The Sherry Sylvester Show

Recorded at the 2026 Texas Policy Summit, Texas State Senator Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound) discusses the 1836 Project he helped launch through legislation. Senator Parker and host Sherry Sylvester explore how the Project positions Texas as a beacon of liberty, the importance of preserving and accurately teaching our state’s history, and the latest developments including the recent biennial report to the Governor.Senator Parker shares insights on why getting history right matters for the next generation and how Texas can lead the way against ideological distortions of the past.A must-watch for anyone who cares about Texas values, education, and cultural heritage.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

Dr. William Inboden, Executive Vice President and Provost at The University of Texas at Austin, shares his insider perspective on the crisis in higher education and the bold reforms underway at one of America’s flagship public universities. A renowned historian, national security expert, and former senior advisor in the George W. Bush administration, Dr. Inboden shares his vision for restoring merit, accountability, and public trust in our universities.Key Topics Discussed:Why universities have “lost their way” — and what it will take to get them back on trackBalancing academic freedom with state oversight, taxpayer accountability, and institutional integrityMajor reforms at UT Austin: curriculum changes, core curriculum compliance, new Civics Honors programs, and academic integrity standardsPromoting intellectual diversity, merit-based standards, and civic education in Texas higher educationLessons from history, foreign policy, and real-world leadership for rebuilding public confidence in our universitiesSubscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

Sherry Sylvester talks with Konni Burton, Founder & CEO of The Texan, to explore the ever-changing world of media and its massive impact on Texas politics and public discourse. Konni dives deep into how social media has shifted from a grassroots organizing tool to a profit-driven machine that amplifies outrage, hysteria, conspiracy theories, and “red alerts”—often drowning out real issues like America’s $40 trillion national debt.They also discuss crisis politics, misleading language in policy debates, COVID-era failures, the erosion of nuance and fact-checking, and why independent journalism matters more than ever.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester and conservative activist Luke Macias share the lessons they learned as the children of elected officials. Sherry's father was the mayor of their town in Oklahoma and Luke's father was a Texas State Representative.Then, they discuss the trends of more young adults and Latinos running for office as Republicans, as well as the strong Democrat turnout in the current Texas primary elections. Plus, a review of how President Trump's State of the Union speech addressed key issues like affordability.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

The New Yorker said Taylor Sheridan's Landman demonstrates "how conservative TV might be a damn good time."TPPF's Sherry Sylvester invites Landman superfans Brian Phillips and Michaelanne Hurst to the show to assess the series' core themes (hint: it's not just about the oil industry).Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester met with Republican Party of Bexar County Chair Kris Coons at the Texas Federation of Republican Women's 35th Biennial Convention in San Antonio. In this episode, they discuss shifting political dynamics in the Alamo City, motivating voters to get to the polls, and what Prop A and Prop B could mean for San Antonio's future.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

Senator Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, who was recently appointed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to chair a joint committee on Free Speech and Civil Discourse, talks with Sherry about how we can restore political discourse in Texas and America.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

Sherry Sylvester talks education policy with Mike Villarreal, a newly elected San Antonio ISD school board member and former state representative. They discuss the recent passage of education savings accounts in Texas, smart device bans, and the importance of improving student outcomes by focusing on data-driven solutions and teacher collaboration.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

Sherry Sylvester and Raconteur Media CEO Ryan Gravatt look deep into the minds of voters with groundbreaking insights from a new nationwide survey. The data reveals what motivates voters, what turns them off, and how they choose candidates. From debunking the impact of celebrity endorsements to exploring the power of authenticity in campaigns, this episode uncovers surprising truths about voter behavior and its impact on elections and public policy.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

In this episode of The Sherry Sylvester Show, host Sherry Sylvester sits down with Ernesto Rodriguez, curator and senior historian at the Alamo, to uncover the role Texas and Spain played in America’s fight for independence. From supplying 9,000 head of cattle to funding the war with millions in silver, discover how New Spain’s contributions shaped the American Revolution. Learn about Bernardo de Gálvez, the origins of Galveston, and why this global effort made the American Revolution a true world war. Perfect for history buffs and patriots celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence!Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

