographer), JJ Pickle,  Charley Pride, Charlie Schnabel, Preston Smith, John C White,  Associated General  Contractors of Texas, Austin Relativity, Texas Good Roads Association 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E14 - Horses, Typewriters and Pickles with the Legendary Lawrence Olsen Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz, Lawrence Olsen 00:40:13 Over a career spanning five decades, Lawrence Olsen has done it all - senate messenger, tour guide, agency staffer, journalist, campaign aide, congressional staffer, and lobbyist. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Lawrence shares memorable stories from his career including the time he gave a lift to Charley Pride and an unexpected benefit of being a “nepo baby”. Over a career spanning five decades, Lawrence Olsen has done it all - senate messenger, tour guide, agency staffer, journalist, campaign aide, congressional staffer, and lobbyist. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Lawrence shares memorable stories from his career including the time he gave a lift to Charley Pride and an unexpected benefit of being a “nepo baby”. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, austin chronicle best of, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 28 43e7a178-a687-466e-b81e-793bead68d73 S2E13 - Whistleblowing, AI, And Fallout Boy With Laura Davis (Carr) Before co-founding the legislative tracking service US Lege, Laura Carr Davis worked in DC, did advance work for Governor Abbott, lobbied, and headed policy for a state senate office.  

In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Laura talks about how she started US Lege to help address the challenges of following the legislative process, some of the benefits and challenges of AI’s role in the legislative process, and why sometimes you have to stand up for what’s right even under difficult circumstances.  

People and groups mentioned in this podcast: Greg Abbott, Jeff Blaylock, Ryan Brannan, Eric Davis, Ryan Harrington, Angela Paxton, USLege

Check out USLege here - https://www.uslege.ai/

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 3 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz, Laura Davis (Carr)) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e13-whistleblowing-ai-and-fallout-boy-with-laura-davis-carr-xUTSMbfI Before co-founding the legislative tracking service US Lege, Laura Carr Davis worked in DC, did advance work for Governor Abbott, lobbied, and headed policy for a state senate office.  

In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Laura talks about how she started US Lege to help address the challenges of following the legislative process, some of the benefits and challenges of AI’s role in the legislative process, and why sometimes you have to stand up for what’s right even under difficult circumstances.  

People and groups mentioned in this podcast: Greg Abbott, Jeff Blaylock, Ryan Brannan, Eric Davis, Ryan Harrington, Angela Paxton, USLege

Check out USLege here - https://www.uslege.ai/

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E13 - Whistleblowing, AI, And Fallout Boy With Laura Davis (Carr) Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz, Laura Davis (Carr) 00:46:11 Before co-founding the legislative tracking service US Lege, Laura Carr Davis worked in DC, did advance work for Governor Abbott, lobbied, and headed policy for a state senate office. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Laura talks about how she started US Lege to help address the challenges of following the legislative process, some of the benefits and challenges of AI’s role in the legislative process, and why sometimes you have to stand up for what’s right even under difficult circumstances. Before co-founding the legislative tracking service US Lege, Laura Carr Davis worked in DC, did advance work for Governor Abbott, lobbied, and headed policy for a state senate office. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Laura talks about how she started US Lege to help address the challenges of following the legislative process, some of the benefits and challenges of AI’s role in the legislative process, and why sometimes you have to stand up for what’s right even under difficult circumstances. ai, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community, uslege false full 27 e9ba8954-c4e1-4532-bb46-c725263c8754 S2E12 - Relationships Matter With Jim Arnold Longtime lobbyist Jim Arnold joins Cap Chat Texas to share insights from his career that began as an intern at the Texas Legislative Budget Board while attending the LBJ School of Public Affairs. 

From working on elections across the country to advising emerging democracies and teaching government, Jim reflects on lessons from the campaign trail that still shape his work today. He also talks about why it's important to keep the Capitol community connected and how public service has become a family tradition.

People and groups mentioned on this podcast: John Davis, Robert Duncan, Pete Geren, Phil Gramm, Barbara Jordan, Tom Loeffler, Rick Perry, Ramon Romero, Elspeth Rostow, Walt Rostow, Hugh Shine, Todd Staples, Dick Waterfield, Ric Williamson, Jim Wright, Goodwill, International Republican Institute, Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, LBJ School of Public Affairs, Legislative Budget Board, National Republican Congressional Committee, National Republican Senatorial Committee

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:02:18 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz, Jim Arnold) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e11-relationships-matter-with-jim-arnold-2pmCxefj Longtime lobbyist Jim Arnold joins Cap Chat Texas to share insights from his career that began as an intern at the Texas Legislative Budget Board while attending the LBJ School of Public Affairs. 

From working on elections across the country to advising emerging democracies and teaching government, Jim reflects on lessons from the campaign trail that still shape his work today. He also talks about why it's important to keep the Capitol community connected and how public service has become a family tradition.

People and groups mentioned on this podcast: John Davis, Robert Duncan, Pete Geren, Phil Gramm, Barbara Jordan, Tom Loeffler, Rick Perry, Ramon Romero, Elspeth Rostow, Walt Rostow, Hugh Shine, Todd Staples, Dick Waterfield, Ric Williamson, Jim Wright, Goodwill, International Republican Institute, Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, LBJ School of Public Affairs, Legislative Budget Board, National Republican Congressional Committee, National Republican Senatorial Committee

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E12 - Relationships Matter With Jim Arnold Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz, Jim Arnold 00:32:19 Longtime lobbyist Jim Arnold joins Cap Chat Texas to share insights from his career that began as an intern at the Texas Legislative Budget Board while attending the LBJ School of Public Affairs. From working on elections across the country to advising emerging democracies and teaching government, Jim reflects on lessons from the campaign trail that still shape his work today. He also talks about why it's important to keep the Capitol community connected and how public service has become a family tradition. Longtime lobbyist Jim Arnold joins Cap Chat Texas to share insights from his career that began as an intern at the Texas Legislative Budget Board while attending the LBJ School of Public Affairs. From working on elections across the country to advising emerging democracies and teaching government, Jim reflects on lessons from the campaign trail that still shape his work today. He also talks about why it's important to keep the Capitol community connected and how public service has become a family tradition. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 26 f794ebfc-0edc-47b1-b512-658561a4d824 S2E11 - Got Humanity? With Emiliano Romero With both of his parents working around the Texas Capitol, Emiliano Romero literally grew up in and around the building. In this episode, Emiliano recounts how he went from landing his first job as a Senate intern to, a decade later, working as a health care lobbyist.

He reflects on the transition from staffer to lobbyist, the importance of trusting your intuition, persevering through challenging moments, and why investing in your physical and mental health is essential for long-term success. P.S. Everyone gets old, get ready for it. 

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  The Honorable Diego Bernal, The Honorable Nicole Collier, Denise Davis, The Honorable Rodney Ellis, Luis Figueroa, Lisa Kaufman, The Honorable Angela Paxton, The Honorable Jose Rodriguez, Sushma Smith, Laura Stowe, Carmen Tilton, The Honorable Leticia Van de Putte, Ascension Seton, Leading Age Texas, Texas Legislative Internship Program

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 27 Jan 2026 19:06:16 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Emiliano Romero, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e11-got-humanity-with-emiliano-romero-8tp8MjSb With both of his parents working around the Texas Capitol, Emiliano Romero literally grew up in and around the building. In this episode, Emiliano recounts how he went from landing his first job as a Senate intern to, a decade later, working as a health care lobbyist.

He reflects on the transition from staffer to lobbyist, the importance of trusting your intuition, persevering through challenging moments, and why investing in your physical and mental health is essential for long-term success. P.S. Everyone gets old, get ready for it. 

