Hey guys! I’m Stan, and this is the place for balanced takes on politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. I believe we can stay informed and stay hopeful. Plus, every episode wraps up with a story of courage to inspire you, plus a few mins of Biblical encouragement to remind us that faith, peace, and perspective still matter. Learn more about the show here. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms Republicans are sounding increasingly worried about the midterms — and there are some legitimate reasons why. This week, I look at Speaker Mike Johnson’s warnings about what could happen if Democrats take control of the House, the GOP’s lack of congressional oversight during the Trump administration, and some potentially troubling signs for Republicans in places they probably never expected to be worried about. I also dig into several issues Republicans once thought would work in their favor but that may now be creating political problems of their own. That includes the continuing Epstein controversy, the war with Iran and its effect on fuel prices, aggressive immigration enforcement, and President Trump’s continuing claims about elections and political “lawfare.” We’ll also look at what’s happening with Hispanic voters in Texas and why the GOP’s aggressive redistricting strategy could prove more complicated than expected. Then, for this week’s Story of Courage, we go back to the winter of 1775 and the remarkable story of Henry Knox — a 25-year-old Boston bookseller who somehow moved roughly 60 tons of artillery more than 300 miles through a brutal New England winter. Those guns ultimately helped George Washington force the British out of Boston, and Knox’s story is an incredible reminder of what preparation, persistence, and the willingness to step forward can accomplish. Finally, we close with Faith & Encouragement and a simple message from Scripture: salvation isn’t something we earn by being good enough. It is a gift from God through Jesus Christ. And whether you’re struggling with faith, returning to it after years away, or simply overwhelmed by the noise around us, I hope this week’s episode gives you a little perspective — and reminds you to keep moving forward. ⏱️ Timestamps / main stories covered: * 0:48 — The Republican case for putting them back in the House and Senate, as laid out by Speaker Mike Johnson * 7:11 — Texas could be a big problem for the GOP, and I’m not just talking about Talerico * 16:09 — More proof of just how much trouble the Republicans are in * 18:31 — Three things that blew up that Republicans thought would help in November * 34:53 — Story of Courage * 41:16 — Faith & Encouragement * 50:39 — About the Show and My Mission If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] Faith reminder: Real peace isn’t found in a country, a party, or an earthly leader. It’s found in God. Don’t know where to start? Check out my Bible resource page here. Or my podcast that focuses solely on faith called The Search for God. Dealing with depression, PTSD, or thoughts of suicide? Please listen to this. Support the show: If you’d like to support the show, you can become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack, or support me on Patreon. You can also send a one-time gift via Venmo or PayPal. My goals are simple: more unity for our country, less anger (and fear) in the news, and a steady reminder that though we live in a noisy world, we all need God in our lives. Questions or Comments: Email me at stanrmitchell2012@gmail.com. Include your first name and city if you’d like your message possibly included in a future episode. Short voice memos are welcome (and preferred). To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell Books: I write compelling stories that matter — about courage, faith, and the fight for what’s right. I’ve written twelve fast-paced thrillers, with more than 70,000 copies sold. My military and political thrillers are similar to those written by Vince Flynn and Jack Carr, while my police thrillers are similar to Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series. All these book are available on Amazon. (Paid link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe