American Potential

From Rock Bottom to Redemption: How One Restaurant is Transforming Lives

In this powerful episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Rob Perez, co-owner of DV8 Kitchen in Lexington, Kentucky. More than just a restaurant, DV8 is a place where people recovering from addiction get a fresh start, proving that meaningful work can be a key to long-term recovery.
Rob shares the deeply personal story behind the restaurant, from his own battle with addiction to his and his wife Diane’s journey to create a business that prioritizes second chances. By employing individuals in early recovery and providing them with structure, accountability, and support beyond the workplace, DV8 has become a model of hope and transformation.
But their success didn’t come easily. Rob discusses the challenges of hiring people with past struggles, how they developed a system that ensures stability and success, and why many businesses shy away from second-chance employment. He also explains how their approach could be a solution to America’s workforce shortages and addiction crisis.
From hiring strategies to life-changing success stories, this episode dives into the real impact of combining business with purpose. Rob also shares how DV8 is inspiring other businesses to embrace second-chance hiring and create opportunities that help people reclaim their lives.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on redemption, dignity, and the power of work to change lives.

How the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Plans to Reform Washington

In this kickoff episode of Big Ideas for Smaller Government, host David From welcomes Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director at Americans for Prosperity, to introduce the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Jeremiah breaks down how this initiative, led by Elon Musk and backed by the Trump administration, is set to tackle bureaucratic waste, eliminate harmful regulations, and make taxpayer dollars work smarter. He highlights the key priorities of DOGE, including regulatory reform, cost-saving measures, and reducing the administrative state’s overreach. From wasteful spending on empty government buildings to burdensome regulations that stifle small businesses, this episode explores how DOGE aims to streamline federal operations and restore accountability in Washington.
Tune in to learn how these reforms could impact the future of government efficiency and economic freedom.

Rep. Harriet Hageman on Reining in the Administrative State and Defending Constitutional Freedoms

In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Congresswoman Harriet Hageman, Wyoming's at-large representative and chair of the new Article One Task Force, to discuss her mission to rein in the administrative state and defend constitutional freedoms.
Rep. Hageman shares her experiences as a trial attorney fighting federal overreach, including cases that highlight the unchecked power of unelected bureaucrats. She discusses the significant implications of the Loper Bright Supreme Court decision and the urgent need for Congress to reclaim its legislative authority. Learn how the Article One Task Force aims to limit regulatory overreach and strengthen the role of elected representatives in shaping clear and accountable laws.
The conversation also explores her proposed First Amendment Accountability Act, which would hold government officials personally responsible for violating Americans' constitutional rights. Rep. Hageman emphasizes the critical importance of ensuring that government agencies remain transparent, fair, and accountable to the people.
Tune in to hear how Rep. Hageman is leading the charge to right-size government, protect individual freedoms, and ensure that the principles of the Constitution remain at the heart of American governance. Visit American Potential for more inspiring stories of Americans fighting for freedom and opportunity.

Empowering Young Minds: A Conversation with Lynee Fife of the Children's Entrepreneur Market

In this episode of American Potential, host David From welcomes Lynnee Fife, Executive Director of the Children's Entrepreneur Market, to discuss how this groundbreaking initiative is transforming kids into confident entrepreneurs.
Lynnee shares the story behind the Children's Entrepreneur Market, part of the Libertas Network, and how it provides children with hands-on experiences in running their own businesses. From selling lemonade to creating innovative products, these young entrepreneurs learn invaluable skills such as problem-solving, time management, and financial literacy—all while having fun and making money.
Hear inspiring stories of kids breaking out of their shells, overcoming challenges, and discovering the joys of entrepreneurship. Lynnee also highlights the program’s rapid growth, now in 48 cities across 28 states, and its impact on communities nationwide.
Tune in to learn how the Children's Entrepreneur Market is nurturing creativity, resilience, and independence in the next generation. Visit Children's Entrepreneur Market to see how you can get involved.

Unleashing American Energy: The Potential of Natural Gas and Infrastructure

In this episode of American Potential, new host David From sits down with Toby Rice, CEO of EQT Corporation, the largest producer of natural gas in the United States. Together, they discuss the pivotal role of natural gas in America's energy independence, the lessons learned from Europe's energy crisis, and the need to prioritize infrastructure development to meet rising energy demands.
Learn how the shale revolution transformed the U.S. into a global energy powerhouse, producing over 30 million barrels of energy per day. Rice shares insights on combating myths about fossil fuels, the environmental benefits of natural gas, and the critical need to build pipelines and storage facilities to ensure affordable and reliable energy for Americans.
As AI technology drives an unprecedented surge in energy demand, the conversation explores how American energy policy must evolve under the Trump administration to unleash the full potential of U.S. natural gas, strengthen global energy security, and address future challenges.
Visit AmericanPotential.com for more stories about how Americans are expanding freedom and opportunity in their communities.

