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426 episodes

One Breakdown Away: How a Car Can Make or Break the American Dream
16/04/2026 | 31 mins.
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Jason Wells, founder of Mechanics of Faith, to explore how something as simple as a car repair can be the difference between stability and crisis.

Jason shares how his nonprofit in Virginia is helping individuals and families stay on their feet by providing affordable auto repairs—and second chances. For many of the people he serves, a broken-down car doesn’t just mean inconvenience; it can mean losing a job, missing rent, or facing homelessness.

The conversation highlights a powerful but often overlooked reality: access to reliable transportation dramatically expands job opportunities and economic mobility. Jason also discusses how Mechanics of Faith is going beyond repairs—training and employing individuals in recovery and helping them build new careers and lives.

This episode is a compelling reminder that real solutions often come from the ground up—and that restoring opportunity can start with something as simple as getting someone back on the road.
Blocked by Bureaucracy: Khalilah Few’s Fight to Open Her Business
14/04/2026 | 28 mins.
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Khalilah Few and Jessica Bigbie to share a powerful story about what happens when government gets in the way of the American Dream.

Khalilah, the owner of a growing natural hair care business, signed a lease for a larger space to meet demand and better serve her community. After completing every step in the process—including gathering support from local residents and businesses—her permit was unexpectedly denied.

The zoning advisory committee cited “oversaturation,” despite the fact that nearby salons offer different services. Now, Khalilah is fighting back with a lawsuit. Her attorney, Jessica Bigbie from the Institute for Justice, joins the conversation to explain the legal battle and what it means for entrepreneurs facing similar barriers.

This episode highlights the real challenges small business owners face—and why protecting economic opportunity is critical to keeping the American Dream alive.
The $1 Trillion Blind Spot: Fraud, Welfare, and the Hidden Cost of Government Aid
10/04/2026 | 28 mins.
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with policy expert David Ditch from the Economic Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) to uncover a massive and often overlooked part of federal spending: over $1 trillion in aid to state programs.

From Medicaid to food stamps and housing assistance, they break down how these programs work, why costs are rising faster than the economy, and where accountability is falling short. The conversation dives into shocking examples of fraud, systemic incentives that enable misuse, and the real-world consequences for taxpayers.

They also explore how these policies connect to everyday challenges—like the growing struggle to afford housing—and what recent reforms aim to fix. Are these changes enough, or is more action needed?

If you’ve ever wondered where your tax dollars really go—and what can be done to protect them—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Cutting Red Tape: How Tennessee Is Empowering Small Businesses
07/04/2026 | 16 mins.
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Tennessee Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson in Nashville to discuss how smart policy—and less red tape—is helping drive one of the fastest-growing states in the country.

Senator Johnson shares his journey into public service, from simply “showing up” at local events to becoming a key leader shaping Tennessee’s pro-growth agenda. The conversation highlights why Tennessee has become a destination for families and businesses alike—and what sets its approach to governance apart.

At the center of the discussion is the Regulatory Freedom Act, a commonsense effort to rein in unnecessary regulations, increase transparency, and give small businesses a stronger voice. Johnson explains why small businesses—not big corporations—are the true backbone of the economy and how excessive regulation can hold them back.

This episode is a reminder that good policy doesn’t have to be complicated—and that when government focuses on efficiency, accountability, and opportunity, communities thrive.
March Madness: Who Is America’s Greatest Defender of Freedom?
03/04/2026 | 34 mins.
In this special American Potential episode, host David From brings the excitement of March Madness to American history with a “Defenders of Freedom” bracket—pitting 64 influential figures against each other to answer one big question: who had the greatest impact on liberty?

Joined by Daniel Bassali, Jeremiah Mosteller, and Hunter Kendrick, the conversation blends humor, history, and spirited debate as they walk through the Liberty Bracket to determine who the ultimate defender of freedom is. From Washington vs. Jefferson to Reagan vs. MLK Jr., each round forces tough choices about leadership, legacy, and what it truly means to defend freedom.

Along the way, the group reflects on the defining moments and principles that shaped the nation—from founding the republic to preserving it, expanding rights, and championing liberty at home and abroad.

In the end, one figure rises above the rest—but the real takeaway is a deeper appreciation for the individuals whose courage and conviction built and sustained the American experiment.

It’s a fun, fast-paced episode that reminds us: freedom didn’t happen by accident—and it’s up to each of us to carry it forward.

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About American Potential

American Potential is a national award-winning podcast that shares how individuals are taking action in their communities to break barriers. While some of our guests may be public officials or influencers, many are ordinary Americans who decided, “enough is enough,” and are stepping up in a big way. We share policy solutions to the most important challenges our country faces and talk to people who are doing something about it. Our hope is that when you hear about other people’s stories of success – and struggle – you will realize that you are capable of doing extraordinary things within your own community and know that you are not alone. David From, a Regional Vice President at Americans for Prosperity, hosts the American Potential podcast. David brings a wealth of experience in grassroots advocacy and a deep commitment to advancing freedom and opportunity for all Americans. American Potential has earned multiple prestigious honors for its impact and excellence in storytelling: Platinum Award at the 2024 Viddy Awards for the episode featuring Mike Rowe, recognized in the long-form podcast category. Gold Award at the 18th Annual w3 Awards in the News and Politics Podcast category. Award of Distinction at the 31st Annual Communicator Awards in the Individual Episodes – Political category for the episode “Eco-Regulation Gone Wrong: The Unintended Costs of Colorado’s Climate Laws.” These awards—judged by experts from organizations like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and the Smithsonian—highlight the podcast’s effectiveness in elevating compelling stories of freedom, innovation, and citizen-led change.

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