On this episode of The Sherry Sylvester Show, we dive into the critical issue of merit and standards in Texas medical schools. Despite recent higher education reforms like Senate Bill 37, which prioritize merit in admissions and faculty hiring, many medical schools continue to push DEI and race-based programs. Join host Sherry Sylvester and TPPF's Dr. Cliff Porter, MD, PhD, as they discuss the erosion of medical ethics, the decline of the Hippocratic Oath, and the urgent need to restore patient-focused standards in medical education. From pass/fail grading to the dangers of politicized healthcare, this episode uncovers what’s at stake for Texas patients and physicians.Key Topics:- Texas’ higher education reforms and their impact- The persistence of DEI programs in medical schools- The importance of the Hippocratic Oath- Why merit-based admissions matter in medicine- Insights from Dr. Cliff Porter’s journey from historian to physicianSubscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

Sherry Sylvester dives into the evolving world of journalism with expert guests from the University of Texas. They discuss the future of news, the impact of platforms like Substack and YouTube, and the importance of fact-based reporting. The conversation explores diversity of thought among journalism students, challenges in covering conservative voices, and the critical role of community journalism. Plus, a candid discussion on media coverage of Biden’s health and its implications for public trust. Don’t miss this engaging talk on the state of media today!Key Topics:-The future of newspapers and emerging media platforms-Teaching journalism: Asking smart questions and embracing diverse perspectives-Addressing self-censorship in universities and Senate Bill 37-Media’s role in covering Biden’s health and public trust-The importance of community journalismSubscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter and weekly Winners & Losers: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

Sherry Sylvester sits down with Lee Parsley, President and General Counsel of Texans for Lawsuit Reform (TLR). For over 30 years, TLR has fought to reform Texas’ civil justice system, transforming the state from the "Wild West of litigation" into the 8th largest economy in the world. Lee shares insights on tort reform, the battle against nuclear verdicts, and Senate Bill 30, a priority bill tackling inflated medical damages and lawsuit abuse.

In looking for ways to counter the decades of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) ideology that has infused the culture at Texas public universities, I reached out to Ben Crockett, who will graduate from the Bush School of Public Service at Texas A&M next month. Ben has been working with a number of alumni, faculty and other campus leaders who are creating a citizenship and service initiative at Texas A&M — they believe it is critical to restoring our values and turning things around on our campuses. See what you think. 0:00 - Intro: Meet Ben Crockett3:00 - Citizenship and Service Initiative Explained6:15 - Skills Gap: From Cold Calls to City Hall9:00 - Texas A&M’s Balanced Campus Culture12:30 - Expanding Free Speech Events15:45 - Student Government's role at A&M18:00 - Justifying Texas’ Investment in A&M21:00 - Countering DEI with a Positive Vision23:30 - Closing: The Future of A&M

Ray Sullivan is a Texas media legend who served as the spokesperson for the Bush-Cheney Presidential Campaign and as Chief of Staff to Texas Gov. Rick Perry during a time of media transition from the 24 hour news cycles to omnipotent digital. Currently, his lobby clients include some of the most influential tech companies in the world. I spoke with Ray about what he sees and doesn’t see in media now.

Jay Rubin is a longtime leader in the Austin Jewish Community, working on a number of efforts to increase understanding of Israel and issues in the Middle East. At the 2025 Texas Policy Summit, Jay spoke with Sherry Sylvester about the painfully slow release of the hostages, the status of the war in Gaza and the steadfast support of Texans, including Gov. Greg Abbott.

TPPF’s Sherry Sylvester sits down with Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, author of "Take Two Aspirin and Call Me By My Pronouns" to discuss his journey as the "Paul Revere regarding medical schools being infiltrated by woke policies."

In the final countdown to next Tuesday’s election Sherry talks with Chuck DeVore, Chief of National Initiatives at TPPF, about the why the founders created the Electoral College and why it is critically important that it not be abolished. 