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  The Honorable Diego Bernal, The Honorable Nicole Collier, Denise Davis, The Honorable Rodney Ellis, Luis Figueroa, Lisa Kaufman, The Honorable Angela Paxton, The Honorable Jose Rodriguez, Sushma Smith, Laura Stowe, Carmen Tilton, The Honorable Leticia Van de Putte, Ascension Seton, Leading Age Texas, Texas Legislative Internship Program

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E11 - Got Humanity? With Emiliano Romero Emiliano Romero, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:48:02 With both of his parents working around the Texas Capitol, Emiliano Romero literally grew up in and around the building. In this episode, Emiliano recounts how he went from landing his first job as a Senate intern to, a decade later, working as a health care lobbyist. He reflects on the transition from staffer to lobbyist, the importance of trusting your intuition, persevering through challenging moments, and why investing in your physical and mental health is essential for long-term success. P.S. Everyone gets old, get ready for it. With both of his parents working around the Texas Capitol, Emiliano Romero literally grew up in and around the building. In this episode, Emiliano recounts how he went from landing his first job as a Senate intern to, a decade later, working as a health care lobbyist. He reflects on the transition from staffer to lobbyist, the importance of trusting your intuition, persevering through challenging moments, and why investing in your physical and mental health is essential for long-term success. P.S. Everyone gets old, get ready for it. false full 25 926178d6-4ab8-4162-a91c-0a2424b4c42e S2E10 - The Message Focuser with Denise Rose Lawyer and lobbyist Denise Rose joins us on this episode of Cap Chat Texas to share her journey from aspiring doctor to prominent lobbyist, with a strong focus on health care policy. Denise discusses both the blessings and the challenges of working in a constantly changing environment, her different approaches to collaborating with legislative offices, and how she finds stress relief through boxing.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  Jennifer Banda, John Hawkins, the Honorable Glenn Hegar, Kathy Hutto, Marsha Jones, the Honorable Joe Straus, the Honorable Vicki Truitt,  Gabe Valenzuela, the Honorable Gene Wu, Americorp, Jackson Walker, Texas Children’s Hospital, Texas Hospital Association, Texas Sunset Commission, & University of Houston.

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:40:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Denise Rose, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e10-the-message-focuser-with-denise-rose-7kDH_E8a Lawyer and lobbyist Denise Rose joins us on this episode of Cap Chat Texas to share her journey from aspiring doctor to prominent lobbyist, with a strong focus on health care policy. Denise discusses both the blessings and the challenges of working in a constantly changing environment, her different approaches to collaborating with legislative offices, and how she finds stress relief through boxing.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  Jennifer Banda, John Hawkins, the Honorable Glenn Hegar, Kathy Hutto, Marsha Jones, the Honorable Joe Straus, the Honorable Vicki Truitt,  Gabe Valenzuela, the Honorable Gene Wu, Americorp, Jackson Walker, Texas Children’s Hospital, Texas Hospital Association, Texas Sunset Commission, & University of Houston.

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E10 - The Message Focuser with Denise Rose Denise Rose, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:42:21 Lawyer and lobbyist Denise Rose joins us on this episode of Cap Chat Texas to share her journey from aspiring doctor to prominent lobbyist, with a strong focus on health care policy. Denise discusses both the blessings and the challenges of working in a constantly changing environment, her different approaches to collaborating with legislative offices, and how she finds stress relief through boxing. Lawyer and lobbyist Denise Rose joins us on this episode of Cap Chat Texas to share her journey from aspiring doctor to prominent lobbyist, with a strong focus on health care policy. Denise discusses both the blessings and the challenges of working in a constantly changing environment, her different approaches to collaborating with legislative offices, and how she finds stress relief through boxing. texas, texas tribune, tribfest, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 24 af56cd84-9bcc-4536-be62-43cc3e013734 S2E9 - The Honorable Ben Barnes - Part 2 Episode Summary

In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we continue our conversation with former Speaker of the House and Lieutenant Governor Ben Barnes.  

Ben discusses his approach to leading the Texas House and Senate, what motivated him to write a new book, and why civics education is so important for students.  

Ben’s book, Get It Done will be published in June 2026.    

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  The Honorable Bill Clayton, the Honorable John Connally, Wales Madden, Willie Nelson, Frank Sharp, Colonel Pat Speir, and the Sharpstown Scandal.

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Thu, 18 Dec 2025 22:25:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Ben Barnes, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e9-the-honorable-ben-barnes-part-2-XkFwk7pN Episode Summary

In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we continue our conversation with former Speaker of the House and Lieutenant Governor Ben Barnes.  

Ben discusses his approach to leading the Texas House and Senate, what motivated him to write a new book, and why civics education is so important for students.  

Ben’s book, Get It Done will be published in June 2026.    

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  The Honorable Bill Clayton, the Honorable John Connally, Wales Madden, Willie Nelson, Frank Sharp, Colonel Pat Speir, and the Sharpstown Scandal.

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E9 - The Honorable Ben Barnes - Part 2 Ben Barnes, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:31:05 In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we continue our conversation with former Speaker of the House and Lieutenant Governor Ben Barnes. Ben discusses his approach to leading the Texas House and Senate, what motivated him to write a new book, and why civics education is so important for students. Ben’s book, Get It Done will be published in June 2026. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we continue our conversation with former Speaker of the House and Lieutenant Governor Ben Barnes. Ben discusses his approach to leading the Texas House and Senate, what motivated him to write a new book, and why civics education is so important for students. Ben’s book, Get It Done will be published in June 2026. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 23 3e6867b6-a980-4070-a2a7-c1c8cf99e69a S2E8 - The Honorable Ben Barnes - Part 1 In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, our special guest is Texas political icon Governor Ben Barnes, who served as both Speaker of the Texas House and as Lieutenant Governor. In part one of our two-part conversation, Governor Barnes discusses how he got his start in politics, what the Texas Legislature was like in the 1960s, and some valuable advice he received from Sam Rayburn. Barnes also reflects on his proudest political achievements, including dramatically expanding funding for higher education, the challenges Texas will face as its population continues to grow, and one of the advantages of wearing a hat. 

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  Bill Blakely, Colonel Homer Garrison, the Honorable Bill Heatly, Ike Hickman, President Lyndon Johnson, President John Kennedy,  The Honorable Ted Kennedy, President Richard Nixon, The Honorable Sam Rayburn , The Honorable John Tower, The Honorable Byron Tunnell and the Honorable Jimmy Turman. 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 19:37:09 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Ben Barnes, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e7-the-honorable-ben-barnes-part-1-OGGK7Ung In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, our special guest is Texas political icon Governor Ben Barnes, who served as both Speaker of the Texas House and as Lieutenant Governor. In part one of our two-part conversation, Governor Barnes discusses how he got his start in politics, what the Texas Legislature was like in the 1960s, and some valuable advice he received from Sam Rayburn. Barnes also reflects on his proudest political achievements, including dramatically expanding funding for higher education, the challenges Texas will face as its population continues to grow, and one of the advantages of wearing a hat. 

