Beleaguered Staffers

Congress once excelled at crafting clever acronyms for bills—now we get legislation like the “Big, Beautiful Bill.” In this episode, Keith, Laura, and Sean unpack the art (and absurdity) of legislative naming conventions, AI-generated government reports, and fake summer reading lists. It’s a wild ride through policy, politics, and a few too many puns.

Keith, Laura, and Sean answer a listener question about the coolest things they got to do as congressional staffers—and the stories do not disappoint. From backstage brushes with Robert Ballard and Weird Al to rooftop embassy receptions and presidential ball cameos, it’s a whirlwind of unexpected perks in the heart of DC. Along the way, they reflect on the unique charm, chaos, and occasionally star-studded moments that make Capitol Hill such a strange and memorable place to work.

Keith Conrad, Laura, and Sean discuss the complexities of political campaigns, the sincerity behind campaign promises, and the impact of media on public perception. They explore the challenges of navigating political discourse in today's media landscape, the evolution of news consumption, and the importance of mental health in coping with political cynicism. The conversation highlights the need for genuine engagement in politics while acknowledging the often overwhelming nature of current events.

This week, the beleaguered trio explores what happens when officials just refuse to leave office—whether it’s at the local level or on the national stage. Laura shares the story of West Chicago’s bizarre post-election standoff, Keith introduces a deceptively simple plan to fix the national deficit, and everyone wonders why we even bother pretending rules exist. Plus: missing keyboard keys, baseball Popes, and why your therapist might need a second session.

Keith, Laura, and Sean explore what it’s like for congressional staffers to work with the media—whether it’s massaging a press release, building trust with local reporters, or reacting to surprise interviews. From hyperlocal papers to major networks, they share war stories, PR wins, and a few facepalm moments. It turns out media relations is just another place where staffers carry the weight—and often get none of the credit.

Congressional offices deal with more than just legislation—they're also a lifeline for constituents navigating government red tape. In this episode, Keith, Laura, and Sean share stories from the front lines of public engagement, from 8,000-time radio callers to emotionally charged casework that drags on for months. It's a behind-the-scenes look at the empathy, endurance, and occasional absurdity required to be a congressional staffer.

Keith, Laura, and Sean swap stories about moments when elected officials were completely blindsided—and the chaos that followed. From sudden party switches to Supreme Court decisions that duped the media, the team explores how often members of Congress (and their staff) are just trying to keep up. Plus, Sean reveals the day his boss changed parties without telling him—and how a vibrating BlackBerry delivered the bad news.

Passing a bill in Congress used to be a normal part of governing. Now? It feels like a lost art—like making butter by hand or using a fax machine. Keith Conrad joins former Congressional staffers Laura Finch and Sean Magers to unpack how legislation actually gets made (or, more accurately, how it doesn’t), and why “I’m going to pass this bill on Day One” is usually a load of nonsense.