The Hot Dish
News & Politics
About
Former U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp and her brother, KFGO radio talk show host Joel Heitkamp, engage in animated discussions with newsmakers, elected leaders, and policymakers who are creating new opportunities for rural Americans and finding practical solutions to their challenges. Punctuated with entertaining conversations and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry, The Hot Dish, from the One Country Project, is informative, enlightening, and downright fun.
Episodes
- The Race That Could Flip Mississippi
Scott Colom, a candidate for U.S. Senate from Mississippi, shares his strategy for competing in a deeply red state. The episode covers his stance on economic issues, voter engagement tactics that increased turnout, and the importance of co…
- Rural America will Decide the Senate
The Hot Dish episode 'Rural America will Decide the Senate' features Scott MacFarlane discussing the influence of rural voters on the upcoming Senate race. Topics include Trump's judicial nominees, the GOP's stance, the Supreme Court, econ…
- The Rural vs. Urban Divide
Suzanne Mettler analyzes the rural-urban political divide, explaining its recent origins and the historical impact of the New Deal. The episode covers economic shifts, cultural factors, and the erosion of trust, suggesting ways to rebuild…
- Trump's Coalition is Collapsing
This episode of The Hot Dish features Andrew Egger discussing the current state of Donald Trump's political influence and coalition. The conversation covers the impact of his actions on his base, shifts in congressional power, economic pol…
- Donald Trump versus the Pope
The Hot Dish episode "Donald Trump versus the Pope" features former U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly and Washington Post journalist David J. Lynch discussing the Catholic Church's political involvement, Trump's interactions with the Pope, and the…
- How do we get out of this mess?
Denver Riggleman joins The Hot Dish to discuss the chaos in U.S. politics and global diplomacy, touching on Christian nationalism, potential military actions, and the decline of trust in American institutions. Riggleman suggests a radical…
- Justin Wolfers on the Cost of War
Justin Wolfers returns to The Hot Dish to analyze the economic and political consequences of the Iran war. The discussion covers impacts on markets, consumer sentiment, energy costs for farmers and consumers, political leadership, fiscal p…
- Faith Communities to the Rescue
In this episode of The Hot Dish, Heidi and Joel explore the roles of faith and community resilience in rural America. Guests Reverend Jane Field and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture hopeful Chris Jones discuss faith-based activism, ecological…
- Tom Nichols on Trump's Iran War and Disastrous Foreign Policy
Tom Nichols discusses U.S. military actions in Iran, the geopolitical fallout, and Donald Trump's foreign policy, including strained alliances and decision-making. The conversation also touches on the internal U.S. political landscape and…
- Beth Macy: Journalist, Author, Fighter for the Working Class
Beth Macy discusses her background as a journalist and author, and her transition to political candidacy. The episode covers the impact of globalization and the opioid crisis on rural communities, strategies for bridging political divides,…
- Could Latinos Decide the Midterms?
This episode of The Hot Dish examines the One Country Project Book Club, which uses literature to foster community engagement around rural issues. It also features a discussion with Rafael Collazo on the evolving political attitudes and in…
- What the Tariff Ruling Means for Farmers
Heidi Heitkamp hosts Rachel Prevost and Matt Perdue to discuss the impact of the Supreme Court
- Rural Resistance
Senator Peter Welch joins The Hot Dish to discuss critical issues facing rural America, including the farm bill, the impact of trade policies on farmers, the rural healthcare crisis, and immigration. The episode also touches on the judicia…
- What can you do? Run For Something!
Amanda Litman shares insights on the Run for Something organization, focusing on energizing non-traditional leaders for local office. The episode covers motivating candidates, overcoming fears and doubts, the importance of women and young…
- Homeland Insecurity with Janet Napolitano
This episode features discussions on Democratic midterm election prospects and the Trump Coalition with Nathan Gonzales. It also includes an update on Iowa caucuses by Adam Zabner and insights from former DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano reg…
- Winning in Minneapolis, Winning in North Carolina
In this episode of The Hot Dish, Joel Heitkamp interviews North Carolina congressional candidate Jamie Ager about rural America's challenges. Topics include Hurricane Helene, healthcare, housing, and leadership qualities.
- On the Ground in Minneapolis with the ACLU
Paul Sullivan of the ACLU of Minnesota talks with The Hot Dish about the increased presence of federal agents in Minneapolis and St. Paul since late 2020. He notes violations of constitutional rights, particularly against peaceful proteste…
- Who's In Charge? Gen. Mark Hertling Wants to Know
Retired General Mark Hertling joins Heidi on The Hot Dish to discuss U.S. military operations, foreign policy, and concerns about leadership accountability in Venezuela. The conversation includes insights from his experiences, the global i…
- Remembering Democracy's Worst Day
On The Hot Dish, Heidi and Joel speak with former Senator Joe Donnelly about the January 6th insurrection. They discuss the events, the bravery of law enforcement, the need for political accountability, and the ongoing importance of civic…
- An Internment Camp in Nebraska
Nebraska State Senator Machaela Cavanaugh joins The Hot Dish to discuss her attempts to gain access to a federal immigration detention center in Nebraska. She details her experiences being denied entry, her political background, and the br…
- 'Tis the Season for Community
The Hot Dish episode "Tis the Season for Community" features hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp announcing the 2025 Rural Champion Awards. They spotlight Kellie Smith, a small-town entrepreneur from Perham, Minnesota, who established a communit…
- What's Happening with Healthcare?
On The Hot Dish, Heidi and Joel Heitkamp, joined by Cynthia Cox from the Kaiser Family Foundation, discuss the Affordable Care Act, its impact on individuals without employer-provided insurance, rising healthcare costs, and Medicare Advant…
- The Rebirth of Rural Democrats
Trae Crowder, the Liberal Redneck, discusses his background, rural upbringing
- Don't Tell Jess Piper It's Raining
Jess Piper joins hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp on The Hot Dish to discuss the political climate in rural America. Topics include Democratic engagement, economic issues, healthcare challenges, and strategies for local political campaigns, h…
- The Country is Great when the Country does Good
On The Hot Dish, Heidi and Joel Heitkamp, with guest Chris Matthews, discuss the future of the Democratic Party, challenges in rural America, and rebuilding trust with voters. Matthews shares insights on connecting with everyday Americans…
- Justin Wolfers Tells The Truth About the US Economy
Economist Justin Wolfers joins The Hot Dish hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to discuss the American economy. They cover topics including inflation, rural financial challenges, tariffs, trade, and government policies, with specific segments o…
- Tom Nichols on Trump's "Populist Popcorn" Military
Journalist Tom Nichols discusses American democracy, Republican foreign policy shifts, and leadership at the Pentagon and Justice Department with hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp. They explore the impacts of political loyalty, leadership chal…
- Gov. Tim Walz asks, "What happened to 'Don't Tread On Me'?"
Gov. Tim Walz joins Heidi and Joel Heitkamp on The Hot Dish to discuss challenges facing rural America, including the farm economy, health care, and trade policy. The conversation addresses the impact of national policies on small towns an…
- Taking Farmers for Granted
On The Hot Dish, hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp speak with Nick Levendofsky, Executive Director of the Kansas Farmers Union, about the difficulties confronting rural America, including farmers and ranchers. They cover trade tensions, market…
- Shutting Down Rural Healthcare
Heidi and Joel Heitkamp host Michelle Rathman and Jeanne Lambrew to discuss the future of rural healthcare, including hospitals, tax credits, Medicaid, and nursing care. They explore how community leaders and healthcare workers are respond…
- "Don't Be Chicken Shit!" Sen. Tina Smith has something to say
Senator Tina Smith joins hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp to discuss critical rural issues such as rising health insurance costs, farm policies, crop markets, and the future of rural hospitals. The conversation covers the impact of Washington…
- Exciting Announcements!
The Hot Dish is moving to a weekly format with added video content. Host Joel Heitkamp also announced an upcoming live show at CrookedCon on November 7.
- Drowning in Debt: A National Security Risk
Maya MacGuineas, President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, and host Heidi Heitkamp discuss the national security implications of federal debt and government spending. They also address economic challenges in rural Americ…
- Tennessee Red: Justin Kanew on theocracy in the Volunteer State
Justin Kanew, founder of the Tennessee Holler, discusses the political climate in Tennessee, the role of faith in politics, and media influence with hosts Heidi and Joel Heitkamp on The Hot Dish. The conversation also touches on grassroots…
- This Land is Your Land: the Fight for Public Lands
Land Tawney and Aaron Murphy from the American Hunters and Anglers Action Network join The Hot Dish to discuss threats to public lands, political privatization attempts, and the importance of public land access for rural communities and ou…
- Beto O'Rourke on the Fight for Democracy in Texas
In a conversation on The Hot Dish, former Congressman Beto O'Rourke addresses the political situation in Texas, including gerrymandering and Republican Party actions. He stresses the importance of activism, Democratic messaging, and mobili…
- Texas GOP goes all-in for Authoritarianism
On The Hot Dish, Matt Angle and host Heidi Heitkamp examine Texas gerrymandering and redistricting, discussing how these political maneuvers may weaken minority voting power and impact national democracy, particularly for rural and minorit…
- Immigrants in Rural America
Bryan Little and Sonia Parras Konrad discuss immigration policy and its impact on rural America with hosts Joel and Heidi Heitkamp. They cover labor shortages, regulations, and the need for community advocacy.
- 2025 Rural Progress Summit Highlights
This episode of The Hot Dish, hosted by Bethany Brookshire, recaps the Rural Progress Summit. It includes conversations with panelists such as Pete Buttigieg, Joe Donnelly, Maya MacGuineas, and Anderson Clayton, covering topics like rural…
- Special Announcement about the Rural Progress Summit
The Hot Dish podcast is announcing the fourth annual Rural Progress Summit, a virtual event focusing on the role of rural communities. The summit includes a keynote fireside chat with Sec. Pete Buttigieg and will be featured in a special F…
- Sarah Longwell's Republican Triangle of Doom
This episode of The Hot Dish features Sarah Longwell discussing Republican dynamics and the impact of Trump's media ecosystem on rural voters. Phil Snape joins to talk about tariffs and their effect on jobs. Heidi Marttila-Losure and Chris…
- Get Activated with Jess Piper
This episode of The Hot Dish features Jess Piper, Bryce Oates, and Isaac Nehring discussing the future of rural America, covering topics like youth leadership, media access, and political advocacy. Host Heidi Heitkamp also explores rebuild…
- Memorial Day Special: We Talked to Veterans
In this Memorial Day Special, The Hot Dish features conversations with veterans, including Marine Corps Infantryman Bradley Aune and Army Staff Sergeant Jessica Petrick, who discuss the transition to civilian life and the meaning of Memori…
- 100 Days of Chaos
Guests Jerry Hagstrom, Sarah Melotte, and Bob Leonard join host Joel Heitkamp and guest host J.D. Scholten to analyze the impacts of Trump’s initial 100 days on rural America. The episode covers disaster relief, rural healthcare, tariffs,…
- DNC Chair Ken Martin on Making Democrats Strong Again
DNC Chair Ken Martin joins Heidi and Joel Heitkamp on The Hot Dish to discuss the future of the Democratic Party, focusing on reconnecting with rural and blue-collar voters. They explore strategies like using local messengers and rebuildin…
- How to Fight Back
This episode of The Hot Dish features Heidi and Joel discussing community action and support networks, with a focus on rural engagement. Jess Piper, Executive Director for Blue Missouri, shares insights on political organizing, rural strat…
- Gutting Rural Education: the GOP's long-term plan
North Carolina Representative Julie Von Haefen, Tennessee Representative J.C. Bowman, and Iowa Representative J.D. Scholten discuss the challenges facing public education in rural America on The Hot Dish. The conversation covers efforts to…
- What Farmers are Saying
On The Hot Dish, host Joel Heitkamp leads a discussion with farmers Chris Gibbs, Will Westmoreland, and Nick Levendofsky about the realities of farming today. They cover topics such as tariffs, rural infrastructure, and political influence…
- News Deserts are Changing Rural America
Scholars John Volk and Joshua Darr, and journalist Brandon Tensley join The Hot Dish to discuss the impact of news deserts on American political polarization, civic engagement, and community identity, particularly in communities of color.…
- Gas, Groceries, and Rent (with Paul Begala)
On The Hot Dish, Paul Begala and Isaac Wright discuss strategies for the Democratic Party to connect with rural Americans. Topics include communication challenges, the impact of the Trump/Musk administration on farmers and rural values, an…