American Potential
News & Politics Podcasts
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.
Location:
United States
Genres:
News & Politics Podcasts
Description:
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.
Language:
English
Episodes
Reinventing Dentistry: How Direct Primary Care Inspired a Dental Revolution
10/3/2025
What happens when two Tennesseans take a proven healthcare model and apply it to dentistry? In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Tamara Stillwell, office manager and registered dental assistant at Athens Dental Center, to share the story of how she and her husband created the nation’s first full-service dental co-op.
Frustrated by the limits of insurance—denials, delays, and skyrocketing costs—the Stillwells drew inspiration from direct primary care and built a membership-based model that puts patients and providers back in control. Discover how their United Dental Co-op helps patients save money, reduces stress for dentists, and restores the doctor–patient relationship to what it should be: focused on care, not paperwork.
This conversation is about innovation, freedom, and opportunity in action—proving that when people see a problem, they can create solutions that work for everyone.
Duración:00:28:18
Why Did the Government Shut Down? A Conversation with Chairman Tom Cole
10/1/2025
In this special American Potential Now episode, host David From sits down with Congressman Tom Cole, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, to unpack the recent government shutdown that began at midnight on September 30th. They dive into the causes, failed negotiations in the Senate, and what was really in the so-called “clean” continuing resolution.
Chairman Cole also discusses the broader challenges of federal spending, runaway debt, and the urgent need for entitlement reform. Whether you're trying to understand how Congress funds the government or what it will take to restore fiscal discipline, this is a must-listen conversation packed with insight, candor, and clarity.
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Duración:00:24:06
Walls, Gates, and Local Wisdom: Fixing Border Security the Smart Way
10/1/2025
On this episode of American Potential, host David From welcomes back Jordan Fischetti, Immigration Policy Fellow at Americans for Prosperity, for a deep dive into the border security provisions of the Working Family Tax Cut Act—or what some are calling the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Jordan explains the bill's $46.55 billion investment in border infrastructure, including walls, roads, and cutting-edge technology. But it’s not just about building more wall—it’s about building smarter.
They explore why local knowledge from Border Patrol agents on the ground is key to effective border solutions, how legal immigration pathways can help reduce illegal crossings, and why morale among border agents has been so low—and how to fix it. From drones and AI to the moral crisis of unaccompanied minors, this conversation goes far beyond headlines to tackle both the challenges and solutions in securing America’s borders.
🎧 Tune in for facts, thoughtful discussion, and a roadmap for what real reform could look like.
Duración:00:28:53
Melissa Jackson on Empowering Parents and Teachers Through Freedom in Education
9/29/2025
When schools shut down in 2020, many parents realized just how little their kids were learning. That eye-opening experience led Melissa Jackson to co-found Freedom in Education, a movement dedicated to giving parents and teachers the tools they need to improve education from the ground up. As president of the organization, Melissa is working to restore knowledge-based learning, equip parents with resources and opt-out forms, and build bridges between families and teachers.
In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Melissa about how Freedom in Education began, the challenges of navigating state education systems, and the practical solutions they’re providing to help kids thrive. From empowering parents to take a more active role to supporting teachers with professional development and community, Melissa shares how her team is working to enrich the next generation of students both inside and outside the classroom.
Duración:00:18:49
No More Shutdowns: Senator Lankford’s Plan to Keep Government Open
9/26/2025
Government shutdowns have become a predictable crisis in Washington, but they don’t save money—they cost taxpayers billions while grinding essential services to a halt. From stalled small business loans and delayed passports to wasted federal dollars and lost productivity, shutdowns hurt everyday Americans and damage our country’s credibility on the world stage.
In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Oklahoma Senator James Lankford about his Preventing Government Shutdown Act. Senator Lankford explains how his plan would keep the government open, force Congress to focus on appropriations, and protect taxpayers from the waste and uncertainty of shutdown politics. This is a candid look at the reforms needed to bring common sense back to the budget process.
Duración:00:20:47
Congressman Jeff Crank on Space, Security, and Serving the American People
9/22/2025
In this special episode of American Potential, host David From reconnects with former host and now Congressman Jeff Crank. Representing Colorado’s Fifth District, Crank reflects on his first months in Washington—what it feels like to walk the historic halls of Congress, the honor of casting votes on behalf of his constituents, and the responsibility of carrying forward America’s founding ideals. He also shares candid stories, including the privilege of letting a young Coloradan cast a vote on the House floor and meeting Speaker Mike Johnson.
Crank also dives into the serious challenges facing America’s future. From defending the “high frontier” of space and ensuring cyber infrastructure remain secure, to providing pay raises for service members and cutting taxes for working families and he outlines why American leadership must remain strong. This conversation highlights both the weight of public service and the opportunities to advance policies that safeguard freedom, strengthen national defense, and give families more room to thrive.
