Indiana State Reps. Blake Johnson and Earl Harris Jr. are back with reflections on the Statehouse — and a major life change just around the corner for Blake.In this episode, the co-hosts break down:The ongoing concerns around SB 287, which would make school board races partisan — and why that’s raising eyebrows across the aisle. Update: bill passed by razor thin margin.The drama around Senate Bill 1 and the governor’s push for real property tax reliefThe high-stakes budget talks, the politics of SB 518 (school funding), and the looming possibility of a special sessionRoad funding, tolling fears in NW Indiana, and what’s still in play as the 2025 session hits the homestretchPlus: Blake gets real about impending fatherhood (again), and Earl speculates on whether ChatGPT is gunning for the co-host chair.
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17:04
The Speaker of the House w/Rep. Todd Huston
For the first time ever on Session Sessions, we’re joined by the Speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives — and yes, he’s from the other party. Speaker Todd Huston sits down with Reps. Earl Harris Jr. and Blake Johnson for a rare, unfiltered conversation about what it’s really like to lead the 100-member House.We cover a lot: the reality of wrangling policy and personalities, how the sausage gets made during budget season, why the second half of session always feels like a sprint, and the surprising power of simply getting to know each other as people. Speaker Huston even opens up about the loneliness that can come with leadership — and the dinner-table wisdom that keeps him grounded.Also, minivans.Whether you’re inside the Statehouse or just curious about how it all works, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
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31:01
Kicking Off the Second Half w/Kip Tew
In this episode of Session Sessions, we welcome back former state party chair and City County-Councillor, government affairs expert Kip Tew. Kip shares insights and expectations for the second half of Indiana’s legislative session. Recorded on the last day of the first half, Kip shares thoughts on what has unfolded so far and what to expect moving forward.Topics include:✅ How a new governor is reshaping the legislative dynamic✅ The battle over property taxes and its impact on local government✅ Surprise bills that failed to advance, including the controversial homelessness criminalization bill✅ The role of lobbyists in shaping legislation and how AI is beginning to play a role✅ How national politics are trickling down to affect Indiana’s economy and policymaking
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29:43
Bipartisanship, Budgets & Boundaries w/Rep. Matt Lehman
In a first for the podcast, Blake and Earl sit down with a member of Republican leadership, House Majority Floor Leader Matt Lehman, to discuss the first half of Indiana’s 2025 legislative session. From budget battles to bipartisanship, Rep. Lehman shares his insights on the key issues shaping the Statehouse, what surprised him this session, and how the shifting political climate is affecting policymaking. We also discuss the growing disconnect between the public and government and the lessons he’s learned from serving in both the minority and majority. Don’t miss this thoughtful and candid conversation.
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31:06
Beyond the Buzzwords: What Lobbyists Actually Do w/Ali Bartlett
When it comes to jobs that get a bad wrap, lobbyists top the list. In this episode of Session Sessions, we sit down with Ali Bartlett of Bose Public Affairs Group to break down what lobbying actually is, the misconceptions (and deserved critiques) about the profession, and how it plays a critical role in shaping public policy.We dive into:✅ The difference between a registered lobbyist and a regular advocate✅ How lobbying works at the state level vs. the federal level✅ The day-to-day grind of a lobbyist during legislative session✅ Major issues like iGaming, casino policies, and adult education initiatives✅ How bipartisanship is crucial for gaming and other policy debates✅ Why precise testimony in committee hearings is an art formFrom gaming policy to nonprofit advocacy, Ali gives us an unfiltered look at how she strategizes, educates lawmakers, and navigates the legislative process.
Indiana State Representatives Earl Harris, Jr. and Blake Johnson host fellow legislators and experts to share an inside look at the Indiana General Assembly, explain bills moving through the legislative session and showcase the policies and processes that are shaping our state.
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