In this episode of Catalysts for Change, Adam Lister sits down with Beth Harwell, Tennessee’s first female Speaker of the House and one of the state’s most influential political leaders. Over three decades in public service, Harwell helped shape landmark policy on education, welfare reform, taxation, and public health—often bridging deep divides through civility and pragmatic compromise.

Harwell shares her journey from a young political science professor inspired by the Watergate hearings to becoming Speaker during one of Tennessee’s most transformative eras. She reflects on lessons learned from both sides of the aisle—why compromise isn’t weakness, how to lead in complex times, and why making people feel seen is the cornerstone of effective leadership.

From repealing the state’s inheritance tax and advancing Tennessee Promise to navigating fierce debates over charter schools and even wine in grocery stores, Harwell reveals what it really takes to move meaningful change through divided government.

This conversation is a study in humility, perseverance, and principled leadership—offering wisdom not just for public servants, but for anyone leading in high-stakes, high-pressure environments.

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Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative