Episodes
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In this thought-provoking episode of American Potential, guest host Heather Andrews welcomes Doug Sprankle, owner of Sprankle's Neighborhood Market in Pennsylvania, to discuss the real-world implications of government-imposed price controls on the grocery industry. Drawing from his years of experience as a small business owner, Doug explains how price regulations could inadvertently harm local communities by driving small grocers out of business, creating food deserts, and reducing the availability of quality products.
Doug shares heartfelt stories about his store's role as a cornerstone for his community, offering much more than just groceries—it’s a place of connection, service, and support for neighbors. Together, Heather and Doug delve into the economic realities of running a small business in a competitive and highly regulated industry, shedding light on how free-market principles provide the best solutions for both businesses and consumers. Whether you're a small business owner, a shopper, or someone interested in understanding how government policies impact daily life, this episode offers a compelling look at the stakes involved in preserving economic freedom and supporting local enterprises.
Don't miss this insightful conversation about protecting the American Dream for entrepreneurs like Doug and the communities they serve.
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In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with Delegate Nick Freitas, a former Green Beret, podcast host, and Virginia legislator, to explore the critical role free markets play in fostering economic growth and opportunity.
Together, they delve into the negative consequences of government interference in the marketplace, from excessive regulations to price controls, and why these policies often lead to inefficiencies, shortages, and higher costs for consumers. Delegate Freitas shares compelling stories and examples, from the challenges of minimum wage laws to the real impact of misguided energy policies. Drawing from historical lessons and real-world experiences, he explains how reducing regulatory burdens and allowing free-market principles to thrive can create better opportunities for all Americans. The conversation also touches on practical steps states can take to foster innovation, empower individuals, and maintain a competitive edge, as well as the importance of critical thinking and preserving liberty.
Whether you're passionate about economic freedom or looking for solutions to today's challenges, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Don't miss it!
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Guest Host Tyler Lindholm dives into the story behind Arizona’s groundbreaking Tamale Bill with Jared Gorshe and Stephen Shadegg, the Arizona State Director for Americans for Prosperity. Discover how this legislation removes unnecessary government hurdles, empowering local food entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and grow their businesses.
This episode explores the journey of advocacy, collaboration, and the impact of unleashing opportunity for small businesses in Arizona.
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In this inspiring episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with Manny Singh, a successful entrepreneur who immigrated from India in pursuit of his American Dream. Manny's journey embodies determination and hard work—two full-time jobs and a part-time job were only the beginning as he built a new life, overcame countless challenges, and embraced the opportunities that America offers. He shares the ups and downs of legal immigration, including his family’s years-long wait to join him and the frustration caused by illegal immigration.
Through it all, Manny has thrived, building multiple businesses and achieving a dream that exemplifies why people continue to choose America. Listen in for an eye-opening perspective on what it truly means to live the American Dream.
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In this special Veterans Day episode, host Jeff Crank is joined by Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, an Army veteran and advocate for veterans' health care reform, who shares her inspiring journey from service in the military to service in Congress. As the daughter of an Air Force veteran, Miller-Meeks grew up in a military family, instilled with a strong sense of duty and commitment to country. Her own 24-year career in the Army has left an indelible mark on her approach to public service, shaping her dedication to the well-being of veterans and her fight to protect patient rights.
Now in Congress, she addresses the pressing issues of bureaucratic roadblocks, the complexities of the VA system, and the critical need for reform in the doctor-patient relationship. In this episode, she discusses why veterans deserve greater choice and accessibility in health care and how she advocates for the Mission Act’s goals to ensure all veterans have the freedom to choose their medical providers. On this Veterans Day, hear her reflections on military service, the values that continue to guide her work, and her dedication to defending freedom from both the battlefield and Congress. This is a tribute to the resilience, honor, and unwavering commitment of our nation’s veterans.
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In this compelling episode, host Jeff Crank sits down with Congressman Guy Reschenthaler, a decorated Navy veteran and dedicated representative of Pennsylvania’s 14th Congressional District. Congressman Reschenthaler takes us on his journey from the military battlefield to the legislative front lines, sharing how his time as a Navy JAG officer shaped his commitment to protecting American freedoms. He opens up about his role in prosecuting terrorists in Iraq, as well as a gripping story defending a Navy SEAL wrongfully accused under the previous administration.
This episode dives into Reschenthaler’s key policy priorities, including his staunch advocacy for U.S. energy independence. As a representative on the House Appropriations Committee, he is determined to lower energy costs, protect American jobs, and ensure national security by reducing reliance on foreign energy sources. Congressman Reschenthaler’s insights offer listeners a front-row seat to the challenges and triumphs of a life devoted to service, both in uniform and in Congress. Discover how he continues to fight for a future of freedom, security, and opportunity for all Americans.
Tune in to explore the unique perspective of a leader who understands the cost of freedom—and the policies needed to preserve it.
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In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with Georgia State Representative Misha Mainor, who made headlines last year by switching parties to stand for school choice. Representative Mainor shares her journey from Democrat to Republican, her relentless work on passing the Promise Scholarship, and her passion for ensuring every Georgia child has access to a quality education.
With the Promise Scholarship now in place, Georgia families can find the best educational fit for their children, regardless of ZIP code. Rep. Mainor also discusses the challenges and triumphs of her first legislative session as a Republican and her vision for Georgia’s future. Join us as we explore the power of educational freedom and hear from a leader dedicated to making a difference for Georgia’s students.
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In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with Wisconsin brewery owner Will Glass, whose journey to open a brewery took him through a bureaucratic nightmare. From navigating federal and state laws to being told he might need to divorce his wife and disown his children to move forward, Will’s story is an incredible tale of perseverance against government overreach.
Thanks to the support of Americans for Prosperity, Will was able to challenge the laws and help change the landscape for future entrepreneurs. Now, his successful Brewing Project isn’t just a testament to his dream but also a beacon of hope for others navigating business red tape. Join us for this eye-opening episode about what it takes to fight for freedom and opportunity in today’s regulatory landscape.
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This Halloween, we’re digging into one of the scariest policy proposals haunting Oregon: Universal Basic Income (UBI). Guest host Andy Hooser and AFP’s Western Regional State Director Heather Andrews discuss the terrifying reality behind Oregon’s UBI measure, which would impose a 3% gross receipts tax on businesses. With impacts that could drive up the cost of essentials, cut local jobs, and make life even harder for working families, this proposal is no treat—it’s a trick with lasting consequences.
This episode explores how the UBI plan threatens the future of Oregon’s economy and why residents should be frightened of its chilling effects on businesses and consumers alike. Don't miss this special Halloween episode, where we expose the true horrors hidden in Oregon's UBI proposal and the economic hauntings it could unleash.
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In this eye-opening episode of American Potential, guest host David From and AFP Colorado Director Jesse Mallory expose the unintended consequences of Colorado’s recent carbon emission policies and climate-focused bills. Jesse highlights how these restrictive measures, inspired by California's aggressive regulations, threaten Colorado’s working families, rural communities, and small businesses.
From gas-powered lawnmower bans to policies that could limit personal vehicle use, they discuss the harmful impact on those who can least afford it and the critical need to protect freedom and affordability.
Join us as we delve into how these costly, impractical policies could reshape life in Colorado and why standing up for commonsense solutions is more important than ever.
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In this powerful episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with Wiz Rouzard, Deputy State Director for Americans for Prosperity in Nevada, to hear his inspiring story of resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of the American Dream. As the son of Haitian immigrants, Wiz shares how his parents' incredible journey from Haiti to America taught him the value of perseverance, education, and self-reliance.
He reflects on the struggles his family faced, the work ethic his mother instilled, and the values that shaped his commitment to freedom and opportunity. Wiz also opens up about how his passion for liberty led him to become involved in politics and eventually join AFP. Tune in for a heartwarming and motivational conversation about family, faith, and the enduring promise of America.
Listen now to hear how Wiz is continuing his family's legacy of hard work and contributing to America's future!
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In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with Kurt Couchman, Senior Policy Fellow at Americans for Prosperity, to dive into AFP’s hard-hitting report, the "Bidenflation Blame Game." As Americans continue to suffer from soaring inflation, Bidenomics has shifted the blame onto businesses, but is that really the root cause? Kurt and Jeff break down why government overspending is the true driver of inflation and how Biden's reckless policies are making life more expensive for families across the nation.
Tune in to uncover the truth about the inflation crisis and why Biden's economic mismanagement is hurting the country.
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In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank is joined by Tera Myers, a passionate advocate for school choice and the mother of a son with Down Syndrome. Tera shares her inspiring journey of navigating the education system to ensure her son, Samuel, received the best possible education. Despite early challenges, Tera became a powerful voice for students with special needs, successfully advocating for school choice legislation in Ohio.
Her efforts culminated in an invitation to the White House, but Samuel's humble work ethic nearly prevented the trip. Through Tera’s story, we explore the importance of parental advocacy, the impact of school choice, and the determination to ensure that all children, regardless of their abilities, have access to the education they deserve. Tera’s unwavering dedication to her son and countless other children highlights the power of a parent’s love and the far-reaching effects of standing up for educational freedom.
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In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank dives into the implications of the Biden-Harris administration’s decision to use the Defense Production Act to regulate artificial intelligence (AI). Joining him are James Czerniawski, Senior Policy Analyst at Americans for Prosperity, and Thomas Kimbrell, an Analyst with AFP Foundation, to discuss the dangers of government overreach in regulating AI, especially when the regulations target industries beyond government contractors.
