State Lobbying Heroes

Natalie Crawford's passion for politics was ignited at a young age, a fire stoked by her family's active involvement in political discourse. Born in 1980, she came of age during the Reagan administration, a time when she vividly remembers sitting with her grandparents to watch presidential debates. Her grandfather, in particular, stressed the significance of voting, impressing upon her that it was not merely a right but a solemn duty. Natalie was born into a family deeply committed to service, as both of her parents pursued careers as nurses. Additionally, she was a preacher's child, deeply immersed in the life of the church. These early life experiences served to underscore the value of selfless service and community engagement in her upbringing. After completing her formal education, she embarked on her professional journey within corporate America, initially specializing in marketing and business development. Nevertheless, her career trajectory underwent a significant transformation when she took on a role at a university, focusing on marketing efforts for a new Fine Arts Complex. This shift marked the commencement of her illustrious career in higher education, where she eventually found herself immersed in student affairs, concentrating on the crucial aspects of leadership and career development for students. Her dedication to community service was unwavering, and she actively participated in various community organizations, lending her expertise to several boards during the course of her career. In her early thirties, she received a proposition that would change the course of her career profoundly – the suggestion to explore a political role. Accepting this challenge marked a pivotal turning point as she was successfully elected to serve as a county commissioner. Throughout her career, her commitment to public service and advocacy never wavered. She made invaluable contributions as a member of the Board of Managers for ACCG (Association County Commissioners of Georgia), an opportunity that enabled her to engage with legislators and exert her influence on local policies. Why does Natalie think the youth should be involved in Government Relations? If Natalie were governor for five days, what actions would she take? What is a lobbyist for Natalie in one word?   Check out Natalie Crawford as she shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Peter Simmons, a native of Macon, Georgia, was raised in a family where the importance of civic engagement was emphasized from a young age. Growing up, his parents lived in a time when their rights were not always guaranteed by the Constitution or recognized by law.
In this environment, Peter's parents instilled in him the fundamental duty of every citizen in the country – to ensure that the government respects its people and preserves their rights, liberties, and basic human dignity.
Upon completing his high school education, Peter began his journey in the realm of civic responsibility by securing a position with the election commission. Subsequently, he gained experience as a fundraiser for a progressive consulting firm in Atlanta.
Seeking a deeper understanding of the policy and law processes, he pursued his education at Howard University, where he engaged in numerous law clerkships. During this time, he also embarked on a multi-year internship with a political consulting firm.
Today, Peter Simmons holds the role of Georgia State Policy Advocate for Protect Democracy, a cross-ideological nonprofit organization with a singular mission – to confront authoritarian threats to the United States. His fervent passion lies in policy creation, a field that allows him to think critically and craft solutions to address not only his own challenges but also those faced by his community and fellow citizens.
What is Peter’s favorite lesson in government relations?
Why should you involve yourself actively and be participative in civic engagements?
What are the do’s and don’ts in lobbying?
Join Peter Simmons in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes as he shares his knowledge, experiences, and lessons throughout his lobbying career.

Brooke Turner, a Georgia native with a nomadic childhood, found her passion for politics through family discussions and the influence of her father and grandmother, both involved in politics during the '90s and early 2000s.

Originally aspiring to be a doctor, Brooke shifted towards political science after a lightbulb moment during college applications, guided by her grandmother's suggestion. Joining Governor Kemp's campaign in 2018, she seamlessly transitioned into political work and later added communications to her academic pursuits.

Her journey includes internships, a focus on education policy at the Governor's Office of Student Achievement, and a full-time role at Marksburg and Middleton, solidifying her commitment to the political landscape. When asked what surprised her when she started working in her field, she remarked on the notable level of collaboration among everyone.

What would Brooke do if she was the Governor?

What does quality-based education mean to her?

Does she consider herself an extrovert?

Let's join Brooke's personal journey and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Rich Johnson grew up in Metro Atlanta and attended South Forsyth High School. Politics were frequently discussed with his family, primarily due to his father's interest in the news and current affairs. This laid the foundation for his future career path. Despite initially having ambitions of becoming an attorney, Rich decided to pursue a Political Science degree at the University of Tennessee, motivated by its broader options.
After graduating, Rich entered the workforce with the Tennessee Republican Party, earning a modest salary of $24,000 a year. Although not a large sum, he cherished the opportunity it provided to establish relationships and gain valuable political experience.
 
Rich's career took a significant turn nearly a decade ago when he joined AT&T in a government and public affairs technologist position. He spent his early years as an External Affairs Manager for South Metro Atlanta. By 2019, he had been promoted to Assistant Vice President, overseeing regulatory and legislative issues.
Throughout his career at AT&T, Rich found satisfaction and excitement in the diversity and unpredictability of his workdays. The ability to impact his community and engage in politics, an area he is passionate about, has made his career at AT&T rewarding and enjoyable.
What is the biggest challenge Rich faced?
What rule would he change if given an opportunity as a lobbyist?
What is the most exciting part of his job?
Check out Rich Johnson as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Christopher Stock's family relocated to North Carolina from New Jersey in 2005, bringing him and his three siblings to a new chapter of life. From an early age, Christopher's intrigue with politics was ignited during elementary school, where he bravely ran for class president despite being a newcomer. This interest persisted through his time in law school, during which he gained experience working for Senator Brent Jackson's office, focusing mainly on advocacy for special needs children's educational opportunities and support.

