THE CAPITOL COFFEE CONNECTION
Hosted by Liz Hirsh Naftali, The Capitol Coffee Connection Podcast is all about bringing together elected officials from all walks of life to engage in conversations that go beyond the headlines and party lines. New episodes every Tuesday.
Episodes
Opal Vadhan opens up about her journey from a Queens childhood, raised by Indian immigrant parents, to working for Secretary Hillary Clinton and Vice President Kamala Harris. She shares stories of sacrifice, cultural identity, gratitude practices, career twists, mentorship, and the ordinary moments that bring her the deepest joy. A heartfelt look at the humanity behind a woman who embodies the American dream — and lifts others as s...
Senator Joni Ernst opens up about family, farm roots, military service, gratitude, risk-taking, and why she’s leaving the Senate after her second term. A deeply personal conversation about joy, purpose, and going back to the people who made her who she is.
From a shy pastor’s son delivering newspapers to becoming the governor of Oklahoma — Kevin Stitt reveals the surprising story behind his biggest dream, why he almost erased it, and the one rule he lives by.
What does a Congressman admit he values more than politics? Brad Schneider gets real…
Congressman Brad Schneider sits down with Liz for a personal conversation that focuses on the humanity behind leadership. Brad opens up about family, marriage, fatherhood, coaching, teachers who shaped him, how he approaches decision-making, and what brings him joy — an intimate look into the person behind the public role.
Discover how Kay Sides turned conscious design and radical kindness into a global movement with her brand ROAM. This episode will change how you think about success, showing that when you “build it kind,” the ripple outruns the revenue.
Bullied kid to congressman—Randy Fine opens up on faith, family, and the fight for all people. Raw, real, and unforgettable.
This episode was recorded on September 15, 2025
Senator Andy Kim sits down with Liz to share his personal journey from a son of Korean immigrants to the U.S. Senate, reflecting on public service, imposter syndrome, and the meaning of courage in politics.
They discuss family life, balancing work and parenting, the importance of belonging and mentorship, and Kim’s call to reignite a spirit of service and hope across America.
Designer Ripley Rader shares her journey from a small-town childhood and sewing lessons to building a thriving Los Angeles-based fashion brand focused on comfort, inclusivity, and garments made in America.
She discusses growing the business over 15 years, the importance of community and factory partnerships in downtown L.A., empowering young women through mentorship and her "Younger But Wiser" project, and balancing creativity with...
Host Liz Hirsh Naftali interviews Congressman Mike Lawler about his Rockland County upbringing, his family life, and his humanitarian work to bring hostages home. They discuss personal influences, the impact of his father’s words, and the core values that shape his public service.
The episode also covers the challenge of balancing congressional duties with family, moments of joy and resilience, and the importance of kindness and hu...
In this episode of Capitol Coffee Connection, host Liz sits down with the remarkable Sal Litvak — a true renaissance man whose work spans creativity, leadership, and inspiration. While many past guests have been political leaders, Liz broadens the conversation this time to explore what leadership really means today — not just in politics, but in everyday life.
Together, they dive into how genuine leaders...
Liz interviews Noa, an 18‑year‑old evolutionary biologist and Stanford admit, about her path into science, the mentors who shaped her, and how curiosity and courage drive her work.
Noa explains comparative biology with vivid examples (giraffes, guppies), describes her talk "Guppies in the Boardroom," and shows how she connects research with activism, fundraising for the Pad Project.
The episode also shares personal details—family, ...
In this episode of The Capitol Coffee Connection, host Liz Hirsh Naftali welcomes California Senator Alex Padilla for a warm conversation about faith, family, and fulfillment. Reflecting on their long friendship, Alex shares his journey from a modest upbringing in Pacoima to becoming a U.S. Senator, driven by his immigrant parents’ sacrifices and a commitment to public service. With authenticity and grace, he discusses raising thre...
Join us for this episode with Congressman Craig Goldman from Texas 12th district, as we explore the deep connections of family, heritage, and community that shape his journey. Discover the unique charm of Fort Worth, a city rich in history and culture, through the eyes of a fifth-generation resident.
We'll delve into his early experiences working in the family business, learn about the influence of his Jewish community, and discuss...
In this deeply personal and profoundly moving episode of The Capitol Coffee Connection, host Liz Hirsh Naftali sits down with Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey for a raw and authentic conversation about friendship, love, grief, and the enduring power of community. While the two have known each other for years, a chance meeting on a flight to Israel just before the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks bonded them in a way neither could ha...
Join Liz as she delves into a compelling conversation with Roger Carstens, the former Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, who shares insights about heart, humanity, and leadership. Discover the profound impact of empathy and resilience in navigating the complex world of hostage negotiations. Carstens recounts his unique journey from growing up in Spokane, Washington to his vital role in reuniting families across the glo...
In a gripping and profoundly moving episode of The Capitol Coffee Connection, host Liz Hirsh Naftali speaks with Dr. Tamar Shlezinger, an Israeli social worker, educator, and psychotrauma responder with United Hatzalah of Israel, who shares—for the first time in English—the story of how she helped save the lives and souls of two young children trapped in the horrors of October 7.
When Hamas terrorists infiltrated Kibbutz Kfar Aza, ...
Join host Liz Hirsh Naftali in Capitol Coffee Connection as she sits down with Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren from Northern California's 18th District, a unique blend of Silicon Valley tech and agricultural prowess. Explore how Lofgren, a passionate advocate for fusion power, navigates the political landscape, collaborates across party lines, and reflects on her personal and professional journeys from her humble beginnings to a leading ...
Join Liz Hirsh Naftali on the Capitol Coffee Connection as she engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kathy Hochul, the Governor of New York. In this episode, Governor Hochul shares her inspiring journey from her modest upbringing to becoming the first female governor of New York. Discover her insights on navigating the complexities of politics, embracing resilience, and empowering women to pursue leadership roles.
Governor Hochu...
In this episode of the Capital Coffee Connection podcast, host Liz welcomes the 46th Governor of Wisconsin, Tony Evers. Unlike typical political discussions, this conversation dives into the personal side of leadership, focusing on Governor Evers' background and values.
Listeners will hear about Governor Evers' small-town upbringing, his dedication to education, and the pivotal moments that shaped his path to the governorship. From...
Join Liz Hirsh Naftali as she welcomes Congresswoman Susie Lee from Nevada's 3rd District on the Capitol Coffee Connection podcast. Discover the diverse cultural tapestry of Nevada, as Susie Lee shares insights about her vibrant district, biking adventures in Nevada and D.C., and her commitment to public service beyond politics and policy. Through an engaging discussion, delve into Susie's upbringing in Ohio, the life lessons from ...
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