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  Bill Blakely, Colonel Homer Garrison, the Honorable Bill Heatly, Ike Hickman, President Lyndon Johnson, President John Kennedy,  The Honorable Ted Kennedy, President Richard Nixon, The Honorable Sam Rayburn , The Honorable John Tower, The Honorable Byron Tunnell and the Honorable Jimmy Turman. 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E8 - The Honorable Ben Barnes - Part 1 Ben Barnes, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:33:04 In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, our special guest is Texas political icon Governor Ben Barnes, who served as both Speaker of the Texas House and as Lieutenant Governor. In part one of our two-part conversation, Governor Barnes discusses how he got his start in politics, what the Texas Legislature was like in the 1960s, and some valuable advice he received from Sam Rayburn. Barnes also reflects on his proudest political achievements, including dramatically expanding funding for higher education, the challenges Texas will face as its population continues to grow, and one of the advantages of wearing a hat. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, our special guest is Texas political icon Governor Ben Barnes, who served as both Speaker of the Texas House and as Lieutenant Governor. In part one of our two-part conversation, Governor Barnes discusses how he got his start in politics, what the Texas Legislature was like in the 1960s, and some valuable advice he received from Sam Rayburn. Barnes also reflects on his proudest political achievements, including dramatically expanding funding for higher education, the challenges Texas will face as its population continues to grow, and one of the advantages of wearing a hat. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 22 7fa087a5-7259-40fe-96c4-82f60b0edcb8 S2E7 - Read, Learn, Listen, Repeat with Carol McGarah In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, veteran lobbyist Carol McGarah shares her path from working at a state agency to becoming the CEO of Blackridge, one of Texas’s most respected lobbying firms. 

Carol reflects on collaborating with dozens of stakeholders to shape groundbreaking environmental legislation and how her commitment to continuous learning has sharpened her effectiveness at the Capitol. She also highlights why the most crucial lobbying work happens before the legislative session begins and the importance of mentoring the next generation of the Capitol community.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  The Honorable Buster Brown, The Honorable Bob Bullock, Lauren Hadley, Rusty Kelley, The Honorable Pete Laney The Honorable Ron Lewis, The Honorable Bill Sims, The Honorable Steve Wolens, Blackridge, Pink Granite, Texas State Board of Dental Examiners

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:00:04 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Carol McGarah, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e7-read-learn-listen-repeat-with-carol-mcgarah-xdVD0JW1 In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, veteran lobbyist Carol McGarah shares her path from working at a state agency to becoming the CEO of Blackridge, one of Texas’s most respected lobbying firms. 

Carol reflects on collaborating with dozens of stakeholders to shape groundbreaking environmental legislation and how her commitment to continuous learning has sharpened her effectiveness at the Capitol. She also highlights why the most crucial lobbying work happens before the legislative session begins and the importance of mentoring the next generation of the Capitol community.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:  The Honorable Buster Brown, The Honorable Bob Bullock, Lauren Hadley, Rusty Kelley, The Honorable Pete Laney The Honorable Ron Lewis, The Honorable Bill Sims, The Honorable Steve Wolens, Blackridge, Pink Granite, Texas State Board of Dental Examiners

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E7 - Read, Learn, Listen, Repeat with Carol McGarah Carol McGarah, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:38:09 In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, veteran lobbyist Carol McGarah shares her journey from working at a state agency to becoming the CEO of Blackridge, one of Texas’s most respected lobbying firms. Carol reflects on collaborating with dozens of stakeholders to shape groundbreaking environmental legislation and how her commitment to continuous learning has sharpened her effectiveness at the Capitol. She also highlights why the most crucial lobbying work happens before the legislative session begins and the importance of mentoring the next generation of the Capitol community. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, veteran lobbyist Carol McGarah shares her journey from working at a state agency to becoming the CEO of Blackridge, one of Texas’s most respected lobbying firms. Carol reflects on collaborating with dozens of stakeholders to shape groundbreaking environmental legislation and how her commitment to continuous learning has sharpened her effectiveness at the Capitol. She also highlights why the most crucial lobbying work happens before the legislative session begins and the importance of mentoring the next generation of the Capitol community. texas, toby regbo, podcast, taylor swift, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 21 4a59a979-fd97-4d40-bb89-4299b303e5fd S2E6 - Relationships and Dialogue with Troy Alexander From compiling legislative clips to shaping health policy and leading professional associations, Troy Alexander has built a remarkable career in Texas state government. 

In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Troy reflects on his journey from starting out as a Senate messenger to becoming a trusted voice on state legislative affairs. He shares why that first job still means so much to him, his deep appreciation for the dedicated people who keep the Capitol running, and offers insightful advice for anyone hoping to build a career under the dome.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable Chet Brooks,  The Honorable Tom Craddick , Tim Flynn , The Honorable Bill Hobby, The Honorable Cyndi Taylor Krier, David Marwitz, Carleton Turner, Christine’s List, The Linoleum Club, Texas Academy of Family Physicians, Texas Medical Association, Texas Veterinary Medical Association, Travis County Medical Society  

 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 18 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Troy Alexander, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e6-relationships-and-dialogue-with-troy-alexander-v3FZV5I5 From compiling legislative clips to shaping health policy and leading professional associations, Troy Alexander has built a remarkable career in Texas state government. 

In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Troy reflects on his journey from starting out as a Senate messenger to becoming a trusted voice on state legislative affairs. He shares why that first job still means so much to him, his deep appreciation for the dedicated people who keep the Capitol running, and offers insightful advice for anyone hoping to build a career under the dome.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable Chet Brooks,  The Honorable Tom Craddick , Tim Flynn , The Honorable Bill Hobby, The Honorable Cyndi Taylor Krier, David Marwitz, Carleton Turner, Christine’s List, The Linoleum Club, Texas Academy of Family Physicians, Texas Medical Association, Texas Veterinary Medical Association, Travis County Medical Society  

 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E6 - Relationships and Dialogue with Troy Alexander Troy Alexander, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:38:45 From compiling legislative clips to shaping health policy and leading professional associations, Troy Alexander has built a remarkable career in Texas state government. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Troy reflects on his journey from starting out as a Senate messenger to becoming a trusted voice on state legislative affairs. He shares why that first job still means so much to him, his deep appreciation for the dedicated people who keep the Capitol running, and offers insightful advice for anyone hoping to build a career under the dome. From compiling legislative clips to shaping health policy and leading professional associations, Troy Alexander has built a remarkable career in Texas state government. In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, Troy reflects on his journey from starting out as a Senate messenger to becoming a trusted voice on state legislative affairs. He shares why that first job still means so much to him, his deep appreciation for the dedicated people who keep the Capitol running, and offers insightful advice for anyone hoping to build a career under the dome. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 20 9de1709f-4252-4f39-a42e-01c04763c0b8 S2E5 - This is Where the Difference is Made with Brian Francis On this lively episode of Cap Chat Texas, we welcome Brian Francis, an inspired and innovative public servant who has led three Texas state agencies. Brian offers an engaging look at the vital connection between legislative policymaking and state agency implementation.

He also shares insights into the challenges of testifying on legislation while remaining neutral, his approach to effective team leadership, and his passion for slam poetry. Check out Brian’s website to learn more about his leadership presentations and training.

Co-hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz are proud to introduce Cap Chat Texas, a new podcast that creates community at the Texas Capitol by spotlighting the people who make it all happen. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, Cap Chat Texas dives into the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping the Capitol’s daily life.

Join us for candid conversations and fresh insights.

 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 4 Nov 2025 20:10:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Brian Francis, Fallout Theater, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e5-this-is-where-the-difference-is-made-with-brian-francis-04OdJptg On this lively episode of Cap Chat Texas, we welcome Brian Francis, an inspired and innovative public servant who has led three Texas state agencies. Brian offers an engaging look at the vital connection between legislative policymaking and state agency implementation.

He also shares insights into the challenges of testifying on legislation while remaining neutral, his approach to effective team leadership, and his passion for slam poetry. Check out Brian’s website to learn more about his leadership presentations and training.

Co-hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz are proud to introduce Cap Chat Texas, a new podcast that creates community at the Texas Capitol by spotlighting the people who make it all happen. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, Cap Chat Texas dives into the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping the Capitol’s daily life.

Join us for candid conversations and fresh insights.

