Austin Smith: podcast appearances and interviews

Austin Smith, born April 20, 1995, is the Head of Policy, Practice and Communications for the Confederated Tribe of Warm Springs. His role involves overseeing policy development, strategic communication, and practice implementation within the tribe. Smith has also been involved in political activities at the state level, having served as a member of the Arizona House of Representatives for the 29th district from 2023 to 2025, alongside Steve Montenegro. Additionally, he held a position as a senior director at Turning Point Action, contributing to its organizational efforts. Smith’s career has included engagement in political campaigns and activism; however, it has also faced legal challenges. In November 2025, he pleaded guilty to forging signatures on his re-election petition, which resulted in legal consequences. On January 6, 2026, Smith was sentenced to probation and received a five-year ban from running for public office. His experiences highlight a complex career spanning public service, political activism, and legal accountability.