Full Schedule

Kick off the day with tacos, coffee and good company. Swap notes with fellow students, connect with Texas Tribune staff and get the inside scoop from special guests on what not to miss at TribFest today.

Fuel up before Day One with complimentary breakfast tacos, pastries and coffee. Say hello to Tribune journalists and fellow members on your way to your first session. No line, no fuss, just a quick bite and good company.

Open to Texas Tribune members only.

Join the Austin Current for a one-on-one conversation with Austin City Council Member Mike Siegel.

The former ambassador, mayor of Chicago and White House chief of staff talks about the future of his party and his political career.

Presented by Results for America

Past the hype and the fear, AI optimists talk about what the technology is doing and could do for people, communities and institutions.

Presented by Western Governors University

Supported by Austin Community College District, Educate Texas and SXSW

The Democratic nominee for Texas governor on her campaign, her vision for Texas and what it would take to turn the state blue.

Presented by Texas Matters

The Texas author on her new book, "Monster of a Land: On the Road in Search of Modern America.”

The co-author of "The Elements of Journalism" on his new book, what journalism must become to survive, and why democracy depends on it.

Dallas’ Bold Plan to Cut Child Poverty in Half and Put 150,000 Residents on a Path to Prosperity

In recent years, Dallas has achieved the biggest reduction in child poverty of any major city in America. Nonprofit organizations are coming together to set clear goals and teaming up with local government and education leaders to help put children and families on a path to economic opportunity. Join us to discuss how Dallas leaders are working to improve education outcomes and help more residents earn a living wage.

A moment just for educators. Trade stories from the classroom, unwind with fellow teachers and grab a bite between sessions.No agenda, just good company. Stop in anytime; stay as long as you like.

Tom Rosenstiel signs copies of his new book, "The Next Journalism."

What it means to be Muslim in Texas today, navigating faith, identity and belonging in a divided moment.

Lauren Hough signs copies of her new book, "Monster of a Land." 

JPMorganChase Partner Program

Across Texas, small business owners rely on health insurance to recruit and retain talent. Unfortunately, surging premiums are forcing owners into painful tradeoffs between doing right by employees and protecting the balance sheet. Morgan Health, a division of JPMorganChase focused on improving employer-sponsored health care, is convening this panel to uncover opportunities to make coverage more affordable and predictable. The conversation will focus on policy moves that expand choice, improve transparency, and help local small employers compete and thrive.

How AI is reshaping democracy, for better and worse, and what's actually at stake.

The historian and author on his new book, "American Patriarch: The Life of George Washington.” 

As American foreign aid is slashed and U.S. global leadership is questioned, a void is opening in the world order. Who fills it, and at what cost?

Peer support for people in recovery. All are welcome for open discussion. LGBTQIA+ friendly. Bring your lunch for fellowship. Coffee provided. 

Veterans, advocates and a leading clinician examine the promise of psychedelic-assisted therapy, and what Texas's landmark investment means for those who've served.

Texas Democratic legislators on their party's priorities, and how they plan to fight for them in the next legislative session.

Supported by Raise Your Hand Texas and Texas Matters

Bulwark publisher Sarah Longwell discusses her new book, "How to Eat an Elephant: One Voter at a Time,” with Astead Herndon for a live recording of his "America, Actually" podcast. 

Presented by Texas Matters

H.W. Brands signs copies of his new book, "American Patriarch: The Life of George Washington."

Austin ISD Superintendent Matias Segura sits down with Austin Current Editor-in-Chief Melissa Barragán Taboada to discuss the state of the district, its budget crisis and what a potential state takeover could mean for its future.

Energy leaders on how renewables are reshaping the Texas grid, what it means for reliability and what comes next.

Texas oil and gas experts on navigating a tumultuous few years and what the industry's future means for the state.

Presented by bp America

Sarah Longwell signs copies of her new book, "How to Eat an Elephant: One Voter at a Time."

A space to connect, unwind and swap stories with women shaping Texas from journalism, policy, business and beyond. Light snacks, real conversation, a few words from special guests.

The Washington Post executive editor sits down with Brian Stelter on leading one of America's most consequential newsrooms through one of its most turbulent moments.

The two-term governor of Oklahoma makes his case for conservative governing and what the rest of the country can learn from his home state.

The nation's most prominent defender of public education on the threats facing it and why Texas is at the center of the fight.

Supported by Austin Community College District

Join fellow TribFest attendees for an informal gathering to share reactions to the day’s programs, swap perspectives and connect with fellow Texans.

As prediction markets reshape political forecasting, Texas lawmakers and industry leaders on the regulatory questions, policy implications and what it means for how we understand elections.

Who decides what Texas remembers, and what gets left out?

Presented by University of Texas Press
Supported by HouArts

The state representative talks about his race for U.S. Senate against Attorney General Ken Paxton and his vision for the state. 

Presented by American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network

Supported by Texas Matters and Civitech

Presented by The Commit Partnership

With a historic investment on the horizon, a conversation about what our state parks can, will and should look like a generation from now. 

Presented by Coca-Cola

Supported by Reissa Foundation

Working journalists, student journalists and content creators, this one's for you. Swing by for refreshments, conversation and a chance to connect. Come and go as you please.

The Georgian is out of Congress and has had a falling out with Trump. What’s next for her and her movement?

Explore how Oncor is using advanced technologies to help build a stronger, more resilient Texas electric grid. As Texas continues to grow, reliable energy infrastructure is essential to supporting emerging industries, thriving communities and future economic development. Learn how innovation is advancing the grid, strengthening resiliency and preparing Texas to meet the energy demands of the next generation while powering opportunity across the state. Speakers include Joel Austin, senior vice president and chief digital officer; Armando Perez, director, south region customer service; and Coler Snelleman, vice president of transmission and distribution business operations. Moderated by Wilson Peppard, director of economic development. 

Houston Endowment hosts the Common Good Corner, a lounge for nonprofit and foundation professionals at TribFest to take a break and connect with peers. Enjoy refreshments, WI-Fi, and networking.

Political commentator and author David Pakman sits down with Politico's Will Steakin to discuss  his new book, how disinformation spreads, why people get trapped in ideological bubbles and what it will take to reclaim critical thinking. 

Book signing to follow.

Arts and culture leaders on how creativity holds communities together and what happens when the support for it disappears.

Presented by Houston Endowment
Supported by University of Texas Press and HouArts

Cutting property taxes are expected to be a priority again in 2027. Policy experts and lawmakers on what real reform looks like.

DEI is being reshaped in the courts, on campuses and in the workplace. What does it mean for the country and Texas?

Presented by The Baylor Line

David Pakman signs copies of his new book, "Pay Attention: How the Algorithms and Media Wars Are Suppressing Truth and Rewiring Your Brain."

The New York Times' Maggie Haberman discusses the reporting from her new book, "Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump.” 

The former Tennessee senator and author of “The Education of a Senator: From JFK to Trump”  sits down with NBC News Chief White House Correspondent Garrett Haake.

Presented by Texas Matters

Texas Republican legislators on the direction of their party and what the next legislative session could mean for the state.

Presented by Beer Alliance of Texas
Supported by Raise Your Hand Texas and Texas Matters

What the decline of reading means for learning, democracy and what it means to be human, and what we can do about it.

Presented by Texas Monthly

Supported by the Association of Texas Professional Educators (ATPE) and University of Texas Press

Maggie Haberman signs copies of her new book, "Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump."

South Texas political and civic leaders on what the region's shifting political landscape means for Texas and the nation.

Presented by Texas Monthly
Supported by Coca Cola

The senator from Georgia discusses how faith informs his politics and winning as a Democrat in a traditionally red state.

Supported by Civitech

Former U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander signs copies of his book, "The Education of a Senator: From JFK to Trump."

The fights over voting rights and redistricting are reshaping American democracy, and nowhere more so than Texas.

Presented by Texas Matters

Democratic and Republican lawmakers on what's coming in the next legislative session and the battles ahead.

Presented by bp America and American Airlines
Supported by Raise Your Hand Texas and Beer Alliance of Texas

JPMorganChase Partner Program

Texas’ rapid growth is creating new economic opportunity, but also putting pressure on housing – making it harder and more expensive for people to live within reach of where they work. As costs rise and supply struggles to keep pace, leaders across sectors are working to increase housing supply and improve affordability. Join JPMorganChase for a conversation on how policy, innovation and investment can help scale housing solutions – from zoning and permitting reform to new construction and partnerships –and what it will take to keep stable housing within reach for Texas families.

Texas is a key testing ground for what American higher ed becomes next. Hear from state leaders about where things are headed and what’s at stake.

Presented by Houston Endowment
Supported by Trellis Foundation, The Baylor Line and Western Governors University

Statewide Democratic candidates on their strategy for November and what it would take to finally win here.

Presented by Texas Matters
Supported by Civitech

With screens reshaping childhood, is the response from schools, lawmakers and parents working?

When the Governor of Florida transforms a beloved public honors college in a political coup, students and professors confront a new reality: their campus is ground zero in a growing nation-wide assault on academic freedom. 90 minutes.

Screenings are open to all badge holders. Seating is limited inside the theater, and is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVPs are recommended. trib.it/tribfest26-screenings

Peer support for people in recovery. All are welcome for open discussion. LGBTQIA+ friendly. Bring your lunch or stop by in the evening for fellowship. Coffee provided. 

Named after the historic year Mexican women were given the Right to Vote, the 1953 Tequila company keeps social justice at its core and empowers women at every level. Join The Baylor Line for a conversation with Baylor grad and 1953 Tequila co-founder Lindsey Davis Stover about what it means to disrupt an industry and what she’s learned from two years of their meteoric rise. Free lunch upon registration. Limited space is available.

RSVP at baylorline.com/tribfest

The man leading Houston ISD's state takeover makes his case.

Leaders on the city's water challenges, how they're addressing them and what it means for Texas communities facing the same pressures.

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries

Supported by Texas Monthly

America has never been more diverse, or more divided. What Texas reveals about whether pluralism can survive the moment.

Presented by University of Texas Press

The executive director of the Catholic Charities of the RGV sits down with Religion News Service’s Niala Boodhoo for a live taping of the “Oh God Now What” podcast.

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries
Supported by The Baylor Line

Grab a cup of coffee and join the Austin Current newsroom for an informal conversation about the issues shaping Austin. Meet our journalists, tell us what’s on your mind and help shape the stories we pursue.

Writers on how American identity is lived, imagined and contested through literature.

Presented by Houston Endowment
Supported by HouArts

The reporters with the deepest access to the Trump White House on what this presidency looks like up close, and what history will make of it.

Do you give a DAMN* about Texas, your community, schools or voting? Join this hands-on zine workshop to learn how The Texas Tribune's tools can help you stay informed and engaged, then get your questions answered by the journalists who built them. Topics include finding information about data centers and public schools; voting in Texas; and following state government and how to get involved.

Follow three prominent Texas women—elected Republican leaders with divergent views on the conservative movement—as they confront the soul of their party ahead of the contentious 2024 election cycle. 39 min.

Screenings are open to all badge holders. Seating is limited inside the theater, and is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVPs are recommended. trib.it/tribfest26-screenings

Joseph Locke signs copies of his new book, "One State Under God."

Sony Ton-Aime signs copies of his new book, "Konbit." 

BlackRock Partner Program

Texas is experiencing unprecedented investment in energy, manufacturing, technology, and infrastructure, but meeting that demand will require a new generation of skilled workers. Join leaders from labor, industry, government, and philanthropy for a conversation on how Texas is expanding pathways into high-demand careers, strengthening workforce pipelines, and ensuring more Texans can participate in the state's continued growth and prosperity.

City leaders and housing reformers on what's driving Texas's affordability crisis and whether the policy fixes are working.

Supported by Reissa Foundation

Texas superintendents on what it actually takes to lead public schools at this moment, and what they need from the Legislature next year.

Presented by Raise Your Hand Texas
Supported by Houston Endowment, Every Texan, and Association of Texas Professional Educators (ATPE)

The sharp wit and insightful art of Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Ann Telnaes examines the challenges confronting US democracy ahead of the 2024 presidential election. 90 minutes.

Screenings are open to all badge holders. Seating is limited inside the theater, and is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVPs are recommended. trib.it/tribfest26-screenings

The National Book Award-winning author and historian discusses the arguments behind his new book, "Chain of Ideas: How Authoritarian Thinking Takes Root in America."

Leading political journalists break down the races, coalitions and dynamics that will determine control of Congress in November.

Presented by Texas Matters
Supported by HCA Healthcare

Three Texas content creators and influencers on how they're changing political engagement, and what that power means for democracy.

Presented by Texas Matters

The ProPublica and New York Times Magazine reporter discusses her debut book, a true story of murder, deception and a justice system that rewarded lies.

Presented by Texas Monthly

Join fellow TribFest attendees for an informal gathering to share reactions to the day’s programs, swap perspectives and connect with fellow Texans.

Ibram X. Kendi signs copies of his new book, "Chain of Ideas: The Origins of Our Authoritarian Age."

Pam Colloff signs copies of her new book, "Catch the Devil."

How years of changing rules have affected the hemp industry. And how THC should be regulated in Texas.

The hosts of one of America's most popular political podcasts bring their live show to Austin for a special TribFest taping on the midterms, the state of democracy and what's at stake in November.

Supported by Civitech and Texas Matters

What school takeovers mean for students, families and local control. 

Presented by Every Texan

National Book Award winner Imani Perry joins Atlantic staff writer Adam Serwer for a conversation about race, identity and the promises America has made, and broken, across 250 years.

Uncover overlooked chapters of the borderlands history. Drawing on newly surfaced documents and on-location storytelling from Laredo to San Ygnacio to Camargo, this film reconstructs a movement rooted not in nationalism, but in a radically local and ancient vision of self-government. 47 minutes.

Screenings are open to all badge holders. Seating is limited inside the theater, and is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVPs are recommended. trib.it/tribfest26-screenings

Peer support for people in recovery. All are welcome for open discussion. LGBTQIA+ friendly. Stop by in the evening for fellowship. Coffee provided. 

What the July 4 floods revealed about Texas, and what it will take to be ready for what's next.

A conversation with San Antonio's mayor on how she's navigating housing, infrastructure and the future of urban life in real time.

Presented by Results for America
Supported by Reissa Foundation

Executions returned to Texas 50 years ago. Is the system working as intended?

Join higher education and workforce development leaders and policymakers for a happy hour hosted by Open Campus and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Connect with peers, speakers, and Tribune staff in a relaxed setting during TribFest.

In 1972, Congresswoman Barbara Jordan became the first Southern Black woman to join Congress, one of many firsts in her career as a trailblazing political leader. 89 minutes.

Screenings are open to all badge holders. Seating is limited inside the theater, and is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVPs are recommended. trib.it/tribfest26-screenings

Geeks Who Drink, celebrating 20 years of trivia in Austin, hosts this year's Trivia Night. Grab three friends and unwind after Day 2 with some friendly competition. And be sure to grab a bite from our friends at Quattro Gatti Ristorante e Pizzeria.

Open to all badge-holders. No additional ticket required. RSVP at trib.it/tribfest26-trivia

The author of “Jesus and John Wayne” talks about her new book, “Live Laugh Love: The Secret History of White Christian Women and the World They Made.” 

Three of America's leading legal and historical minds on what the Constitution actually promised, who it left out, and whether, 250 years later, that promise is being kept.

Texans in Congress on what the state needs from Washington right now and what they're fighting for on behalf of their state.

Presented by bp America and American Airlines
Supported by American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and Texas Matters

Lawmakers and industry leaders on what the federal and state governments should do to make sure the AI revolution is safe and prosperous. 

New state laws and university policies are limiting teaching and research about race and gender. How does this matter on campus and beyond?

Childcare in Texas is too expensive and too essential to ignore. What will it take to fix it?

Presented by Every Texan

What shifting U.S. trade policy means for Texas, its businesses and its future.

Presented by Coca-Cola

TribFest’s outdoor hub for refreshments, live entertainment from local artists and hands-on fun between sessions.

Come grab a bite and an ice-cold Coca-Cola beverage and check out activations from the American Cancer Society and American Heart Association, enjoy free specialty Mexican coffee drinks from Mercado Sin Nombre at the JPMorganChase Town Square Showcase. Chat with Western Governors University about higher ed, connect with the Association of Texas Professional Educators,get creative with HouArts’ art activation and browse indie mags, books and zines aboard the TOMO Mags mini bus.

Kristin Kobes Du Mez signs copies of her new book, "Live Laugh Love: The Secret History of White Christian Women and the World They Made."

Melissa Murray signs copies of her new book, "The U.S. Constitution: A Comprehensive and Annotated Guide for the Modern Reader."

How Texas Latinos are voting and what both parties are getting right and wrong about the state's fastest-growing electorate.

The former White House deputy chief of staff discusses the Texas political map, the midterms and the future of the Republican party with CNN politics reporter Patrick Svitek

Presented by Texas Matters

New York Times reporter Jazmine Ulloa discusses "El Paso: Five Families and One Hundred Years of Blood, Migration, Race and Memory" with The Texas Tribune/ProPublica’s investigative editor Zahira Torres.

The Republican, who chaired the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Homeland Security Committee, looks back on his time in the U.S. House and serving Central Texas.

Presented by American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network

A parent, an advocate and a legal scholar on the human and legal consequences of Texas' trans legislation and what comes next.

What more do colleges need to do to train people for the changing world?

Presented by Educate Texas
Supported by Austin Community College District and Raise Your Hand Texas

Peer support for people in recovery. All are welcome for open discussion. LGBTQIA+ friendly. Bring your lunch or stop by in the evening for fellowship. Coffee provided. 

Jazmine Ulloa signs copies of her new book, "El Paso: Five Families and One Hundred Years of Blood, Migration, Race, and Memory."

Presented by States Newsroom

Our state’s education landscape is changing rapidly, and The Texas Tribune and ProPublica want to talk to you about it. During an hour and a half social gathering, stop by and get to know Jaden Edison, Lexi Churchill, and Megan Menchaca, the reporters behind the headlines. Help us better understand the issues most important to you. We especially want to hear from K-12 educators, but all are welcome.

One of the world’s leading futurists on what the data actually tells us about where technology is taking us, and whether we're ready.

Presented by SXSW

Policy reporters and advocates examine the state of reproductive rights four years after the Dobbs decision, from the courts and statehouses to the lived experiences of patients and providers.

Texas media leaders on how journalism is evolving in the Lone Star State and what's at stake for democracy if it doesn't.

Presented by The Baylor Line

Two celebrated poets take the stage, then invite you to join them. Join us at The Commons stage at 1 p.m. Saturday for poetry from Houston's Outspoken Bean and Pittsburgh's Sony Ton-Aime, then hear from TribFest attendees who’ve created poems with the Inprint Poetry Buskers team that day.

A scientist, builder and journalist on why humanity's next chapter in space changes everything, and why Texas is leading the way. 

From Guidance to Outcomes: Scaling Effective Advising for Postsecondary Success

Explore how districts, policymakers and partners are strengthening postsecondary advising to ensure more students successfully transition from high school to college and careers.  Attendees will gain insight into how effective advising models are implemented, the outcomes they drive, and what it takes to scale these supports across systems. Speakers include Susanna Russell, president and CEO, Education is Freedom; Jarrad Toussant, senior vice president of education and workforce, Dallas Regional Chamber; and Helen Nguyen, recent graduate and Breakthrough Central Texas alumna. Moderated by Bridget Worley, Chief State Impact Officer, The Commit Partnership.