Today, Christopher serves as General Counsel at Kairos Government Affairs in North Carolina, where he advises clients on policy matters within the state legislature and agencies. His expertise spans key areas such as transportation, energy, and healthcare. Balancing his work's short-term and long-term implications presents a significant challenge for him.

What advice does Chris have before someone enters government relations?

Is an outgoing personality critical to this field of work?

What is Chris's aspiration that drives and motivates him?

Check out Christopher Stock as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

KJ Stancil is a native of rural North Carolina, hailing from a family deeply entrenched in politics. Raised in an environment where political engagement was a norm, KJ's initial disinterest in the field shifted dramatically when he interned for state senator Brent Jackson at the young age of 18. This pivotal experience ignited his passion for politics, leading him to pursue a degree in leadership in the public sector at North Carolina State University.
KJ Stancil delved into the realm of state politics, serving as a legislative staffer in both the State Senate and House. With over 11 years of invaluable experience under his belt, he transitioned to the private sector, founding his own lobbying firm, Eagle Eye Consulting Services LLC.
Why does KJ Stancil believe it's important for the younger generation to be more involved in government relations?
What is the most important skill of a competent lobbyist?
What sparked KJ's interest in politics?
Join us as we unravel the fascinating narrative of KJ Stancil, a true trailblazer in the world of state lobbying, in this captivating new episode of State Lobbying Heroes

Mark Putman grew up in Northern Virginia. Both of his parents worked in the medical field as healthcare professionals. While this likely exposed him to the importance of healthcare from a young age, Mark gravitated towards a different path driven by his passion for problem-solving.
While he enjoyed sports like soccer, his true passion lay in science and technology, guiding his career aspirations from a young age. As a former Georgia assembly worker, Mark saw how special interests influence politics over people.
He advocates making the legislative process more accessible and transparent so everyday citizens can get involved. Describing himself as "creative," Mark approaches issues with a unique perspective, always seeking innovative solutions.
Where and when was Mark's passion ignited?
What are the steps he takes to get involved?
What are his opinions on the future of biomedical engineering and energy policy?
Join Mark as he tells his story and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Matt Anderson is the youngest of six children. Growing up in Pittsburgh, he had a wide range of interests, including sports, arts, skateboarding, snowboarding, lacrosse, and outdoor activities like mountain biking and backpacking. During high school, he wasn't particularly interested in traditional academic subjects, and his focus was on creative and outdoor pursuits. His life took a different turn when he attended college in Montana, where he pursued his undergraduate degree and later a Master's in Social Work at the University of Montana. During this time, he developed a passion for learning, education, and politics. According to Matt, being a lobbyist or working in government affairs puts you in the interpersonal relations industry. It's not the job for you if you don't like what you're doing, it doesn't make you excited and motivated, and it doesn't let you use your creativity. You must genuinely enjoy interacting with and working with people. What, according to Matt, is crucial in a child's education to enhance their engagement with the government and its processes? What is the best advice Matt received about his work and personal values? What can we learn from Matt's 10-year experience as a lobbyist? What excites Matt about the future? Let's join Matt's personal journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Ellen Willson Hoover's early years were spent in South Bend, Indiana, within a family deeply rooted in the University of Notre Dame and St. Mary's. Her connection to these institutions ran deep, as she followed in the footsteps of her mother and one of her sisters by attending St. Mary's, while her brother proudly graduated from Notre Dame. It was from a young age that Ellen's interest in politics was sparked. This curiosity took root as early as third grade when she eagerly anticipated a monthly magazine dedicated to the subject. Despite her parents' initial confusion regarding her decision to major in political science, Ellen tenaciously pursued her passion. Her determination paid off as she secured a paid internship with a congressman after completing college, thereby setting the stage for her subsequent career in politics. In Ellen's view, lobbying is both a science and an art, representing the intricate craft of advocacy in the political arena. What is her perspective on the significance of lobbying in the community? What does she regard as the most momentous moment in her career? Where does she see herself 5 years from now? Let's join Ellen's personal journey and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Walter Vinson was born in Chicago, Illinois. Both of his parents were Chicago public school teachers and are politically active. Thus, Walter understood politics at an early age. He graduated college at Alcorn State University in Laurel, Mississippi, majoring in business administration. After that, his father and uncle persuaded him to volunteer for a family friend entering a congressional race.
Getting involved in the political campaign made Walter realize that this was the path he wanted to take. Though his degree is not aligned with his chosen career, it helped him to understand how to network, create relationships from scratch, and solidify them. Since then, his career as a lobbyist began. Switching from politics to policy, Walter now focuses on ensuring the production of good government to the constituency.
 
Walter Vinson is now the Director Of Government Affairs at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, specializing in policy decision-making. Lobbying at the airport and getting infrastructure developed is the most rewarding for him because it will create more jobs and increase the number of passengers that will come into flights.
What actions would Walter take as the President of the United States for five days?
How does Walter describe the role of a lobbyist in the community?
What should the first step be if anyone wanted to get into government relations?
Join in as Walter shares his impactful knowledge, insights, and experiences in his lobbying career. Don’t miss this out!

