On this episode of Now & Then, “Speakers of the House: Velvet Gloves and Iron Fists,” Heather Cox Richardson and Joanne Freeman revisit significant Speakers of the House and the development of the role in American politics. They reflect on legendary Speakers Henry Clay, Thomas Brackett Reed, and Tip O’Neill. In the process, they examine how Speakers leverage their influence over the legislative process and the culture of congress. How did the Speakership become such a crucial role in Washington? How do Speakers balance control with collaboration? And how can iconic Speakers from the past help to contextualize Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s current efforts to pass the Democrats’ budget reconciliation package?  Join CAFE Insider to listen to “Backstage,” where Heather and Joanne chat each week about the anecdotes and ideas that formed the episode. And for a limited time, use the code HISTORY for 50% off the annual membership price. Head to www.cafe.com/history RSVP for the Now & Then Live Taping with Emory African American Studies Professor Carol Anderson on Thursday, October 21st at 6:30PM ET: cafe.com/live For references & supplemental materials, head to: cafe.com/now-and-then/speakers-of-the-house-velvet-gloves-and-iron-fists Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices