Hold onto your farm hats and Capitol coffee mugs! Heidi, Joel, and the legendary Scott MacFarlane spill the tea on courts, campaigns, and deer sausage. If you’re into political intrigue, judicial juiciness, and rural rallying cries, this episode's your new best friend.

In this episode:

• Scott McFarlane explains how Trump’s judicial nominees won’t admit the obvious: Biden won the 2020 election
• The GOP's silent treatment on Trump and what it means for the midterms
• Why rural America’s voice will decide the Senate race
• The future of the Supreme Court confirmations as the political landscape shifts
• The elusive "big swing" states: Iowa, Ohio, and others, and how farm costs are shaping votes
• The big debt debate: Who's serious and who’s just whining?
• Redistricting drama, and could AI solve the problem?

Most of us think courts and politics are dull as dishwater, until you realize they're the hidden game changers in who controls your future. In this eye-opening episode, seasoned journalist Scott McFarland spills the tea on the judiciary’s shift, the GOP’s silence on election truths, and why rural voters are the real kingmakers in 2024.

Essential listening for anyone tired of the circus and hungry for the real story, because if you’re waiting for change to happen from Washington’s fancy halls, you might be waiting forever. Want to know what’s really at stake in the fight for democracy? Hit play, buckle up, and get informed. The future isn’t just on the ballot; it’s in the courts, the districts, and the wallets of rural voters everywhere.

Connect with Scott McFarlane:

• Scott MacFarlane on Bluesky
• Scott MacFarlane on X
• Scott MacFarlane on Substack

And remember: when the political sausage is made, Scott’s your chef. Don’t miss the next Hot Dish—more flavor, less fuss!

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - Introduction to the Conversation
• (00:58) - The Current Political Landscape and Trump’s Influence
• (04:15) - Judicial Appointments and Their Implications
• (07:02) - Rural America’s Role in Upcoming Elections
• (10:05) - Supreme Court Dynamics and Potential Retirements
• (12:29) - Economic Concerns and Voter Sentiment
• (15:10) - Agricultural Challenges and Their Impact on Voters
• (20:53) - Impact of Early Voting on Elections
• (22:30) - Redistricting and Its Implications
• (25:28) - Voter Rights and District Dynamics
• (28:07) - The Role of AI in Redistricting
• (30:51) - Economic Policies and Rural America
• (33:53) - Debt Ceiling and Fiscal Responsibility
• (37:25) - Healthcare Costs and National Debt
• (40:31) - Grassroots Support and Community Engagement

Buckle in, folks, because Suzanne Mettler brings deep insights on the rural-urban political divide — and it’s more about history, economics, and institutions than you might think. If you’ve ever wondered why rural voters often vote Republican, despite Democratic policies benefiting them, or how to start healing this fractured relationship, this episode is for you.

In this episode:

• Suzanne explains how the rural-urban political split is a recent phenomenon that gained momentum in the 1990s.
• She breaks down the historical importance of the New Deal in shaping rural loyalty to Democrats, and why that loyalty has eroded.
• We explore how economic shifts, job losses, and feelings of abandonment have driven rural voters into the arms of the GOP.
• Heidi, Joel, and Suzanne discuss the role of shared culture, common values, and the lack of trusted institutions in reconciling the divide.
• Insights on how Democrats can rebuild trust, emphasizing listening, local organizing, and respectful dialogue.

Whether you're a curious rural voter, a political junkie,, or just here for the engaging conversation, this episode unravels the complexities of the rural-urban divide with the precision of Suzanne's insightful analysis. Dive into the historical shifts, economic challenges, and the evolving political landscape that have shaped today's divide and the current realities of American politics.

