In this episode, legislative staffer and community leader Donovon Rodriguez shares how his experience as a 911 dispatcher taught him to stay calm amid the chaos of the Capitol. He also discusses the importance of building strong constituent relationships, his approach to managing a legislative office, and some of the differences between working in the House and Senate.

People and groups mentioned in this podcast: 

Senator Jose Menendez

Senator Roland Gutierrez

Representative Diego Bernal 

Representative Philip Cortez

Representative Trey Martinez Fischer

Representative Ray Lopez 

City Council Member Shirley Gonzales

Edgewood Education Foundation

A very special thanks to Fallout Theater for providing their podcast studio. Check them out for great improv, stand up and sketch comedy just blocks from the Texas Capitol. 

Cap Chat Texas spotlights the people who keep the Texas Capitol running. From staffers to lobbyists to journalists, we explore the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those shaping daily life under the Pink Dome. Join hosts Stephanie Chiarello and David Mintz for candid conversations and fresh insights.

Know someone who would be a great guest?  Drop us a note at [email protected].