THE CAPITOL COFFEE CONNECTION Liz Hirsh Naftali

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

Dive into the remarkable journey of Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester on the Capitol Coffee Connection podcast. From her historic election as Delaware's first woman and person of color in Congress to navigating personal loss and advocating for change, Lisa shares insights into the power of authenticity, resilience, and representation. Join us as she reflects on her spiritual home, the importance of finding common ground, and her unwavering commitment to fighting for democracy and making a difference in people's lives.

In this episode, Liz is joined by Texas Congressman Colin Allred, a hopeful for the U.S. Senate. Allred's journey from NFL linebacker to civil rights attorney and his tenure in the Obama administration has inspired many. He opens up about the profound influence of kindness in his life, a value he attributes to his upbringing and the legacy of John Lewis. Reflecting on his multifaceted identity, Allred shares personal anecdotes that underscore the importance of empathy, community support, and teamwork, not just in politics but in everyday life. His commitment to family, joy in his children's achievements, and dedication to public service shine through, offering a unique glimpse into the heart and humanity of one of our elected leaders.
Be sure to check out last week's episode if you missed it with Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett. 
Join us next Tuesday for more insightful discussions that remind us of the shared values and common goals that unite us. 
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Liz is joined by Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett who shares her remarkable journey from defense attorney to Congress. With a focus on bipartisan collaboration, she delves into her partnership with Senator Cornyn on crucial issues like the Strip Act against fentanyl, emphasizing the significance of speaking truth to power and serving the people. Representing Dallas, Texas, Crockett's dedication to addressing economic challenges and amplifying marginalized voices shines through, shaped by her upbringing in St. Louis, Missouri. Drawing inspiration from icons like Barbara Jordan and Shirley Chisholm, she discusses the importance of mentorship, authenticity, and purpose-driven work. From her personal preferences to her aspirations for youth engagement and cultural exploration, Crockett offers a multifaceted perspective on leadership, representation, and finding fulfillment in public service.

In this episode Liz chats with Congressman Mike Levin from California's 49th district. Levin shares his journey from immigrant roots, education at Saddleback Valley and Loyola High, and mentorship under Ellen Tauscher and Pete Aguilar. He reflects on balancing his 2018 congressional role with family life, lamenting missed time with his children due to Washington duties. Levin values structured family activities and emphasizes kindness in public service amidst political polarization. He finds joy in societal impact, legislative achievements, and family values, navigating parenting challenges with teenagers and advocating for broad representation.

Join Liz as she sits down with Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, representing Illinois's 14th district. In a candid conversation, Underwood shares her remarkable journey from nursing to politics, driven by a desire to address healthcare disparities and broken promises in her community.
Discover how Underwood's own health condition influenced her transition and inspired her to found the Black Maternal Health caucus, advocating for marginalized communities. Learn about her leadership roles in the Girl Scouts and her belief in the power of mentorship and creating safe spaces for growth.
Get to know the person behind the politician as Underwood opens up about her preferences, rigorous exercise habits, and travel experiences. From the streets of Paris to the vibrant culture of New Orleans, she shares how her global adventures shape her perspective and fuel her passion for making a difference.
Tune in to gain insights into Underwood's leadership philosophy, her commitment to joy and determination, and the transformative impact of genuine efforts in leadership. Don't miss this inspiring episode highlighting the resilience and vision of Congresswoman Lauren Underwood.