Tucker's hometown nestled in the serene beauty of North Georgia, near the majestic Appalachian Mountains. He spent a lot of time there, except for his college years when he attended the University of Georgia. Although politics wasn't a prominent topic within his family, his grandpa was a dedicated community helper and a fervent consumer of news. It was this exposure that kindled Tucker's interest in politics from a young age.
His grandpa even took him on a trip to the state Capitol once, an experience that left an indelible mark and planted the political bug firmly in Tucker's heart. During his college journey, Tucker switched his major from business to delve into the realm of political science, diving headfirst into the world of politics. His commitment went beyond academics; he even threw his hat in the ring for a seat on the school board in his home county, becoming the youngest member ever elected in the state.
While navigating the complexities of the political landscape in college, Tucker's curiosity extended to the mechanics of government affairs and the individuals who operate behind the scenes. It was during this pivotal time that a mentor reached out, providing invaluable guidance. Tucker seized the opportunity, initially working part-time as a mentor during his college years and then transitioning into a full-time role after graduation. His career trajectory eventually led him to the role of Executive Director at his very own government affairs association management firm.
Among his esteemed clientele, the Conditioned Air Association of Georgia stands out, with Tucker serving as its dedicated Executive Director. In this capacity, Tucker and his team are resolute in their mission to represent their clients in government affairs, functioning as registered lobbyists on behalf of the association. This multifaceted journey has not only defined Tucker's professional life but also shaped his enduring passion for the intricate world of politics and advocacy.
 
What State Government Process would Tucker change if given a chance?
What is Tucker’s favorite issue to take part in?
How can someone get into government relations?
 
Check out Tucker Green as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Patrick Arnold hails from Cajun country and wasn't raised with a strong accent due to his mother being an English teacher. He began his political journey working on Governor Bobby Jindal's campaign in Louisiana.
Over the years, he gained experience through involvement in various campaigns and elections. Patrick ran a national consulting firm called Push Digital and served as the Government Affairs Director for the Charleston Trade Association of Realtors.
Patrick brings the energy of Cajun culture to his work and has a background deeply rooted in political consulting and campaign management. What does Patrick think is the reason why the lobbying profession is misunderstood? He believes that mainstream media has influenced people into believing unrealistic expectations.
Which rule would he change in the state government process?
Why does Patrick love being in stand up comedy as a hobby?
Let's join Patrick's personal journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Christy Sammon, originally from Carrollton, Georgia, determined at a young age that she aspired to become a lawyer due to her strong debating skills and her deep commitment to justice. With this goal in mind, Christy took the LSAT and pursued paralegal studies after completing her college degree.

Acting on her parents' suggestion, she also gained experience working in a law firm to ascertain her true career path. Although she found this work enjoyable, she came to the realization that becoming a lawyer would not bring her the sense of fulfillment she sought.

Christy embarked on her career in government relations, starting as a fundraising assistant for a lieutenant governor candidate. Presently, she serves as a lobbyist for Go Rail, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the public benefits of freight rail and advocating for sound public policies in the rail industry.

Christy points out that the most challenging aspect of her job is educating individuals with no prior knowledge of the industry. Consequently, she underscores the importance of patience and understanding when interacting with people who may not be well-versed in her field.

What are the good things you must do to be a good lobbyist?

How would Christy encourage the young students to be more involved in government relations?

What failures does Christy experience, and what lessons does she learn from them?

Check out this episode as Christy Sammon shares insights, experiences, and advice that could help future lobbyists to be good at creating a better world for people.

Kelly Vogel grew up in Loveland, Colorado, also known as the Sweetheart City, as it is the home of the official Valentine. She had a traditional childhood experience growing up with her two older brothers.
Kelly went to the University of Oregon and started majoring first in Child Psychology but eventually went into Political Science. After graduating, she went to DC to work in state affairs, federal affairs, state lobbyist, and federal lobbyist, all in the field of healthcare for 20 years.
After working in DC, Kelly decided to move to North Carolina and continue her career in handling state affairs and business development. Kelly spends most of her time on the policy and business side, helping to bridge the gap between the two. After that, she would explain to legislators the impact of their policy decision on affordability and access to healthcare.
What inspires Kelly to pursue her career as a state lobbyist?
What three pieces of advice does Kelly have for someone to get into government relations?
Check out Kelly Vogel as she shares her story and learnings from her experiences in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Joe's political journey began during his college years when he ran for student body president. Despite his thoughtful preparation and in-depth understanding of campus issues, he came in fourth place. This experience taught him the importance of resonating with voters and understanding the emotional nature of political issues. Undeterred, Joe joined a congressional campaign and fell in love with the political process, appreciating the adrenaline rush and sense of urgency it brought.
 
