LIZ’S COFFEE CONNECTION

Wendy Greuel Fmr LA City Controller Ep.24

In this episode of the Capitol Coffee Connection, host Liz Hirsh Naftali interviews Wendy Greuel, a former Los Angeles City Councilwoman and Controller. The discussion covers Greuel’s extensive public service history, including her roles with the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority and Cal State University, as well as her personal experiences as a mother while in office. Greuel's childhood in the San Fernando Valley, her tenure with Mayor Tom Bradley, and her current position on the Emily's List national board are also discussed. Greuel shares her affinity for community service and her hobbies outside of work, including her love for burgers, fries, and hockey.

Representative Jimmy Gomez Ep.23

Join host Liz Hirsh Naftali in this revealing episode of The Capitol Coffee Connection, where she engages with the hard-working Congressman Jimmy Gomez. Dive into the life of Gomez, from his early years as a child of immigrants, through a transformative educational journey from community college to Harvard, to his vital role as a representative for the 34th district of California which includes L.A. and a full-time father. Experience Gomez's candid revelations about his life transitions, family responsibilities, and the little joys that keep him grounded despite the strenuous nature of his job.

Representative Marcy Kaptur Ep.22

In this episode, Liz engages in a heart-to-heart conversation with Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, representing Ohio's 9th congressional district for an impressive 41 years. Rep Marcy Kaptur shares her upbringing in Toledo, Ohio, as a second-generation Polish-American, emphasizing the importance of family, faith, and the lessons learned from her patriotic relatives. Join the conversation to discover the human stories behind political figures and explore the shared experiences that connect us all.

Representative Ritchie Torres Ep.21

Richie Torres, the distinguished congressman representing New York's 15th district joins Liz for coffee! Rep Torres, the youngest elected official in New York City Council at 25, shares his inspiring journey from growing up in poverty in the Bronx to becoming the first openly LGBTQ person elected to this office. Rep Torres sheds light on the challenges faced by his single mother, the impact of public housing conditions, and the resilience that shaped his remarkable path. From overcoming personal struggles to advocating for change, Rep Torres reveals the transformative power of gratitude and discusses the crucial role of relationships in navigating the political landscape.

Representative Becca Balint Ep.20

In this episode of the Capitol Coffee Connection podcast, Liz Hirsh Naftali hosts Congresswoman Becca Balint who shares her views on the concept of awe and its positive impacts on human lives. The Congresswoman, an outdoor enthusiast and advocate of ongoing learning and open-mindedness, touches on her past as a teacher, her struggle with mental health, her own childhood struggles and the importance of strong family support. Rep Balint underscores the pitfalls of pretense in politics, the significance of authenticity, her hobbies such as motorbiking and rock climbing, and gratitude for a developmental dialogue.

Representative Maxwell Frost Ep.19

In this episode of the Capitol Coffee Connection podcast, host Liz Hirsh Naftali interviews Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost from Florida's 10th congressional district, who is notably the first Generation Z member elected to Congress. Frost shared his personal experiences, from his adoption and Cuban grandmother’s immigration story to his musical journey and involvement in gun safety campaigns shaped by witnessing gun violence. He also discussed the challenges of his political campaign, which he partly financed by driving for Uber. Frost underscored the importance of diversity in Congress, addressing the need for more parent representatives. Additionally, he highlighted the integration of arts into his work and politics for community enrichment and self-care, emphasizing the importance of mental health.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand Ep.18

On today’s episode, we are joined by a Senator from New York who, in her youth, was the number one seller of Girl Scout cookies: Kirsten Gillibrand. In this episode, Kirsten talks about everything from faith, to the way her grandmothers inspired her, to running marathons and listening to Taylor Swift. Tune in to hear the story of how Kirsten found an unexpected dinner guest in Ted Cruz.

Senator Bob Casey Ep.17

Pennsylvania native Bob Casey is a big family man— literally— he’s one of eight children and the father of four daughters! In this episode, Bob talks about tough love from a basketball coach, meeting his wife on a blind date, his love of Motown and Adele, and his mission to “lead a life for others.” Tune in to hear how Bob earned the nickname “Bamba.”

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi Ep.16

In this very special episode of The Capitol Coffee Connection, we are joined by an icon in American politics: the first female Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi. Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi is a mother of five and grandmother of nine, and was born into a family that she describes as “devoutly catholic, proudly Italian American, fiercely patriotic, and staunchly democratic.” In this episode, Nancy reflects on her journey from housewife to House Speaker and shares everything from mischievous moments growing up in Catholic school to memories of driving her kids to school in a nightgown. Tune in to hear Nancy talk about the shared belief that she and John Lewis bonded over.

Representative Chris Deluzio Ep.15

Chris Deluzio was born and raised in the state he now proudly represents, Pennsylvania. A three time veteran, Chris was inspired by the tragic events of 9/11 to serve his country in Iraq and then at sea in the navy. He continues to this day to serve his country as a Representative in the U.S. Congress. In this episode, Chris reflects on the camaraderie of the military, the importance of baseball in his life, and his love of Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen, and 90’s rap. Tune in to hear Chris talk all about his love for his 4th child— his cockapoo named Yankee Doodle.