Sherry Sylvester sits down with Rabbi Dan Ain, the founder of Moontower Minyan in Austin to discuss what he sees happening in Texas, America and the world since our last discussion following the 2023 attack.

Sherry Sylvester sits down with Carrie Simmons, the Founder of Red State Women, to discuss how historically, conservative policies have been supported by Texan women because they benefit women. However, that appears to be eroding today. Why is that, and what can we do about it? 

Sherry Sylvester is joined by the Texas Tribune’s Editor in Chief and recently appointed Executive Editor of Columbia Journalism Review to discuss the Presidential Debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump… and, in particular, how the journalistic “powers that be” react and report.

Sherry Sylvester sits down with acclaimed Texas journalist, Karen Brooks Harper to discuss her experiences while covering the Capitol for several different newspapers over the years.

Sherry Sylvester sits down with former Texas State Senator and CEO of The Texan, Konni Burton, to discuss the ever changing world of media – particularly here in Texas.

Texas' own Liutenant Governor, Dan Patrick took some vluable time out of his very busy schedule to sit down with Sherry Sylvester at the 2024 Texas Republican Convention to discuss the political state of Texas and the nation.

Sherry Sylvester sits down with TPPF’s Chuck DeVore and Erin Valdez to discuss what has happened in the last six months since TPPF's primer on the connection between the "Woke" movement and Hamas.

TPPF’s Sherry Sylvester sits down with Emmy nominated producer Martin Jones to discuss his recent collaboration with the Texas Public Policy Foundation and our leading filmmaker Stephen Robinson to produce “The Making of a Classic.” The latest episode in the Forging Texas series is about a race film that was filmed in Dallas in 1941 entitled “The Blood of Jesus,” which was written, directed and starred the legendary Spencer Williams. It was the first Texas film to be selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.About Forging Texas:"Forging Texas" is a video series that explores the history and culture of Texas, highlighting thestories of individuals who have shaped the state's identity. "The Making of a Classic" episode payshomage to the contributions of Black filmmakers and artists in Texas, shedding light on their impacton the world of cinema.About the Director:A native Texan, Stephen Robinson was born and raised in Austin and graduated from theUniversity of Texas at Austin with a degree in Film. An accomplished writer and director, Stephenhas won numerous short and long-form films. He has directed videos for Nokia, signup.com, Weevaand PBS. He recently served as 2nd Unit Director on the upcoming Dennis Quaid film The LongGame.About the Producer:Martin Jones is an Emmy® Award nominated producer and executive with a talent for creatingcaptivating multimedia content. As the Head of Austin Studios, Jones oversees the production ofdiverse projects, from commercials to feature films, showcasing the vibrant creative community ofTexas.Social Media:Follow "The Making of a Classic" on social media for updates:Instagram: @The_Making_of_a_ClassicFacebook: The Making of a Classic Facebook Group

TPPF’s Sherry Sylvester sits down with Caroline Fairly, the GOP Nominee for Texas House District 87 (centered in Amarillo and encompassing Potter and seven surrounding counties) to discuss the issues facing Gen Z and possible solutions… if they have the courage to pursue them! 

“Live from TPS,” TPPF’s Sherry Sylvester sits down with Texas Senator Lois Kolkhorst to discuss the battles fought to protect female athletes in the state, and the new forces rising up against those efforts in the name of “diversity, equity, and inclusion.”Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

Live from Texas Policy Summit 2024, TPPF’s Sherry Sylvester sits down with the President of West Texas A&M University, Dr. Walter Wendler to discuss what is needed in today’s academic leaders in order to prepare Gen Z for what the future has in store for them.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester takes time out from her typical interview schedule to honor the women who have blazed trails across our great nation, highlighted with Sherry's favorite episode of TPPF's award-winning Forging Texas series: Trailboss!Subscribe to Sherry's 9th & Congress newsletter: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with Director of Communications and Media at the Pioneer Institute Chris Sinacola to discuss how bad history and civics education in our schools have become and what we can do to turn it around..

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with author Alexandra Hudson to discuss how we might return to civil discourse one person at a time.

