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,...
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
50 Stars, 50 Stories: Florida vs. Ohio on Freedom, Growth, and Opportunity
3/30/2026
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. From historical milestones to cultural highlights, the episode explores what makes these states unique.
The discussion also dives into how Florida and Ohio are working to expand opportunity—through efforts like tax reform, school choice, and cutting red tape—while tackling challenges like housing, insurance, and energy affordability.
It’s a lighthearted but insightful episode that highlights a bigger idea: when states compete to advance freedom and opportunity, Americans benefit—and the American Dream stays within reach.
Duration:00:28:20
Lara Trump on the American Dream, Patriotism, and Raising the Next Generation
3/27/2026
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 of freedom and self-governance still apply today. She reflects on the importance of understanding history, honoring the sacrifices of past generations, and pushing back against narratives that undermine national pride.
The conversation also explores the American Dream—why it’s still alive, why it matters, and how leadership and policy can either strengthen or erode it. Lara offers insight from her close experience with President Trump and discusses why she believes everyday Americans stepping up is essential to preserving opportunity and prosperity.
This episode is a powerful reminder that America’s future depends on what we choose to teach, defend, and believe—and that everyone has a role to play.
Duration:00:07:23
How Brady Cupples Took His One Small Step Into Politics and Leadership
3/25/2026
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 attending a local meeting quickly turned into building connections, working on campaigns, and stepping into a leadership role in his community.
He also discusses the issues that drive his passion, including immigration, education, and crime, and why he believes it’s critical for young people to engage in the political process—especially in states where their views may be in the minority.
Brady’s story is a powerful example of the “one small step” idea: you don’t need a perfect plan to get started. Sometimes, just showing up can lead to opportunities to lead, influence, and make a real difference.
Duration:00:18:26
Abraham Lincoln Comes to Life: Lessons on Unity, Freedom, and Leadership
3/19/2026
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 equality, self-governance, and unity that shaped America. Fritz Klein also shares how portraying Lincoln for nearly 50 years has influenced his own views on leadership, humility, and human nature.
The discussion explores how Lincoln navigated deep national division, worked with people who disagreed with him, and remained committed to the founding ideals during one of the most difficult periods in American history. It also draws connections between Lincoln’s time and today’s political climate, highlighting lessons on civility, compromise, and preserving freedom.
This episode brings history to life in a powerful way, reminding us that the challenges we face today are not new—and that the principles that guided Lincoln can still help guide us forward.
Duration:00:25:07
Jason Chaffetz on AI, Free Speech, and Why America Must Stay Engaged
3/17/2026
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 staying engaged in a free society. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at Congress, the challenges of holding government agencies accountable, and why showing up still matters.
The conversation also dives into one of the biggest issues shaping our future: artificial intelligence. Chaffetz discusses both the promise and the risks of AI—from economic transformation to serious concerns around privacy, jobs, and government readiness. He explains why innovation must be balanced with strong principles and thoughtful guardrails.
They also tackle cancel culture, free speech, and the importance of not letting fear silence your voice. Chaffetz encourages everyday Americans to take that “one small step” to get involved—whether in their community, local government, or national conversations.
This episode is a powerful reminder that freedom isn’t passive—it requires participation, courage, and a willingness to engage.
Duration:00:26:40
Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher Talks Free Speech, Football, and Defending American Values
3/12/2026
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 founding principles. He shares his perspective on why more Americans should feel confident using their voices, even when facing criticism or backlash.
The conversation also touches on patriotism, the challenges facing the country today, and why everyday citizens taking “one small step” to stand up for freedom can make a real difference. Urlacher also gives a look inside the culture of NFL locker rooms, his thoughts on today’s sports controversies, and his excitement about the future of the Chicago Bears.
This episode is a candid conversation about courage, personal conviction, and why defending American values matters now more than ever.
Duration:00:21:29
Rep. Jeff Bradley’s Plan to Cut Regulations and Help Small Businesses Thrive
3/10/2026
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 review of regulations, create a seven-year sunset for rules that are no longer justified, strengthen protections for citizens challenging agency decisions, and put real checks on unelected bureaucrats. He shares how overregulation hurts small businesses, raises costs, slows growth, and makes it harder for entrepreneurs to succeed.
The conversation also explores how South Carolina is using new tools, including artificial intelligence, to identify duplicative rules and modernize government. Bradley lays out why reducing red tape is not anti-regulation, but pro-accountability, pro-growth, and pro-freedom — and why this fight matters for every South Carolinian.
Duration:00:31:28
Kitchen Table Issues in Illinois: Senator Darby Hills on Budgets, Jobs, and Public Safety
3/5/2026
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 state budget dropped with little time to review, late-night votes, and decisions made behind closed doors. She also talks about her work outside government, including founding Barrington Children’s Charities to help feed hundreds of kids each week and provide critical services like dental care, mental health support, and eyeglasses.
From criminal justice to fiscal responsibility, Darby lays out the “kitchen table” priorities that shaped her—watching her single mom work two jobs and sort bills at home—and the reforms she’s pushing now: independent audits, cutting waste, reducing red tape on small businesses, keeping young people in Illinois, and supporting law enforcement to make communities safer.
Duration:00:24:26
From Sierra Leone to Philly: Ernestine Johnson on Finding Her Voice and Running for Office
2/26/2026
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 working the polls in her community turned into a journey of political activism, running for office, and empowering other women to step up and lead. Ernestine opens up about the challenges of standing firm in her convictions, the personal costs of public engagement, and the importance of finding strength in numbers. She also offers practical advice for anyone hesitant to get involved: how to move from “yelling at the TV” to actually making a difference.
This conversation is a powerful reminder that defending freedom doesn’t require perfection — it requires courage. Sometimes your one small step, whether it’s attending a meeting, supporting a candidate, or running for office, can become the step that inspires an entire community.
Duration:00:24:57
From School Board to the RNC: Angelina Banks on Finding Her Voice in Pennsylvania
2/24/2026
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 the Republican National Convention.
Angelina shares how moving back to Pennsylvania opened her eyes to the impact of public policy, why local government matters more than most people realize, and how just a handful of phone calls or voices can influence elected officials. She talks candidly about the costs of speaking out—strained relationships, social backlash—and why she believes it’s still worth it to defend the principles that built America. It’s a conversation about courage, conviction, and how everyday citizens can move from yelling at the TV to making a real difference.
Duration:00:29:06
50 Stars, 50 Stories: Oregon, Massachusetts & Arizona with Ross Connolly and Stephen Shadegg
2/19/2026
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 Northeast, and Stephen Shadegg, AFP’s state director in Arizona. Together, they test their knowledge with fast-paced trivia covering Oregon, Massachusetts, and Arizona—touching on everything from the Oregon Trail and Salem’s witch trials to the Grand Canyon and Pluto’s discovery in Flagstaff.
But the conversation doesn’t stop at history. Ross and Stephen also share what’s happening today in their regions. Stephen discusses Arizona’s housing affordability crisis, energy policy, and long-term infrastructure challenges tied to rapid growth. Ross highlights how voters across the Northeast are pushing back against rising costs driven by bad energy and housing policy, and why there’s real hope even in states that often get overlooked in national conversations.
It’s a lively mix of American history, state pride, and forward-looking policy—proof that understanding where we came from can help shape where we’re going next.
Duration:00:23:25
Emily Seidel on America 250, One Small Step, and Restoring the American Dream
2/17/2026
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 later.
As pride in America declines and more people feel the American Dream is out of reach, Emily explains how the One Small Step campaign is working to restore hope and personal agency. From grassroots activism to empowering citizens to take meaningful action in their communities, this conversation explores how everyday Americans can recommit to the values that made the country exceptional — and help shape the next 250 years of freedom.