Duración:00:28:05
Honoring Charlie Kirk: Young Voices on Freedom, Courage, and America’s Future
9/20/2025
This episode of American Potential is unlike any other. In the wake of the tragic murder of Charlie Kirk, we pause to reflect on the principles at the heart of America—freedom of speech, open debate, and the responsibility of each generation to safeguard liberty. Charlie’s life and work embodied the courage to speak boldly, to defend foundational rights, and to inspire young people to believe that their voices matter. His loss has shaken many, but it has also awakened countless Americans to the urgency of carrying forward his mission.
Host David From shares the microphone with young leaders who are stepping into the arena—students, grassroots organizers, and everyday citizens who found their passion for service through personal experiences of speaking up. Their stories prove that one person, no matter their background, can ignite change in their community and beyond. Together, they remind us that America’s strength lies in civil discourse, courage rooted in conviction, and the timeless truth that freedom is only one generation away from extinction.
Duración:00:18:17
California’s Crushing Taxes and Inflation Are Driving People Out
9/15/2025
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Heather Andrews, Regional Director for Americans for Prosperity, to talk about California—America’s most populous state and one of its most challenged. From the Gold Rush that made it the 31st state to today’s $3 trillion economy, California has always been a land of opportunity. But families and businesses are now facing crushing inflation, heavy taxes, and government mandates that drive people to leave the Golden State in record numbers. Heather explains how bad policy has hurt working-class communities like Stockton, where small businesses are struggling to survive while their representative still chose politics over providing tax relief.
The conversation also highlights looming redistricting battles, grassroots advocacy, and the growing push to hold lawmakers accountable. Heather shares how her team is engaging Californians who feel forgotten, reminding them that their voices and votes matter—even in tough political terrain. California may be at a crossroads, but with citizens willing to push back against runaway government, there is still hope to restore freedom, opportunity, and prosperity in the Golden State.
Duración:00:27:55
Rose Gordon on Resilience, Language, and the Lakota Legacy
9/12/2025
In this moving episode of American Potential, host David From welcomes Rose Gordon, a Lakota language teacher at Onward Learning in South Dakota. Rose reflects on her childhood growing up under the shadow of government-run boarding schools, where speaking her native language was forbidden and punishable. Despite these efforts to erase her culture, she held on to the words, values, and stories passed down by her family and community. Today, she teaches Lakota to young students, ensuring they not only learn the language but also understand the deep history and resilience of their people.
Rose shares the significance of the Seven Council Fires, the boarding school era’s lasting impact, and the importance of reclaiming cultural pride. She explains why language and culture cannot be separated—without one, the other fades. Through songs, stories, and classroom lessons, she is equipping the next generation to carry forward the identity of the Lakota people. Her work is a reminder that preserving language is preserving freedom—the freedom to define who you are and to pass on a legacy that can never be silenced.
Duración:00:21:51
How Tennessee Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton is Expanding School Choice & Protecting Taxpayers
9/11/2025
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Tennessee Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton to discuss how his state is leading the way on education freedom and fiscal responsibility. Sexton shares why parents, not bureaucrats, should decide how their children are educated and explains how Tennessee’s bold school choice program is empowering families with more options. He also highlights how competition is driving public schools to improve while ensuring every student has the chance to succeed, no matter their zip code.
The conversation doesn’t stop with education. Speaker Sexton also pulls back the curtain on how Tennessee is saving taxpayers money by cutting waste, paying down debt, and pushing back against the strings that come attached to federal funding. From rejecting costly mandates to insisting on greater oversight of grant dollars, Sexton outlines a common-sense approach to governing that keeps taxes low and opportunities high. His story shows what principled leadership can accomplish when freedom and accountability come first.
Duración:00:13:35
Exposing Waste at the Department of Justice: Billions in Spending Without Accountability
9/8/2025
In this episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director at Americans for Prosperity, to examine how the Department of Justice spends its massive $67 billion budget. From maintaining dozens of little-used SWAT teams across obscure federal agencies to handing out 11,000 grants worth nearly $5 billion a year—many with little accountability—Jeremiah explains how DOJ has grown far beyond its original mission of enforcing federal law. He also reveals how overlapping programs and unclear reporting allow waste and duplication to thrive.
The conversation then shifts to one of DOJ’s most controversial practices: civil asset forfeiture. Jeremiah outlines how this process allows the government to seize cash, cars, and property from people never even charged with a crime, fueling a slush fund that DOJ frequently raids for discretionary spending. By redirecting this money back to taxpayers and consolidating duplicative programs, Jeremiah and David show how reforms could cut billions without harming public safety. This milestone episode celebrates their Big Ideas for Smaller Government series officially identifying more than $2 trillion in potential federal savings.