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with Texas State Senator Paul Bettencourt to discuss the importance of steadfastly standing against harmful ideologies such as Marxism and Socialism.Subscribe to Sherry's 9th & Congress email newsletter: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with noted historian and host of the Wise About Texas podcast, Ken Wise, to discuss the importance of accurately remembering days gone by in order to secure a better future for us all.Listen to The Sherry Sylvester Show on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sherry-sylvester-show/id1715003916Listen to The Sherry Sylvester Show on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7E3vqW4fok3dBAqkysIK1kSubscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with Rabbi Dan Ain, Founder of “Because Jewish,” to discuss how Texas’ Jewish community is coping with the continued strife in Israel.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with nationally and internationally preeminent pollster Mike Baselice to discuss the electoral trends that turned Texas red and what he predicts for the future.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with renowned political and public affairs consultant David Weeks to discuss his experience on the Texas Quarter Dollar Coin Advisory Committee, where he contributed to the design and creation of the Texas state quarter that is in circulation today, the current state of Texas’ political climate and all things in between.

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with political communications expert Ray Sullivan to discuss what first caused Texas voters to reliably go to the right when they cast their ballots, what policies and issues people cared about in 2002 that they still care about now, and what challenges he sees to ensure that Texas remains a conservative beacon for America and the world.Subscribe to the 9th & Congress newsletter: https://www.texaspolicy.com/9thandcongress/

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with acclaimed journalist Mark Hemingway to discuss the 2023 Texas Tribune Festival, which brought newsmakers and news reporters together in Austin.

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with Texas Public Policy Foundation's Chief Executive Officer, Greg Sindelar and Distinguished Senior Fellow for Next Generation Texas, Tom Lindsay to discuss the ongoing battles to stop radically divisive and discriminatory DEI policies in higher ed. These political ideologies are wriggling their way around the law and into culture and institutions -- including Greg's beloved Texas A&M -- in the name of social justice. 

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, Do No Harm founder and author of “Take Two Aspirin and Call Me By My Pronouns – Why Turning Doctors into Social Justice Warriors is destroying American Medicine” to discuss the fight to stop the  radically divisive, and discriminatory political ideologies that are eliminating, among other things, testing and training standards in medical institutions in the name of social justice. 

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester sits down with famed historian J.P. Bryan of the Texas State Historical Association to discuss the importance of preserving our great state’s history, free from distortion and historically inaccurate bias.

Sherry sits down with two Texas Public Policy Foundation colleagues to discuss the dozens of news stories where the Texas media creates their own narrative while ignoring the views of the conservative majority of Texans, pushing out daily news reports portray our state as a bunch of backward, dull-minded – racist, sexist, whateverist, never explaining why hundreds of people move here every day.  

TPPF's Sherry Sylvester talks with Ryan Gravatt, a pioneering digital strategist who led Texas conservatives into the digital age, regarding what we can expect to see next in the digital communications world of politics and public policy as we edge closer to a presidential campaign year and massive issue battles in Texas from property taxes to parental empowerment. Ryan is a member of former Texas Governor Rick Perry’s original campaign team and his digital expertise and strategic vision has ensured that the delivery of Texas’ conservative message has always been cutting edge.  He launched his firm, Raconteur Media, in 2004, years before the iPhone was released, and he set the bar for website development, social media outreach, email, digital advertising and search engine marketing from the beginning. Ryan is also an award winning expert in developing digital strategies and analytics for audience engagement.The pair discuss what’s changed in digital communications in the last twenty years – -- what conservatives are doing right, what’s going wrong and what’s next.

Sherry Sylvester discusses the Supreme Court’s ruling that America’s colleges and universities could no longer use race as a factor in determining who could be admitted with Dr. Richard Johnson, Director of the Booker T. Washington Institute at Texas Public Policy Foundation.

In the inaugural episode of the 9th & Congress podcast, Sherry talks with Dr. Daniel Bonevac, the only University of Texas professor who testified in support of the Texas anti-DEI bill, where he likened DEI to the “campus thought police.” He discusses what it’s like teaching on a Texas campus that has become overwhelmingly woke.