Protect Prosperity: Fighting for Tax Reform and Economic Freedom

As tax cuts from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) face expiration, Americans for Prosperity (AFP) is launching the "Protect Prosperity" campaign to ensure economic freedom for all Americans. In this episode, new host David From speaks with Ken Strang, Managing Director for AFP, about the critical importance of extending these tax reforms.
Learn how the TCJA impacted small businesses, created jobs, and saved American families up to $1,500 annually. Hear inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who thrived thanks to these policies and discover how AFP’s grassroots efforts, from door-knocking to innovative local events, are mobilizing citizens to fight for economic opportunity.
This episode also highlights the consequences of Bidenomics, rising costs, and the urgent need for pro-growth tax reform to help families and businesses rebuild their American Dream. Whether you’re a concerned taxpayer or small business owner, find out how you can get involved and make your voice heard.
Visit ProtectProsperity.com to join the fight for a brighter economic future.

A Dirt Bike, a Taillight, and the Fight for Freedom: Challenging the Administrative State

What do a dirt bike, a taillight, and the Supreme Court have in common? In this fascinating episode of American Potential, Jeff Crank and new host David From delve into the groundbreaking case United States vs. Pheasant—a seemingly small dispute over a $100 fine that could reshape the boundaries of government power.
Joined by Casey Maddox, Vice President for Legal Strategies, they explore the constitutional principles at stake, including the non-delegation doctrine, and how this case challenges the unchecked power of federal agencies like the Bureau of Land Management. They also discuss the broader implications of other pivotal cases, such as Loper Bright, and the Supreme Court's role in right-sizing government to align with the founders’ vision.
Hear how ordinary citizens like Mr. Pheasant are making extraordinary contributions to defending liberty and holding government accountable. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who values freedom, opportunity, and the principles of constitutional government.

Defending Competition: How Wisconsin Stopped a Utility Monopoly Bill

In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank talks with Wisconsin State Senator Chris Kapenga about the successful fight to stop the Right of First Refusal (ROFR) bill in Wisconsin. This legislation, backed by utility companies, would have eliminated competitive bidding for major infrastructure projects, driving up utility costs for consumers and businesses.
Senator Kapenga shares how grassroots efforts, common sense, and coalition building—including support from organizations like Americans for Prosperity—helped block this bill. He explains the dangers of monopolistic practices in utilities, the importance of competition in lowering costs, and the broader impact on Wisconsin's economy. Drawing on his background as a business owner, he illustrates why competition is vital for taxpayers and small businesses alike.
Tune in to hear a compelling story of leadership and perseverance that underscores how fighting for the "small things" in government can prevent significant economic harm. This episode highlights how states can push back against policies that harm taxpayers and businesses while promoting freedom and opportunity.

Breaking Barriers in Healthcare: Policies, Costs, and Solutions

Join guest host Heather Andrews as she sits down with Dean Clancy, a Senior Policy Fellow at Americans for Prosperity, to unravel the complexities of the American healthcare system. From skyrocketing costs to the root causes of limited competition, they tackle pressing questions about what’s driving up expenses for patients and how policies like the Affordable Care Act and government mandates have shaped the landscape.
Discover practical, free-market solutions to lower costs and expand access to care, including innovative ideas like telehealth, direct primary care, and site-neutral payments. Learn how reforms like expanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and removing barriers for internationally trained doctors can empower patients and promote competition.
With healthcare at the forefront of public concern, this episode highlights actionable steps Congress and communities can take to create a more affordable and accessible system for all. Tune in to learn how freedom and opportunity can transform healthcare for everyday Americans.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Protecting Your Pocketbook and America's Economic Growth

Join American Potential host David From as he dives into a critical topic with Patrick Fleenor, a tax policy fellow at Americans for Prosperity: the far-reaching impacts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) and its looming expiration in 2025. Passed in 2017, the TCJA delivered tax relief for individuals and businesses, incentivized investment, and simplified the tax code. But what happens if it expires without reauthorization?
Patrick explains how tax policy affects everyday decisions, from saving for the future to investing in tools for tradespeople, and why a productive economy benefits all Americans. They discuss the broader economic impact of delayed consumption, the importance of a simplified tax code, and how targeted reforms like the TCJA can foster economic freedom and opportunity.
Discover the real-world effects of tax policies on wages, businesses, and families. Learn why Congress must act to renew the TCJA and explore ways to take it even further, creating a tax system that empowers everyone. With economic freedom at stake, staying informed and engaged is more important than ever.
Tune in to learn how good tax policies can unleash potential, support everyday Americans, and drive prosperity for all.