The Hot Dish

This episode is a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever felt the call to make a real difference. Whether you’re new to politics or part of the old guard, Amanda Litman’s story and insights will inspire you to step up, speak out, and run — for your community, your future, your life! In this episode: Amanda Litman breaks down how "Run for Something" energizes diverse, non-traditional leaders to run for...

In this jam-packed episode, Heidi and Joel speak with Nathan Gonzales, editor of Inside Elections, about Democrats' prospects in the Midterm Elections and the collapse of the Trump Coalition. Then, Iowa State Rep. Adam Zabner gives a quick update on turnout for the state's precinct caucuses and the frustration with the Trump Administration among the state's Independent and centrist Republican vote...

In this episode of The Hot Dish, Joel Heitkamp speaks with Jamie Ager, a congressional candidate from North Carolina, about pressing issues facing rural America.  The conversation covers the tragic story of Alex Pretti, the impact of Hurricane Helene on local communities, frustrations with government response, healthcare challenges, housing affordability, and the importance of curiosity in leaders...

Joel's flying solo in this episode. He speaks with Paul Sullivan of the ACLU of Minnesota about the current climate in Minneapolis and St. Paul amid rising tensions and a federal law enforcement presence.  Sullivan describes a significant increase in federal agents since late 2020, leading to numerous violations of constitutional rights, including the use of excessive force against peaceful protes...

In this episode of The Hot Dish,  Heidi engages in a compelling conversation with retired General Mark Hertling. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including the complexities of U.S. military operations, foreign policy, and the implications of regime change.  General Hertling shares insights from his experiences in Iraq and his views on the recent U.S. incursion into Venezuela. He speci...

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 threa...

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 conversat...

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. T...

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 cur...

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. Th...

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 w...

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 rebuil...

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 ru...

In this Veteran's Day episode, Journalist and professor Tom Nichols joins hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to discuss current leadership at the Pentagon and Justice Department, the state of American democracy, and Republican foreign policy shifts. Listen to gain insight into the impacts of political loyalty, leadership challenges, and shifts in military and governmental norms. You'll learn how these...

Governor Tim Walz joins co-hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to discuss the mounting economic and social challenges facing rural America. The conversation covers the farm economy, rural health care, trade policy, and how political messaging affects rural communities. You'll hear firsthand stories about the impact of national policy decisions on small-town life and agriculture. Heidi Heitkamp and Joel...

In this episode, Heidi Heitkamp and Joel Heitkamp host Nick Levendofsky, the Kansas Farmers Union Executive Director. Together, they discuss challenges facing rural America, especially farmers and ranchers. Listen to this episode to learn more about trade tensions, changing markets, and how government aid policies are affecting the livelihoods of those in agriculture and rural communities. Heidi a...

Heidi and Joel Heitkamp welcome Michelle Rathman and Jeanne Lambrew to discuss their expert insights on the future of rural hospitals, premium tax credits, Medicaid, and nursing care, as well as how community leaders and healthcare workers are responding to looming changes. Heidi and Joel explore how rural Americans can advocate for better healthcare policies and learn about the essential connecti...

Senator Tina Smith joins hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to discuss urgent rural issues like skyrocketing health insurance premiums, farm policies, crop markets, and rural hospital survival. You will learn how current decisions in Washington are impacting rural America, and gain practical insight on navigating the government shutdown, healthcare changes, and agricultural trade disruptions. Heidi and...

Host Joel Heitkamp announces exciting updates for The Hot Dish, including the move to weekly shows and upcoming video content. Joel also shares details about the upcoming Hot Dish live show, which will take place at CrookedCon on November 7. Joel’s announcements promise to keep the show timely, interactive, and even more connected to rural America’s needs.  Check out the Hot Dish YouTube page here...

Maya MacGuineas, President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, joins host Heidi Heitkamp to tackle the urgent issues of federal debt, government spending, and the economic challenges facing rural America. Together, they examine why fiscal responsibility matters, how national debt impacts everything from farm policy to national security, and what everyday citizens can do to demand ch...

Today, hosts Heidi Heitkamp and Joel Heitkamp welcome Justin Kanew, founder of the Tennessee Holler. They discuss the political climate in Tennessee, the role of faith in politics, and the impact of media on public perception. Listeners will gain insights into how local politics shape national narratives and the importance of grassroots movements. This episode will empower you by highlighting the...

Co-founders of the American Hunters and Anglers Action Network, Land Tawney and Aaron Murphy, join hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to tackle the urgent threats facing America’s public lands. Land and Aaron break down recent political attempts to sell off millions of acres of public lands and explain what’s truly at stake for rural communities and outdoor enthusiasts. You will learn more about the on...

In this brief conversation with Heidi, former Congressman Beto O'Rourke discusses the critical political landscape in Texas, focusing on the fight against gerrymandering and the implications of recent Republican Party actions.  He emphasizes the importance of grassroots activism, the need for a strong Democratic message, and the urgency of mobilizing support for upcoming elections. O'Rourke highli...

Matt Angle, founder of the Lone Star Project, joins the Hot Dish to break down the urgent issues of gerrymandering and redistricting in Texas. Host Heidi Heitkamp and Matt explore how recent political maneuvers aim to weaken minority voting power and reshape congressional districts to favor Republicans. Listen to learn more about how redistricting in Texas could impact democracy nationwide, especi...

In this episode, Bryan Little, Director of Labor Affairs for the California Farm Bureau, and Sonia Parras Konrad join hosts Joel and Heidi Heitkamp to discuss farm labor regulations, immigration, and affects of this Administration's immigration policies on rural communities.  You'll get practical insights and stories about the impact of labor shortages, ever-changing regulations, and evolving fede...