American Potential

  On this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Ethan Sanchez (Grassroots Engagement Director, Americans for Prosperity–Wisconsin) and Marine Corps veteran Jim Thompson to unpack a little-known piece of Wisconsin law: it’s illegal to open a new cigar lounge in the state. Because of Wisconsin’s Clean Indoor Air Act, only a handful of pre-2009 cigar lounges are allowed to operate—creating a de facto state-protected monopoly and shutting out entrepreneurs like Jim, who has a full business plan, funding, and community impact model ready to go. Ethan and Jim explain: How Wisconsin’s smoking ban grandfathered old lounges but banned new ones Why modern lounges in other states have far better air purification and cleaner environments How the new bill (SB/AB 211) would not force lounges on any town, but simply return the decision to local communities What this change would mean for jobs, tax revenue, and cigar lovers who just want a place to gather and build real relationships If you care about entrepreneurship, local control, and letting adults make adult choices, this conversation will light you up like a good cigar.

On this episode of American Potential, host David From welcomes back Dean Clancy, Senior Health Policy Fellow at Americans for Prosperity, to break down the major health care wins inside the One Big Beautiful Bill passed this summer. Dean explains how the bill expands access to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), allowing millions more Americans to save tax-free for health care. Even more exciting — HSA funds can now be used for Direct Primary Care (DPC) subscriptions and telehealth, giving families easier, more affordable access to their preferred doctors without insurance gatekeeping. Dean also highlights key reforms in Medicaid and Obamacare subsidies, what’s still needed to deliver true hassle-free health care, and how AFP’s Personal Option campaign continues to push for more freedom and affordability in the health system. If you want to understand how the new law impacts your wallet—and why it’s a major victory for health care freedom—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

On this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Patrick Fleenor, the Tax Policy Fellow for Americans for Prosperity, to break down how the One Big Beautiful Bill stopped the largest tax hike in U.S. history. Patrick explains how the bill simplifies parts of the tax code, keeps more money in the hands of families and job creators, and strengthens pro-growth policies like full expensing and R&D deductions. They also tackle common myths about who benefits from tax cuts, discuss the ongoing fight over the SALT deduction, and highlight how entitlement spending—rather than too little taxation—is driving America’s long-term fiscal challenges. This episode is a clear, practical guide to understanding why the bill is such a big win for workers, small businesses, and the broader economy.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Spike Cohen, founder and president of You Are The Power, to talk about how ordinary people can push back against extraordinary government abuse—and win. From eminent domain land grabs to “medical kidnapping” and CPS overreach, Spike shares how his organization uses public pressure and storytelling to force officials to do the right thing. Spike explains how his 2020 vice-presidential run opened his eyes to countless local injustices that couldn’t wait for a future election. That led him to build a model that combines viral storytelling with simple, concrete calls to action—like one-click emails to key decision-makers—that has produced a near-100% success rate in stopping bad government actions. You’ll hear the heartbreaking and ultimately hopeful story of Matt and Tucky Hernandez, whose daughters were taken after a misdiagnosed medical condition was labeled “abuse.” Spike walks through how You Are The Power exposed the truth, mobilized thousands of people, and helped spark reforms in Georgia—including “Ridge’s Law,” which now requires better medical review and protects innocent families from being torn apart to chase federal funding. If you care about civil liberties, CPS reform, medical freedom, and fighting bureaucracy that destroys lives, this conversation will fire you up—and show you exactly how people like you can help. Spike also shares how to get involved, support future cases, or ask for help if your own family is facing government overreach.

In this powerful episode of American Potential, host David From speaks with Amy Siple, a Kansas nurse practitioner whose career was nearly destroyed—not for harming a patient, not for malpractice, but for a clerical error while her husband battled cancer. When Amy missed a routine license renewal fee, the Kansas Board of Nursing launched a punitive process that labeled her “unprofessional,” threatened her ability to work, jeopardized her malpractice insurance, and put her on permanent national databases. As Amy began speaking out, she discovered countless other Kansas nurses suffering the same fate for minor errors—while the state faces a severe nursing shortage and spends $44 million on contract labor. Amy sheds light on a system with little oversight, inconsistent discipline, and a board that has quietly accumulated $4 million in fines from nurses. She also shares how legislators are now fighting to reform the system, protect nurses, and ultimately protect patients who rely on skilled professionals like her. This is a must-listen episode for anyone concerned about government overreach, healthcare access, professional licensing reform, and supporting the nurses who serve our communities.

In this 50 Stars, 50 Stories edition of American Potential, host David From sits down with Jennifer Beving, Deputy State Director for AFP–South Dakota, and Tyler Voight, State Director for AFP–North Carolina, for a lively blend of state trivia and state leadership. Jennifer shares how AFP–South Dakota is helping citizens get involved, show up in Pierre, and keep government small, while Tyler explains how North Carolina transformed its business climate, strengthened freedom, and became a top destination for families and businesses. Packed with fun facts, state pride, and real policy wins, this episode shows how both states are shaping America’s future through lower taxes, smarter government, and engaged communities.

In this heartfelt episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Beka Dowhy, founder of the Caregiver Support Network, about her mission to support family caregivers who often feel unseen and alone. After caring for her mom through multiple sclerosis (MS) alongside her dad, Beka experienced firsthand how isolating caregiving can be — and decided to change that for others. She shares how her organization connects caregivers with prayer partners, emotional support, and practical help like meal deliveries, cleaning services, and home care relief so they can take a breath and care for themselves, too. This inspiring conversation shines a light on the unseen heroes caring for loved ones and offers real solutions for preventing caregiver burnout and building community-based support networks across the country.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Tanner Avery, Policy Director at the Frontier Institute in Montana, about how pro-innovation policies are helping Big Sky Country become a leader in both artificial intelligence and energy development. Avery explains how Montana’s new Right to Compute law protects AI and modern computing as forms of free speech—calling them the “modern printing press”—and why that protection is vital for innovation and economic growth. He also dives into Montana’s unique opportunity to pair energy abundance with the rise of data centers and AI-driven industries. With low regulation, smart permitting reforms, and a strong culture of freedom, Montana is attracting businesses and tech talent from high-regulation states. Avery and From discuss how AI can augment work, boost labor productivity, and create prosperity without fear or overregulation. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in AI policy, energy innovation, and the future of technology freedom in America.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Montana State Representative Gary Parry, Chair of the House Energy & Technology Committee, to discuss how Montana can remain a leader in energy production while preparing for the future. Parry outlines his vision for expanding coal and small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), strengthening transmission infrastructure, and ensuring Montana stays a net energy exporter in the West. He also shares how reliable, affordable energy supports local jobs and keeps Montana’s rural communities strong, while explaining the importance of regional cooperation with neighboring states and Canada to stabilize the grid. From Colstrip’s legacy to next-generation nuclear, Perry lays out a clear, common-sense path to energy abundance and economic growth for Big Sky Country.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Darin Selnick, Senior Advisor for Concerned Veterans for America and one of the architects of the VA MISSION Act, about the next big step in veterans’ healthcare reform — the Veterans Access Act. Selnick reveals how bureaucratic failures and delays under the current administration have left veterans waiting months for care, forcing some to travel hundreds of miles or worse, leading to preventable tragedies, including suicides. He explains how the Veterans Access Act would enforce timely care — requiring the VA to act within 48 hours for urgent mental health cases, protect veterans’ right to choose community care, and stop the VA from hiding or denying eligibility. Selnick also exposes why entrenched bureaucrats resist reform and how grassroots action can push Congress to finally deliver on America’s promise to its veterans. If you care about veterans’ healthcare, mental health, and VA reform, this episode is essential listening.

In this powerful episode of American Potential, host David From speaks with Army combat veteran Dallas Knight and retired Air Force Colonel Lorraine Schleder about their journeys of service, sacrifice, and healing. They recount experiences from Iraq combat missions to aeromedical evacuations, and how those challenges shaped their drive to continue serving fellow veterans after returning home. Knight shares why she founded Operation Juliet, a nonprofit dedicated to helping female veterans recover from military sexual trauma (MST) and reconnect with their sense of identity, while Schleder explains her work with Veterans Navigation Network, guiding veterans through VA healthcare, disability claims, and suicide prevention resources. Together, they offer powerful insight into the urgent need for VA reform, mental health support, and a national effort to truly see and hear our veterans beyond a simple “thank you for your service.”  

In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Congressman Troy Downing of Montana’s vast First District to talk about unleashing America’s energy potential and keeping the nation secure—both economically and militarily. Downing discusses how affordable, reliable energy is the backbone of prosperity for families, small businesses, and industry, and why under President Trump’s leadership, the country is once again embracing an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy. From tapping Montana’s coal reserves in the Powder River Basin to supporting oil, gas, renewables, and next-generation transmission, Downing explains how responsible energy production can fuel America’s competitiveness in the AI and data-driven economy. He also reflects on his service as a U.S. veteran, sharing why he believes America is worth fighting for and why energy independence and national defense are inseparable. It’s a powerful look at leadership, patriotism, and how Montana’s energy innovation is helping power the American dream.

On American Potential with host David From, Congressman Bruce Westerman — Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee and a professional forester — explains why healthy forests are the backbone of clean air, clean water, and resilient watersheds, and how decades of public land mismanagement have fueled catastrophic wildfires and lumber shortages. Westerman breaks down the Fix Our Forests Act, the push to expand markets for low-grade wood (biochar, biostimulants, energy), and why U.S. housing depends on smarter, science-based forest management instead of smoke and ash. The conversation then turns to unleashing American energy. Westerman details bipartisan permitting reform via the SPEED Act to cut NEPA delays, reduce litigation ambushes, and build what America needs — from transmission lines and data-center power to mining for critical minerals — faster and cleaner. He also previews Great American Outdoors Act “250” improvements and the unanimously passed EXPLORE Act for outdoor recreation. If you care about energy policy, AI-driven power demand, forestry, permitting, conservation, and keeping America competitive with China, this episode delivers the roadmap.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen at the Big Sky Bright Future Economic Summit to talk about how the Cornhusker State is powering its economy through energy, innovation, and old-fashioned Nebraska work ethic. Governor Pillen outlines his vision for a leaner, more competitive state government—cutting bureaucracy, reducing spending by 10%, and running government like a business to give taxpayers more value for their money. He also shares how Nebraska’s economy is thriving across multiple sectors—from agriculture and ethanol to insurance, banking, and renewable energy. With bold carbon-sequestration projects, a growing ethanol industry, and a strong commitment to entrepreneurship, Governor Pillen explains how Nebraska is positioning itself for long-term growth while staying true to its roots: faith, family, and freedom. It’s a conversation about leadership, service, and why Nebraskans continue to do things “the Nebraska way.”

In this Halloween edition of American Potential, host David From talks with Heather Andrews, Western States Regional Director for Americans for Prosperity, about Washington State’s frightening new housing policy. Lawmakers promised relief for renters with a “rent stabilization” bill—really a rent control measure—that caps rent increases but ignores the real cause of sky-high prices: a massive housing shortage. Heather explains how the law threatens to scare off builders, shrink rental supply, and make affordability even worse for families already struggling to find a place to live. Together, they break down why quick political fixes like rent caps only freeze broken markets in place, and what real reform looks like—tackling zoning restrictions, cutting permit delays, and slashing the $140,000 in government costs it takes just to break ground on a new home in Washington. From Seattle to Spokane, the real solution isn’t controlling prices—it’s unleashing supply.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Scott Blackburn, a First Amendment policy expert, to explore how state lawmakers are quietly chipping away at free speech and donor privacy. Blackburn explains how proposed laws across the country could expose nonprofit donors, chill civic participation, and give politicians new tools to silence their critics. He also breaks down the growing wave of legislation aimed at regulating AI in political speech—and how vague definitions could turn simple campaign graphics or video edits into “AI manipulation.” From New Mexico’s one-word bill that nearly forced every charity to reveal its supporters to efforts that disguise domestic disclosure mandates as “foreign interference” bans, Blackburn shows how these measures threaten the fundamental right to speak and associate freely. Tune in as American Potential reveals what’s really at stake in the fight to protect privacy, free expression, and the open exchange of ideas.

As Halloween approaches, American Potential takes a look at a different kind of fright—the kind that comes from government trying to hide in the dark. Host David From is joined by Liam Gallagher, Legislative Director for Americans for Prosperity–Kentucky, to unpack a chilling near-miss in the state legislature. What started as a seemingly harmless bill to promote transparency nearly turned into a full-blown exemption shielding the governor, cabinet officials, and school boards from the state’s Open Records Act. Liam recounts how, with only hours to spare, he and a bipartisan coalition—including the Kentucky Press Association—exposed the hidden language and stopped the bill before it could erase public accountability. From AI-gone-wrong in a local school district to officials using private phones to dodge open records, this episode shines a light on why transparency isn’t just good policy—it’s democracy’s strongest disinfectant.

From energy independence to workforce innovation, Montana is charting a course for long-term growth. In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Governor Greg Gianforte at the Big Sky Bright Future Economic Summit to discuss how his administration is unleashing opportunity across the Treasure State. Gianforte outlines his vision for an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy—expanding coal, wind, solar, hydro, and nuclear—while ensuring Montana remains one of the easiest places in America to do business. With streamlined permitting and a pro-growth mindset, projects that take years elsewhere are moving in months in Montana. The governor also highlights his efforts to make housing more affordable by cutting red tape and increasing supply, and to strengthen the workforce through his 406 Jobs Initiative, which connects veterans, returning citizens, individuals with disabilities, and Native communities to meaningful employment. As Gianforte puts it, “No one grows up hoping to be dependent on the government.” His goal is simple: help every Montanan find dignity and purpose in work, build a stronger economy, and secure a brighter future under the Big Sky.

In this special 50 Stars, 50 Stories edition of American Potential, host David From celebrates the great state of Nevada — the Battle Born State — and its enduring legacy of freedom, innovation, and resilience. Joining him is Wiz Rouzard, Deputy State Director for Americans for Prosperity–Nevada, whose passion for his adopted home shines through as he connects Nevada’s remarkable history to its growing promise today. Wiz takes us back to 1864, when Nevada entered the Union in the midst of the Civil War, helping to secure President Abraham Lincoln’s re-election and strengthen the cause of unity. Known for its rugged mountains, independent spirit, and the motto “All for Our Country,” Nevada’s story is one of perseverance and bold self-determination. Fast forward 160 years, and that same Battle Born spirit is driving modern reforms. Wiz shares how his team helped make Nevada an open enrollment state, giving every family the freedom to choose the best public school for their child — no longer bound by ZIP code. He explains new legislation that opens doors for foreign-trained doctors to serve in Nevada communities, addressing healthcare shortages while keeping opportunity alive for skilled professionals. And when Hollywood came calling with a proposal for massive taxpayer-funded film subsidies, Wiz and his team stood firm, ensuring that Nevada remains a beacon for free enterprise — not a playground for corporate handouts. Their success in defeating the film tax plan was a major win for fiscal responsibility and local taxpayers. Throughout the conversation, Wiz also shares how Nevada’s Battle Born Blueprint continues to guide their mission — expanding educational choice, championing small businesses, protecting donor privacy, and keeping the Silver State a national example of what’s possible when people, not politics, lead the way. From silver mines and desert sunsets to new frontiers in opportunity, this episode celebrates Nevada’s past, present, and future — one of America’s brightest stars in the constellation of freedom.

Sometimes, the smallest frustrations can spark the biggest changes. In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with State Representative Tony McCombie, the first female Republican Leader in the Illinois House of Representatives, about how a dispute over a sandwich board sign outside her small café inspired her to run for office—and ultimately lead her state’s GOP caucus. Rep. McCombie shares her journey from small-town business owner and mayor to becoming one of Illinois’ most influential conservative voices. She opens up about learning from early political defeats, championing small-town values in Springfield, and finding purpose through public service. Her story is proof that one small step, driven by conviction and community pride, can lead to extraordinary leadership and lasting impact.