In this episode, Heidi and Joel recall the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol with former Senator Joe Donnelly. They reflect on the events of that day, the role of law enforcement, and the political accountability that followed. The conversation also touches on the importance of civic engagement and the future of democracy in America, emphasizing the need for vigilance against threats to democratic norms.

Takeaways:

• The insurrection on January 6th was a heartbreaking event for many, including those who served in the Senate.
• Law enforcement officers displayed heroism during the Capitol attack, risking their lives to protect others.
• Political accountability is crucial in the aftermath of the insurrection, with a need for leaders to uphold democratic values.
• Civic engagement is essential for the future of democracy; citizens must be involved in the political process.
• The events of January 6th were not spontaneous; they were planned and orchestrated by individuals with intent to harm.
• The failure of Congress to hold accountable those responsible for the insurrection is a significant concern.
• The role of state legislatures is vital in ensuring fair elections and protecting democracy.
• The insurrectionists' actions were not representative of the American people, but rather a radical faction.
• The need for a plaque honoring the heroism of Capitol police officers remains unaddressed, reflecting ongoing political challenges.
• The conversation highlights the importance of educating future generations about democracy and civic responsibility.

Join us on The Hot Dish every week, where we serve up hearty conversations that resonate with every corner of the country. The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project, making sure the voices of the rest of us are heard in Washington. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack, YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject)at Onecountryproject.substack.com/.

• (00:00) - Introduction and Football Banter
• (04:06) - Reflections on January 6th Insurrection
• (09:30) - The Aftermath and Accountability
• (14:35) - The Role of Law Enforcement
• (19:28) - Political Responsibility and Leadership
• (24:23) - The Future of Democracy
• (31:04) - Concluding Thoughts on National Security

In this episode of The Hot Dish, hosts Heidi Heitkamp and Joel Heitkamp are joined by Nebraska State Senator Machaela Cavanaugh to discuss her efforts to gain access to a state-run federal immigration detention center. Senator Cavanaugh shares her experiences of being denied access to the facility, her political background, and the impact of the detention center on local communities. The conversation also touches on broader political issues, including the role of state legislatures and the importance of local elections.

• (00:00) - Introduction to Senator Machaela Kavanaugh
• (03:42) - Political Background and Family Dynamics
• (06:12) - Concerns Over Immigration Detention Center
• (09:34) - Access Denied: A State Senator's Struggle
• (13:40) - Legislative Oversight and Lack of Action
• (16:33) - The Bigger Picture: National Implications of Detention Centers
• (19:44) - Public Pressure and Advocacy Strategies
• (21:55) - The Role of Local Politics in National Issues
• (25:30) - Impact on Local Communities and Workforce
• (28:05) - Religious Influence on Political Decisions
• (30:08) - Conclusion: Standing Up for Justice and Human Rights
• (31:52) - New Year Predictions and Political Landscape
• (36:35) - The Impact of Donald Trump on the Republican Party
• (42:52) - Agriculture and Economic Concerns for Rural America

In this episode of The Hot Dish, hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp announce the 2025 Rural Champion Awards before highlighting the Christmas Spirit of Kellie Smith, a small-town entrepreneur from Perham, Minnesota. Kellie shares her inspiring story of creating a community space for those in need during the holiday season, emphasizing the importance of leadership and community support in rural areas. The conversation also touches on the significance of traditions and the spirit of giving in small towns.

Join us on The Hot Dish every week, where we serve up hearty conversations that resonate with every corner of the country. The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project, making sure the voices of the rest of us are heard in Washington. To learn more, visit https://onecountryproject.org or find us at https://onecountryproject.substack.com/.

• (00:00) - Celebrating Rural Champions
• (01:18) - Introducing Community Hero Kelly Smith
• (03:25) - The Heart of Perham: A Small Town's Spirit
• (04:19) - Creating a Community Giving Tree
• (07:28) - Community Response and Support
• (09:38) - Breaking Barriers: Accessing Help
• (12:48) - Unity in Diversity: Bridging Divides
• (14:22) - Inspiring Neighboring Towns
• (15:39) - Leadership in Rural Development
• (16:33) - Encouraging Community Involvement
• (19:16) - Christmas Traditions and Family Memories
• (28:25) - Creating Lasting Memories Over Material Gifts

Hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp welcome Cynthia Cox from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) to discuss the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and its impact on healthcare costs. Cynthia shares insights into how the ACA supports individuals without employer-provided insurance, including small business owners and farmers.

You will learn more about the complexities of the challenges and opportunities in the current healthcare landscape. Tune in if you're interested in understanding the intricacies of healthcare policy.

Join us on The Hot Dish every week, where we serve up hearty conversations that resonate with every corner of the country. The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project, making sure the voices of the rest of us are heard in Washington. To learn more, visit https://onecountryproject.org or find us at https://onecountryproject.substack.com/.

• (06:00) - Cynthia Cox from KFF discusses her role and expertise on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) with hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp.
• (00:00) - Chapter 2
• (12:00) - Cynthia urges listeners to pay attention to healthcare cost increases and the role of Congress.
• (00:00) - Chapter 4
• (18:00) - Heidi and Cynthia debate the numerous Republican arguments against Obamacare and the impact on healthcare costs.
• (00:00) - Chapter 6
• (24:00) - Cynthia details the work she's doing with KFF on Medicare Advantage and its implications.

The Liberal Redneck, Trae Crowder, joins Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to discuss his journey from rural Tennessee to internet fame. You will learn about Trae's unique perspective on blending humor with serious topics, discussing the impact of growing up rural on political views.

Join us on The Hot Dish every week, where we serve up hearty conversations that resonate with every corner of the country.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project, making sure the voices of the rest of us are heard in Washington. To learn more, visit onecountryproject.org or find us at One Country Project Substack.

• (00:11) - - Trae Crowder introduces himself and his background.
• (14:12) - - Heidi, Joel, and Trae discuss the special election in Tennessee.
• (23:45) - - Heidi and Trae talk about the impact of $12 billion on rural schools.
• (33:00) - - Trae Crowder discusses his unique style to political speech.

Jess Piper joins hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to discuss the political climate in rural America, focusing on Democratic engagement and the challenges faced by local communities. The conversation covers economic issues, healthcare, and the importance of local political campaigns.

Gain valuable insights into the current political landscape and learn about strategies for engaging rural voters. You will learn about the significance of local representation and the impact of economic policies on rural communities. Jess Piper shares her experiences and perspectives, offering a unique view on the challenges and opportunities in rural America.

Join us on The Hot Dish every week, where we serve up hearty conversations that resonate with every corner of the country.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project, making sure the voices of the rest of us are heard in Washington. To learn more, visit https://onecountryproject.org or find us at https://onecountryproject.substack.com/.

• (05:00) - - Political Climate and Rural Engagement
• (15:00) - - Economic Issues and Healthcare
• (25:00) - - Political Campaigns and Strategies
• (35:00) - - Conclusion and Call to Action

Hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp are joined by political commentator Chris Matthews to discuss the future of the Democratic Party, lessons from Bobby Kennedy, and the importance of connecting with everyday Americans. They examine recent election results, challenges facing rural America, and how both parties can better serve working people.

You will gain valuable insight into how Democrats can rebuild trust with rural and working-class voters. Chris Matthews shares stories about the Kennedys and offers advice for future leaders. You should listen if you care about democracy, dignity, and the future of rural America.

Join us on The Hot Dish every week, where we serve up hearty conversations that resonate with every corner of the country.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project, making sure the voices of the rest of us are heard in Washington. To learn more, visit https://onecountryproject.org or find us at https://onecountryproject.substack.com/.

• (05:22) - Chris Matthews discusses how snobbery hurts Democrats in reaching rural America.
• (12:00) - Chris, Heidi and Joel debate the hypocrisy around immigration in Red states.
• (22:18) - Heidi and Chris highlight the importance of rallying for our country's democracy.
• (27:36) - Joel and Chris discuss how Senators need to speak up and use their office for the good of the country.
• (33:49) - Heidi and Chris debate Roosevelt's Social Security strategy.

Economist Justin Wolfers joins hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to break down the current state of the American economy under recent administrations. They discuss inflation, rural financial challenges, the impact of tariffs and trade, and how government policies shape economic opportunity across the country.

Listen for a clearer understanding of how economic decisions in Washington directly affect rural communities and everyday families. Heidi, Joel, and Justin provide honest analysis, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on building confidence and hope in rural America’s economic future.

Join us on The Hot Dish every week, where we serve up hearty conversations that resonate with every corner of the country.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project, making sure the voices of the rest of us are heard in Washington. To learn more, visit https://onecountryproject.org or find us at https://onecountryproject.substack.com/.

• (05:02) - Justin Wolfers explains what a K-Shaped Economy is and how it affects Americans
• (14:29) - Heidi and Joel Heitkamp discuss the dire political consequences of policy shifts
• (23:52) - Justin discusses how there is a global shift away from U.S. trade due to tariffs
• (28:21) - Justin details how global stocks are outpacing the U.S. market and why
• (37:28) - Joel, Heidi and Justin describe a shared fear of the long-term impact of Trump's policies