Winning in Minneapolis, Winning in North Carolina

Winning in Minneapolis, Winning in North Carolina

Author: The One Country Project January 28, 2026 Duration: 34:27

In this episode of The Hot Dish, Joel Heitkamp speaks with Jamie Ager, a congressional candidate from North Carolina, about pressing issues facing rural America. 

The conversation covers the tragic story of Alex Pretti, the impact of Hurricane Helene on local communities, frustrations with government response, healthcare challenges, housing affordability, and the importance of curiosity in leadership. 

Ager shares his family legacy in farming and his vision for a better future for his community and country.

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

  • (00:00) - Introduction to Jamie Ager and His Background
  • (07:43) - The Impact of Hurricane Helene on Western North Carolina
  • (15:34) - Challenges in Healthcare and Housing in Rural Areas
  • (22:52) - Curiosity as a Leadership Trait
  • (29:01) - Accountability and Law Enforcement in America

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: 50

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