State Lobbying Heroes

Natalie Crawford's passion for politics was ignited at a young age, a fire stoked by her family's active involvement in political discourse. Born in 1980, she came of age during the Reagan administration, a time when she vividly remembers sitting with her grandparents to watch presidential debates. Her grandfather, in particular, stressed the significance of voting, impressing upon her that it was not merely a right but a solemn duty. Natalie was born into a family deeply committed to service, as both of her parents pursued careers as nurses. Additionally, she was a preacher's child, deeply immersed in the life of the church. These early life experiences served to underscore the value of selfless service and community engagement in her upbringing. After completing her formal education, she embarked on her professional journey within corporate America, initially specializing in marketing and business development. Nevertheless, her career trajectory underwent a significant transformation when she took on a role at a university, focusing on marketing efforts for a new Fine Arts Complex. This shift marked the commencement of her illustrious career in higher education, where she eventually found herself immersed in student affairs, concentrating on the crucial aspects of leadership and career development for students. Her dedication to community service was unwavering, and she actively participated in various community organizations, lending her expertise to several boards during the course of her career. In her early thirties, she received a proposition that would change the course of her career profoundly – the suggestion to explore a political role. Accepting this challenge marked a pivotal turning point as she was successfully elected to serve as a county commissioner. Throughout her career, her commitment to public service and advocacy never wavered. She made invaluable contributions as a member of the Board of Managers for ACCG (Association County Commissioners of Georgia), an opportunity that enabled her to engage with legislators and exert her influence on local policies. Why does Natalie think the youth should be involved in Government Relations? If Natalie were governor for five days, what actions would she take? What is a lobbyist for Natalie in one word? Check out Natalie Crawford as she shares her journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Peter Simmons, a native of Macon, Georgia, was raised in a family where the importance of civic engagement was emphasized from a young age. Growing up, his parents lived in a time when their rights were not always guaranteed by the Constitution or recognized by law.
In this environment, Peter's parents instilled in him the fundamental duty of every citizen in the country – to ensure that the government respects its people and preserves their rights, liberties, and basic human dignity.
Upon completing his high school education, Peter began his journey in the realm of civic responsibility by securing a position with the election commission. Subsequently, he gained experience as a fundraiser for a progressive consulting firm in Atlanta.
Seeking a deeper understanding of the policy and law processes, he pursued his education at Howard University, where he engaged in numerous law clerkships. During this time, he also embarked on a multi-year internship with a political consulting firm.
Today, Peter Simmons holds the role of Georgia State Policy Advocate for Protect Democracy, a cross-ideological nonprofit organization with a singular mission – to confront authoritarian threats to the United States. His fervent passion lies in policy creation, a field that allows him to think critically and craft solutions to address not only his own challenges but also those faced by his community and fellow citizens.
What is Peter’s favorite lesson in government relations?
Why should you involve yourself actively and be participative in civic engagements?
What are the do’s and don’ts in lobbying?
Join Peter Simmons in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes as he shares his knowledge, experiences, and lessons throughout his lobbying career.

Brooke Turner, a Georgia native with a nomadic childhood, found her passion for politics through family discussions and the influence of her father and grandmother, both involved in politics during the '90s and early 2000s.

Originally aspiring to be a doctor, Brooke shifted towards political science after a lightbulb moment during college applications, guided by her grandmother's suggestion. Joining Governor Kemp's campaign in 2018, she seamlessly transitioned into political work and later added communications to her academic pursuits.

Her journey includes internships, a focus on education policy at the Governor's Office of Student Achievement, and a full-time role at Marksburg and Middleton, solidifying her commitment to the political landscape. When asked what surprised her when she started working in her field, she remarked on the notable level of collaboration among everyone.

What would Brooke do if she was the Governor?

What does quality-based education mean to her?

Does she consider herself an extrovert?

Let's join Brooke's personal journey and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Rich Johnson grew up in Metro Atlanta and attended South Forsyth High School. Politics were frequently discussed with his family, primarily due to his father's interest in the news and current affairs. This laid the foundation for his future career path. Despite initially having ambitions of becoming an attorney, Rich decided to pursue a Political Science degree at the University of Tennessee, motivated by its broader options.
After graduating, Rich entered the workforce with the Tennessee Republican Party, earning a modest salary of $24,000 a year. Although not a large sum, he cherished the opportunity it provided to establish relationships and gain valuable political experience.

Rich's career took a significant turn nearly a decade ago when he joined AT&T in a government and public affairs technologist position. He spent his early years as an External Affairs Manager for South Metro Atlanta. By 2019, he had been promoted to Assistant Vice President, overseeing regulatory and legislative issues.
Throughout his career at AT&T, Rich found satisfaction and excitement in the diversity and unpredictability of his workdays. The ability to impact his community and engage in politics, an area he is passionate about, has made his career at AT&T rewarding and enjoyable.
What is the biggest challenge Rich faced?
What rule would he change if given an opportunity as a lobbyist?
What is the most exciting part of his job?
Check out Rich Johnson as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

Christopher Stock's family relocated to North Carolina from New Jersey in 2005, bringing him and his three siblings to a new chapter of life. From an early age, Christopher's intrigue with politics was ignited during elementary school, where he bravely ran for class president despite being a newcomer. This interest persisted through his time in law school, during which he gained experience working for Senator Brent Jackson's office, focusing mainly on advocacy for special needs children's educational opportunities and support.