What defines a journalist today, how that's changing and what it means for the profession and the public.

Alice Miranda Ollstein signs copies of her new book, "Side Effects: How Abortion Bans Impact Everyone's Health."

Data centers are reshaping Texas communities, and the fight over who controls their growth doesn't break along familiar political lines. Will the state step in?

The author of "The U.S. Constitution: A Comprehensive and Annotated Guide for the Modern Reader" on why the nation's founding document matters more than ever, and how to actually read it.

People who have been inside Texas’ ICE detention centers describe what’s happening, who's being held and what it means for communities, families and the rule of law.

The four-year degree isn't working for everyone. So what is? A conversation about economic mobility and how well new pathways are delivering a better future for families.

Presented by American Airlines and Houston Endowment
Supported by Austin Community College District, Raise Your Hand Texas and Western Governors University

One last meetup before the Festival wraps. Compare notes on your favorite sessions, trade contacts with fellow students, then head to the closing keynote followed by the TribFest After Party with CatchLight Live right after. 

What does it actually take to keep American elections free, fair and secure?

Presented by Texas Matters

What will it take to ensure no Texan goes hungry?

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries

Join fellow TribFest attendees for an informal gathering to share reactions to the day’s programs, swap perspectives and connect with fellow Texans.

Join KUT and KUTX for highlights from their popular ATXplained show. Local journalists, storytellers, and musicians explore various facets of Austin life, delving into the city's culture, history, and current events, offering deep insights and engaging narratives in a dynamic live setting.

CBS News' David Pogue discusses his new book, "Apple: The First 50 Years.

Photojournalists documenting Texas on why images matter, what they can say that words cannot and what it means to bear witness.

Presented by CatchLight

Supported by HouArts

Peer support for people in recovery. All are welcome for open discussion. LGBTQIA+ friendly. Stop by in the evening for fellowship. Coffee provided. 

You are a vital part of the Texas Tribune team, so let us buy the first round. Join Texas Tribune staff and fellow members for a casual happy hour before the Festival's Closing Keynote. Swap favorite session moments and toast to another TribFest in the books.

Open to Texas Tribune members only.

With world-class medicine in Texas cities, and critical shortages elsewhere, what will it take to improve access and close the gap?

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries
Supported by American Heart Association, Western Governors University and St. David's HealthCare

Immigration judges, including two fired by the president, on what's happening inside the courts under the Trump administration.

The capital city has long had a progressive identity. A set of new institutions is shaking that up.

The battle over the Rio Grande has begun. As the border river collapses, Mexico and Texas are fighting over the dwindling reservoirs, and millions of people could lose their drinking water as soon as next year. Writer Jack Herrera and photographer Jordan Vonderhaar embarked on a 1,900-mile investigation, following the river through both countries for a special issue of Texas Monthly. Join them for an interactive discussion about this unprecedented water crisis, and go behind the scenes of their 14-month long reporting journey.

David Pogue signs copies of his new book, "Apple: The First 50 Years."

The Pennsylvania senator joins CBS News’ Chief Washington Correspondent Major Garrett for a candid conversation about why he's charting his own course and what he thinks of the current Democratic Party.

The Festival isn't over when the closing keynote ends — it's just getting started. Head straight to Brazos Hall for CatchLight Live and TribFest's official after party.

Downstairs, striking photojournalism comes to life through large-scale projections, live music and storytelling from the photographers who were there. Upstairs, a skyline terrace lounge keeps the night going with open bars and views of downtown Austin. Transportation will be provided from First Baptist Church.

Presented by: Lynne Dobson and Greg Wooldridge, Tejemos Foundation, CatchLight, PhotoWings, and Texas Monthly

Supported by: The Enlight Foundation, Digital Silver Imaging, Hahnemühle, Report for America, and Beer Alliance of Texas