Joe realized the critical role of navigating electoral politics to enact meaningful public policies, finding satisfaction in balancing the passionate and pragmatic aspects of politics.
What rule in the state government process would Joe change if given a chance?
What skill does Joe think is essential to becoming a good lobbyist?
What is the one thing very few people know about Joe?
Let's join Joe's personal journey and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Rachel Stone grew up in North Carolina, initially in a small town called Como, and later, her family moved to Plymouth, a larger town near the Outer Banks. Rachel's parents were teachers, but she decided that teaching wasn't her calling after observing the administrative work involved. Rachel pursued her undergraduate studies as a history major, recognizing that it would provide a solid foundation for her future legal education. She then enrolled in Emory University for law school and interned at the Georgia State Capitol with the Emory Law School Barton Child Law and Policy Center. During this internship, Rachel fell in love with lobbying and government affairs and witnessed the significant impact that legislative work could have on improving outcomes for children and families. After completing her Juris Master's in child, family, and education law, Rachel started working as the Director of Government Affairs for the western division of the Asian American Hotel Owners Association(AAHOA). Rachel's role involves supporting hotel owners in various areas, including combating human trafficking, ADA lawsuits, short-term rentals, tort reform, tax reform, civil rights, franchisee/franchisor issues, and housing vouchers for unhoused individuals. Why do the youth need to be involved in politics? What's the impact of building relationships with officials? What's the best advice Rachel received? Check out Rachel Stone as she shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Chris’ childhood was marked by unfortunate moments due to his father's severe PTSD and alcoholism resulting from his three tours in Vietnam. Despite the difficulties, his mother's unwavering support and their church community helped them through it. Books became his solace during those challenging times, as making friends was difficult given the circumstances.
He attended Olive Branch Elementary School in Chesapeake, Virginia. Chris graduated early from high school and college simultaneously through a program in North Carolina. He also worked as a lifeguard during the off-season and took college courses. He moved to Raleigh and joined an acting troupe as a fencer while training for the US Olympics.

How did he step into the advocating for Cannabis?

Let's join Chris’ journey in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Neely grew up in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. Even with some regrets, Neely had a good childhood experience. In College, he studied Political Science at Abilene Christian University in West Texas. Even as a child, Neely was interested in politics and enjoyed studying political science. His first work out of college was in a health insurance company. There, he began to learn about healthcare and many issues debated in the General Assembly around healthcare in private and public insurance. Also, he heard that there is a government relations department which further drew his interest, and he eventually started working in government relations. Neely returned to the private sector and began working at a small lobbying firm, representing healthcare clients. Overall, Neely describes government relations as a great profession and would encourage young people to be involved. What is the one skill every lobbyist should have? What is the hardest part of being a lobbyist? What advice does Neely have for people getting started in government relations? Listen and learn as Neely shares his encouraging journey in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Jauntavia's journey began in South Carolina, growing up in the Conway-Myrtle Beach area. She attended Coastal Carolina University, where she studied political science. In her AP government class in high school, Jauntavia discovered her passion for political science.
Her teacher's guidance and mentorship significantly ignited her interest in advocacy and civic engagement. This class catalyzed Jauntavia's future career, and she pursued her passion for advocacy and public policy in every educational and professional endeavor.
Through that, Jauntavia learned the importance of advocating for her own interests while being open to accepting contradictory ideas and navigating spaces where she may not always be correct.
What sparked her interest in immigration reform?
What would she be if she wasn’t a lobbyist?
What is an essential skill to be a good lobbyist?
Let's join Jauntavia's personal journey and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!"

Campbell grew up in Sumter, South Carolina, a small town in the middle part of the state. His mother works as a nurse, and his father works for an industrial company, and neither of his parents were politically involved.
Campbell’s interest in government relations sparked when he worked on a couple of campaigns, where he met different people and made connections. He studied at the University of South Carolina and earned a bachelor’s in public relations. He also has a master's in strategic communications. His first job after college was working for a charter school as an authorizer, mainly doing communications and public relations.
Campbell works as a registered lobbyist in his company, doing government relations and association management work. In addition, he also runs two associations in South Carolina. One of his learnings throughout his journey is that whatever you do in the field will never be perfect. The key is to be as prepared as possible.
Why is it important for the youth to be in government relations?
What does Campbell’s everyday work life look like?
What is one important skill every person in this lobbying field should know?
Check out Campbell as he shares his knowledge, expertise, and encouragement for youth in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Jimmy is from Columbus, Georgia, and went to college at Auburn University. After working as a member of Congress, he had an opportunity to intern at the state level and realized how fast things work. Jimmy then spent 15 years working for a construction-material trade association and currently represents the Georgia Manufactured Housing Association. Throughout his career, he built relationships and sought opportunities to effect change. Jimmy's career has come full circle, as he started on the maintenance crew of a mobile home community as a teenager and is now leading their organization and lobbying for them. What is Jimmy’s biggest challenge in his job? How does he define lobbying? What is the best advice Jimmy has ever received? Let's join Jimmy's journey and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Tim Kent grew up in southern California, the son of a WWII soldier, and earned a journalism degree from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. He worked as a Sports Editor for the college paper at the University of Southern California.
Tim was sure his future job would be as a sportswriter for a prominent metropolitan daily. After graduation, his mentor assisted him in landing a position as a television news anchor, which he did for 13 years, covering government affairs.
After a successful career as a television news anchor, he spent nearly two years as the head of staff to the North Carolina House of Representatives speaker. He also worked as a Chief Executive for The American Institute of Architects and the NC Association of Realtors.
 
How would Tim encourage young people to become more involved in government relations?
What are the three characteristics of an influential lobbyist?
What piqued Tim's interest in politics in the first place?
Tim Kent discusses his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Will Mitchell is a North Carolina State University senior who became a business major, switched to Exploratory studies, and then to entrepreneurship. Will was a football team member at North Carolina State University until he was involved in an accident. After that, he needed something to do with his time, so he applied for an internship in the house and ended up working for the speaker during sophomore year, giving him an idea of what a general assembly is like. According to Will, understanding government relations impacts the youth's lives, and what happens in general assembly benefits all state residents. Will Mitchell advises people interested in government relations to apply for as many internships as possible as an ideal first step. The most challenging aspect of his job is managing his time as a student and building relationships. He believes the youth should be involved in government relations because they are the future and will eventually be in charge. How would Will encourage young people to become more involved in government relations? What characteristics distinguish a good lobbyist? What piqued Will's interest in politics in the first place? In this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes, Will Mitchell shares his journey.

