In this episode of Back in Session, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara welcome Anne Dudro and Luc Montminy, the newest members of Duane Morris Government Strategies. From policy consulting to working at the White House and on Canadian political campaigns, Anne and Luc bring decades of experience in government affairs. They share their journeys, lessons from the trenches of politics and government, expert advice for anyone looking to break into the world of policy and lobbying, and highlight some of the issues they cover at DMGS.

It’s a conversation filled with stories, strategy, and a few good laughs — including why fantasy baseball rivalries matter and how a president once fixed a doorstopper mid-conversation.

Plus, the Ryans learn on air about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's engagement, making this possibly the first government affairs podcast to cover the breaking news.

Learn more about Anne and Luc:

https://statecapitallobbyist.com/team/

Mallerie Stromswold made headlines as one of the youngest state legislators in the country when she won a Montana House seat while still a teenager. Now, she’s serving in a different way—as Government Affairs Manager and Event Coordinator for the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce. In this episode of Back in Session, Mallerie shares how she got started, the issues she championed in office, and what life looks like as a policy leader in Harrisburg. Plus, hear her take on Pennsylvania food culture (Rita’s, Wawa, Martin’s Potato Bread) and the Ryans debate Phillies vs. Yankees, as usual.

Join hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara on this episode of the Back in Session podcast as they chat with Pennsylvania State Representative David Rowe, Chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee. Dive into Rowe's unconventional path to politics, from teaching English in Taiwan and running CrossFit gyms to local township service and now tackling state issues. He breaks down the Policy Committee's recent hearings on critical topics like welfare and benefit integrity, burdensome regulations stifling small businesses, childcare challenges amid closures and red tape, and government efficiency reforms showcased by State Treasurer Stacy Garrity. Plus, hear fun stories about sneaking pianos into the Capitol rotunda for impromptu performances and exploring the state's historic vault full of unclaimed treasures. Whether you're interested in policy insights or lighthearted Harrisburg anecdotes, this episode delivers a balanced mix of substance and smiles.

Learn more about the PA House GOP Policy Committee:

https://www.pagoppolicy.com/

In this episode of Back in Session, the Ryans sit down with Jeff Berkowitz, founder and CEO of Delve, for an in-depth conversation on how artificial intelligence is transforming the future of public affairs and government relations. Drawing from his years of experience at the intersection of politics, research, and strategy, Jeff shares how AI is moving beyond chatbots to become a true partner in policymaking and advocacy.

You’ll hear Jeff explain why AI isn’t here to replace public affairs professionals, but to amplify their strategic impact, and how tools like Delve’s new platform are helping teams move from manual research to real-time intelligence. He also breaks down the risks of poorly thought-out AI regulation, the power of agentic workflows, and how firms can prepare for the next wave of technological disruption in government affairs.

Learn more about Delve's AI Playbook:

delvedeeper.ai/playbook

What exactly does the Pennsylvania Auditor General do—and why should you care? Deputy Chief of Staff Hayden Rigo joins the Back in Session podcast to demystify the work of this essential state office. Learn how audits protect taxpayer dollars, how Rigo’s lobbying past informs his present role, and what priorities shape the office’s future under Tim DeFoor. A must-listen for anyone curious about government transparency and good governance in Pennsylvania.

Learn more about the Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General:

https://www.paauditor.gov/

In this solo-hosted episode of Back in Session, Ryan Stevens welcomes back Micah Rasmussen from Rider University’s Rebovich Institute for an in-depth breakdown of New Jersey’s 2025 gubernatorial and legislative primaries. As the state gears up for a high-stakes election season, Micah dives into the surprising results, strategic party shifts, and the end of New Jersey's infamous "county line" ballot system. From political pins to voter turnout trends, this episode has everything Jersey politics junkies need to know.

In this special local government edition of Back in Session, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara sit down with Jack Gombach, Managing Director of the City of Reading, Pennsylvania. From government affairs pro to city hall COO, Jack shares his journey and his relentless optimism for what's ahead. With insights into urban revitalization, reducing crime, streamlining bureaucracy, and positioning Reading for growth, Jack delivers an engaging look at how local leadership can drive lasting change. If you've ever wondered how cities like Reading move from potential to progress, this episode is for you.

About Jack:

Jack Gombach serves as the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer for the City of Reading, Pennsylvania, where he is leading efforts to modernize city government and accelerate economic growth. Known for his relentless optimism and results-driven leadership, Jack brings clarity, urgency, and a collaborative spirit to complex challenges. His experience spans politics, government affairs, and executive roles in higher education and healthcare. He believes cities thrive when purpose drives performance and leaders stay focused on impact, equity, and service.

In this episode of the Back in Session Podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara welcome Massachusetts State Senator Brendan Crighton. The discussion dives into Crighton’s journey from a civic-minded college student to a state senator, his work as chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation, and the pressing issues facing Massachusetts, including budget uncertainties and transportation challenges. From passing the Working Families Mobility Act to addressing MBTA deficits and coastal community concerns, Crighton shares insights on legislative priorities and coalition-building. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted take on the Boston Celtics’ playoff prospects and the Red Sox’s season outlook.

In this episode of the Back in Session podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara sit down with Andrew O'Connor from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) to explore the advocacy efforts shaping the video game industry. Andrew discusses critical policy challenges like artificial intelligence (AI) and online safety, debunking myths about gamers and highlighting how states like Texas and New York bolster the industry with tax incentives. The hosts also share lighthearted personal stories, from moving woes to nostalgic gaming memories featuring classics like MLB The Show, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, and Halo. Whether you’re a gamer or just curious about the industry’s impact, this episode offers a fun and insightful look behind the scenes.

Learn more about the Entertainment Software Association:

https://www.theesa.com/about-esa/

Pennsylvania House Republican Leader Jesse Topper steps up to the plate on this episode of Back in Session to talk about PA's economy, energy policy, and the GOP’s 2025 legislative game plan. He breaks down Governor Shapiro’s budget, discusses the future of election integrity, and even calls out MLB’s robot umpires. Also tune in to find out Leader Topper's predictions for the Pirates baseball season and who he thinks will be the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback in 2025!

Learn more about PA State Rep. Jesse Topper:

https://www.reptopper.com/about