Interview with Association of Indiana Counties incoming Board President Barb Hackman at the 2025 AIC Annual Conference in French Lick.
It has been a bit, but it's good to be back! The Political Doula Podcast is bringing you a new episode each week.
Do you have a question for the Political Doula? Politics, wellness, life - anything at all - please ask away! Submit your questions by sending an email or messaging on social media.
Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com
Instagram: @themelissaacton
LinkedIn: Melissa Acton
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.
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Victoria Garcia Wilburn on LinkedIn
Melissa Acton on LinkedIn
www.thepoliticaldoula.com
Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com
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.
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Elise Nieshalla on LinkedIn
Melissa Acton on LinkedIn
www.thepoliticaldoula.com
Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com
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.
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.
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Wendy Dant Chesser on LinkedIn
Melissa Acton on LinkedIn
www.thepoliticaldoula.com
Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com
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.
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
Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com
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.
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
Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com
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
Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com
An evergreen message to listeners from The Political Doula.
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
Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com
Melissa tells the origin story of The Political Doula.
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.