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 guests may be public officials or influencers, many are ordinary Americans who decided, 'enough is enough,' and are stepping up in a big way. The podcast shares policy solutions to the most important challenges the country faces and talks to people who are doing something about it. Hosted by David From, a Regional Vice President at Americans for Prosperity, the show aims to inspire listeners to realize they are capable of doing extraordinary things within their own community. American Potential has earned multiple prestigious honors for its impact and excellence in storytelling.
Episodes
Dan Gable on Winning, Discipline and the Lessons That Built a Champion
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with legendary wrestler and coach Dan Gable at AFP’s America 250 celebration in Iowa to talk about the mindset, discipline, and lessons behind a lifetime of extraordinary success.
Gable reflects on his journey from growing up in Iowa to becoming an Olympic gold medalist, including his remarkable 1972 Olympic run where he did not sur
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
Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks on Service, Freedom and Fighting for Iowa Families
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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
Tyler Lindholm and James Halverson on Why Beef Costs More and What Ranchers Need to Compete
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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-gener
Katelyn Bledsoe and Lauren Stewart on America at 250 and What Comes Next
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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
David Barnes on Why Everything Costs More and What Can Be Done About It
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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,
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, stude
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 lim
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
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,
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
Kelley Williams on Going to Jail for Trying to Give Her Daughters a Better Education
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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 dist
Kevin Williams on Overcoming Blindness to Find His Voice in Politics and Podcasting
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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 de
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
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 wou
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 cam
Amy Siple Fought the Nursing Bureaucracy and Won
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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
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 be
Carolyn Phippen on Why Understanding the Issues Is the First Step to Making a Difference
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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 wi
Kent Strang Explores What Makes America Unique Through Red White and Do
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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 in
Daniel Bassali on Why the Declaration of Independence Still Matters Today
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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
Utah AG Derek Brown Fights Back Against Federal Overreach on Public Lands
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In this episode of American Potential, special guest host Heather Andrews sits down with Utah Attorney General Derek Brown to unpack one of the biggest constitutional battles in the West—who should control America’s public lands.
With more than 70% of Utah’s land managed by the federal government, Brown explains why states are pushing back and w
Bryan Anderson’s Story of Survival and Strength After Losing Everything in Combat
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Army veteran Bryan Anderson to share an extraordinary story of resilience, perspective, and purpose.
After enlisting on September 11th, Bryan served in Iraq where an IED explosion changed his life forever—leaving him a triple amputee. But what followed is a story not of defeat, but of determination. From recovery at Walter Reed
Kaitlin Colegate on Helping Veterans Get the Care They Deserve
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Kaitlin Colegate to share her powerful journey from firefighter to veteran advocate.
After witnessing her husband’s struggles navigating the VA following years of military service, Kaitlin stepped in to fight for the care and support he—and countless other veterans—deserved. What began as helping her own family quickly grew into
Austin von Letkemann: From Soldier to “Mandatory Funday” and Serving Beyond the Uniform
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Austin von Letkemann—known to millions online as “Mandatory Funday”—to talk about his journey from joining the Army at 18 to becoming a leading voice in military culture and humor.
Austin shares how a simple decision to enlist turned into a 14-year career of service, and how he discovered his voice as a content creator—using hum
Katie Bagosy: Turning Loss into a Mission to Fight Veteran Suicide
In this powerful episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Katie Bagosy to share a deeply personal story of love, loss, and purpose.
Katie opens up about her husband’s service as a Marine, his struggles with PTSD and traumatic brain injury after deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and the heartbreaking circumstances that led to his death. Through her experience, she highlights
Rep. Matt Van Epps: From West Point to War Zones to Congress
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Rep. Matt Van Epps to discuss a life defined by service—from the battlefield to Capitol Hill.
A West Point graduate and member of the “Class of 9/11,” Van Epps shares how his upbringing, military experience flying combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, and continued service in the Tennessee Air National Guard shaped his commi
Brad Flynn: Training First Responders to Save Lives Through Sensory Awareness
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with retired police chief Brad Flynn to discuss a life-changing initiative that’s helping first responders better serve individuals with sensory issues.
Inspired by his son’s autism diagnosis, Brad made it his mission to equip law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS with the tools to recognize and respond appropriately to people exper
Dr. Matthew Spalding: The Radical Ideas of the Founding Fathers That Built America
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Dr. Matthew Spalding of Hillsdale College to break down the core ideas that shaped the founding of the United States.
Dr. Spalding explains how the Founding Fathers weren’t just philosophers, but practical leaders who brought bold ideas like equality, natural rights, and self-government to life. He highlights why the Declaratio
Clarence Henderson: The Greensboro Sit-In That Helped Change America
In this powerful episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Clarence Henderson, a civil rights leader who took part in the historic 1960 Greensboro Woolworth lunch counter sit-in.
Clarence shares a firsthand account of the moment he joined the protest—an act of courage that helped ignite a nationwide movement to challenge segregation. He reflects on growing up under Jim Crow, th
Senator Dan Sullivan: The Alaska Energy Comeback and America’s Path to Energy Dominance
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan to discuss Alaska’s critical role in America’s energy future—and the major policy shifts driving its resurgence.
From unlocking massive oil and gas reserves on the North Slope to advancing large-scale projects like Alaska LNG, Senator Sullivan outlines how recent legislation and regulatory rollbacks are
Katelyn Beldsoe Goes Inside the Congressional Baseball Game with Members of Congress
In this episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Katelyn Beldsoe for a behind-the-scenes look at one of Washington’s most unique traditions—the Congressional Baseball Game.
Reporting from batting practice, Katelyn shares conversations with members of Congress as they prepare for the big game, offering a lighter, more personal side of lawmakers rarely seen on Capitol Hill. From s
Raw Milk, Red Tape, and Freedom: A Wyoming Family’s Fight to Protect Food Choice
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Sadie Howard and Mark Nelson of Hippie Cow Creamery in Cody, Wyoming, to share their unexpected journey from family farm to food freedom advocates.
What started as a simple decision to provide healthier food for their family quickly grew into a thriving business—selling raw milk, homemade goods, and popular raw milk lattes under
Delegate Michael Webert: How Regulatory Reform Saved Virginians Thousands
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Virginia Delegate Michael Webert to discuss the impact of regulatory reform and what’s at stake for the future of the Commonwealth.
Delegate Webert breaks down how the Virginia Office of Regulatory Management—created under Governor Glenn Youngkin—has streamlined burdensome rules, cut red tape, and saved taxpayers significant mo
Building America Again: Senator Alan Armstrong on Fixing Permitting and Energy Policy
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with U.S. Senator Alan Armstrong to discuss one of the biggest barriers to American growth: the broken permitting process.
Drawing on decades of experience in the energy industry, Senator Armstrong explains how excessive regulation, legal challenges, and bureaucratic overlap have made it nearly impossible to build critical infrastruc
Fighting for Fair Pay: Dana Hollifleld’s Battle Against Healthcare Monopolies
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Dana Hollifleld, a nurse with over 20 years of experience, to discuss how government policies are impacting healthcare workers and patients alike.
After working in multiple states, Dana noticed a stark difference when she arrived in Alabama—limited job options, suppressed wages, and reduced patient choice due to hospital monopo
AI Meets Agriculture: How Colin Raby Is Transforming the Future of Farming
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Colin Raby, co-founder of Farmmind, to explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing one of America’s oldest industries—agriculture.
Colin shares how he and his team identified major gaps in farming technology and built an AI-powered platform to help farmers save time, reduce costs, and increase yields. From simplifyin
Inside Capitol Hill: Katelyn Bledsoe & Lauren Stewart on Policy Wins and Grassroots Power
In this episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Katelyn Bledsoe and Lauren Stewart to bring listeners inside Washington, D.C., with exclusive conversations from members of Congress.
Recorded during the Republican Study Committee’s media row, the episode covers key issues shaping the nation—from the Working Family Tax Cut Act and its impact on everyday Americans to the growing p
50 Stars, 50 Stories: Megan Novak & Jake Coleman on Minnesota, Wisconsin, and South Carolina
In this episode of American Potential, host David From continues the “50 Stars, 50 Stories” series with Megan Novak and Jake Coleman, who test their knowledge in a fun state trivia showdown.
From Minnesota’s lakes and Wisconsin’s cheese to South Carolina’s history, the conversation dives into what makes these states unique—covering everything from geography and culture to surprising historical fa
The True Meaning of Memorial Day: Honoring Those Who Never Came Home with David Cyr
In this special Memorial Day episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Army veteran David Cyr to reflect on the true meaning behind the holiday.
Drawing from over two decades of military service, David shares powerful and personal stories of two fallen soldiers—Jared Dennis and Alexander Van Alton—highlighting their courage, sacrifice, and the bonds formed in combat. He offers
Angela Marrarino: How One Tweet Led to a Career in Politics
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Angela Marrarino to share her one small step story—how a single tweet helped launch her journey into politics and public policy.
Angela reflects on her path from working in the bar industry to becoming a leader in grassroots activism in Ohio. What started as curiosity and opportunity quickly turned into a calling to make a real
From Small Town to Capitol Hill: Greg Dowell on Finding Purpose in Public Policy
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Greg Dowell to explore his journey from a small town in Tennessee to working on Capitol Hill.
Greg shares his one small step story—how growing up in a tight-knit community shaped his passion for people, service, and storytelling, ultimately leading him into public policy. From advocating for students in the Tennessee legislatur
From Philly to the Frontlines: Roslyn Williams on Turning Passion into Action
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with grassroots leader Roslyn Williams to share her powerful journey from everyday citizen to one of the most effective community organizers in the country.
Roslyn recounts how a simple decision to volunteer in Georgia became her “one small step” into politics—leading to building movements, running campaigns, and eventually helping s
From Norway to New Mexico: Sarah Hetemi’s Journey to the American Dream
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Sarah Hetemi, Americans for Prosperity’s New Mexico State Director, to share her remarkable journey—from growing up in Norway to becoming a leader in American public policy.
Sarah reflects on her parents’ pursuit of opportunity, her decision to immigrate to the United States at just 18, and the “one small step” that led her into
From Builder to Policy Leader: Tim Golding on Housing Reform and Taking the First Step
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Tim Golding, Americans for Prosperity’s Michigan State Director, to discuss his journey from small business owner to policy leader—and the moment that pushed him to get involved.
After decades running a construction and remodeling business with his brother, Tim saw firsthand how government regulations were driving up costs and
Darryl Worley on Patriotism, Music, and the Meaning of Freedom
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down in Nashville with country music star Darryl Worley to talk about music, patriotism, and the enduring meaning of freedom.
Best known for his hit song “Have You Forgotten?”, Worley shares the powerful story behind the song—how a trip to entertain U.S. troops overseas after 9/11 inspired him to create a message that resonated across th
From One Small Step to Statehouse: Elaine Davis on Turning Advocacy into Action
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Tennessee State Representative Elaine Davis to share an inspiring story of how one mother’s determination led to real change.
After her son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Elaine discovered a critical gap in school health care—many schools didn’t have nurses available to provide life-saving support. What started as a persona
From WWE to Mayor: Glenn Jacobs on Freedom, Education, and Opportunity
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs—known to many as WWE Hall of Famer “Kane”—to discuss his unique journey from the wrestling ring to public office.
Jacobs shares how the opportunities he found in America shaped his belief in freedom, limited government, and personal responsibility. He reflects on the importance of civic engagement,
50 States, 2 Stories: Louisiana, Maryland, and a New Generation Rising
In this April installment of American Potential’s “50 States, 50 Stories” series, David From is joined by Spencer Evans and Clayton Rasche for a fun, fast-paced trivia showdown featuring Louisiana and Maryland. From food and culture to history and state pride, the conversation highlights what makes each state unique—gumbo, blue crab, Mardi Gras, and more.
But beyond the trivia, the episode takes
Zoning, Red Tape, and the American Dream: A Realtor’s View from the Ground
Why is homeownership slipping further out of reach for so many Americans?
In this episode of American Potential, David From sits down with Michigan realtor Anna Louise to explore the real barriers facing today’s housing market. Drawing from her firsthand experience, Anna breaks down how local zoning laws, rising regulatory costs, and outdated policies are limiting new development, blocking innovat
One Breakdown Away: How a Car Can Make or Break the American Dream
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Jason Wells, founder of Mechanics of Faith, to explore how something as simple as a car repair can be the difference between stability and crisis.
Jason shares how his nonprofit in Virginia is helping individuals and families stay on their feet by providing affordable auto repairs—and second chances. For many of the people he se
Blocked by Bureaucracy: Khalilah Few’s Fight to Open Her Business
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Khalilah Few and Jessica Bigbie to share a powerful story about what happens when government gets in the way of the American Dream.
Khalilah, the owner of a growing natural hair care business, signed a lease for a larger space to meet demand and better serve her community. After completing every step in the process—including gat
The $1 Trillion Blind Spot: Fraud, Welfare, and the Hidden Cost of Government Aid
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with policy expert David Ditch from the Economic Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) to uncover a massive and often overlooked part of federal spending: over $1 trillion in aid to state programs.
From Medicaid to food stamps and housing assistance, they break down how these programs work, why costs are rising faster than the economy, and
Cutting Red Tape: How Tennessee Is Empowering Small Businesses
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Tennessee Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson in Nashville to discuss how smart policy—and less red tape—is helping drive one of the fastest-growing states in the country.
Senator Johnson shares his journey into public service, from simply “showing up” at local events to becoming a key leader shaping Tennessee’s pro-growth agend
March Madness: Who Is America’s Greatest Defender of Freedom?
In this special American Potential episode, host David From brings the excitement of March Madness to American history with a “Defenders of Freedom” bracket—pitting 64 influential figures against each other to answer one big question: who had the greatest impact on liberty?
Joined by Daniel Bassali, Jeremiah Mosteller, and Hunter Kendrick, the conversation blends humor, history, and spirited debat
Looking Beyond the Next Election: A Vision for Alaska’s Future with Brett Huber
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with AFP Alaska State Director Brett Huber to explore a remarkable journey—from fishing guide and small business owner to a leader shaping Alaska’s policy future.
Brett shares how a single step into public life turned into a decades-long career in public policy, and why Alaska’s unique culture, resources, and people make it unlike an
50 Stars, 50 Stories: Florida vs. Ohio on Freedom, Growth, and Opportunity
In this episode of American Potential, host David From continues the “50 Stars, 50 Stories” series by spotlighting four states that joined the Union in March—Florida, Ohio, Nebraska, and Vermont.
Joined by Americans for Prosperity state directors Skylar Zander (Florida) and Donovan O’Neil (Ohio), the conversation blends fun trivia with a deeper look at the policies shaping each state’s future. Fro
Lara Trump on the American Dream, Patriotism, and Raising the Next Generation
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Lara Trump backstage at the Americans for Prosperity America 250 celebration in Nashville to discuss the values that define our nation—and how to carry them forward.
Lara shares her perspective on what makes America exceptional, why it’s critical to teach the next generation to love their country, and how the founding principles
How Brady Cupples Took His One Small Step Into Politics and Leadership
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Brady Cupples, co-chair of his county’s Young Republicans, to share his journey from political observer to active leader.
Brady opens up about what sparked his renewed interest in politics, how the events of recent years motivated him to get involved, and the simple step that changed everything—showing up. What started as atten
Abraham Lincoln Comes to Life: Lessons on Unity, Freedom, and Leadership
In this special episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Fritz Klein, one of the nation’s leading Abraham Lincoln portrayers, during America’s 250th celebration in Springfield, Illinois.
Through a unique and engaging conversation, “President Lincoln” reflects on his journey into public life, the challenges of leading during the Civil War, and the enduring principles of equali
Jason Chaffetz on AI, Free Speech, and Why America Must Stay Engaged
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with former Congressman and Fox News contributor Jason Chaffetz during the America 250 celebration in Springfield, Illinois.
Chaffetz shares his journey into public service, from personal loss to becoming Chairman of the House Oversight Committee, and reflects on the importance of accountability, limited government, and stay
Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher Talks Free Speech, Football, and Defending American Values
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Pro Football Hall of Famer and Chicago Bears legend Brian Urlacher during a special America 250 celebration in Springfield, Illinois.
Urlacher reflects on growing up in New Mexico, his NFL career, and why he decided to start speaking out on issues like free speech, cancel culture, and the importance of defending America’s found
Rep. Jeff Bradley’s Plan to Cut Regulations and Help Small Businesses Thrive
In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with South Carolina State Representative Jeff Bradley, chairman of the House Regulations and Administrative Procedures Committee, about a major push to rein in the administrative state and make government more accountable to the people.
Bradley explains how South Carolina’s Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act would force a regular revi
Kitchen Table Issues in Illinois: Senator Darby Hills on Budgets, Jobs, and Public Safety
Illinois State Senator Darby Hills joins host David From to share her path from prosecutor to community advocate—and now, as one of just 19 Republicans in the Illinois Senate, fighting to bring transparency and accountability back to Springfield.
Darby explains why Illinois doesn’t have a revenue problem—it has a spending problem—and describes what she saw as a new senator: major bills and the st
From Sierra Leone to Philly: Ernestine Johnson on Finding Her Voice and Running for Office
On this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Philadelphia native Ernestine Johnson, whose story embodies the spirit of America’s 250th anniversary. A first-generation American with roots in Sierra Leone, Ernestine shares how her family’s experience with civil war and voter suppression shaped her deep appreciation for the right to vote and civic engagement.
What started as
From School Board to the RNC: Angelina Banks on Finding Her Voice in Pennsylvania
On this episode of American Potential, host David Fromm sits down with Pennsylvania activist Angelina Banks to talk about taking that “one small step” into civic engagement—and how it changed her life. What started as frustration over local school board decisions turned into a journey through party politics, running for office, serving as a committee person, and even representing her county at th
50 Stars, 50 Stories: Oregon, Massachusetts & Arizona with Ross Connolly and Stephen Shadegg
Americans are capable of achieving extraordinary things when they have the freedom and opportunity to do so. This is American Potential, and in this episode, host David From continues the “50 Stars, 50 Stories” series with a February-themed deep dive into the states that joined the Union during this month.
David is joined by Ross Connolly, Americans for Prosperity’s regional state director for the
Emily Seidel on America 250, One Small Step, and Restoring the American Dream
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Emily Seidel, CEO of Americans for Prosperity, live from Philadelphia as the America 250 celebrations begin. Together, they reflect on the founding principles that shaped the nation — self-governance, individual liberty, and the belief that our rights come from our Creator — and why those ideas are still essential 250 years late
Love at the Phone Bank: Pat Sterck & Bo Bolling’s New Mexico VOLentine Story
In this special VOLentine’s Day episode of American Potential, host David From shares the heartwarming story of Pat Sterck and Bo Bolling, two New Mexico volunteers in their 70s who met while serving their community — and unexpectedly found love. What started as volunteering with the AFP New Mexico team turned into friendship, then romance, and eventually marriage.
Pat and Bo talk about how shared
How Kentucky’s Gatton Academy Is Redefining STEM Education for High-Achieving Students
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Lynette Breedlove, director of Kentucky’s Gatton Academy, to explore how one innovative public program is transforming opportunities for gifted and high-achieving students across the Commonwealth. Located on the campus of Western Kentucky University, Gatton Academy gives students the chance to complete their final two years of h
New Hampshire Right to Try: Michael Yakubovich’s Fight for Patients’ Freedom to Choose
In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Sarah Scott about the remarkable story of Michael Yakubovich and the successful push to pass Right to Try legislation in New Hampshire. A former state representative, Michael was diagnosed with a terminal illness and quickly ran into the harsh reality many patients face: limited treatment options and government barriers standing be
Blake Fuhriman on Founding Veterans Navigation Network to Support Montana Veterans
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Blake Fuhriman, founder of the Veterans Navigation Network, to discuss his journey from Army Ranger to veteran advocate in Montana. Blake shares how combat injuries, the difficult transition to civilian life, and gaps in veteran support inspired him to create a veteran-led network built on mentorship, connection, and purpose.
Bl
Illinois Government Overreach Targeted Homeschool Families—Parents Fought Back
In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Christie Black and Matt Black, Illinois homeschool parents who became grassroots leaders in the fight against a proposed state mandate that would have forced homeschooling families to register with the government—backed by fines and even jail time for parents who failed to comply. They explain why the proposal represented serious go
50 Stars, 50 Stories: Kansas and New Mexico Trivia and Big Policy Fights Ahead
In this episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Elizabeth Patton, Americans for Prosperity–Kansas State Director, and JD Marmion, Americans for Prosperity–New Mexico Deputy State Director, for the next installment of 50 Stars, 50 Stories—spotlighting the states that joined the Union in January through a fast-paced trivia showdown.
After the fun, the conversation turns serious:
Illinois Watchdogs at Work: How Citizens Expose Corruption and Hold Local Government Accountable
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Brian Costin, Deputy State Director for Americans for Prosperity–Illinois, to talk about the power of citizen watchdogs and why transparency matters more than ever. From small-town library referendums to massive waste in local government spending, Brian shares how everyday residents can use tools like Freedom of Information Act
John Spottiswood on How a Small Town Livestock Ban Sparked a Grassroots Repeal in New Hampshire
In this episode of American Potential, host David From speaks with John Spottiswood about a local ballot measure in Pelham, New Hampshire that unexpectedly banned livestock on properties under three acres. Because the town’s definition of livestock included animals like rabbits, goats, bees, horses, and alpacas, the ordinance affected families, pets, therapy animals, and small livelihoods—promptin
Mary Beth Cirucci on Energy Abundance, Permitting Reform, and America’s Road to Prosperity
In this episode of American Potential, host David From hits the road in Arizona with Mary Beth Cirucci, who has been traveling the country on Americans for Prosperity’s Road to Prosperity Tour. After visiting 11 states in 11 weeks, Mary Beth shares what she’s learned about America’s growing energy needs, the urgency created by AI and data growth, and why reliable energy sources like natural gas, c
CEO of Keystate Energy Perry Babb on Fertilizer, Natural Gas, and America’s Food Security
Fertilizer is essential to feeding America, and it all begins with natural gas. On this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Perry Babb, CEO of Keystate Energy, to explain how modern fertilizer is made, why energy policy directly affects food prices, and how the U.S. became dependent on foreign fertilizer despite abundant domestic resources. Perry breaks down the science b
2025 American Potential Year-End Review: Stories, Wins, and Lessons from the Road
In the final episode of 2025, host David From is joined by the American Potential podcast team to reflect on a year of major transitions, memorable guests, and powerful stories from across the country. They discuss stepping into a new chapter for the show, how the team finds and tells “one small step” stories, and the moments that stood out most—from deep dives into government waste to the real-wo
Permitting Reform and American Energy for the AI Revolution with Kent Strang
As America heads into an AI-driven future, energy demand, innovation, and economic competitiveness are all colliding. In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Kent Strang, Managing Director at Americans for Prosperity, about the major policy wins of 2025 and what’s coming next.
They break down the passage of the working families tax cuts, why grassroots advocacy made the d
