Rural Americans Have A Voice At The DNC

Rural Americans Have A Voice At The DNC

Author: The One Country Project August 28, 2024 Duration: 39:26

Welcome back to The Hot Dish. In this episode, we’re bringing you a variety of insightful conversations that shine a light on some of the most pressing issues facing rural and small-town communities. We want to hear from you! Tell us what you like (and even what you don't like) about the show, and the guests and topics you want. Email your thoughts to podcast@onecountryproject.com.

In this episode, Heidi and Joel talk about their trip to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. They reflect on the key moments and takeaways from the convention and provide their unique perspectives on what it all means for the future of rural Americans and the Democratic Party.

Heidi also sits down with Chuck Corra, Co-founder and Co-host of the Appodlachia podcast. Chuck joins us to break down the recent republican VP pick, JD Vance, and what his selection means for rural America. Together, they explore how the GOP’s policies—or lack thereof—will impact these communities during this election.

Then, we hear from Connie Garner, Senior Policy Director, to discuss the critical issue of mental health in rural areas. Connie, a longtime advocate for mental health parity, shares her perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in expanding mental health services and support to underserved communities when voting this year.


Join us on The Hot Dish every other week, where we serve up hearty conversations that resonate with every corner of the country. The Hot Dish serves up the unfiltered truth straight from the heartland.

To learn more, visit https://onecountryproject.com


  • (00:00) - - Intro
  • (01:52) - - A word form Connie Garner
  • (07:30) - - A conversation with Chuck Corra
  • (22:11) - - Heidi and Joel discuss the Democratic National Convention
  • (38:20) - - Conclusion

Heidi Heitkamp, a former U.S. Senator, and her brother Joel, a longtime Midwest radio host, bring a unique perspective to the table in their podcast The Hot Dish. Their dynamic is the engine here-a blend of deep policy knowledge from the halls of Congress and grounded, everyday insight from community radio, all filtered through the familiar and often humorous lens of sibling debate. They sit down with a range of guests, from national newsmakers and elected officials to local policymakers, focusing squarely on the ideas and actions that impact rural communities across America. These aren't dry lectures; they're animated discussions that dig into practical solutions for real challenges, from economic opportunities to infrastructure. Produced by The One Country Project, the conversation on this podcast is as informative as it is engaging, often punctuated by the kind of lively back-and-forth that only a brother and sister can provide. You'll come for the insightful analysis on politics and news, but you'll stay for the authentic and enlightening dialogue that makes complex issues relatable. Each episode serves up a hearty mix of substance and personality, offering listeners a fresh take on the stories that shape the heart of the country.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Hot Dish
Podcast Episodes
Who's In Charge? Gen. Mark Hertling Wants to Know [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:19
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, foreig…
Remembering Democracy's Worst Day [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:13
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 accoun…
An Internment Camp in Nebraska [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:06
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. S…
'Tis the Season for Community [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:17
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 sh…
What's Happening with Healthcare? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:00
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 ind…
The Rebirth of Rural Democrats [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:20
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, discuss…
Don't Tell Jess Piper It's Raining [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:59
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,…
The Country is Great when the Country does Good [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:30
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 e…
Justin Wolfers Tells The Truth About the US Economy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:32
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…
Tom Nichols on Trump's "Populist Popcorn" Military [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:15
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 Republica…