 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E5 - This is Where the Difference is Made with Brian Francis Brian Francis, Fallout Theater, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:45:54 On this lively episode of Cap Chat Texas, we welcome Brian Francis, an inspired and innovative public servant who has led three Texas state agencies. Brian offers an engaging look at the vital connection between legislative policymaking and state agency implementation. He also shares insights into the challenges of testifying on legislation while remaining neutral, his approach to effective team leadership, and his passion for slam poetry. Check out Brian’s website to learn more about his leadership presentations and training. On this lively episode of Cap Chat Texas, we welcome Brian Francis, an inspired and innovative public servant who has led three Texas state agencies. Brian offers an engaging look at the vital connection between legislative policymaking and state agency implementation. He also shares insights into the challenges of testifying on legislation while remaining neutral, his approach to effective team leadership, and his passion for slam poetry. Check out Brian’s website to learn more about his leadership presentations and training. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 19 a332efbe-8e38-4d32-9393-ce927da30980 S2E4 - Just Try with Legislative Aide Oliver Lehr What’s it like to be a young staffer around the Capitol?  

In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we visit with Oliver Lehr, who’s spent time at the Capitol as a Senate messenger and an intern. Oliver shares what it’s like working in the messenger's office, how he handled the stress of session, and his plans for the future.  

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:20:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Oliver Lehr, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e4-just-try-with-legislative-aide-oliver-lehr-fzE0RU7m What’s it like to be a young staffer around the Capitol?  

In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we visit with Oliver Lehr, who’s spent time at the Capitol as a Senate messenger and an intern. Oliver shares what it’s like working in the messenger's office, how he handled the stress of session, and his plans for the future.  

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E4 - Just Try with Legislative Aide Oliver Lehr Oliver Lehr, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:21:25 What’s it like to be a young staffer around the Capitol? In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we visit with Oliver Lehr, who’s spent time at the Capitol as a Senate messenger and an intern. Oliver shares what it’s like working in the messenger's office, how he handled the stress of session, and his plans for the future. What’s it like to be a young staffer around the Capitol? In this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we visit with Oliver Lehr, who’s spent time at the Capitol as a Senate messenger and an intern. Oliver shares what it’s like working in the messenger's office, how he handled the stress of session, and his plans for the future. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 18 06e6de97-6632-4443-a2aa-b44ab56612c0 S2E3 - Chief of Stuff with Ricardo Lopez-Guerra Before becoming a lobbyist, Ricardo Lopez-Guerra wore many hats at the Texas Capitol running campaigns, staffing committees, as a legislative aide in the Senate and Chief of Staff to two state reps.  In this episode, he talks about some of the differences working in the House and the Senate, the benefits of sometimes “not knowing what you don’t know,” and what his act would be if there is ever a Cap Chat Texas Talent Show.  

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable Veronica Gonzales, Representative Bobby Guerra, and Senator Royce West

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Mon, 20 Oct 2025 15:52:25 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Ricardo Lopez-Guerra, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e3-chief-of-stuff-with-ricardo-lopez-guerra-9xIOWFg_ Before becoming a lobbyist, Ricardo Lopez-Guerra wore many hats at the Texas Capitol running campaigns, staffing committees, as a legislative aide in the Senate and Chief of Staff to two state reps.  In this episode, he talks about some of the differences working in the House and the Senate, the benefits of sometimes “not knowing what you don’t know,” and what his act would be if there is ever a Cap Chat Texas Talent Show.  

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable Veronica Gonzales, Representative Bobby Guerra, and Senator Royce West

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E3 - Chief of Stuff with Ricardo Lopez-Guerra Ricardo Lopez-Guerra, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:35:26 Before becoming a lobbyist, Ricardo Lopez -Guerra wore many hats at the Texas Capitol running campaigns, staffing committees, as a legislative aide in the Senate and Chief of Staff to two state reps. In this episode, he talks about some of the differences working in the House and the Senate, the benefits of sometimes “not knowing what you don’t know,” and what his act would be if there is ever a Cap Chat Texas Talent Show. Before becoming a lobbyist, Ricardo Lopez -Guerra wore many hats at the Texas Capitol running campaigns, staffing committees, as a legislative aide in the Senate and Chief of Staff to two state reps. In this episode, he talks about some of the differences working in the House and the Senate, the benefits of sometimes “not knowing what you don’t know,” and what his act would be if there is ever a Cap Chat Texas Talent Show. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 17 ac2e290a-35e8-4bd7-b2dd-3bbb527ace59 S2E2 - The Night of The Unpleasantness with Robert Haney In this episode, we continue our conversation with lobbyist and former Texas House Chief Clerk Robert Haney.

Robert shares stories about the infamous “Night of Great Unpleasantness,” the often-overlooked contributions of the dedicated support staff, and a look a side of the lawmaking process that Bill didn’t sing about on Schoolhouse Rock. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome.

Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

A very special thanks to the Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol.  

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable Christi Craddick, Nadine Craddick, The Honorable Tom Craddick, Tom Craddick, Jr., Denise Davis, The Honorable Harold Dutton, Chris Griesel, The Honorable Todd Hunter, The Honorable Terry Keel, The Honorable Joe Nixon, The Honorable Rick Noriega, The Honorable Joe Straus, The Honorable Ron Wilson

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:35:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Stephanie Chiarello, Robert Haney, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e2-the-night-of-the-unpleasantness-with-robert-haney-Y4DstAEF In this episode, we continue our conversation with lobbyist and former Texas House Chief Clerk Robert Haney.

Robert shares stories about the infamous “Night of Great Unpleasantness,” the often-overlooked contributions of the dedicated support staff, and a look a side of the lawmaking process that Bill didn’t sing about on Schoolhouse Rock. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome.

Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

A very special thanks to the Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol.  

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable Christi Craddick, Nadine Craddick, The Honorable Tom Craddick, Tom Craddick, Jr., Denise Davis, The Honorable Harold Dutton, Chris Griesel, The Honorable Todd Hunter, The Honorable Terry Keel, The Honorable Joe Nixon, The Honorable Rick Noriega, The Honorable Joe Straus, The Honorable Ron Wilson

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E2 - The Night of The Unpleasantness with Robert Haney Stephanie Chiarello, Robert Haney, David Mintz 00:23:12 In this episode, we continue our conversation with lobbyist and former Texas House Chief Clerk Robert Haney. Robert shares stories about the infamous “Night of Great Unpleasantness,” the often-overlooked contributions of the dedicated support staff, and a look a side of the lawmaking process that Bill didn’t sing about on Schoolhouse Rock. In this episode, we continue our conversation with lobbyist and former Texas House Chief Clerk Robert Haney. Robert shares stories about the infamous “Night of Great Unpleasantness,” the often-overlooked contributions of the dedicated support staff, and a look a side of the lawmaking process that Bill didn’t sing about on Schoolhouse Rock. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 16 de07569e-7cdf-4637-9fbc-775407d2f9c2 S2E1 - From Ice Age to Space Age with Robert Haney Cap Chat Texas returns for Season Two with an insightful conversation featuring Robert Haney, whose journey to the heart of Texas politics began by shagging golf balls. Over his 20-year tenure as Chief Clerk of the Texas House, Haney served under five different Speakers, playing a crucial role in keeping the legislative gears turning.

From navigating procedural hurdles and managing the complexities of the state budget, to knowing how to mix a proper Yellow Tail, this episode pulls back the curtain on the inner workings of the Clerk’s Office, revealing a side of the legislative process most people never see.

 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome.

Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

A very special thanks to the Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol.  