Duración:00:18:59
Targeted in Michigan: Marlena Pavlos-Hackney and Helen Brinkman Fight Unconstitutional Lockdowns
9/5/2025
Host David From continues the story of Marlena Pavlos-Hackney, a Michigan restaurant owner who refused to close during the pandemic after the state’s first round of executive orders was ruled unconstitutional. Joined by her attorney, Helen Brinkman, Marlena recounts being singled out by state leadership, arrested, fined, and jailed—despite unequal enforcement and conflicting rulings—after she chose to keep serving her community.
Brinkman walks through the legal maze: administrative suspensions, contempt findings, and split decisions that could set a statewide precedent on executive power, due process, and equal protection. Together they explain why Marlena’s case now aims for the United States Supreme Court—and why the outcome matters for every Michigander who expects leaders to follow the same rules they impose on the people.
Duración:00:32:30
Surviving Communism, Resisting COVID Lockdowns: Marlena Pavlos-Hackney’s Story
9/3/2025
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Marlena Pavlos-Hackney, who grew up under the weight of communist rule in Poland before finding freedom and opportunity in America. She shares vivid memories of empty store shelves, ration cards, and the solidarity movement that helped bring down the Iron Curtain—experiences that instilled in her a deep appreciation for liberty.
Marlena eventually built her American dream, opening a restaurant in Michigan and serving her community for decades. But in 2020, government lockdown orders threatened to take it all away. Rather than close her doors, she chose to resist mandates she believed echoed the heavy hand of the regime she left behind. In part one of her powerful story, Marlena reflects on her journey from surviving communism to defying destructive COVID restrictions in defense of freedom.
Duración:00:28:37
The Common Man’s Journey: Jimmie Smith on Service, Sacrifice, and Civic Leadership
9/1/2025
What does it look like when an ordinary American, with no political pedigree, takes one small step to get involved and ends up reshaping his community? In this episode of American Potential, host David From welcomes Jimmie Smith, Brand Development Director at Concerned Veterans for America, to share his remarkable story.
Jimmie’s path began in the woods of Florida, where as a boy he dreamed of serving his country. He left high school early, joined the Army at 17, and spent 20 years in uniform. But when he returned home, his passion for America didn’t end with his military career. Frustrated by a local politician’s call for higher taxes during the recession, Jimmie decided to run for office—not with a war chest or political machine, but with conviction and support from friends and neighbors.
In this conversation, Jimmie reflects on what it meant to campaign as a self-described “common man,” challenge entrenched voices, and bring a veteran’s perspective to the Florida House. He shares candid stories from the floor of the legislature—including a passionate speech that nearly ended his career but instead earned him respect—and explains why he fought to replace government handouts with real opportunities for veterans.
Today, Jimmie continues his mission through advocacy, helping veterans use their voices to defend freedom and expand opportunity for all Americans. His journey proves that service doesn’t end with a uniform, and that one small step—taken by anyone—can change the course of a community, a state, or even a nation.
Duración:00:22:40
50 Stars, 50 Stories: Colorado, Missouri, and Hawaii Trivia with Jesse Mallory and Camelia Peterson
8/29/2025
As America approaches its 250th birthday, American Potential is launching a new series, 50 Stars, 50 Stories, highlighting the unique history and culture of each state in the Union. In this first installment, host David From is joined by Jesse Mallory, Regional Director in Colorado, and Camelia Peterson, Legislative Liaison in Missouri, for a lively round of state trivia about Colorado, Missouri, and Hawaii—the three states that joined the Union in August.
From the Missouri Compromise and the origins of the “Show Me State,” to Colorado’s dramatic road to statehood, to Hawaii’s path from kingdom to the 50th star on the flag, this episode blends fun facts with deeper reflections on state identity and freedom. Listeners will also hear about the important policy work AFP teams are leading in Missouri and Colorado to expand opportunity and protect taxpayers.
This engaging mix of history, trivia, and grassroots stories sets the stage for a yearlong journey through America’s states, reminding us of the diverse traditions and shared values that make up the fabric of the nation.
Duración:00:22:33
Freedom to Choose Where You Live: How One Iowa Coalition Transformed Housing Policy
8/27/2025
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Paige Yontz, Advocacy Manager in Iowa, to explore an innovative housing reform that’s reshaping how families care for aging parents, empower young professionals, and protect property rights. Paige was instrumental in leading a diverse coalition—from aging advocates to housing manufacturers and policy champions—that secured the passage of a groundbreaking Iowa law legalizing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) statewide.
They discuss how ADUs provide practical, cost-effective options for families who want loved ones close while maintaining independence, and how a coalition with seemingly unlikely allies—advocates for aging, property rights, and housing innovation—came together to get it done. From city zoning challenges to bipartisan strategy and coalition storytelling, this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at how smart, personal, and local policy changes can open doors to more freedom and opportunity.
If you’ve ever struggled with housing costs, aging parents, or restrictive local ordinances, this episode will give you hope—and a blueprint.
Duración:00:30:00
From Red Tape to Real Care: How Dr. Wheeler Is Restoring Medicine
8/25/2025
In this inspiring episode of American Potential, host David From speaks with Dr. Chaminie Wheeler, a pediatrician who walked away from the traditional hospital system to launch a direct primary care (DPC) practice—putting patients, not paperwork, at the center of healthcare.
Raised in a small village in Sri Lanka, Dr. Wheeler’s passion for helping others began at a young age and followed her to Pennsylvania, where she built CCC Health from the ground up with help from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. She shares how the broken insurance-based model shackled her ability to treat patients with compassion and clarity. From unnecessary CT scans to delayed diagnoses, Dr. Wheeler reveals how bureaucracy often prevents real healing—and why DPC offers a better way forward.
This episode dives deep into the challenges independent doctors face, the critical role of expanded Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and how innovation thrives when government steps back. Dr. Wheeler’s story is a reminder that when we trust doctors and empower patients, we unlock the real potential of American healthcare.
Duración:00:27:36
How Rafael Arroyo Took On State Bureaucracy and Protected His Dream
8/22/2025
Most people try to avoid the long lines and frustrations that come with vehicle registration and emissions testing. But Rafael Arroyo saw an opportunity to turn that frustration into a service—and a business. In Las Vegas, he combined emissions testing with vehicle registration services, saving people time and hassle. But the state’s motor vehicle agency didn’t like the competition. They shut him down and made it nearly impossible to continue.
On this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Rafael about how he fought back. With his business on the line, Rafael didn’t quit—he built relationships with local legislators, rallied other entrepreneurs, and worked through the political process to pass legislation that protected not only his business but an entire industry. His story is a powerful example of how one person can push back against government overreach—and win.
If you’ve ever felt powerless against red tape or regulations, this conversation will inspire you to take action. Rafael reminds us that freedom and opportunity aren’t just ideals—they’re something we must defend, one step at a time.
Duración:00:24:21
Taxpayer Outrage: How the Government Wasted Millions on Parties and Empty Buildings
8/20/2025
In this Big Ideas for Smaller Government episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director at Americans for Prosperity, to expose the wasteful spending and inefficiencies at the General Services Administration (GSA)—the federal agency responsible for managing office buildings, procurement, and travel across the U.S. government.
They revisit the infamous $800,000 Las Vegas conference scandal, complete with a $30,000 pool party and a 2,400 sq. ft. hotel suite—paid for by taxpayers. They also uncover the GSA's multi-billion-dollar mismanagement of a long-delayed Department of Homeland Security headquarters and reveal that the federal government is using just 25% of the office space it occupies.
David and Jeremiah lay out a plan to save $1.88 billion over the next decade by selling underused federal buildings—many of which are sitting empty—and call on Congress to step up and demand accountability.
This episode is a revealing look at how cutting GSA waste is one more step toward saving taxpayers trillions.
Duración:00:13:12
From Humble Beginnings to Congress: Monica De La Cruz on Protecting the American Dream
8/18/2025
In this special episode of American Potential, guest host Daniel Garza sits down with Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz during LIBRE’s Fly-In event to discuss the shifting political landscape among Hispanic Americans, especially in South Texas. As the first Hispanic female Republican to serve a full term from her district, Congresswoman De La Cruz shares her inspiring personal journey from humble beginnings to public service.
She addresses critical topics such as the rejection of socialism within Latino communities, the importance of faith, family, and freedom, and the economic progress driven by pro-growth policies like the 2017 tax cuts and the One Big Beautiful Bill. The conversation also highlights her legislative efforts on immigration reform, border security, and agricultural support, including her work on the Braseto 2.0 program to protect immigrant workers and farmers’ livelihoods. They explore how grassroots activism is energizing Latino voters and reshaping traditionally Democratic strongholds.
This episode offers an insightful look into the principles and policies that Congresswoman De La Cruz champions to secure the American Dream for hardworking Latino families and communities nationwide. Tune in for a compelling dialogue about opportunity, civic engagement, and the future of Hispanic political participation.
Duración:00:19:43