Alex comes from a University of Florida alumni family but found its big school culture challenging to navigate. On September 11th, 2001, he was reminded of the importance of service and decided to major in social work, which he pursued until he started his current profession. Alex credits his parents' decision to move overseas with his ability to spend time with all different people and recognize that his perspective isn't the only one. Growing up in foreign countries and seeing abject poverty instilled in him an appreciation for the many blessings he enjoys and a desire to serve in some way. What would Alex do if he had all the money in the world? What inspires and motivates him to do his thing? Let's join Alex's journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Jennifer Winkler was born and raised in New Orleans and graduated from Louisiana State University and Georgia State University with bachelor's degrees in political science and sociology. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a master's in public policy and management. Because of her interest in public transportation, she has become an experienced advocate, representing clients in transportation, infrastructure, insurance, and healthcare throughout her decade-long career. Jennifer would have been a chef as an alternative career because of the culture she grew up in. Jennifer serves on the board of Advance Atlanta, the executive council for The Women Project of Atlanta, and was named one of Engineering Georgia Magazine's 50 "In the Know" women. She believes that in her field of work, one should never burn bridges until one is independently wealthy. How would Jennifer encourage young people to become more involved in government relations? What are her most notable accomplishments? Which era would she choose if she could go back in time? Check out Jennifer Winkler as he shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

April Byrd is a lifelong North Carolinian. She grew up in Shelby, North Carolina. Most of her family lived nearby and she still has contact with her friends that she met during preschool.
April absolutely adores Shelby’s small but tight community that’s like a family to her. She also went to college in Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina.
 
April didn’t exactly know what to do for her future career, she worked at the GAP and then at her father's construction business. She gained the skills of developing a thick skin and not taking things too personal during these two stints.
How did she start her career in government relations?
What advice would April give to youngsters?
How would she like to be remembered?
Tune in to the State Lobbying Heroes Podcast as April Byrd talks about her life experiences and all the knowledge that she’s gathered throughout it!

Mike's family has a long history in politics. His grandpa served as the head of the board of commissioners in Haywood County and held that position for many years. Because of this, he spent a lot of time in the courts with his grandfather, which made him politically minded and ultimately influenced his choice to get a degree in political science.
Following that, he received a legal education and later worked for senators. Upon his graduation from law school, he obtained a position in the Office of the Attorney General.
Mike Carpenter has worked with North Carolina Home Builders Association for 30 years. With his experience working in the Senate and in the Department of Justice, his communication skills and traits to be credible and respected were developed thoroughly. This makes him an effective lobbyist and advocate.
What is the driving factor for Mike to pursue a career in politics?
What challenges does Mike face working in the North Carolina Home Builders Association for 30 years?
What is Mike’s advice for young people to start their journey?
Check out Mike Carpenter as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Dodie was raised by her adopted family in Hickory in Catawba County, North Carolina. The family that adopted her was very wonderful to her. She feels blessed that she had a comfortable upbringing.
She was an only child, but she had a lot of friends in school. A teacher at that school named Mrs. Lenore also inspired her to become what she is today. She put the passion of learning civics and understanding the government into her.
 She thinks that her teacher was very influential to her to the point that she tags her every time anything notable occurs in her career. She eventually going to college in Mars Hill University. She thought she was going to be a lawyer, but the university didn’t have a pre-law program, so she eventually settled for Political Science.
At the university, she had a professor named George Perry who would take students to Washington D.C. during Christmas break to go to meetings and presentations. During that trip, she realized that it’s exactly what she wanted in life.
How was Dodie’s experience in her line of work?
What did she learn in her career?
What do campaign managers even do?
Tune in to the State Lobbying Heroes Podcast as Dodie talks about her career and shares everything she’s learned!

Jack grew up in the small town of Drexel, Raleigh. He is the youngest of eight children. His family had a big family farm where they grew vegetables to eat. At an early age, he is exposed to politics. His mother is a democrat, and his father is a republican.

Thus, a debate was often at their kitchen table. He went to college, majored in politics, and started volunteering for campaigns as a student. He then moved to law school and returned to Raleigh to work as an attorney general.

Because of Jack’s background, Jackson grew up in politics. Frequently, Jack would take Jackson with him to the governor’s mansion, making him very interested in the environment of politics. Jackson majored in communications and public relations, which gave him the foundation to start working with a judge in a lobbying and government relations field.

What is the first step to entering the work of lobbying and advocacy?

What is the mission of their organization and the policies they work on?

What are the dos and don’ts you need to consider in lobbying?

Check out Jack and Jackson as they share their journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Chris Burke grew up in the suburb of Chicago. It was a pleasant experience for him as the catholic school he attended was just a three-minute walk behind their house, which made him more connected to his environment.

After moving to a different suburb in Chicago and his parents separated, Chris stayed with his mother. He continued playing music throughout his primary and secondary educational years as his father was a jazz musician.

Initially, Chris took business as his college major, which seemed like a great choice. Moreover, his parents did not work in that field. Chris didn't have any role models for college around him because his parents couldn't finish college.