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

Jesse Ancira, The Honorable Bob Bullock, Sharon Carter, Steve Collins, Tim Dudley, Nancy Fisher, Don Green, Bob Kelly, Bob “Big Daddy” Johnson, John Keel, The Honorable Mike Krusee, The Honorable Pete Laney, The Honorable Gib Lewis, Barry Miller, Stacey Nicchio, John O’Brien, The Honorable Rick Perry, Chas Semple, The Honorable Carole Keeton Strayhorn, The Honorable Mike Toomey,  & The Honorable Ron Wilson.

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:30:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Robert Haney, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s2e1-from-ice-age-to-space-age-with-robert-haney-Cawx_yry Cap Chat Texas returns for Season Two with an insightful conversation featuring Robert Haney, whose journey to the heart of Texas politics began by shagging golf balls. Over his 20-year tenure as Chief Clerk of the Texas House, Haney served under five different Speakers, playing a crucial role in keeping the legislative gears turning.

From navigating procedural hurdles and managing the complexities of the state budget, to knowing how to mix a proper Yellow Tail, this episode pulls back the curtain on the inner workings of the Clerk’s Office, revealing a side of the legislative process most people never see.

 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome.

Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

A very special thanks to the Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol.  

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

Jesse Ancira, The Honorable Bob Bullock, Sharon Carter, Steve Collins, Tim Dudley, Nancy Fisher, Don Green, Bob Kelly, Bob “Big Daddy” Johnson, John Keel, The Honorable Mike Krusee, The Honorable Pete Laney, The Honorable Gib Lewis, Barry Miller, Stacey Nicchio, John O’Brien, The Honorable Rick Perry, Chas Semple, The Honorable Carole Keeton Strayhorn, The Honorable Mike Toomey,  & The Honorable Ron Wilson.

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S2E1 - From Ice Age to Space Age with Robert Haney Robert Haney, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:33:49 Cap Chat Texas returns for Season Two with an insightful conversation featuring Robert Haney, whose journey to the heart of Texas politics began by shagging golf balls. Over his 20-year tenure as Chief Clerk of the Texas House, Haney served under five different Speakers, playing a crucial role in keeping the legislative gears turning. From navigating procedural hurdles and managing the complexities of the state budget, to knowing how to mix a proper Yellow Tail, this episode pulls back the curtain on the inner workings of the Clerk’s Office, revealing a side of the legislative process most people never see. Cap Chat Texas returns for Season Two with an insightful conversation featuring Robert Haney, whose journey to the heart of Texas politics began by shagging golf balls. Over his 20-year tenure as Chief Clerk of the Texas House, Haney served under five different Speakers, playing a crucial role in keeping the legislative gears turning. From navigating procedural hurdles and managing the complexities of the state budget, to knowing how to mix a proper Yellow Tail, this episode pulls back the curtain on the inner workings of the Clerk’s Office, revealing a side of the legislative process most people never see. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 15 21b7d858-6322-4d16-8da4-a5b5d949d15d S1E14 - Driving Mr. Cornyn with JD Hale When proud Texas Aggie JD Hale headed to Washington for an internship, he never imagined it would lead to a career lobbying for a major statewide trade association. In this episode, JD talks about his appreciation for logos on one-pagers, making the most of every opportunity, and the unique perspective gained from working in both the district office and at the Capitol.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable John Cornyn, The Honorable Robert Nichols,  Scott Norman, Texas A&M, Texas Association of Builders

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Thu, 29 May 2025 19:24:52 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (JD Hale, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e14-driving-mr-cornyn-with-jd-hale-74xFkyba When proud Texas Aggie JD Hale headed to Washington for an internship, he never imagined it would lead to a career lobbying for a major statewide trade association. In this episode, JD talks about his appreciation for logos on one-pagers, making the most of every opportunity, and the unique perspective gained from working in both the district office and at the Capitol.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable John Cornyn, The Honorable Robert Nichols,  Scott Norman, Texas A&M, Texas Association of Builders

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E14 - Driving Mr. Cornyn with JD Hale JD Hale, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:30:25 When proud Texas Aggie JD Hale headed to Washington for an internship, he never imagined it would lead to a career lobbying for a major statewide trade association. In this episode, JD talks about his appreciation for logos on one-pagers, making the most of every opportunity, and the unique perspective gained from working in both the district office and at the Capitol. When proud Texas Aggie JD Hale headed to Washington for an internship, he never imagined it would lead to a career lobbying for a major statewide trade association. In this episode, JD talks about his appreciation for logos on one-pagers, making the most of every opportunity, and the unique perspective gained from working in both the district office and at the Capitol. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 14 18851fc3-572a-48ca-baa3-ed0610c530b4 S1E13 - No Reason to be Rude with Kwame Walker What started as a one-day stint as a House Sergeant turned into a lifelong career working. In this episode, former legislative aide and longtime lobbyist Kwame Walker shares how not making the UT Basketball team unexpectedly led him to the Texas Capitol. He talks about seizing opportunities, respecting staffers' time, and the lasting impact of being nice. 

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

Ann Brooks, The Honorable Chet Brooks, Larry Casto, The Honorable Brandon Creighton, Machre Gibson, Shanna Igo, Rusty Kelley, The Honorable Ted Lyon, The Honorable Jerry Patterson, The Honorable Tati Santiesteban, Carlton Turner, Cal Varner, The Honorable Royce West. Cissy Woomer

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Wed, 21 May 2025 18:10:49 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Kwame Walker, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e13-no-reason-to-be-rude-with-kwame-walker-AI6ZxeAU What started as a one-day stint as a House Sergeant turned into a lifelong career working. In this episode, former legislative aide and longtime lobbyist Kwame Walker shares how not making the UT Basketball team unexpectedly led him to the Texas Capitol. He talks about seizing opportunities, respecting staffers' time, and the lasting impact of being nice. 

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

Ann Brooks, The Honorable Chet Brooks, Larry Casto, The Honorable Brandon Creighton, Machre Gibson, Shanna Igo, Rusty Kelley, The Honorable Ted Lyon, The Honorable Jerry Patterson, The Honorable Tati Santiesteban, Carlton Turner, Cal Varner, The Honorable Royce West. Cissy Woomer

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E13 - No Reason to be Rude with Kwame Walker Kwame Walker, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:32:36 What started as a one-day stint as a House Sergeant turned into a lifelong career working. In this episode, former legislative aide and longtime lobbyist Kwame Walker shares how not making the UT Basketball team unexpectedly led him to the Texas Capitol. He talks about seizing opportunities, respecting staffers' time, and the lasting impact of being nice. What started as a one-day stint as a House Sergeant turned into a lifelong career working. In this episode, former legislative aide and longtime lobbyist Kwame Walker shares how not making the UT Basketball team unexpectedly led him to the Texas Capitol. He talks about seizing opportunities, respecting staffers' time, and the lasting impact of being nice. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 13 a650659c-ef28-442c-9090-40099a5b4dfd S1E12 - The Second One with Bob Garrett In this episode, we sit down with Bob Garrett, the former longtime Capitol Bureau Chief for The Dallas Morning News. Bob shares his insights on the challenges of covering the Texas Legislature, how political journalism has evolved, and reveals a surprising connection between Jimi Hendrix and George Best.  Note: This episode was recorded on March 28, 2025 shortly before the passing of John Thornton, who is mentioned during the conversation.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable Greg Abbott, The Honorable Bill Clements, The Honorable John Connally, James Barragán, Renzo Downey, Karen Brooks Harper, The Honorable Bill Hobby, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Phil Jankowski, Gromer Jeffers, Tom Johnson, Sam Kinch, Eleanor Klibanoff, Dave McNeely, The Honorable Dan Patrick,  Jasper Scherer, John Thorton, Aarón Torres, Bryan Woolley, Capitol Tonight, Dallas Times Herald, Dallas Morning News, Texas Monthly, Texas Observer, Texas Tribune, The Booze Brothers, The Killer Bees 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 6 May 2025 17:19:04 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Bob Garrett, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e12-the-second-one-with-bob-garrett-bQ6ynsqU In this episode, we sit down with Bob Garrett, the former longtime Capitol Bureau Chief for The Dallas Morning News. Bob shares his insights on the challenges of covering the Texas Legislature, how political journalism has evolved, and reveals a surprising connection between Jimi Hendrix and George Best.  Note: This episode was recorded on March 28, 2025 shortly before the passing of John Thornton, who is mentioned during the conversation.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

