NewsNews Commentary

American Potential

American Potential is a national award-winning podcast that shares how individuals are taking action in their communities to break barriers. While some of our guests may be public officials or influencers, many are ordinary Americans who decided, “enough is enough,” and are stepping up in a big way.

We share policy solutions to the most important challenges our country faces and talk to people who are doing something about it. Our hope is that when you hear about other people’s stories of success – and struggle – you will realize that you are capable of doing extraordinary things within your own community and know that you are not alone.

David From, a Regional Vice President at Americans for Prosperity, hosts the American Potential podcast. David brings a wealth of experience in grassroots advocacy and a deep commitment to advancing freedom and opportunity for all Americans.

American Potential has earned multiple prestigious honors for its impact and excellence in storytelling:

Platinum Award at the 2024 Viddy Awards for the episode featuring Mike Rowe, recognized in the long-form podcast category.

Gold Award at the 18th Annual w3 Awards in the News and Politics Podcast category.

Award of Distinction at the 31st Annual Communicator Awards in the Individual Episodes – Political category for the episode “Eco-Regulation Gone Wrong: The Unintended Costs of Colorado’s Climate Laws.”

These awards—judged by experts from organizations like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and the Smithsonian—highlight the podcast’s effectiveness in elevating compelling stories of freedom, innovation, and citizen-led change.

Play

Open in

39 episodes
a few times a week
Avg 29 min
English

Episodes 39

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

S1 · E474
Thursday · 28 min
Scott Jennings on Common Sense, Socialism and the Fight for America’s Future
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with CNN commentator and bestselling author Scott Jennings at AFP’s America 250 celebration in Iowa to talk about politics, media, freedom, and the principles that have shaped America for 250 years. Scott takes listeners behind the scenes of his debates on CNN, explaining why listening is one of the most important skills in winning an argument and what he has learned debating some of the most prominent voices on the left. He also discusses the rise of socialism, why he believes its growing appeal among younger Americans should be taken seriously, and how supporters of free markets can make a stronger case for opportunity and individual freedom. transcript (33) Drawing from his book A Revolution of Common Sense, Scott connects today’s political debates to lessons from America’s founding, including the dangers of a government that becomes too large and too distant from the people it serves. He and David also discuss small businesses, the skilled trades, and why creating opportunity means trusting people to build, work, innovate, and pursue their own version of the American Dream. And for anyone expecting a political debate around the Thanksgiving table, Scott shares a few tips from his experience debating politics on national television.
#473
October 6 · 22 min
Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks on Service, Freedom and Fighting for Iowa Families
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks at AFP’s America 250 celebration in Iowa to discuss her journey from military service and medicine to representing Iowans in Congress. Congresswoman Miller-Meeks shares why concerns about government control of healthcare first motivated her to run for office and how her 24 years of military service shaped her commitment to protecting individual liberty. She also discusses the Working Families Tax Cut, efforts to improve veterans’ healthcare and benefits, lowering healthcare and prescription drug costs, and the need to rein in federal spending. Drawing on her experiences serving overseas, she explains why seeing life in other countries gave her an even deeper appreciation for America’s constitutional liberties, rule of law, and the opportunity to succeed, fail, and try again. The conversation also explores what Washington can learn from Iowa voters: show up, listen, ask tough questions, and remember that public service should ultimately be about serving the American people.
S1 · E472
October 1 · 32 min
Tyler Lindholm and James Halverson on Why Beef Costs More and What Ranchers Need to Compete
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Wyoming ranchers Tyler Lindholm and James Halverson to talk about rising beef prices, the challenges facing American ranchers, and how government regulations affect what consumers ultimately pay at the grocery store. Tyler, a fifth-generation rancher, and James, a first-generation rancher, explain how beef gets from the pasture to your plate and why a highly concentrated processing industry and federal regulations make it difficult for ranchers to sell directly to consumers. They also discuss tariffs, beef imports, labeling, and why American ranchers can face more restrictions selling across state lines than foreign producers face selling beef in the United States. They share reforms they believe could open the market to more competition, including allowing state-inspected beef to be sold across state lines and giving states more flexibility over local processing. The conversation also explores why America's cattle herd has fallen to historically low levels and what it could take to increase supply and bring beef prices down. And beyond policy, Tyler and James share why, despite the long hours and hard work, they're proud to be ranchers and continue the Western way of life.
S1 · E471
September 29 · 42 min
Katelyn Bledsoe and Lauren Stewart on America at 250 and What Comes Next
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From welcomes back Katelyn Bledsoe and Lauren Stewart to share conversations with members of Congress about America’s 250th anniversary, the World Cup, American innovation, and the future of the country. Katelyn and Lauren share highlights from their latest Media Row, where lawmakers reflected on what makes their home states unique, their favorite American innovations, and the principles they believe have helped America succeed over the past 250 years. They also discuss what it will take to carry those principles forward for another 250 years. The conversation also turns to the Working Families Tax Cut, the cost of living, and what lawmakers are hearing from their constituents about taxes, healthcare, housing, permitting reform, and other challenges facing American families. From celebrating America’s past to debating the policies shaping its future, Katelyn and Lauren give listeners a look inside their conversations with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
S1 · E470
September 24 · 29 min
David Barnes on Why Everything Costs More and What Can Be Done About It
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Americans for Prosperity Senior Policy Director David Barnes to break down the rising cost of living and the policies that can help make life more affordable. From groceries and gasoline to electricity and housing, David explains how government spending, outdated regulations, permitting delays, and restrictions on building and energy production can drive up costs for American families. He also discusses the Jones Act, why housing supply hasn't kept pace with demand, and reforms that could make it easier to build homes and energy infrastructure. David also looks at recent tax reforms that prevented tax increases for millions of Americans and discusses AFP's Camp Prosperity tour, which is traveling across the country to hear directly from Americans about the affordability challenges they face. The conversation explores practical policy changes that could increase supply, reduce unnecessary barriers, and ultimately help Americans keep more of their hard-earned money.
S1 · E469
September 22 · 26 min
Mayor Glenn Jacobs on High School Students Building Homes for Homeless Veterans
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs to discuss Operation Hero’s Hill, a program bringing students, businesses, government, and the community together to help homeless veterans. Students from 11 local high schools studying the skilled trades built 20 tiny homes that will provide veterans with safe, stable housing. Along the way, students gained hands-on experience working with industry mentors and developing skills in trades where employers desperately need the next generation of workers. Mayor Jacobs also shares how the community came together to make the project possible, the government barriers they had to overcome, and the additional services veterans will have access to as they move into their new homes. He and David also discuss the growing opportunities in the skilled trades and why programs like this can create a win for students, veterans, businesses, and the entire community.
S1 · E468
September 17 · 28 min
Casey Mattox on Why the Constitution Still Matters and How We Can Defend It
In this Constitution Day episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Casey Mattox, Senior Adviser at Americans for Prosperity, to explore the history, principles, and protections behind the U.S. Constitution. Casey explains how the failures of the Articles of Confederation led the Founders to create a new system of government built around checks and balances, federalism, and limits on government power. He also discusses the inspiration behind the Constitution, why the Bill of Rights was added, and the important principle that our rights do not come from government. The conversation turns to the challenges facing constitutional rights today, including free speech, religious liberty, privacy, and the tendency to expand government power during times of crisis. Casey also explains why defending the Constitution goes beyond politics—it means strengthening families, churches, communities, and the institutions that allow people to solve problems without always turning to government. And Casey leaves listeners with a simple Constitution Day challenge: read the Constitution, understand your rights, and find ways to strengthen your own community.
S1 · E467
September 15 · 33 min
Senator James Risch on How Nuclear Energy and Critical Minerals Can Strengthen America
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with U.S. Senator Jim Risch of Idaho to discuss America’s energy future, national security, and the resources needed to keep the country competitive. Sen. Risch explains why Idaho has become a leader in nuclear energy research and how a new generation of smaller reactors, private investment, and increased competition could transform how electricity is produced and delivered. He also discusses the rapidly growing energy demands created by AI and data centers and why he believes nuclear power will be essential to meeting them. The conversation also turns to critical minerals, semiconductors, permitting reform, and America’s dependence on foreign supply chains. Sen. Risch explains why producing more of these resources at home is critical to both economic and national security. He also shares his own One Small Step story, his approach to managing Idaho’s public lands, and why he believes free markets and American innovation can help solve some of the country’s biggest challenges.
S1 · E466
September 11 · 35 min
John Byrnes Remembers 9/11 and His National Guard Service at Ground Zero
Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, American Potential host David From sits down with John Byrnes, Strategic Director for Concerned Veterans for America, to remember the day that changed America and reflect on its lasting impact. John was a college student and National Guard soldier in New York City when the attacks began. He recalls hearing the sirens racing toward Lower Manhattan, watching the first tower collapse, and immediately reporting to his armory. By that evening, John and his fellow soldiers were providing security near Ground Zero, where he would spend nearly two weeks alongside police officers, firefighters, and other first responders during the rescue and recovery efforts. John also shares how 9/11 changed the direction of his own life, eventually leading to deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. He and David reflect on the thousands of lives lost, the Americans who answered the call to serve, and the extraordinary unity that swept across the country in the days and weeks following the attacks. Twenty-five years later, John looks back at the lessons of that day, the decisions America made in its aftermath, and why remembering our history remains essential to the country's future.
S1 · E465
September 8 · 42 min
Rev. Kevass Harding on Breaking Down Barriers to Affordable Housing
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Rev. Kevass Harding to discuss how his own childhood experiences with housing insecurity inspired him to help families find stable, affordable homes. Rev. Harding shares his journey from working construction with his grandfather to becoming a police officer, pastor, and eventually founding Hope Community Development Corporation in Wichita, Kansas. Today, the organization builds and renovates affordable homes while providing families with financial education and a path toward homeownership. He also discusses new reforms in Kansas that removed barriers to accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, creating more opportunities for homeowners and community organizations to provide affordable housing. Rev. Harding shares how these changes are already helping seniors, students, and families—including a formerly homeless family that was finally able to move into a home of their own.
S1 · E464
September 3 · 36 min
Kelley Williams on Going to Jail for Trying to Give Her Daughters a Better Education
