About 

Hobby Talks is a podcast series from the Hobby School of Public Affairs produced in partnership with the Center for Student Media at the University of Houston. Hosted by Dean Jim Granato and Hobby School faculty, the podcast features timely conversations on politics and policy with experts, scholars and those guiding the most complex challenges facing our region and state.  

Launched in Nov. 2024, Hobby Talks expands the school’s access to thought-provoking discussions and encourages cross-disciplinary dialogue on relevant issues. 

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New episodes premiere during the fall and spring semesters. Tune in on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast app. 

Episodes

Good for Houston with Evan Mintz

On an upcoming episode of Hobby Talks, Associate Professor Chris Bronk sits down with Evan Mintz, editor of opinion and community engagement at the Houston Chronicle. Their conversation explores the role of the newspaper’s editorial board, how opinion pages differ from daily news coverage and Mintz’s vision for elevating diverse voices in Houston.

They also discuss the board’s political endorsement process, its influence on policy conversations and how residents can engage more effectively in civic dialogue. Listen to the episode on a popular podcast application on March 18.