The Honorable Greg Abbott, The Honorable Bill Clements, The Honorable John Connally, James Barragán, Renzo Downey, Karen Brooks Harper, The Honorable Bill Hobby, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Phil Jankowski, Gromer Jeffers, Tom Johnson, Sam Kinch, Eleanor Klibanoff, Dave McNeely, The Honorable Dan Patrick,  Jasper Scherer, John Thorton, Aarón Torres, Bryan Woolley, Capitol Tonight, Dallas Times Herald, Dallas Morning News, Texas Monthly, Texas Observer, Texas Tribune, The Booze Brothers, The Killer Bees 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E12 - The Second One with Bob Garrett Bob Garrett, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:31:34 In this episode, we sit down with Bob Garrett, the former longtime Capitol Bureau Chief for The Dallas Morning News. Bob shares his insights on the challenges of covering the Texas Legislature, how political journalism has evolved, and reveals a surprising connection between Jimi Hendrix and George Best. Note: This episode was recorded on March 28, 2025 shortly before the passing of John Thornton, who is mentioned during the conversation. In this episode, we sit down with Bob Garrett, the former longtime Capitol Bureau Chief for The Dallas Morning News. Bob shares his insights on the challenges of covering the Texas Legislature, how political journalism has evolved, and reveals a surprising connection between Jimi Hendrix and George Best. Note: This episode was recorded on March 28, 2025 shortly before the passing of John Thornton, who is mentioned during the conversation. texas, award seeking, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 12 cff1cfcc-fd15-44a4-9a27-f2406a341cdd S1E11 - The One with Harvey Kronberg How did a serial entrepreneur become publisher of the state’s longest-running political newsletter? On this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we sit down with Quorum Report's Harvey Kronberg to hear how he stumbled into journalism, his take on the state’s shifting political landscape, and the importance of institutional memory.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

Scott Braddock

The Honorable Doc Arnold 

The Honorable Warren Chisum  

The Honorable Tom Craddick 

Nick Krajl

David Minceberg

Davey Joe Montgomery

John Moritz

Ross Ramsey 

The Honorable Stan Schlueter 

Evan Smith  

The Honorable Jonathan Stickland 

The Honorable Joe Straus 

The Honorable Carole Strayhorn

THe Honorable Mike Toomey

The Honorable Leticia and Pete Van de Putte 

The Honorable Ralph Wayne 

Dixie Flag Company 

German Shepherd Rescue of Central Texas

The Texas Civil Justice League

The Texas Trial Lawyers Association  

The Texas Tribune 

The Quorum Club 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Harvey Kronberg, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e11-the-one-with-harvey-kronberg-eFDA304Y How did a serial entrepreneur become publisher of the state’s longest-running political newsletter? On this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we sit down with Quorum Report's Harvey Kronberg to hear how he stumbled into journalism, his take on the state’s shifting political landscape, and the importance of institutional memory.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast:

Scott Braddock

The Honorable Doc Arnold 

The Honorable Warren Chisum  

The Honorable Tom Craddick 

Nick Krajl

David Minceberg

Davey Joe Montgomery

John Moritz

Ross Ramsey 

The Honorable Stan Schlueter 

Evan Smith  

The Honorable Jonathan Stickland 

The Honorable Joe Straus 

The Honorable Carole Strayhorn

THe Honorable Mike Toomey

The Honorable Leticia and Pete Van de Putte 

The Honorable Ralph Wayne 

Dixie Flag Company 

German Shepherd Rescue of Central Texas

The Texas Civil Justice League

The Texas Trial Lawyers Association  

The Texas Tribune 

The Quorum Club 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E11 - The One with Harvey Kronberg Harvey Kronberg, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:31:44 How did a serial entrepreneur become publisher of the state’s longest-running political newsletter? On this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we sit down with Quorum Report's Harvey Kronberg to hear how he stumbled into journalism, his take on the state’s shifting political landscape, and the importance of institutional memory. How did a serial entrepreneur become publisher of the state’s longest-running political newsletter? On this episode of Cap Chat Texas, we sit down with Quorum Report's Harvey Kronberg to hear how he stumbled into journalism, his take on the state’s shifting political landscape, and the importance of institutional memory. texas, quorum report, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 11 4d007eb0-2187-4b91-a3c9-5f5be4279b71 S1E10 - Listen More Than You Talk with Staffer Donovon Rodriguez In this episode, legislative staffer and community leader Donovon Rodriguez shares how his experience as a 911 dispatcher taught him to stay calm amid the chaos of the Capitol. He also discusses the importance of building strong constituent relationships, his approach to managing a legislative office, and some of the differences between working in the House and Senate.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast: 

Senator Jose Menendez

Senator Roland Gutierrez

Representative Diego Bernal 

Representative Philip Cortez

Representative Trey Martinez Fischer

Representative Ray Lopez 

City Council Member Shirley Gonzales

Edgewood Education Foundation

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Wed, 23 Apr 2025 16:42:30 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Donovon Rodriguez, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e10-listen-more-than-you-talk-with-staffer-donovon-rodriguez-Nau3hPNp In this episode, legislative staffer and community leader Donovon Rodriguez shares how his experience as a 911 dispatcher taught him to stay calm amid the chaos of the Capitol. He also discusses the importance of building strong constituent relationships, his approach to managing a legislative office, and some of the differences between working in the House and Senate.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast: 

Senator Jose Menendez

Senator Roland Gutierrez

Representative Diego Bernal 

Representative Philip Cortez

Representative Trey Martinez Fischer

Representative Ray Lopez 

City Council Member Shirley Gonzales

Edgewood Education Foundation

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E10 - Listen More Than You Talk with Staffer Donovon Rodriguez Donovon Rodriguez, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:26:00 In this episode, legislative staffer and community leader Donovon Rodriguez shares how his experience as a 911 dispatcher taught him to stay calm amid the chaos of the Capitol. He also discusses the importance of building strong constituent relationships, his approach to managing a legislative office, and some of the differences between working in the House and Senate. In this episode, legislative staffer and community leader Donovon Rodriguez shares how his experience as a 911 dispatcher taught him to stay calm amid the chaos of the Capitol. He also discusses the importance of building strong constituent relationships, his approach to managing a legislative office, and some of the differences between working in the House and Senate. texas, sine die, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 10 44051ae6-20f8-4fa9-a8bf-92706c94c6b1 S1E9 - Surrounded by Love with Habitat for Humanity's Amy Ledbetter Parham From Senate Messenger to CEO of Habitat for Humanity Texas, Amy Ledbetter Parham shares the unique challenges of nonprofit advocacy, negotiating with “lizard people” (no, not folks in Austin), and what it's like to build a house on the Capitol grounds.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast: 

Senator Bob Glasgow 

Habitat for Humanity 

LBJ School of Public Affairs 

President Jimmy Carter 

Visit Habitat for Humanity Texas for more information about their work and how you can support their efforts to provide affordable housing.  

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 15 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e9-surrounded-by-love-with-habitat-for-humanitys-amy-ledbetter-parham-V3Vp_o_v From Senate Messenger to CEO of Habitat for Humanity Texas, Amy Ledbetter Parham shares the unique challenges of nonprofit advocacy, negotiating with “lizard people” (no, not folks in Austin), and what it's like to build a house on the Capitol grounds.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast: 

Senator Bob Glasgow 

Habitat for Humanity 

LBJ School of Public Affairs 

President Jimmy Carter 

Visit Habitat for Humanity Texas for more information about their work and how you can support their efforts to provide affordable housing.  

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E9 - Surrounded by Love with Habitat for Humanity's Amy Ledbetter Parham Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:28:49 From Senate Messenger to CEO of Habitat for Humanity Texas, Amy Ledbetter Parham shares the unique challenges of nonprofit advocacy, negotiating with “lizard people” (no, not folks in Austin), and what it's like to build a house on the Capitol grounds. From Senate Messenger to CEO of Habitat for Humanity Texas, Amy Ledbetter Parham shares the unique challenges of nonprofit advocacy, negotiating with “lizard people” (no, not folks in Austin), and what it's like to build a house on the Capitol grounds. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 9 2db3fe5a-beb5-4fcf-8cbb-5b1f237f14b8 S1E8 - One Member, One Vote with Rusty Kelley Regarded as one of the state’s premier lobbyists, Rusty Kelley literally started out mopping floors in the Capitol.  In this episode Rusty tells about his deep respect for the institution, legislators he has admired and how the Sharpstown Scandal transformed lobbying in Texas.

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome.

Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

People mentioned in this podcast: 

Dick Brown 

Senator Jack Christie

Speaker Billy Clayton 

Speaker Price Daniel, Jr. 

Jeff Davis 

Senator Kevin Eltife 

Jack Gullahorn

Representative Bill Messer 

Lawrence Olsen 

Tommy Townsend 

The Sharpstown Scandal 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 8 Apr 2025 16:40:22 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Rusty Kelley, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e8-one-member-one-vote-with-rusty-kelley-ApDLrJhX Regarded as one of the state’s premier lobbyists, Rusty Kelley literally started out mopping floors in the Capitol.  In this episode Rusty tells about his deep respect for the institution, legislators he has admired and how the Sharpstown Scandal transformed lobbying in Texas.

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome.

Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

People mentioned in this podcast: 

Dick Brown 

Senator Jack Christie

Speaker Billy Clayton 

Speaker Price Daniel, Jr. 

Jeff Davis 

Senator Kevin Eltife 

Jack Gullahorn

Representative Bill Messer 

Lawrence Olsen 

Tommy Townsend 

The Sharpstown Scandal 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E8 - One Member, One Vote with Rusty Kelley Rusty Kelley, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:29:42 Regarded as one of the state’s premier lobbyists, Rusty Kelley literally started out mopping floors in the Capitol. In this episode Rusty tells about his deep respect for the institution, legislators he has admired and how the Sharpstown Scandal transformed lobbying in Texas. Regarded as one of the state’s premier lobbyists, Rusty Kelley literally started out mopping floors in the Capitol. In this episode Rusty tells about his deep respect for the institution, legislators he has admired and how the Sharpstown Scandal transformed lobbying in Texas. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 8 cbc83978-36e1-4710-90d4-b1fa1f1b8357 S1E7 - Managing Expectations with the Unicorn Tammy Pirtle People mentioned in this podcast:

Representative Roberto Alonzo

Senator Hugo Berlanga

Speaker Billy Clayton

Congressman Ron Coleman

Representative Robby Cook

Lynn Cutler  

Representative Linda Garcia

Calvin Guest

Representative Susan King

Representative Mike McKinney

Representative Doug Miller

Representative Christina Morales

Gloria Moreno

Kate Raetz

Representative Mark Strama

 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 25 Mar 2025 13:05:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Tammy Pirtle, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e7-managing-expectations-with-the-unicorn-tammy-pirtle-ZTQJ3xh4 People mentioned in this podcast:

Representative Roberto Alonzo

Senator Hugo Berlanga

Speaker Billy Clayton

Congressman Ron Coleman

Representative Robby Cook

Lynn Cutler  

Representative Linda Garcia

Calvin Guest

Representative Susan King

Representative Mike McKinney

Representative Doug Miller

Representative Christina Morales

Gloria Moreno

Kate Raetz

Representative Mark Strama

 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E7 - Managing Expectations with the Unicorn Tammy Pirtle Tammy Pirtle, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:27:05 As a young child, Tammy Pirtle dreamed of working at the Texas Capitol. But she never imagined a career that (so far!) has included working for nine different legislators—on both sides of the aisle—plus a decade in Washington, D.C., as a congressman’s wife. Hear Tammy share her number one priority as a staffer, the perks of having an office window that opens, and why you should always bring a credit card to lunch. As a young child, Tammy Pirtle dreamed of working at the Texas Capitol. But she never imagined a career that (so far!) has included working for nine different legislators—on both sides of the aisle—plus a decade in Washington, D.C., as a congressman’s wife. Hear Tammy share her number one priority as a staffer, the perks of having an office window that opens, and why you should always bring a credit card to lunch. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 7 3112b4df-512b-4722-9da4-d37452121cb1 S1E6 - My People Collection with Michelle Wittenburg Lawyer/lobbyist Michelle Wittenburg shares how a chance encounter at a charity event—and a love of reading the paper—launched a career that has included running campaigns and working in all three branches of government. Michelle talks about the value of surrounding herself with good people, balancing work with philanthropic efforts, and the joy of coming home to a house full of animals.

People mentioned in this podcast:

Senator Bill Sims 

House Speaker Tom Craddick

Representative Kyle Kacal 

Representative Ken King  

Judge Lee Yeakel

Lewis Sessions 

Congressman Pete Sessions  

Andrea Sloan 

Justice Nathan Hecht 

Rahsaan King 

Jack Jack’s Pack Street Dog Rescue 

KK125 Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 11 Mar 2025 17:32:38 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Garrett Buss, Stephanie Chiarello, Fallout Theater, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e6-my-people-collection-with-michelle-wittenberg-EeCK0xFC Lawyer/lobbyist Michelle Wittenburg shares how a chance encounter at a charity event—and a love of reading the paper—launched a career that has included running campaigns and working in all three branches of government. Michelle talks about the value of surrounding herself with good people, balancing work with philanthropic efforts, and the joy of coming home to a house full of animals.

People mentioned in this podcast:

Senator Bill Sims 

House Speaker Tom Craddick

Representative Kyle Kacal 

Representative Ken King  

Judge Lee Yeakel

Lewis Sessions 

Congressman Pete Sessions  

Andrea Sloan 

Justice Nathan Hecht 

Rahsaan King 

Jack Jack’s Pack Street Dog Rescue 

KK125 Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E6 - My People Collection with Michelle Wittenburg Garrett Buss, Stephanie Chiarello, Fallout Theater, David Mintz 00:27:20 Lawyer/lobbyist Michelle Wittenburg shares how a chance encounter at a charity event—and a love of reading the paper—launched a career that has included running campaigns and working in all three branches of government. Michelle talks about the value of surrounding herself with good people, balancing work with philanthropic efforts, and the joy of coming home to a house full of animals. Lawyer/lobbyist Michelle Wittenburg shares how a chance encounter at a charity event—and a love of reading the paper—launched a career that has included running campaigns and working in all three branches of government. Michelle talks about the value of surrounding herself with good people, balancing work with philanthropic efforts, and the joy of coming home to a house full of animals. michelle wittenburg, texas, fallout theater, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 6 566d971c-8acc-4f36-8222-80710f408c86 S1E5 - A Very Special Episode with Stephanie Chiarello How does an aspiring ballerina and environmental scientist end up running a legislative office? From starting as an intern in 2007 to serving as Chief of Staff for a state representative, Stephanie shares tips for new staffers, explains the '72-hour rule' for reviewing potential legislation, and reveals the surprising benefits of befriending penguins. 

