This week, 3/4 of the team discusses the tumultuous week we've had in DC and what that means for the still-necessary lawmaking work that needs to get done before 2020 begins.

This week, we're joined by Matt Mackowiak, Republican political consultant with a finger to the pulse of Texas politics in particular, to discuss a variety of Texas-centric political topics, including Texodus, #TXSEN, Beto, and 2020 chatter. Tune in for an excellent discussion on the ever-changing world of Lone Star State politics.

Happy 100th episode! We're pleased to open this ep with a brief interview with Greg Bopp, Bracewell's Managing Partner and Lobby Shop fan. After that, the team dives into what's foremost on their minds as we prepare for Congress' return to work after August Recess on Monday.

This week, Caitlin and Paul interview our departing summer interns: Cameron Crain, Cameron Dietz, Carolyn Spector, and Sarah Brabson. These four young professionals chat about what it was like to work and live in the heart of DC, what they learned from their experiences, and what they hope future PRG and DC interns keep in mind before they start their positions.

We're thrilled to announce the newest co-host of The Lobby Shop, Caitlin Sickles! You're likely familiar with her from past episodes, but here's a refresher: Caitlin is a Principal in PRG's strategic communications team and heads up our digital media practice.

In addition to this announcement, Josh gives a crash-course on domestic terrorism, its current lack of status as a federal crime, and what that means in the wake of the latest mass shootings in America.

PRG Communications Principal Caitlin Sickles joins as a guest host today for a great interview with Steve Alexander, President of the Association of Plastic Recyclers. We discuss the misconceptions about the recycling process, the need for demand for both recyclable and recycled materials, how brands can meet sustainability goals, and what individuals can do to ensure the recycling chain flows effectively.

In the midst of Mueller Mania, Congress was busily approving a 2-year budget deal. Today, we're joined by Jack Fitzpatrick, Bloomberg Government reporter covering Congress, to talk about what's included in that deal and what it means for government spending in 2020 and 2021. Special guest-host this week is PRG Principal John Lee.

Today we're joined by Matthew Nielsen, Bracewell Partner in the firm's White Collar Defense practice, to talk about his work and what it means in the world of corporate law. Also, for photos from our intro's unboxing segment, check out our Twitter page: @TheLobbyShopPod.

We're joined this week by Asha Rangappa, former FBI Special Agent, frequent CNN counter-intelligence contributor, and Director of Admissions and Senior Lecturer at Yale University's Jackson Institute for Global Affairs. Asha lends us her expertise in counter-intel as it applies to the Russia investigation, Special Counsel Robert Mueller's upcoming testimonies before Congress, and much more.

Scott Segal, co-head of the Policy Resolution Group, joins us this week to talk about the Affordable Clean Energy (ACE) Rule, this Administration's replacement for the Obama-era Clean Power Plan. We cover the differences and similarities between ACE and CPP, the historical context for these rules, and what they mean for climate change.