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Kelley Williams to share a heartbreaking story about a mother’s fight to give her daughters a better education—and the devastating consequences that followed. After concerns about bullying and academics in her daughters’ assigned public school, Kelley enrolled them in the district where her parents lived. What followed went far beyond a simple enrollment dispute. The school district hired a private investigator to follow Kelley, and she was eventually prosecuted on felony charges, convicted, and sent to jail. Kelley also shares the painful story of her father, who supported her efforts to give his granddaughters a better education. He was later prosecuted on separate charges, sent to prison while suffering from serious health problems, and ultimately died while incarcerated. Kelley describes seeing him hospitalized, shackled to his bed, and wondering how their pursuit of a better public education could have resulted in such devastating consequences. Her case eventually gained national attention and gave Kelley a platform to speak across the country about education and the power government can wield over families. This episode is a powerful conversation about parental choice, government overreach, and why families should have greater freedom to pursue the education they believe is best for their children.
S1 · E463
September 1 · 29 min
Kevin Williams on Overcoming Blindness to Find His Voice in Politics and Podcasting
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Kevin Williams, a longtime AFP volunteer and host of the Rocky Mountain Freedom Zone podcast, to share how he has refused to let blindness keep him from pursuing his passions. Born blind, Kevin developed a fascination with radio as a child that eventually led him to earn a degree in broadcasting and begin producing his own shows. He shares how technology—from screen readers and Braille displays to smartphones and AI-powered tools—has given him greater independence and allowed him to record, edit, and produce his own podcast. Kevin also discusses his passion for politics and his decision to move from simply following the news to getting involved. He has advocated on Capitol Hill, volunteered with Americans for Prosperity, helped fight a local tax increase, and even earned recognition for making the most grassroots calls during an AFP campaign. His message is simple: whatever obstacle may be standing in your way, find the tools and training to overcome it, start small, and take your own one small step toward making a difference.
S1 · E462
August 27 · 34 min
Nick DeIuliis on How America’s Energy Revolution Is Reshaping the World
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with energy industry veteran Nick DeIuliis to discuss how America’s energy revolution has transformed the country’s economy, national security, and influence around the world. With more than 30 years in the energy industry, Nick shares how he went from growing up in Western Pennsylvania to building a career at the center of America’s transformation in natural gas and energy production. He explains how innovations in domestic energy helped move the United States from dependence on foreign energy toward becoming a major global energy producer and exporter. Nick also breaks down why reliable and affordable energy matters for everything from manufacturing and artificial intelligence to national security and America’s relationships with allies. He discusses the continued importance of natural gas, coal, and nuclear power—and why energy policies driven by ideology rather than reliability and affordability can have serious consequences. The conversation looks ahead at the next chapter of American energy and why Nick believes abundant domestic energy could unlock even more innovation, economic growth, and opportunity at home and around the world.
S99 · E461
August 25 · 29 min
Adam Jahnke on the Fight to Transform Veterans’ Health Care and Benefits
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Marine Corps veteran Adam Jahnke, Strategic Director for Concerned Veterans for America in South Carolina, to discuss the Taking Care of American Veterans Act and what it could mean for veterans and their families. Adam breaks down several major reforms included in the legislation, including the Major Richard Star Act, which would address retirement benefits for combat-wounded veterans; the Veterans Access Act, which would expand veterans’ ability to choose health care providers outside the VA; and the Love Lives On Act, which would protect benefits for surviving military spouses who choose to remarry. Drawing from his own experience as a Purple Heart recipient and former VA clinical social worker, Adam also discusses the problems veterans continue to face navigating the VA system and why greater choice could lead to better health outcomes. The conversation also tackles one of the biggest debates surrounding the legislation: how to deliver meaningful new benefits and health care reforms while being responsible with taxpayer dollars. Adam explains why he believes modernizing the VA system and prioritizing resources for critically injured veterans and their families can accomplish both.
S1 · E460
August 20 · 27 min
One Small Step Can Change Everything with Special Guest Host Heather Andrews
In this episode of American Potential, special guest host Heather Andrews takes us inside Americans for Prosperity’s Let Freedom Ring celebration in Utah to hear from people who turned one decision to get involved into years of meaningful action. From a Marine veteran fighting unnecessary regulations to a stay-at-home mom who found her voice in politics, an Australian immigrant who jumped into campus activism, and grassroots leaders working to expand freedom in Utah and Hawaii, Heather shares stories that demonstrate how ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact on their communities. The episode also catches up with Utah State Senator Heidi Balderree, whose journey from grassroots activist to elected office shows just how far that first step can lead. Heather also shares her own experience of walking into a local political office as a mother of four with no formal political background and simply asking how she could help. Her message for anyone wondering whether they can make a difference is simple: you don’t need a degree, political experience, or a perfect plan. You just need to show up. It’s a collection of inspiring One Small Step stories about civic engagement, individual freedom, and why getting off the sidelines can make a bigger difference than you might imagine.