Resources & Links:

• Rural Versus Urban | Princeton University Press
• Suzanne Mettler’s Website

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - Introduction to the Urban-Rural Divide
• (01:04) - Suzanne Mettler's Background and Interest
• (03:04) - The Evolution of Political Polarization
• (06:18) - Historical Context: The New Deal and Rural Politics
• (10:04) - Economic Policies and Rural Discontent
• (12:57) - Cultural Identity and Political Choices
• (16:47) - The Role of Organizations in Political Engagement
• (20:00) - Trust and Communication in Rural America
• (24:00) - Rebuilding Trust and Engagement
• (30:10) - Opportunities for Democrats in Rural Areas
• (35:00) - The Confiscation of Appropriated Funds
• (38:02) - Congress and the Lawless Presidency
• (40:45) - Shifting Political Dynamics in Rural America
• (42:28) - OCP-YouTube-EndScreen.mp4

Hold onto your hats, folks! Today's episode features political heavyweight Andrew Egger, joining the Heitkamps from The Bulwark, breaking down the current state of Donald Trump’s influence, the midterms’ future, and the perils lurking behind all that grievance for Heidi and Joel. If you thought Trump was invincible, think again. Andrew’s got the scoop that might just make you question everything.

In this episode:

• Andrew's take on whether Trump has worn out his welcome in American politics
• How Trump's coalition is changing and why midterm races might be brighter for Democrats
• The impact of Trump's foreign policy blunders and economic missteps on his base
• Insights into Iowa's surprising blue shift and rural America's economic pain points
• The peculiar pattern of Trump firing women in his cabinet—and what that says about his character
• The shifting power dynamics in Congress and why even insiders are starting to talk differently about him
• The global repercussions of Trump's economic policies and diplomatic missteps

Whether you're an annoyed voter, a political junkie, or just here for the laughs, this chat lays out the stakes in a way that's as sharp as Andrew's take on the Trump saga. Plus, a deep dive into the bizarre lawsuits, foreign policy flops, and the deepening schism in the GOP. It's like watching a slow-motion car crash—fascinating, inevitable, and possibly the end of an era.

Resources & Links:

• The Bulwark
• Andrew Egger’s Morning Shots Newsletter
• Echelon Insights polling in Iowa

And remember: If Trump is a cat, he’s probably on his eighth life. But this episode highlights the cracks in the armor, so buckle up. Things might just get interesting.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - Introduction to the Hot Dish Podcast
• (00:57) - Trump's Political Standing and Challenges
• (05:56) - The Impact of Trump's Actions on His Base
• (11:56) - Congressional Dynamics and Trump's Influence
• (18:46) - Public Perception and Trump's Leadership
• (19:53) - Economic Concerns and Political Implications
• (22:03) - Tax Refunds and Economic Reality
• (23:58) - Midterm Elections and Shifting Political Landscape
• (27:09) - Rural Economy Challenges and Farmer Perspectives
• (31:56) - Manufacturing and Economic Policy in Rural America
• (38:30) - Democratic Strategies for Rural America
• (39:52) - Trump's Economic Pitch and Its Consequences
• (41:48) - Gender Dynamics in Trump's Cabinet
• (44:30) - Closing Thoughts with Andrew Egger
• (45:59) - Understanding the Dispatch and Conservative Media
• (47:01) - Character and Leadership in Crisis
• (48:30) - Closing Thoughts with Heidi and Joel

Buckle up, folks! Today’s episode is a wild ride through the messiest, juiciest conversations about church, politics, and global trade, served with a side of satire and a sprinkle of smirk. Former U.S. Senator and Ambassador to the Vatican Joe Donnelly dropping truth bombs about the Catholic Church’s dance with politics.

But there’s more! Washington Post financial journalist David J. Lynch hoins Heidi and Joel to help you navigate the murky waters of AI, tariffs, and global instability with razor-sharp wit. Lynch’s new book, The World’s Worst Bet: How the Globalization Gamble Went Wrong (And What Would Make It Right), addresses rise and fall of the greatest engine of prosperity the world has ever known.

Lynch explains why global trade prosperity is failing to benefit Americans and what we can do to change it.

In this episode:

• Joe Donnelly roasts the U.S. President for his AI Jesus and Pope-bashing antics
• The Catholic bishops’ role in American politics, and why their message hits a nerve
• How Trump’s AI-generated image depicting him as Jesus is sparking international outrage, and should make us all uncomfortable
• The domino effect of tariffs, trade wars, and the broken promises to rural America
• The strategic disaster of ignoring Congress in decisions about war, and why even Senate insiders are throwing in the towel
• Why globalized trade isn't a magic potion for economic prosperity
• The urgent need to rethink safety nets as AI and economic inequality threaten to wipe out the middle class

Resources & Links:

• The World’s Worst Bet: How the Globalization Gamble Went Wrong
• Washington Post – David Lynch

Connect with David J. Lynch:

• Bluesky

And remember: When it comes to faith, trade, and technology—sometimes the truth is too bizarre for fiction. Thanks for tuning in to the Hot Dish: the political casserole your grandma would be proud of, served up with a side of sass.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - Joel and Heidi speak with Joe Donnelly about Trump versus the Pope
• (25:16) - Introduction to Globalization and Its Impact
• (28:14) - The Consequences of NAFTA and Trade Policies
• (30:55) - Political Ramifications of Globalization
• (34:00) - The Effects of Tariffs on American Workers
• (36:52) - Trust and Credibility in International Trade
• (39:58) - The Future of Globalization and AI
• (42:51) - Addressing the Challenges Ahead

The Madness of Power and Prophecy: A Chat with Denver Riggleman

Buckle up, folks! Today’s episode is a wild ride through the chaos that’s unraveling in U.S. politics and global diplomacy, with the ever-brave Denver Riggleman—former Congressman, Air Force vet, NSA contractor, and fearless truth-teller. Prepare for some truth bombs about the insanity, the threats, and the grift that’s turning this country into a giant episode of “How Did We Get Here?”

Riggleman drops truth bombs, connecting the dots between prophecy, power, and national security, all while lamenting the state of American leadership; Joel asks the hard questions and teases out a path back to sanity—maybe, just maybe, saving the damn country.

Main Topics Covered:

• The bizarre and dangerous world of Christian nationalism and prophecy that is fueling political decisions
• The potential and peril of military actions against Iran
• The influence of greed, grift, and the military-industrial complex on U.S. foreign policy
• The decline of trust in American institutions and the urgent need for courageous leadership

Connect with Denver Riggleman:

• X / Twitter
• Substack
• The Breach Media (YouTube)

Hold onto your hats, folks. It’s a wild ride—truth, grift, and the fate of democracy all tangled up in one bold conversation. Would we dare to fix it? Denver says, “Full stop, fire everyone, and rebuild from zero.” Sounds about right. Tune in, laugh, cry, and maybe get inspired to demand real leadership again.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - Introduction to the Conversation
• (01:48) - The Insanity of Current Politics
• (06:02) - The State of the Republican Party
• (10:16) - Trump's Mental State and Threats
• (12:00) - Iran: An Imminent Threat?
• (14:41) - The Price of War and Accountability
• (17:53) - The Future of American Politics
• (21:41) - A Call for Leadership and Change

Justin Wolfers returns to the Hot Dish to unpack the economic and political impacts of the Iran war with Heidi and Joel. This episode offers a clear-eyed view of how markets, government decisions, and public sentiment intertwine during times of crisis.

Justin explains the historic lows in consumer sentiment and approval ratings for political leaders, and addresses the real economic costs of the war, including market declines and wealth destruction. He also addresses:

• How the increased costs of energy and input supplies are impacting rural farmers and urban consumers (10:57)
• The political implications of leadership styles, democracy, and the "king" mentality in the White House (3:07, 5:01)
• The demonstration of market correction and its long-term significance, emphasizing the importance of resistance to overconfidence (14:02)
• The critical role of fiscal policy, debt, and deficits, with insights from Reagan, Clinton, Obama, and Trump eras (36:32)
• The human toll of war, including displacement and emotional trauma, versus the cold numbers of market losses (27:15, 34:27)
• How public perception and demonization affect policy, especially in the context of gas prices and military engagement (24:45, 28:19)
• The importance of connecting economic policy to human stories and moral considerations (33:13)

Resources & Links:

Justin Wolfers - University of Michigan

Connect with Justin Wolfers:

• Twitter
• Bluesky

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:24) - Consumer Sentiment and Presidential Approval
• (05:32) - The Impact of War on the Economy
• (10:33) - Rural Economy and Input Costs
• (13:24) - Market Corrections and War Effects
• (17:19) - Economic Implications of Wealth Loss
• (18:43) - The Cost of Conflict: Economic Impacts on Households
• (21:45) - Understanding Wealth Disparities: Who Really Loses?
• (24:36) - Market Reactions: Short-Term Pain vs. Long-Term Gains
• (27:15) - Empathy in Economics: The Human Cost of War
• (30:53) - The Disconnect: Military Engagement and Public Perception
• (35:43) - Debt and Responsibility: A Political Perspective

In this episode, Heidi and Joel delve into the pivotal roles religion and community resilience play in rural America, featuring insightful conversations with Reverend Jane Field of Maine and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture hopeful, Chris Jones. Both guests emphasize the importance of faith-based activism, ecological sustainability, and the urgent need for structural reform in rural systems.

Insights:

• Reverend Jane Field discusses the current state of Christian unity amid rising white Christian nationalism, emphasizing ecumenical cooperation and social justice priorities.
• She highlights the importance of faith communities' involvement in resisting ICE policies and supporting immigrant and marginalized populations in Maine.
• Reverend Field advocates for reimagining the role of organized religion as a force for justice and compassion, especially amid declining church attendance.
• She underscores the diversity within rural communities, including Indigenous peoples, and the importance of non-churchgoers engaging in faith-inspired service.
• Chris Jones shares his environmental platform, focusing on water quality issues in Iowa, particularly nitrate contamination linked to agriculture.
• Jones stresses the need for crop diversification, pasture grazing, and systemic reforms in farming practices to address environmental and health crises.
• He discusses the political landscape, emphasizing bipartisan support for water reforms and the connection between ecological sustainability and rural economic vitality.
• Both guests reflect on the transformative power of faith and community mobilization in addressing social and environmental challenges.

Reverend Jane Field:

• Maine Council of Churches - Website

Chris Jones:

• The Swine Republic by Chris Jones
• Chris Jones for Iowa
• Riverraccoon Substack

Final Takeaway:

This episode reminds us that faith, social justice, and environmental sustainability are intertwined forces capable of transforming rural communities. Whether through ecumenical unity or systemic policy changes in agriculture, dedicated leaders are reimagining a future rooted in compassion, resilience, and justice.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - The intersection of faith, politics, and community in rural America
• (03:50) - Unity among diverse religious denominations and the departure of Catholic members over LGBTQ justice issues
• (11:42) - Faith leaders' pivotal role in Maine's ICE resistance efforts
• (22:36) - The toll on detainees and the tragic ICE deportations
• (30:04) - Chris Jones on addressing Iowa's nitrate water contamination crisis
• (36:17) - How to transition farmers toward diverse, resilient crop rotations with public support
• (41:24) - Electing non-traditional candidates like Chris Jones for systemic change

In this episode of The Hot Dish, Heidi and Joel talk to Tom Nichols, staff writer at The Atlantic and professor emeritus of national-security affairs at the U.S. Naval War College, about the complexities of the U.S. military actions in Iran, the geopolitical fallout, and the state of American politics amid ongoing conflicts.

Nichols brings a sharp, clear-eyed perspective on military strategy, foreign alliances, and domestic political implications. This conversation offers valuable insights into how these military decisions were made, their global consequences, and the internal political ripples they stir.

Key moments in this episode:

• Tom Nichols explains the current state of military operations in Iran and evaluates their strategic effectiveness.
• He discusses the contradictions in Donald Trump’s foreign policy, including our strained alliances and his unpredictable decision-making.
• Tom and Joel discuss the internal U.S. political landscape, especially the disillusionment settling in among MAGA supporters.
• Tom explains how decades of U.S. foreign policy regarding the influence of foreign powers, such as China and Russia, in Iran and the Middle East have changed overnight.

Resources & Links:

• Tom Nichols at The Atlantic
• Books by Tom Nichols
• Tom Nichols on Bluesky

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - Introduction to the Discussion on Iran
• (01:12) - Operational Success vs. Strategic Goals
• (06:12) - The Political Fallout and Internal Conflicts
• (11:14) - The Role of Allies and International Relations
• (16:10) - Implications for Ukraine and Global Strategy
• (21:00) - The Future of Iran and Potential Ground Troops
• (25:33) - The Power Dynamics of Military Strategy
• (26:14) - Regime Change and Its Implications
• (28:35) - The Silence of MAGA Supporters
• (33:00) - The Exhaustion of the MAGA Movement
• (36:56) - Concerns Over Election Integrity
• (39:53) - Trump's Approach to Governance and Elections
• (44:08) - Closing