Hobby Talks
Hobby Talks is a podcast series from the Hobby School of Public Affairs produced in partnership with the Center for Student Media at the University of Houston. Hosted by Dean Jim Granato and Hobby School faculty, the podcast features timely conversations on politics and policy with experts, scholars and those guiding the most complex challenges facing our region and state.
Podcasting since 2024 • 7 episodes
Hobby Talks
Latest Episodes
Why Congress?
On this episode of Hobby Talks, political scientist Philip Wallach examines the 119th Congress and the deepening polarization of the legislative branch. Wallach guides listeners through Congress's role as the Founders intended and how it has fu...
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Season 2
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Episode 4
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51:15
Following the 89th with State Rep. Lauren Ashley Simmons
Houston state lawmaker Lauren Ashley Simmons shares the latest developments at the Texas Capitol with Hobby Talks host Jim Granato. Rep. Simmons represents House Distric...
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Season 2
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Episode 3
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42:12
State of Public Education with Robert Pondiscio
On this episode of Hobby Talks, education policy expert Robert Pondiscio discusses the state of public education in Texas and across the country. Pondiscio takes listeners through the ...
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Season 2
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Episode 2
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1:01:26
Inside the Texas Capitol with State Sen. Molly Cook
In the first Hobby Talks episode of 2025, Texas state Sen. Molly Cook shares her policy priorities during her first legislative session, from public education and reliable energy to expanding Medicare and other healthcare equity issues. Ho...
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Season 2
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Episode 1
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13:46