Over the last several years, the House has been undergoing an internal modernization golden age, led by Members and staff who have been inspired by the idea that an institution that works better internally operates more effectively and better serves the public. These improvements also translate into a more optimized onboarding process and resources for incoming freshmen and their staff. For this episode, Aubrey Wilson and Taylor J. Swift spoke with the champions of the House modernization movement to discuss some of the biggest changes that have recently come to fruition.

Guests:

• Rep. Stephanie Bice [R, OK]
• Rep. Derek Kilmer [D, WA]
• Rep. Bryan Steil [R, WI]
• Rep. Maxwell Frost [D, FL]
• Yuri Beckelman, Chief of Staff for Rep. Maxwell Frost [D, FL]
• Dr. Casey Burgat, director of the Legislative Affairs program at the Graduate School of Political Management at George Washington University

Additional resources, including those mentioned in the episode, can be found popvox.org/gavel-in/ep-10

Across their conversations with current and former Members of Congress, Aubrey Wilson and Taylor J. Swift asked them, “What do you wish you knew during your freshman term that you know now?” Their answers don’t disappoint! From adjusting to a steep learning curve and the realization that holding a seat in the House is anything but a nine-to-five job, to how to set boundaries and prioritize self-care, this episode is a catch-all of advice from experienced Members to their new peers.

Guests:

• Rep. Bryan Steil [R, WI]
• Rep. Stephanie Bice [R, OK]
• Rep. Kat Cammack [R, FL]
• Rep. Maxwell Frost [D, FL]
• Former Rep. Rodney Davis [R, IL]
• Former Rep. Ed Perlmutter [D, CO]
• Former Rep. Brian Baird [D, WA]

Additional resources, including those mentioned in the episode, can be found popvox.org/gavel-in/ep-9

Congress is known to be a relationship business, but it also has a reputation for being a hub of debate and partisan turmoil. In this episode, Aubrey Wilson and Taylor J. Swift dig into how new Members and staff can overcome partisan challenges by seeking the advice of seasoned current and former Representatives and staff.

Guests:

• Rep. Derek Kilmer [D, WA]
• Former Rep. Rodney Davis [R, IL]
• Former Rep. Ed Perlmutter [D, CO]
• Former Rep. Brian Baird [D, WA]
• Bradford Fitch, former President and CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation

Additional resources, including those mentioned in the episode, can be found popvox.org/gavel-in/ep-8