After some time, he switched to Mass Communication after realizing he did not enjoy his chosen field. He discovered during that time that what he wanted the most was his elective classes in social science.

Eventually, he decided to change his major and pursue a Bachelor of Science in Sociology because it was the subject that interested him the most.

What is the one skill Chris thinks is essential for someone to become a good lobbyist?

What motivates Chris to be doing what he's doing?

What sparked Chris' interest in government relations?

Check out Chris Burke as he shares his journey in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Krista Hinson grew up in the town of Marshall, in the rural southwest part of Minnesota. Due to her circumstances, she learned how to be independent at a very young age, but she still enjoyed her life living in a small town. Krista went to a small school, and her first major was biology, but she transferred to the University of Minnesota and got a degree in Human Nutrition and Biochemistry. When she got involved in College Republicans, she got into politics and became interested in the political process and campaigns.

She worked as the government relations director for the South Carolina Hospital Association for almost a decade. She is currently working as the Executive Director of South Carolina Retail Association.

How did Krista end up working in politics?

What made her transition from medical to politics?

What Krista’s destination spots?

Check out Krista Hinson as she shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Anna Bullard grew up in Lyons, Georgia. A small town with less than 20,000 residents. Her family traveled a lot, so at an early age, Anna saw the world in many ways. Growing up in a small town while simultaneously experiencing different cultures by traveling opened Anna’s eyes and made her more compassionate. The focus of her passion is to help people who struggle to have a voice in any given sector, such as the disability community, underprivileged children, and health care issues.

Anna became a passionate person at a young age. Thus, she is the type of high school student that would go out of her way to help other pupils. After graduating from high school, Anna's goal is to travel overseas and undertake mission work for a couple of years. But, because her father is a business entrepreneur and her uncle is a senator, she has seen both worlds and their significance. That is why she wanted to be a part of it, which led her to become an executive director.

What three skills does Anna think are essential for someone to be a good lobbyist?

What would Anna recommend for someone to enter the lobbying world?

What skills did Anna gain that helped her in her current position?

What stuff did Anna do that she had been working on before working on behavioral health?

Check out Anna Bullard as she shares her journey in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Katelyn Kingsbury grew up in Outer Banks, North Carolina, and there she developed her love for nature and the outdoors. Growing up, she learned more about politics from the people she least expected to learn it from. She started volunteering at a young age to make an impact to her community. Katelyn took Political Science and worked towards becoming an attorney, yet after some time, she realized that being a lobbyist was much more suited for her.

Katelyn Kingsbury believes that campaigns are an avenue into the world of Government Relations. She was a campaign manager before being a legislative assistant at the NCGA. Katelyn is now a registered lobbyist who works with the Government Affairs team to implement legislative strategies for clients in various industries.

What is the hardest part of her job?

What skills should a lobbyist possess?

Why is it important for the youth to be in government relations?

Check out Katelyn Kingsbury as she shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

The finest compliments Anne has ever had were from legislators, both state and federal lawmakers, who thanked her for sticking by them, cooperating with them, and ultimately helping them serve a significant number of people who needed assistance.

Her favorite issues that she worked on were business and manufacturing issues. However, she found financial literacy more intriguing because she believes it to be one of the essential topics in our life.

If Anne DeSeta DarConte is the governor of North Carolina for a day, she wants to sit down with the legislature's leadership and the cabinet. She would like to know the future problems the state may encounter and make sure to have a preparation that will last 10 to 30 years.

Working with many diverse individuals allowed Anne to learn a couple of key things. First of all, you shouldn't operate or assess your performance using mediocrity as a benchmark. Second, those that succeed comprehend that this industry involves more than just lobbying.

What would it be if Anne had to change one rule in the state government process?

What is the hardest part about her job?

If she had an unlimited amount of wealth, what would she do with it?

Check out Anne DeSeta DarConte as she shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Rufus Edmisten was born and raised in Boone, North Carolina. He earned his undergraduate degree in political science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After 10 years of being part of North Carolina Senator Sam Ervin's staff, he served as Deputy Chief Counsel to the Watergate Committee. Rufus was elected the state's Attorney General in 1974. In 1988, he was elected to the office of Secretary of State. In 1996, he launched a governmental relations legal practice called Edmisten & Webb Law.

Rufus has over 30 years of experience in public and private legal practice. He has developed extensive business and government contacts, including strong ties with state, regional, national, and international leaders.

What is the best advice Rufus got?

What is Rufus' favorite hobby?

What did Rufus' mother say to former President Bill Clinton?

Check out Rufus Edmisten as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Bill Holman grew up in Greensboro, South Carolina. He spent most of his time camping in the mountains and along the coast. At NC State, he studied biology and chemistry, concentrating on microbiology and chemistry.Bill Holman began his lobbying career in 1979 and has long been interested in environmental policy and conservation, believing that climate change is a major threat to public health, the environment, and the economy.

Bill is very persevered to leave a legacy for the state by protecting and conserving locals and the land. He liked several politicians who had made an influence as political leaders and brought unity to his state.

How would you teach the people about the need for environmental conservation?

What changes will you make to the educational system?

Check out Bill Holman as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Abby was brought from Cincinnati, Ohio, at the age of three to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Her parents had a dream of owning and operating a small motel. From when Abby was three until she went off through college, her parents owned and operated a 12-unit motel a block and a half off the beach.

Abby learned from an early age that she would need to work hard at whatever she did if she ever wanted to achieve her goals. This lesson was reinforced throughout her life. Abby's desire to be self-sufficient drove her to begin working at the Pancake House, which was located just a few blocks up the street from where they lived, despite the fact that her parents were always there to lend their support.

Kim, on the other hand, grew up in western New York outside of Buffalo. She grew up with two very loving parents who were able to be present for various activities, sporting events, and educational events, which impacted Kim’s competence and overall skill set in the years to come.

Kim's father was adamant that they discuss one aspect of the news around the globe at the dinner table each night. That eventually encouraged Kim to become active and interested in politics and public service. She also had a mother who was actively engaged in ensuring that they were giving back to the community through various church-related activities or neighborhood community activities.

Why did Kim and Abby choose to get a law degree?

In all her illustrious career, what was the biggest failure of Kim?

What was the most challenging issue Abby worked on?

Check out Kim and Abby as they share their journey in this new episode of the State Lobbying Heroes.

Sebastian King was born and raised in Austin but moved to North Carolina with his mom and stepfather. Her mother had him at a very young age. Sebastian's mom raised him alone, but when he was two years old, her mom met his stepfather. He grew up in a simple life and a humble beginning,

Sebastian was aware of the sacrifices his parents made to ensure that he had a better life than them.

Sebastian has a degree in Political Science from Texas State University.

Sebastian knew that many people were struggling, so he was interested in government affairs to promote a better childhood and life for everyone.

What would Sebastian do if he were the governor?

What  is the most momentous thing in Sebastian's career as a lobbyist?

What is the hardest part of being a lobbyist?

Check out Sebastian King as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Ray Williams was born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama. His father was a physician, while his mother was a homemaker. He has four siblings: a twin sister, two older sisters, and an older brother. He attended a military high school in Marion, Alabama, named Marion Military Institute. It’s a family tradition to go there, considering that both his grandfather and father attended the same high school. It prepared Ray for the challenges he faced as an adult, as a man trying to take care of himself and his family. He went to Huntington College, located in Montgomery, Alabama.

Ray’s original dream was to be a coach like his grandfather. It wasn’t until college that he experienced working with the governor of Alabama as an intern. Ray struggled during the first semester of Business Administration in college, so his academic counselor told him to switch to liberal arts because that is where he suits the most. Moving to liberal arts opened Ray’s eyes to other futures and careers that he could pursue with a history background. What led Ray to pursue a career in the field of political science? What were his life experiences after college? How did Ray enter the field of Healthcare? Check out Ray Williams as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Andy Allen was born in Lumberton, He spent his entire childhood and education in Southern Pines. He attended local public schools there from kindergarten through high school.

He had a younger sister by three years, and his parents had a small business. Andy participates in a wide variety of sports with his family's support, including football, basketball, wrestling, and his primary sport, baseball.

Andy was shaped by his surroundings because of the variety of people he interacted with there. In the end, Andy was grateful for the support of his loving family.

For a while, Andy dreamed of making it big in the major leagues of baseball. Later, he considered switching careers and becoming a lawyer instead. The fact that his parents were involved in politics, this encouraged him to pursue a career in the field.

Finally, he determined that studying political science would provide the most direct route to a career in law. Andy's personal situation delayed his pursuit of a legal career. During his two-year break, he worked in human resources for a Mitsubishi semiconductor firm in Durham.

He then attended Campbell Law School for three years. In his first year of work, he held the position of clerk for the Farm Bureau Federation.

Does Andy’s Law degree help him in his current job?

What is his organization's mission?

What is the proudest thing which he has done?

What would Andy want to do 5 to 10 years later?

Check out Andy Ellen as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Cody Hand grew up in rural New Mexico since his parents worked in the oil industry, and West Texas and New Mexico are best known for their oil production.

Because of his social studies teachers, Cody understood the importance of getting involved with our government, what the government does, and how the role the government is meant to play in people's lives.

Cody originally intended to be an international businessperson and eventually decided to major in International Business. After that, he went to law school and worked for the General Assembly for a few years.

Cody Hand is the North Carolina Healthcare Association's Senior Vice President of Advocacy. He primarily handles business and manages the association.

In his line of work, he believes that understanding and making sense of a statute and its related bills are essential, along with considering the client's best interests and setting aside personal objectives.

How would Cody encourage young people to become more involved in government relations?

What three qualities are required of a competent lobbyist?

What is the actual role of a lobbyist?

What would Cody be, if he wasn't a lobbyist?

What initially sparked Cody's interest in politics?



Check out Cody Hand as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Brandeis was born and raised in New Orleans and attended high school in Sandy Springs, Georgia. She is the only girl in their household, which she viewed for her domineering demeanor, which later helped her realize why she chose her career. Her favorite hobby is photography, and she is a portrait photographer.

She received a Bachelor of Arts in English with a specialization in political science from college. She pursued this degree because she believes it will help her to become more adept in English literature and utilize it as a foundation for her career in political science. Her ambition as a child was to speak on behalf of those who didn't have the voice to speak up, and she finally lived her dreams.

What three skills are required to be a good lobbyist?

What is the one thing about Brandeis that no one knows?

What is Brandeis' favorite book?

How did she end up in government relations?

Check out Brandeis as she shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

David Powers grew up in North Carolina in the town of Burlington Mills. Their family had a farm supply business operated by his father and uncle, while his mother and wife worked as public school teachers.

