The Political Doula Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Victoria Garcia Wilburn: Indiana House District 32 Representative Nov 01, 2024

It is my pleasure to welcome Indiana State Representative Victoria Garcia Wilburn! For Victoria, "people over politics" is a guiding principle not an empty platitude, and her love for people shines throughout this conversation.

CONNECT

Victoria Garcia Wilburn on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

Elise Nieshalla: Indiana State Comptroller Sep 18, 2024

What a pleasure it is to introduce to you Indiana State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla! While Elise may have inherited her heart for service from her mother, her dedicated spirit is uniquely hers. Elise discusses her public service story, her family, and her commitment to her work and those she serves with passion, hope, and confidence.

CONNECT

Elise Nieshalla on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

The Power of Movement Sep 11, 2024

Sometimes we don't notice the effect of a particular habit until we stop....and then pick it up again. In this episode, Melissa shares three realizations after an injury which caused her to take a break from her daily exercise routine.

Wendy Dant Chesser: Indiana House District 71 Representative Sep 03, 2024

Please give a warm welcome to Indiana State Representative Wendy Dant Chesser! Although new to elected office, Wendy’s life path has perfectly positioned her for this role. Wendy discusses pertinent issues, valuable to any woman contemplating stepping into the public arena, with enthusiasm and conscientiousness.

CONNECT

Wendy Dant Chesser on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠⁠⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

Winning&Losing: Musings on Failure Jun 23, 2024

We all experience wins and losses throughout our lives, and it's the losses that give us the opportunity for growth. Listen for three important takeaways when experiencing a failure.

Blair Milo: Sagamore Institute Jun 11, 2024

Prepare to be inspired! In big ways or small, Blair Milo is always looking to make a difference in this life. Whether serving in the Navy on the world stage or in her hometown of La Porte, Indiana, Blair is intentional in amplifying her impact.

HIGHLIGHTS

03:19 Blair's service background

05:14 Journey to Mayor of La Porte

10:28 Women in leadership

12:17 Being a young candidate for office

14:16 Relationship with fitness and running

19:56 Gold Star Initiative Athlete at Ironman 70.3 Eagleman Triathlon

26:37 Pivot from international relations to local focus

30:28 Fostering positive lifestyle choices in the City of La Porte

34:11 Gratitude

CONNECT

Blair Milo on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

Eating on the Campaign Trail: Avoiding Taco Bell Jun 04, 2024

Learn to set yourself up for success when it comes to fueling your body during a busy campaign. Melissa provides tips, tricks, examples, and how-to's to stay away from the drive thru, maintain your energy, and feel great. This episode will help anyone get on the right track who is on the go and hasn't figured out a system supportive of healthier and better food options.

AmyMarie Travis: Judge-Jackson County Superior Court 1 May 23, 2024

Judge AmyMarie Travis is your thoughtful friend - always ready with an anecdote or advice, when asked of course! She has sat on the bench in southern Indiana for the past six years and is discerning and conscientious by nature. AmyMarie will empower you to choose a path that makes a difference in the world and adds meaning to your life

HIGHLIGHTS

03:21 AmyMarie's professional story

06:43 Social media and kindness

11:08 Hobbies and horses

14:28 Civility

17:55 Substance Use Disorder

20:43 Indiana Graduate Program for Judges

CONNECT

AmyMarie Travis on ⁠LinkedIn⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

Kelly Mitchell: Indiana's 55th State Treasurer May 14, 2024

Everyone needs a cheerleader in her corner like Kelly Mitchell! Kelly is a dynamic leader who served as State Treasurer of Indiana and always seeks to repay to others the mentorship she has received throughout her career. She will convince YOU that you are capable and qualified as well.

HIGHLIGHTS

03:37 Kelly's jump into public service

05:32 Mentorship, campaigning, and women serving

09:20 Hatha yoga practice and nutrition

13:29 Make a Difference Day

14:58 Kelly's new ventures

16:43 Kelly's advice to women who want to run for office

CONNECT

Kelly Mitchell on LinkedIn

Melissa Acton on LinkedIn⁠

www.thepoliticaldoula.com

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

Mother's Day Message: My Gift to You May 11, 2024

An evergreen message to listeners from The Political Doula.

Conversation with Deputy Mayor Danielle Carey Tolan, City of Westfield Apr 30, 2024

I loved every minute of my talk with Danielle Carey Tolan who is currently the Deputy Mayor and Chief of Staff of the City of Westfield, Indiana. Danielle gets really candid about life in the public arena, wellness, and family. You will notice Danielle doesn't have simply thoughts and ideas - she takes action. And after listening to our conversation, you will be motivated and empowered to take your next step.

HIGHLIGHTS

02:55 Danielle's journey into public service

14:50 Deputy Mayor of Westfield

20:35 Heath and wellness

25:15 Fly fishing and Danielle's relationship with her husband

29:30 Women of Westfield

32:20 Danielle's personal mantra

CONNECT

Danielle Carey Tolan on LinkedIn

Melissa Acton on LinkedIn

www.thepoliticaldoula.com

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

How The Political Doula was born Apr 24, 2024

Melissa tells the origin story of The Political Doula.

The Political Doula Podcast Trailer Apr 02, 2024

Welcome to “The Political Doula,” a podcast hosted by Melissa Acton – a proud Midwesterner with a deep commitment to public service. From elected official to campaign aide, state bureaucrat to congressional staff and even local party leader, Melissa brings a wealth of first-hand experience to the table. Her journey as a woman navigating the political landscape contains numerous peaks and potholes – none of which define her, all of which shape her. Through this podcast, Melissa aims to empower women, offering encouragement and evidence that they can succeed in the political arena on their own terms. Join us as we explore the intersection of politics and personal development with Melissa as our guide.

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