S1 · E459
August 18 · 28 min
Amy Siple Fought the Nursing Bureaucracy and Won
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From welcomes back nurse practitioner Amy Siple for an incredible update on her fight against the Kansas Board of Nursing—and the major reforms that followed. After missing a licensing deadline while caring for her husband during his cancer battle, Amy faced disciplinary action that could have damaged a career spanning more than 30 years. Instead of accepting it, she fought back. What began as one nurse challenging the system uncovered similar stories across Kansas, including nurses whose careers and livelihoods were devastated by minor licensing and paperwork mistakes. Now, that fight has produced real results. Kansas lawmakers passed reforms separating licensing mistakes from professional discipline, requiring the removal of qualifying nurses from disciplinary databases, changing how the nursing board operates, and creating a fund for nurses harmed by past actions. Amy also shares how her own case was ultimately vacated and how another major reform gives Kansans a fairer opportunity to challenge government agencies in court. It’s a remarkable story of what can happen when one person refuses to back down—and how one fight against government bureaucracy could help thousands of nurses in Kansas and inspire reforms across the country.
S1 · E458
August 13 · 30 min
Ana Benson on Finding the American Dream and Helping Others Discover Freedom
In this episode of American Potential, special guest host Heather Andrews sits down with Ana Benson to share her journey from Peru to becoming an American citizen and helping others understand the freedoms and principles that define the United States. Ana came to America in 1987 during a difficult moment in her life, never imagining that the country would eventually become her home. She recalls becoming a U.S. citizen shortly after the September 11 attacks and how that experience deepened her gratitude for America and the freedoms she had found here. After getting involved in grassroots politics, Ana discovered another calling: helping members of Utah’s Hispanic community learn about the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and American history. Today, she works to bring people from different Latin American backgrounds together, teaches citizenship classes, and encourages others to become engaged in their communities. Ana also shares why the Declaration’s promise of the “pursuit of happiness” means so much to her and offers a simple challenge for anyone who wants to make a difference: start with just 10 minutes a day to learn more about the country, its history, and the freedoms worth protecting.
S1 · E457
August 11 · 21 min
Carolyn Phippen on Why Understanding the Issues Is the First Step to Making a Difference
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, special guest host Heather Andrews sits down with Carolyn Phippen to discuss why understanding the issues—and being willing to have difficult conversations—is essential to preserving freedom. Carolyn shares how her interest in politics began as a young girl reading the newspaper and discussing the issues with her father. That curiosity eventually led her into public policy, working for Senator Mike Lee, running for the U.S. Senate, and building an online audience focused on digging beyond the headlines and helping people understand the stories shaping the country. She and Heather also discuss the importance of knowing history, challenging your own beliefs, respectfully engaging with people who disagree, and refusing to let uncomfortable conversations keep you on the sidelines. From social media to local organizations and grassroots activism, Carolyn explains why Americans don't need to start with a huge political undertaking to make a difference—they simply need to get informed, connect with others, and start taking action.
S1 · E456
August 6 · 31 min
Kent Strang Explores What Makes America Unique Through Red White and Do
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Kent Strang to talk about his new social media series Red White and Do—a hands-on journey exploring the traditions, history, and spirit that define America. From crossing the Delaware to planting corn with his father and competing in a watermelon eating contest, Kent dives into iconic American experiences to better understand the people, innovation, and culture that shape the nation. Along the way, he discovers that behind every historic moment and tradition are ordinary Americans doing extraordinary things. The conversation highlights how curiosity, community, and a willingness to try something new are at the heart of the American story—and why preserving that spirit of innovation and freedom is more important than ever. This episode is a fun and meaningful reminder that being American isn’t just about history—it’s about continuing the story.
S1 · E455
August 4 · 32 min
Daniel Bassali on Why the Declaration of Independence Still Matters Today
Join our community. Text "freedom" to (202) 918-5348 In this episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Daniel Bassali, Vice President of Public Affairs at Americans for Prosperity, to reflect on America’s 250th anniversary and the importance of reconnecting with the nation’s founding principles. Daniel shares how initiatives like the Declaration Project are encouraging Americans to revisit the full meaning of the Declaration of Independence—not just its famous lines, but the deeper ideas about liberty, equality, and the role of government. The conversation also explores the growing divide in public discourse, the decline in national pride, and how focusing on shared values can help bring Americans together again. As the country looks toward the next 250 years, this episode highlights why understanding and carrying forward the principles of the Declaration is more important than ever.

Showing 1–20 of 39 episodes