He attended North Carolina State for his college. David was always interested in politics. His interest in politics and business led to him taking up economics as a major in college.

His father, being politically active, influenced him to get interested in the political field at a young age.

He met a former governor at the age of 12 and went to a campaign event for Ronald Reagan at 16. His interest in politics focused more on campaign work.

Eventually, he began working in the lobbying industry.

How did David begin his career in the lobbying sector?

What skills David thinks are essential for being a good lobbyist?

What other work did David perform besides campaigning?

What led David to pursue a career in government relations?

How did he establish his firm?

Check out David Powers as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Lori Kroll was born and raised in Maryland. She is the oldest daughter in the family and has a younger brother and sister. She grew up close to her family, grandparents, and cousins. Every summer, they would visit Myrtle Beach. Her grandfather is from Durham, and sometimes they go there after visiting the beach. Lori wasn’t interested in politics while she was growing up. The first politician she remembers is former president Richard Nixon.

Lori always wanted to join the military, but she chose to study at the University of Maryland, College Park to pursue her degree in Criminology. After graduating, she planned to enter the military, but she got accepted into law school and chose that path. While studying law school, she discovered how the military has lawyers.

What happened to Lori’s dream of entering the military?

Was she able to fulfill her dreams?

What is Lori’s favorite destination spot?

What Lori learned from her failures?

How would she encourage the youth and the public to be more politically aware?

Check out Lori Kroll as she shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Although she was born in Brooklyn, Debra Derr spent much of her childhood in Hickory. Instead of being politically motivated, Debra is more of a creative kind.

She spent her childhood in front of the television and eventually was involved in a television production at her high school, which aroused her interest in the medium.

When Debra was in college, she attended Norfolk State and focused her studies on mass communication.

Following that, she applied to and was accepted into the television production program at Brooklyn College. Debra started learning how to shoot for the American Theater Wing.

She decided to move to Washington, D.C. with her kid and take a job as a press secretary for a member of Congress. Following that, she began working for Richard Stevens, who was the county manager in Wake County.

How would Debra educate the public about the role of a lobbyist?

How would Debra encourage the youth, especially the minorities, to get involved in government relations discussions?

What did Debra feel about stepping into public affairs?

Check out Debra Derr as she shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Jordan was born in Savannah, Georgia. They stayed there for about a year, moved to South Carolina for about a year or two, and then settled in Charlotte, North Carolina. That’s where Jordan Roberts grew up and was fortunate to spend much time on the lake as a child.

Playing sports was a big part of Jordan’s life, and he played baseball, basketball, and eventually lacrosse in high school. His interest in politics came out at the end of high school, and he started to understand the world a little as he got older.

Jordan took an AP government class in high school, and his teacher inspired him to learn more about history and government and how they interact with our world today. Jordan had always thought about taking the route that his grandpa did of getting into politics.

What is Jordan’s favorite destination stop?

What set Jordan up to enter the world of public policy?

What was Jordan's biggest motivation?

Check out Jordan Roberts as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Kevin Curtin grew up in Dunwoody, Georgia, just outside of Atlanta. He went to elementary school up to high school in Dunwoody and spent a good portion of his youth there.

He grew up in a family that wasn't very politically active and he wasn't exposed to it until later in his life.

Kevin has a strong professional background with a Master of Science (M.S.) from the J. Mack Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University and a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) from the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia.

After graduation, how did Kevin discover government relations?

What is the ideal step to being a good lobbyist for Kevin?

What is Kevin's favorite book?

Brian Lewis was born in Duplin County, specifically in Kenansville,  North Carolina. They moved a lot when he was growing up. Political  issues, abortion, gay rights, and other topics were discussed during his  childhood. As a child, Brian came from a poor family. They lived in  public housing, but their church helped them get through the hard times.   Brian used to be a student government president in 5th grade. He is  personally interested in journalism, which is why he was part of the  student newspaper in college. Brian covered everything about the student  government and the UNC system. He took up Political Science as his  college major and had a master's degree in Public Affairs with a  concentration in Public Policy. He also spent a lot of time in the  communications department.  How did Brian switch from Journalism to Public Affairs?  What can he suggest for those who are interested in becoming a lobbyist?   How was his experience in the world of Public Affairs?  Join us as we listen to Brian Lewis's story in this next State Lobbying  Heroes episode.

Doug Heron was born and raised in New York, Huntington, Long Island. His parents are both educators. When he was young, he would argue with his father, and you could say that was a hint what was in store for his future career.

Doug Heron went to James Madison University and majored in political science and history with a minor in criminal justice. He spent some time in law enforcement right after college before he got into law school at Penn State.

What made Doug get into law enforcement?

What is the most meaningful thing in his career?

What is the one thing very few people know about Doug socially?

Check out Doug Heron as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Frank Morris is the oldest of four siblings and grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. He had a joyful childhood because he grew up surrounded by his family and extended family. Frank worked as a UPS driver while attending classes at The University of Utah before transferring to Westminster College and earning a bachelor's degree in Business Management. He ran for various positions as an officer in middle and high school because he was interested in politics.

What would Frank be if he didn't work as a lobbyist?

What influenced Frank to become the man he is today?

What advice does Frank provide for aspiring lobbyists?

In this episode of State Lobbying Heroes, we'll follow Frank on his journey. Tune in!