American Potential
American Potential is a national award-winning podcast that shares how individuals are taking action in their community 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. Jeff Crank hosts the American Potential podcast. Jeff serves as a regional vice president at Americans for Prosperity, a political advocacy and accountability organization that helps pass policies to expand freedom and opportunity. He previously hosted The Jeff Crank Show from 2008-2022, and is the president of his own real estate investment company. American Potential is now a national award-winning podcast. Having won the Gold Award at the 18th annual 3w Awards in the News and Politics Podcast category. The 3w Awards is judged by the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts.
Episodes
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Transforming Incarceration: Education and Hope for a Better Future
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with Kentucky Jailer Teddy Lacy and Deputy Jailer Cory Graham to discuss their innovative program aimed at transforming the lives of inmates. By partnering with a local college, they offer incarcerated individuals three educational pathways: earning a GED, pursuing a career path, or learning a trade.
This initiative not only equips inmates with valuable skills for employment post-release but also addresses recidivism, positively impacting the community and reuniting families. Teddy and Cory share inspiring stories of success and the profound economic and social benefits of the program.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
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Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Thursday Jul 11, 2024
In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank sits down with James Czerniawski to delve into the controversial and often misunderstood realm of U.S. government surveillance. They explore the implications of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), specifically Section 702, which allows the U.S. government to collect and analyze communications from non-U.S. persons outside the country without a warrant. This practice, however, often results in the collection of American citizens' data, raising significant privacy concerns.
James Czerniawski breaks down the history and evolution of FISA, illustrating how the quest for national security has sometimes encroached upon personal privacy. The conversation sheds light on how these surveillance practices impact everyday Americans and what reforms are necessary to protect individual freedoms while maintaining security.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the balance between national security and personal privacy in the digital age.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpotentialpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/AMPotentialPod
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
In this compelling episode of "American Potential," host Jeff Crank welcomes back Dr. Tom Krannawitter for an in-depth discussion on the philosophical and historical foundations of the Declaration of Independence. Dive into the revolutionary ideas that shaped America's founding documents and explore the enduring impact of natural rights on modern society. Dr. Krannawitter, a distinguished scholar from the Claremont Graduate University and founder of Speak Easy Ideas, sheds light on the pivotal contributions of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and other Founding Fathers.
Discover how their bold vision and principled stance against tyranny set the stage for the Constitution and ignited a global movement for liberty.
Join us for an enlightening conversation that delves into the moral and philosophical roots of American democracy and the ongoing quest to live up to its ideals.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpotentialpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/AMPotentialPod
Thursday Jul 04, 2024
Dr. Tom Krannawitter on America's Founding Principles
Thursday Jul 04, 2024
Thursday Jul 04, 2024
In this enlightening episode of our podcast, host Jeff Crank is joined by guest Dr. Tom Krannawitter. They engage in a deep and insightful discussion about the Founding Fathers of the United States and the pivotal events that led up to the Declaration of Independence.Their conversation takes us back to the roots of American history, shedding light on the circumstances and ideologies that shaped the birth of the nation.
They delve into the paradoxes of the era, particularly the contradiction between the Founding Fathers' advocacy for freedom and equality and the fact that some of them were slave owners.Jeff and Dr. Krannawitter also explore how these early Americans initiated one of the greatest anti-slavery movements in history, despite the moral complexities of their time.
They emphasize the enduring relevance of the principles enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, arguing that these foundational documents continue to address political and social issues in the modern era.The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners: to revisit the Declaration of Independence, engage with its ideas, and reflect on how its principles continue to resonate in today's world.
This discussion underscores the belief that Americans, when given freedom and opportunity, are capable of achieving extraordinary things.Tune in to this episode to deepen your understanding of America's founding principles and their ongoing influence on the nation's potential.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpotentialpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/AMPotentialPod
Wednesday Jul 03, 2024
American Potential NOW: Reeling Back the Administrative State
Wednesday Jul 03, 2024
Wednesday Jul 03, 2024
In this episode of American Potential NOW with host Jeff Crank, we delve into a recent Supreme Court case that has far-reaching implications for the administrative state and the interpretation of the term "reasonable". Our guests, fisherman Wayne Reichle and Cause of Action Institute Council Ryan Mulvey, were both directly involved in this landmark case.
They share their insights and experiences, shedding light on the legal battle that challenged the power of administrative agencies and the burdensome regulations imposed on small businesses and everyday Americans.The case in question arose when the National Marine Fisheries Service decided that fishermen should bear the costs of increased monitoring for herring fishing, a decision that led to a legal battle reaching the Supreme Court. Wayne, one of the fishermen involved, shares his personal experiences and the financial burden this decision would have imposed on fishermen.
The episode explores the implications of the court's ruling, which challenges the Chevron doctrine and puts the responsibility of interpreting the law back on judges.
This episode is a testament to the extraordinary potential of Americans to challenge and reshape the administrative state. Tune in to hear this story on Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio, and anywhere you can find your podcasts.
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
A Queen's Crusade: Kelly's Haser Pickens Fight for Her Son's Justice
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Join us on American Potential with host Jeff Crank. In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Kelly Haser Pickens, a mother of five and a pageant queen who transformed a personal tragedy into a powerful platform for change.Kelly's story is one of resilience and determination. From enduring a childhood marked by abuse to finding solace and strength in pageantry, she has navigated life's challenges with grace and courage. Her world took a dramatic turn when her son received a 40-year prison sentence for a first-time offense, a harsh punishment that spurred her to advocate for criminal justice reform.In our conversation, Kelly shares her experiences, shedding light on the realities of the criminal justice system and the need for fair sentencing.
Despite the obstacles she has faced, Kelly remains hopeful and steadfast in her mission. She continues to compete in pageants, using her platform to raise awareness and drive change in the criminal justice system.This episode is a testament to the extraordinary things Americans can achieve when they have the freedom and opportunity to do so.
Tune in to hear this story. You can listen on Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio, and anywhere you can find your podcasts.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpotentialpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/AMPotentialPod
Friday Jun 28, 2024
Friday Jun 28, 2024
In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank delves into the controversial practice of civil asset forfeiture with Sam MacRoberts, General Counsel and Litigation Director for the Kansas Justice Institute. MacRoberts shares the compelling story of his client, Dewanna Goodridge, whose SUV was seized by law enforcement after her son was pulled over for a minor traffic violation. Despite not being charged with a crime, Dewanna faced significant hardships due to the loss of her vehicle. With the help of the Kansas Justice Institute, she successfully reclaimed her SUV, highlighting the injustices within the civil asset forfeiture system.
This case played a pivotal role in prompting legislative reform in Kansas, aimed at protecting citizens from similar abuses. Tune in to learn more about the implications of civil asset forfeiture, the challenges faced by those unjustly targeted, and the ongoing efforts to ensure justice and fairness in the legal system.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpotentialpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/AMPotentialPod
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
Music and Values: Daniel Christopher's Path to Patriotism
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
In this episode of American Potential, host Jeff Crank interviews singer-songwriter Daniel Christopher, who shares his journey of becoming a musician and the influence of his patriotic values on his music. Daniel discusses growing up in a musical family, with a piano-teaching mother and a traveling singer father, and how these experiences shaped his career. He emphasizes the power of music to convey messages more effectively than words alone and the importance of maintaining core values in his songwriting.
Join Jeff and Daniel for an inspiring conversation about music, values, and patriotism.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpotentialpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/AMPotentialPod
Friday Jun 21, 2024
Bidenomics: Jezree Friend on How Inflation is Hurting Small Businesses
Friday Jun 21, 2024
Friday Jun 21, 2024
In this episode of "American Potential," host Jeff Crank and guest Jezree Friend, Vice President of External Relations for the Manufacturer and Business Association, delve into the harsh realities of Bidenomics and its detrimental impact on small businesses in Pennsylvania. Jezree highlights how the administration's policies have fueled inflation, driving up costs for businesses and consumers alike.
Through real-world examples, including the struggles faced by logistics companies reliant on independent contractors, Jezree illustrates how current regulations stifle economic growth and burden local enterprises. He argues for the necessity of reasonable regulations and policies that enable small businesses to thrive, rather than suffocate under government-imposed financial pressures. This episode is a stark reminder of the urgent need to rethink economic strategies to support the backbone of America's economy.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpotentialpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/AMPotentialPod
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
The Power of Perseverance: Jon Lueth on Family, Struggle, and Achievement
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
In this episode of "American Potential," host Jeff Crank sits down with Jon Lueth, Kansas Deputy State Director for Americans for Prosperity, who shares his inspiring personal story. Jon recounts his challenging upbringing in a small coal town in Illinois, where his grandmother played a pivotal role in his life. Raised in a family of teen moms, Jon's grandmother stepped up to help raise him showing him that no was never an option and encouraging him to pursue his dreams.
Jon reflects on the profound impact his grandmother had on his life, teaching him the values of hard work, perseverance, and resilience. He discusses how these lessons shaped his journey from working class roots to achieving his dream of working in policy. Through his story, Jon highlights the importance of not letting circumstances define you and the power of determination and support in overcoming adversity. This episode is a testament to the transformative influence of family and the drive to create a better future.
Check out American Potential here: https://americanpotential.com
Check out our Spanish episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8wSZydeKZ6uOuFlT_1QQ53L7l6AmC83c
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPotentialPodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanpotentialpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/AMPotentialPod
SHOW HOST: Jeff Crank
REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT OF AFP
Jeff Crank hosts the American Potential podcast. Jeff serves as a regional vice president at Americans for Prosperity, a political advocacy and accountability organization that helps pass policies to expand freedom and opportunity. He also hosts The Jeff Crank Show, which began in 2008, and is the president of his own real estate investment company.