Through thoughtful policy discussions and interviews, each episode will showcase the voices in and around the halls of our capitol. Let’s find out what’s important to those shaping public policy and in turn, what’s important to Virginia and you. The VIP Podcast will be hosted by Chris Saxman, Executive Director of Virginia FREE, and a former delegate who served in the Virginia House from 2002 to 2010.
Episodes
Jan 25, 2023
Jan 25, 2023
23 min
VCTA, Broadband Association of Virginia, President Ray LaMura sits down for a conversation with Chris. They discuss the future of broadband in Virginia and what steps have been taken to ensure we are on the right path to get to those remaining unserved households.
Jan 24, 2023
Jan 24, 2023
3 min
Chris shares the sources he uses to analyze elections and stay informed! Top sources include the nonprofit Virginia Public Access Project (VPAP) . Check them out!
Jan 19, 2023
Jan 19, 2023
8 min
If you consider yourself an election nerd, this episode is for you!
Virginia is viewed as a "bellwether." in national politics. The elections in our Commonwealth are often predictive of national outcomes and are closely watched by Democrats and Republicans. Virginia holds elections every year, and this constant political change makes it "Election Nerd Disneyland."
Host Chris Saxman, a self-proclaimed election nerd, breaks down the importance of Virginia's elections, analyzes polling numbers, and provides insight and commentary on these closely-watched races. Join us for these special episodes as these races unfold.
Dec 20, 2022
Dec 20, 2022
45 min
Season 1 of the VIP podcast ends with a great conversation featuring Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney! Get to know the Mayor and listen in as he and host Chris Saxman share stories and opinions. They discuss the issues impacting Virginia's students in the aftermath of the pandemic, what was done, and what can be done in the future. You don't want to miss this engaging conversation!
Nov 17, 2022
Nov 17, 2022
58 min
Delegate David Reid joins the podcast again! Delegate David Reid, House District 32, and Chris Saxman swap stories and talk about their shared favorite soccer team, his focus on problem-solving in politics, broadband, elections, and much more.
You don't want to miss this great conversation!
Oct 26, 2022
Oct 26, 2022
40 min
Former Delegate David J. Toscano joins Chris Saxman on the latest episode! David J. Toscano served 14 years (2006-20) in the Virginia House of Delegates representing the 57th District. He was the Democratic leader in the House of Delegates from 2011 to 2018. Prior to serving in the state legislature, he served 12 years on Charlottesville’s City Council, including a stint as Mayor. Listen as he and Chris share stories and discuss how politics and policies play a critical role in our lives.
Want to learn more about Virginia's political landscape through the insights of a former delegate? Check out David Toscano's new book! Bellwether: Virginia’s Political Transformation, 2006-2020.
Oct 17, 2022
Oct 17, 2022
29 min
Get to know Delegate Phillip Scott, House District 88, as he shares stories about his path into politics, the legislation he's focused on, personal favorites, and more!
Aug 23, 2022
Aug 23, 2022
43 min
Delegate Emily Brewer, House District 64, and Chris Saxman share stories and talk about their love of documentaries, why she's running to represent Virginia's 17th State Senate District, the policy work she's passionate about, and much more!
Aug 2, 2022
Aug 2, 2022
44 min
Senator Pillion and Delegate O'Quinn have a conversation with host Chris Saxman about progress in Southwest Virginia, and their unique hands-on approach to encouraging economic development in the area. Listen to this duo share stories about bipartisan school construction efforts, the budget process, and more!
Jul 21, 2022
Jul 21, 2022
38 min
Senator Dunnavant stops by the podcast to share her unique perspective, as both Senator and Doctor, on healthcare, education, and more! You don't want to miss this great conversation.