People talked about on this episode:

Sherri Greenberg, Mike Villarreal, Peter Clark, LBJ, Gina Amatangelo, Laura Hernandez, Harold Cook, Amber Hausenfluck, CATS, Shawn Leventhal, Mackenzie Astin

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Wed, 26 Feb 2025 21:19:14 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e5-a-very-special-episode-with-stephanie-chiarello-uWRVoQQn How does an aspiring ballerina and environmental scientist end up running a legislative office? From starting as an intern in 2007 to serving as Chief of Staff for a state representative, Stephanie shares tips for new staffers, explains the '72-hour rule' for reviewing potential legislation, and reveals the surprising benefits of befriending penguins. 

People talked about on this episode:

Sherri Greenberg, Mike Villarreal, Peter Clark, LBJ, Gina Amatangelo, Laura Hernandez, Harold Cook, Amber Hausenfluck, CATS, Shawn Leventhal, Mackenzie Astin

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E5 - A Very Special Episode with Stephanie Chiarello David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:26:28 How does an aspiring ballerina and environmental scientist end up running a legislative office? From starting as an intern in 2007 to serving as Chief of Staff for a state representative, Stephanie shares tips for new staffers, explains the '72-hour rule' for reviewing potential legislation, and reveals the surprising benefits of befriending penguins. How does an aspiring ballerina and environmental scientist end up running a legislative office? From starting as an intern in 2007 to serving as Chief of Staff for a state representative, Stephanie shares tips for new staffers, explains the '72-hour rule' for reviewing potential legislation, and reveals the surprising benefits of befriending penguins. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 5 d3c10835-7fee-4d38-b818-f076ac515652 S1E4 - Tired But Determined with Renzo Downey People and topics mentioned in the podcast: The Texas Tribune, Texas Weekly, Ron DeSantis, The Florida Legislature, cats

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Thu, 20 Feb 2025 21:09:29 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (renzo downey, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e4-tired-but-determined-with-renzo-downey-ukH8jx7O People and topics mentioned in the podcast: The Texas Tribune, Texas Weekly, Ron DeSantis, The Florida Legislature, cats

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E4 - Tired But Determined with Renzo Downey renzo downey, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello 00:28:26 How does someone who grew up in California, went to J-school in Illinois, and covered the Florida Legislature end up in Texas? Find out in this episode, where we talk with Renzo Downey, lead writer for The Blast, the Texas Tribune’s newsletter, about what it’s like to cover the Texas Legislature, his love of ‘90s bands, and why you should never burn a source. For more information about The Blast visit https://www.texastribune.org/theblast/. Archived issues of Texas Weekly can be found here: https://texasweekly.texastribune.org/texas-weekly/archive/. How does someone who grew up in California, went to J-school in Illinois, and covered the Florida Legislature end up in Texas? Find out in this episode, where we talk with Renzo Downey, lead writer for The Blast, the Texas Tribune’s newsletter, about what it’s like to cover the Texas Legislature, his love of ‘90s bands, and why you should never burn a source. For more information about The Blast visit https://www.texastribune.org/theblast/. Archived issues of Texas Weekly can be found here: https://texasweekly.texastribune.org/texas-weekly/archive/. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 4 e66c5427-1c0d-4601-af08-14e05a65d51e S1E3 - Control, Alt, Delete With Monty Exter People and topics mentioned in the podcast:

Mike Villareal, Baylor Law School LBJ School of Public Affairs

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 11 Feb 2025 22:01:01 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Monty Exter, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello, Fallout Theater) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e3-the-full-monty-exter-G_zBN2S7 People and topics mentioned in the podcast:

Mike Villareal, Baylor Law School LBJ School of Public Affairs

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E3 - Control, Alt, Delete With Monty Exter Monty Exter, David Mintz, Stephanie Chiarello, Fallout Theater 00:25:20 ATPE's Monty Exter talks about his journey from studying to be a litigation attorney to becoming a respected voice on education issues, the importance of knowing your audience, and his secret talent. ATPE's Monty Exter talks about his journey from studying to be a litigation attorney to becoming a respected voice on education issues, the importance of knowing your audience, and his secret talent. education, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol false full 3 ce7ca50f-1651-4b05-8e0b-b3270b1d14c4 S1E2 - Parliamentary Inquiry with Denise Davis People and topics mentioned in the podcast:

Lt. Governor Bill Hobby, House Speaker Joe Straus, Oveta Culp Hobby, Interim Babies, Bob Kelly, Steven Collins, Chris Greisel, “Night of Great Unpleasantness”, Bob “Big Daddy” Johnson, Sharon Carter, Gordon Johnson

 

 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 4 Feb 2025 21:05:04 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (stephanie chiarello, David Mintz, Denise Davis) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/s1e2-parliamentary-inquiry-with-denise-davis-Q1U1vwTl People and topics mentioned in the podcast:

Lt. Governor Bill Hobby, House Speaker Joe Straus, Oveta Culp Hobby, Interim Babies, Bob Kelly, Steven Collins, Chris Greisel, “Night of Great Unpleasantness”, Bob “Big Daddy” Johnson, Sharon Carter, Gordon Johnson

 

 

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E2 - Parliamentary Inquiry with Denise Davis stephanie chiarello, David Mintz, Denise Davis 00:36:37 Lobbyist Denise Davis brings a wealth of experience to the table as a former House Parliamentarian, senior aide to two Lieutenant Governors, and Chief of Staff to a Speaker of the House. In this episode, she takes us behind the scenes of what it’s really like to sit on the dais, shares an insider’s perspective on the infamous Night of Great Unpleasantness, and reveals why wearing a white suit at the Capitol might not be the best idea. Lobbyist Denise Davis brings a wealth of experience to the table as a former House Parliamentarian, senior aide to two Lieutenant Governors, and Chief of Staff to a Speaker of the House. In this episode, she takes us behind the scenes of what it’s really like to sit on the dais, shares an insider’s perspective on the infamous Night of Great Unpleasantness, and reveals why wearing a white suit at the Capitol might not be the best idea. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 2 4348d93b-2cc5-4608-bb8c-9275f4e23f4b S1E1 - The Capitol Crowd with Robyn Hadley

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> Tue, 14 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000 kalabrinaproductions@gmail.com (Robyn Hadley, Fallout Theater, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz) https://cap-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/cap-chat-with-robyn-hadley-the-capitol-crowd-pSZFirbN

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at capchattx@gmail.com.

 

Like us? Please recommend us to three friends, subscribe and rate the podcast, and share on your socials. We'd love to get to 1,000 unique listeners this year. 

 

]]> S1E1 - The Capitol Crowd with Robyn Hadley Robyn Hadley, Fallout Theater, Stephanie Chiarello, David Mintz 00:21:25 The very first Cap Chat episode with Texas Capitol legend Robyn Hadley. The curator of the Facebook group Capitol Crowd, Robyn takes us through her journey in the Capitol with some very important tips: be nice and don't forget the 140th day of session. The very first Cap Chat episode with Texas Capitol legend Robyn Hadley. The curator of the Facebook group Capitol Crowd, Robyn takes us through her journey in the Capitol with some very important tips: be nice and don't forget the 140th day of session. texas, podcast, behind the scenes, texas legislature, #txlege, texas capitol, community false full 1