Today, Christopher serves as General Counsel at Kairos Government Affairs in North Carolina, where he advises clients on policy matters within the state legislature and agencies. His expertise spans key areas such as transportation, energy, and healthcare. Balancing his work's short-term and long-term implications presents a significant challenge for him.

What advice does Chrishave before someone enters government relations?

Is an outgoing personality critical to this field of work?

What is Chris's aspiration that drives and motivates him?

Check out Christopher Stock as he shares his journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes.

KJ Stancil is a native of rural North Carolina, hailing from a family deeply entrenched in politics. Raised in an environment where political engagement was a norm, KJ's initial disinterest in the field shifted dramatically when he interned for state senator Brent Jackson at the young age of 18. This pivotal experience ignited his passion for politics, leading him to pursue a degree in leadership in the public sector at North Carolina State University.
KJ Stancil delved into the realm of state politics, serving as a legislative staffer in both the State Senate and House. With over 11 years of invaluable experience under his belt, he transitioned to the private sector, founding his own lobbying firm, Eagle Eye Consulting Services LLC.
Why does KJ Stancil believe it's important for the younger generation to be more involved in government relations?
What is the most important skill of a competent lobbyist?
What sparked KJ's interest in politics?
Join us as we unravel the fascinating narrative of KJ Stancil, a true trailblazer in the world of state lobbying, in this captivating new episode of State Lobbying Heroes

Mark Putman grew up in Northern Virginia. Both of his parents worked in the medical field as healthcare professionals. While this likely exposed him to the importance of healthcare from a young age, Mark gravitated towards a different path driven by his passion for problem-solving.
While he enjoyed sports like soccer, his true passion lay in science and technology, guiding his career aspirations from a young age. As a former Georgia assembly worker, Mark saw how special interests influence politics over people.
He advocates making the legislative process more accessible and transparent so everyday citizens can get involved. Describing himself as "creative," Mark approaches issues with a unique perspective, always seeking innovative solutions.
Where and when was Mark's passion ignited?
What are the steps he takes to get involved?
What are his opinions on the future of biomedical engineering and energy policy?
Join Mark as he tells his story and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Matt Anderson is the youngest of six children. Growing up in Pittsburgh, he had a wide range of interests, including sports, arts, skateboarding, snowboarding, lacrosse, and outdoor activities like mountain biking and backpacking. During high school, he wasn't particularly interested in traditional academic subjects, and his focus was on creative and outdoor pursuits. His life took a different turn when he attended college in Montana, where he pursued his undergraduate degree and later a Master's in Social Work at the University of Montana. During this time, he developed a passion for learning, education, and politics. According to Matt, being a lobbyist or working in government affairs puts you in the interpersonal relations industry. It's not the job for you if you don't like what you're doing, it doesn't make you excited and motivated, and it doesn't let you use your creativity. You must genuinely enjoy interacting with and working with people. What, according to Matt, is crucial in a child's education to enhance their engagement with the government and its processes? What is the best advice Matt received about his work and personal values? What can we learn from Matt's 10-year experience as a lobbyist? What excites Matt about the future? Let's join Matt's personal journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Ellen Wilson Hoover's early years were spent in South Bend, Indiana, within a family deeply rooted in the University of Notre Dame and St. Mary's. Her connection to these institutions ran deep, as she followed in the footsteps of her mother and one of her sisters by attending St. Mary's, while her brother proudly graduated from Notre Dame. It was from a young age that Ellen's interest in politics was sparked. This curiosity took root as early as third grade when she eagerly anticipated a monthly magazine dedicated to the subject. Despite her parents' initial confusion regarding her decision to major in political science, Ellen tenaciously pursued her passion. Her determination paid off as she secured a paid internship with a congressman after completing college, thereby setting the stage for her subsequent career in politics. In Ellen's view, lobbying is both a science and an art, representing the intricate craft of advocacy in the political arena. What is her perspective on the significance of lobbying in the community? What does she regard as the most momentous moment in her career? Where does she see herself 5 years from now? Let's join Ellen's personal journey and more in this episode of State Lobbying Heroes!

Walter Vinson was born in Chicago, Illinois. Both of his parents were Chicago public school teachers and are politically active. Thus, Walter understood politics at an early age. He graduated college at Alcorn State University in Laurel, Mississippi, majoring in business administration. After that, his father and uncle persuaded him to volunteer for a family friend entering a congressional race.
Getting involved in the political campaign made Walter realize that this was the path he wanted to take. Though his degree is not aligned with his chosen career, it helped him to understand how to network, create relationships from scratch, and solidify them. Since then, his career as a lobbyist began. Switching from politics to policy, Walter now focuses on ensuring the production of good government to the constituency.

Walter Vinson is now the Director Of Government Affairs at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, specializing in policy decision-making. Lobbying at the airport and getting infrastructure developed is the most rewarding for him because it will create more jobs and increase the number of passengers that will come into flights.
What actions would Walter take as the President of the United States for five days?
How does Walter describe the role of a lobbyist in the community?
What should the first step be if anyone wanted to get into government relations?
Join in as Walter shares his impactful knowledge, insights, and experiences in his lobbying career. Don’t miss this out!