Duration:00:19:21
Love at the Phone Bank: Pat Sterck & Bo Bolling’s New Mexico VOLentine Story
2/12/2026
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 values, faith, civic engagement, and a commitment to making their state better brought them together. From phone banking to an engagement celebration at the AFP office, the New Mexico AFP team even played a role in their love story. It’s a joyful reminder that it’s never too late for new beginnings — and that sometimes love shows up when you’re simply showing up to serve.
Duration:00:22:55
How Kentucky’s Gatton Academy Is Redefining STEM Education for High-Achieving Students
2/5/2026
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 high school while earning college credit in a rigorous STEM-focused environment.
Lynette explains how the academy was built to meet both the academic and social needs of students who are often underserved by traditional school systems, why flexibility and specialization matter in public education, and how Gatton helps combat brain drain while strengthening Kentucky’s future workforce. From cutting-edge labs to real-world outcomes, this conversation highlights what’s possible when education is designed to help students reach their full potential.
Duration:00:29:19
New Hampshire Right to Try: Michael Yakubovich’s Fight for Patients’ Freedom to Choose
1/29/2026
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 between them and potential hope.
Rather than accept those limits, Michael turned his personal fight into a cause. After being forced to travel to other states in search of experimental treatments, he worked with lawmakers to expand Right to Try so patients in New Hampshire could access innovative care without unnecessary red tape. His advocacy helped ensure that others facing life-threatening illnesses wouldn’t have to leave their home state just to pursue a chance at treatment.
Duration:00:27:23
Blake Fuhriman on Founding Veterans Navigation Network to Support Montana Veterans
1/27/2026
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.
Blake explains how Veterans Navigation Network helps veterans navigate healthcare, benefits, employment, mental health, and community reintegration by pairing them with fellow veterans who understand the challenges firsthand. It’s a powerful conversation about service after the uniform, restoring purpose, and ensuring veterans are never left to navigate civilian life alone.
Duration:00:34:54
Illinois Government Overreach Targeted Homeschool Families—Parents Fought Back
1/22/2026
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 government overreach and how vague enforcement powers could have punished families over paperwork instead of protecting children.
Christie and Matt also describe how homeschool families across Illinois mobilized at an unprecedented scale, pushing back through testimony, witness slips, letters, and in-person advocacy at the state Capitol. Their story shows how ordinary parents, students, and communities can successfully stand up to government mandates and defend parental rights, educational freedom, and limited government.
Duration:00:38:17
50 Stars, 50 Stories: Kansas and New Mexico Trivia and Big Policy Fights Ahead
1/20/2026
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: Kansas efforts to lower energy costs, rein in state spending, and a major August constitutional amendment aimed at making the Kansas Supreme Court more transparent and accountable after an eye-opening reversal rate. JD shares what’s next in New Mexico after the Protect Prosperity tour, the fight against bad policies, and why restoring opportunity in the Land of Enchantment is a top priority for the year ahead.
Duration:00:21:48
Illinois Watchdogs at Work: How Citizens Expose Corruption and Hold Local Government Accountable
1/15/2026
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 requests and open meetings laws to expose misconduct and protect taxpayers.
The conversation highlights real-world examples from Illinois, including the impact of the Edgar County Watchdogs, an organization that has helped force hundreds of resignations by uncovering ethics violations. Brian also explains how curiosity, persistence, and new tools like AI are lowering the barrier for citizens who want to hold government accountable — proving that even a small group of people can make a big difference when they shine light on how public money is spent.
Duration:00:31:38
John Spottiswood on How a Small Town Livestock Ban Sparked a Grassroots Repeal in New Hampshire
1/13/2026
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—prompting fear, confusion, and frustration across the community.
John walks through how a small group of residents organized to push back, gathered personal stories, kept the issue in the public eye for a full year, and ultimately overturned the ban by a decisive margin in the next election. The conversation highlights the power of grassroots action, local organizing, and persistence in defending property rights and personal freedom at the community level.
Duration:00:20:44