James and Thomas explore how the misuse of emergency powers not only hinders AI development but also creates risks for U.S. innovation in the global race against countries like China. They discuss the potential economic impact of overregulation and the need for Congress, rather than the executive branch, to take the lead on responsible AI governance. Tune in to hear how this critical issue could affect the future of technology, the economy, and America's global leadership.
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In this episode of American Potential, guest Stephen Chacko, a real estate developer from Texas, joins host Jeff Crank to share his story of navigating unexpected challenges after purchasing a property in Fort Worth. Chacko discovered that his multifamily apartment complex had a historical overlay—something he wasn’t aware of when he bought the property.
This designation has prevented him from making necessary energy-efficient upgrades and safety improvements, ultimately affecting his tenants. Chacko discusses the economic hardships created by the historical designation and the difficulties in working with local authorities to find a resolution. Despite the setbacks, he remains determined to improve his property and create a better living environment for his tenants.
Tune in to hear how Stephen is fighting against unnecessary regulatory barriers while working toward a positive outcome for his community.
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In this episode of American Potential, guest host Drew Klein, Regional Vice President for Americans for Prosperity, speaks with Megan Novak, State Director of AFP Wisconsin, about the looming fiscal cliff and the critical need to make the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent. Novak shares the profound impact these tax cuts have had on small businesses across Wisconsin, from local pizza shops to family-owned farms, and explains how their expiration could hurt local economies and families.
Novak also highlights the importance of AFP’s annual Capital Conference, where state chapters meet with federal lawmakers to advocate for permanent tax reform and fiscal responsibility. Backed by the stories of everyday business owners, Novak illustrates how grassroots activism is key to driving real policy change. Tune in to learn how making tax cuts permanent would benefit businesses, employees, and communities across the nation.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
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In this episode of American Potential, guest host Ross Connolly, Northeast Regional Director for Americans for Prosperity, speaks with Tyler Lindholm, the State Director for AFP Wyoming and a self-proclaimed “crypto cowboy.” They dive into the looming fiscal cliff facing America in 2024 and the importance of grassroots efforts to hold lawmakers accountable. Tyler shares insights into the critical tax and spending issues at stake, including the expiration of the Trump tax cuts and the challenge of tackling $35 trillion in federal debt.
The conversation also explores the power of local advocacy, with Lindholm offering inspiring examples of Wyoming'sactivism, from knocking on thousands of doors to championing school choice. He emphasizes how the everyday actions of citizens—like sending a few letters to their representatives—can make a significant impact on the fiscal policies that affect all Americans. Tune in to learn how you can get involved in protecting freedom, fiscal responsibility, and opportunity in your community.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
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In this episode of American Potential, guest host David Thompson speaks with Henry Kriegel, Deputy State Director of Americans for Prosperity in Montana, about the impending "fiscal cliff" and its potential impact on Americans. Kriegel breaks down the key deadlines and provisions within the fiscal cliff, including the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and Affordable Care Act subsidies. He emphasizes the urgency of preserving tax cuts to alleviate the burden of inflation and rising costs of living on hardworking Montanans.
Kriegel also reflects on his 13 years with AFP and the organization's efforts to empower grassroots activism, advocate for education and healthcare reforms, and limit government overreach. He highlights the importance of citizen engagement and urges listeners to contact their representatives to protect economic freedom and individual opportunity. Tune in to hear how AFP is fighting to make sure that the fiscal cliff doesn't hinder prosperity and liberty for Americans.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
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Two Decades of Fighting for Freedom: Brent Gardner on the Journey of Americans for Prosperity Description: In this milestone episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank interviews Brent Gardner, Chief Government Affairs Officer of Americans for Prosperity (AFP), as the organization celebrates 20 years of grassroots-driven impact. Brent shares the story of AFP’s humble beginnings, starting with local activists opposing tax increases in Kansas, to becoming a powerful national movement fighting for limited government and individual freedom.
Brent reflects on AFP’s unique approach to advocacy, the challenges of battling cronyism and big government, and the victories that have shaped public policy. From the fight for school choice and the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to empowering citizens across the country, Brent provides an inside look at AFP’s unwavering commitment to long-term change.
Tune in for a deep dive into the principles, people, and stories that have made AFP a driving force for freedom in America.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
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In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with Brad Stevens, former Americans for Prosperity (AFP) employee and current State Director for U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts. Brad reflects on his 14-year journey with AFP, sharing stories of grassroots victories, policy change, and the power of community activism. From memorable door-knocking campaigns to building lasting relationships with policy champions and activists across the country, Stevens highlights the importance of teamwork and perseverance in the fight for liberty.
Brad also delves into AFP's role in key policy battles, including the fight against overregulation and government overreach. He shares personal anecdotes, including successful grassroots efforts in Nebraska and the impact AFP has had in transforming the state’s political landscape. This episode offers an insider’s look at how a nationwide grassroots organization can drive significant policy changes while creating a close-knit community of activists. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the ongoing fight for freedom and opportunity.
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