The Hot Dish

The One Country Project
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  • POLITICS
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Former U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp and her brother, KFGO radio talk show host Joel Heitkamp, engage in animated discussions with newsmakers, elected leaders, and policymakers who are creating new opportunities for rural Americans and finding practical solutions to their challenges. Punctuated with entertaining conversations and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry, The Hot Dish, from the One Country Project, is informative, enlightening, and downright fun.

  1. The State of the Family Farm

    20 HR AGO

    The State of the Family Farm

    Grab your coffee and get ready to talk dirt! Heidi and Joel check in on the state of the family farm, taking stock of what's actually happening in farm country right now. From a farm bill that leaves small farmers behind to a family sweet corn operation cutting its crop in half, this episode gets honest about the headwinds facing farm country. In this episode: Why the new farm bill won't do much for small and mid-size family farmersHow the war with Iran sent fertilizer prices through the roof — right when farmers were planning their seasonDavid Harold of Tuxedo Corn Company on why he's raising half the sweet corn he planned to this yearThe labor, trucking, pest, and drought pressures piling up on one Colorado farmWhy farmers who vote against their economic interests may finally face a reckoningWhat hand-harvested, eating-quality sweet corn has to do with everything wrong with our food system Family farmers are doing everything right — and still getting squeezed from every direction. David Harold's story of cutting back his beloved Olathe Sweet corn operation isn't just about one farm. It's about a food system that rewards shelf life over quality, scale over care, and corporate agriculture over the family farmers who built rural America. Whether you're a farmer, a food lover, or just someone who wants to understand what's really happening in rural communities, this episode will change the way you think about what's on your plate. Hit play — and maybe go find some good sweet corn while you're at it. Connect with David Harold and Tuxedo Corn Company: Tuxedo Corn CompanyTuxedo Corn Company on FacebookAnd remember: the dish is hottest when the stakes are highest. 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 Hot Dish (00:10) - The State of Farming and the New Farm Bill (02:11) - Political Dynamics in Rural America (05:39) - Challenges Facing Family Farmers (08:04) - Conclusion and Upcoming Guest (08:04) - The State of Farming Today (10:57) - Challenges in Specialty Crop Farming (13:51) - The Importance of Labor in Agriculture

    33 min
  2. The Race That Could Flip Mississippi

    13 MAY

    The Race That Could Flip Mississippi

    Grab your sweet tea and pull up a chair! Heidi and Joel sit down with Scott Colom, candidate for U.S. Senate from Mississippi, to talk about what it actually takes to turn one of the reddest states in the nation. If you care about expanding the map, building real coalitions, and what Democrats can win when they show up, this episode's for you. In this episode: How engaging directly with voters increased turnout by 90% in Mississippi's primariesScott Colom’s stance on tariffs, healthcare, and rural economic revivalThe importance of authenticity and listening in modern politicsHow Colom plans to combat voter suppression and fight for fair electionsThe story about a soldier missing his daughter's softball game—and why it hits homeInsights into Mississippi's unique primary system and demographic challengesThe power of community voices—like barbers and farmers—in shaping policyMost people have already written Mississippi off before the ballots are even printed. But Scott Colom isn't most people. In this conversation, the senate candidate makes the case that the most unexpected races can become the most important ones — and that the path to a Democratic Senate majority might just run through the heart of the Deep South. Whether you're a political junkie, a grassroots organizer, or just someone who believes no voter should be left behind, this episode will challenge the way you think about the electoral map. Don't count Mississippi out. Hit play and hear why. Connect with Scott Colom Scott Colom for SenateScott Colom on InstagramScott Colom on Facebook And remember: the dish is hottest when the race is closest. 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 Hot Dish and Mississippi Politics (03:02) - Scott Colom's Campaign and Vision for Change (06:05) - Challenges Facing Mississippi Farmers (09:07) - Building Trust with Voters (11:50) - Understanding Mississippi's Primary System (14:55) - Impact of Tariffs and Economic Policies (18:08) - Personal Stories and the Cost of War (21:02) - Centering Voters in Political Conversations (24:02) - Scott Colom's Unique Position in the Race (26:45) - Conclusion and Future Aspirations (29:13) - Enthusiasm in Politics (32:09) - Analyzing Senate Races (35:14) - Grassroots Support and Community Engagement

    36 min
  3. Rural America will Decide the Senate

    6 MAY

    Rural America will Decide the Senate

    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 electionThe GOP's silent treatment on Trump and what it means for the midtermsWhy rural America’s voice will decide the Senate raceThe future of the Supreme Court confirmations as the political landscape shiftsThe elusive "big swing" states: Iowa, Ohio, and others, and how farm costs are shaping votesThe 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 BlueskyScott MacFarlane on XScott MacFarlane on SubstackAnd 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

    41 min
  4. The Rural vs. Urban Divide

    29 APR

    The Rural vs. Urban Divide

    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 PressSuzanne 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

    43 min
  5. Trump's Coalition is Collapsing

    22 APR

    Trump's Coalition is Collapsing

    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 politicsHow Trump's coalition is changing and why midterm races might be brighter for DemocratsThe impact of Trump's foreign policy blunders and economic missteps on his baseInsights into Iowa's surprising blue shift and rural America's economic pain pointsThe peculiar pattern of Trump firing women in his cabinet—and what that says about his characterThe shifting power dynamics in Congress and why even insiders are starting to talk differently about himThe global repercussions of Trump's economic policies and diplomatic misstepsWhether 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 BulwarkAndrew Egger’s Morning Shots NewsletterEchelon Insights polling in IowaAnd 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

    49 min
  6. Donald Trump versus the Pope

    15 APR

    Donald Trump versus the Pope

    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 anticsThe Catholic bishops’ role in American politics, and why their message hits a nerveHow Trump’s AI-generated image depicting him as Jesus is sparking international outrage, and should make us all uncomfortableThe domino effect of tariffs, trade wars, and the broken promises to rural AmericaThe strategic disaster of ignoring Congress in decisions about war, and why even Senate insiders are throwing in the towelWhy globalized trade isn't a magic potion for economic prosperityThe urgent need to rethink safety nets as AI and economic inequality threaten to wipe out the middle classResources & Links: The World’s Worst Bet: How the Globalization Gamble Went WrongWashington Post – David LynchConnect with David J. Lynch: BlueskyAnd 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

    50 min
  7. How do we get out of this mess?

    8 APR

    How do we get out of this mess?

    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 decisionsThe potential and peril of military actions against IranThe influence of greed, grift, and the military-industrial complex on U.S. foreign policyThe decline of trust in American institutions and the urgent need for courageous leadershipConnect with Denver Riggleman: X / TwitterSubstackThe 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

    28 min
  8. Justin Wolfers on the Cost of War

    1 APR

    Justin Wolfers on the Cost of War

    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: TwitterBlueskyThe 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

    47 min
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Hosts & Guests

About

Former U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp and her brother, KFGO radio talk show host Joel Heitkamp, engage in animated discussions with newsmakers, elected leaders, and policymakers who are creating new opportunities for rural Americans and finding practical solutions to their challenges. Punctuated with entertaining conversations and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry, The Hot Dish, from the One Country Project, is informative, enlightening, and downright fun.

Information

  • Creator
    The One Country Project
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    144
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The One Country Project
  • Show Website
    The Hot Dish

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