Texas Talks

• Ep. 68 - Rep. Gary Gates (Texas State Representative)

  In this episode of the Texas Talks podcast, host Brad Swail sits down with Texas State Representative Gary Gates of House District 28. Known for his endurance as an Ironman triathlete and his leadership as Chairman of the Land and Resource Management Committee, Rep. Gates dives into two major legislative initiatives: expanding vocational education for high school students and reforming Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs) to protect taxpayers and increase transparency. They discuss Gates' landmark vocational training bill (HB 20), which aims to prepare students for high-paying, in-demand jobs without the burden of college debt. The conversation then shifts to housing policy and HB 21, addressing how certain entities exploit tax exemptions without delivering true affordable housing, costing Texas billions in revenue. If you're interested in policy, education reform, housing legislation, or Texas state politics, this episode delivers a deep dive into the state's most pressing issues. 🔗 Full episode links and show resources in the description below!

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• Ep. 67 - Paul Bettencourt (Senator)

  Senator Paul Bettencourt returns to Texas Talks for a wide-ranging conversation on the most significant legislative moves shaping Texas today. From a record-breaking property tax relief package to launching the largest education savings account program, Bettencourt dives into the priorities driving the 2025 legislative session. Host Brad Swail explores school choice, support for special needs education, and how reforms are tackling housing affordability and tax burdens for Texas seniors. It’s a deep look at policy changes with real-life impact.

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• Ep. 66 - Briscoe Cain (Texas State Representative)

  Brad Swail sits down with Texas State Representative Briscoe Cain (HD-128) for a wide-ranging and candid conversation on some of the most pressing legislative issues in the Lone Star State. Rep. Cain discusses the landmark push for universal school choice through Educational Savings Accounts (ESAs), the controversial "District of Austin" bill, and his strong stance against taxpayer-funded lobbying. Cain also shares his views on how to phase out property taxes, tackle local government overspending, and what he sees as the future of public education in Texas. They also explore the implications of recent legislation affecting memes and political speech, and how civic engagement still plays a critical role at the Capitol. Whether you're a Texas policy wonk, a parent following school choice, or simply a citizen concerned about taxes and governance, this episode delivers clarity, strong opinions, and actionable insights. 🟦 Subscribe for more conversations with Texas lawmakers and policy leaders.

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• Ep. 65 - Ashley Spence (DNA Justice Project)

  Ashley Spence, founder of the DNA Justice Project and author of Silent Witness, shares her harrowing story of surviving a brutal assault—and how a DNA match seven years later finally brought her attacker to justice. In this powerful episode of Texas Talks, Ashley explains how current laws on DNA collection are saving lives and why rapid DNA technology could revolutionize the criminal justice system. She also opens up about healing, advocacy, and the fight for legislative change in Texas and beyond. From personal trauma to national reform, this interview is a must-watch for anyone who cares about justice, safety, and the real-world impact of policy. 🔗 Learn more: https://dnajusticeproject.org

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• Ep. 64 - Chris Williston

  In this conversation, we’re joined by Chris Williston, President & CEO of the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT), representing over 2,000 banks and branches across 700 Texas communities. 🔍 In This Episode: - The vital role of community banks in rural Texas towns - Why swipe fee legislation (SB 2026 & HB 4124) could hurt small banks and benefit big-box retailers - How alternative currencies and stablecoins could drain lending power from local banks - The legacy of banking in the Williston family and why relationship-based lending still matters - Behind-the-scenes challenges facing Texas' independent banks - Chris breaks down complex policy issues in a way that makes sense for everyday Texans and small business owners. If you care about local economies, financial policy, and keeping banking close to home, this is a must-listen. 🔗 Learn more at: https://ibat.org 🎧 Subscribe for more deep-dive conversations from across the Lone Star State.

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