1819 News: The Podcast

In this powerful episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, host Bryan Dawson, CEO of 1819 News, sits down with Pastor Rich Lusk of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Ala., to honor the life and martyrdom of Charlie Kirk, the bold Christian leader and Turning Point USA founder tragically assassinated for his unapologetic defense of the gospel, Christian civilization, marriage, life, and biblical masculinity/femininity. The conversation kicks off with heartfelt tributes to Kirk's integrated faith—seamlessly weaving evangelism with cultural and political engagement on hostile university campuses, the epicenter of leftist indoctrination. Kirk's mantra, "Prove me wrong," invited debate as a peaceful alternative to violence, but ultimately, his faithfulness made him a target. As Lusk reflects, Kirk exemplified the full Great Commission: not just baptizing souls, but teaching nations to obey all of Christ's commands, building a God-glorifying civilization under Jesus' lordship over every sphere of life—from marriage to politics. Dawson and Lusk unpack the crisis of cowardice plaguing our culture, drawing from Scripture and history. They contrast biblical courage—rooted in fearing God above man—with modern failings: the emasculation of men, turning them into "beta males" ashamed of God-given aggression needed to guard the garden (Genesis 3); an idolatrous "safetyism" exposed during COVID that sacrifices liberty for security; and a therapeutic church culture that glorifies brokenness over repentance and strength. They critique how this infiltrates pulpits, counseling, and criminal justice—excusing sin as "trauma" and releasing criminals without retribution. The litmus test? If your pastor hasn't declared war on progressivism, feminism, transgenderism, and Marxism, it's time for a new church. Amid a "vibe shift," they celebrate rising Christian influence: leftists now face consequences for mocking Kirk's death, signaling power wielded for good, not neutrality. Lusk praises Dawson's gift for applying Scripture to all of life, urging listeners to reclaim courage for a free, flourishing Alabama. In the overtime, the two discuss the biblical case for capital punishment and wielding the sword. Tune in for an exhortation to strength, repentance, and bold faithfulness.

In this episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, host and CEO Bryan Dawson sits down with Alabama State Sen. Arthur Orr, Chairman of the Education Trust Fund, for an in-depth conversation on the state's educational landscape, political evolution, and pathways to prosperity. Hailing from North Alabama's rapidly growing District 3, encompassing Morgan County and parts of Limestone and Madison Counties, Orr shares his personal journey—from his roots in a family with deep Alabama ties, to his time in the Peace Corps in Nepal, Habitat for Humanity in South Asia, and his legal career before entering politics in 2006. Orr recounts his challenging entry into the Senate during a Democrat-dominated era, the pivotal 2010 Republican takeover, and the ethics reforms that followed high-profile scandals. As chair of the education budget, he addresses Alabama's persistent education challenges, noting a near-doubling of funding since 2017 under Gov. Kay Ivey. Despite criticisms that increased spending hasn't always yielded results, Orr highlights legislative-driven reforms like the Literacy Act (preventing social promotion for non-readers), the Numeracy Act (boosting math scores from 52nd nationally to the 30s), and the Choose Act, which introduces school choice and competition. He praises these initiatives for originating in the legislature rather than the State School Board, emphasizing accountability and measurable progress. The discussion delves into the Alabama Education Association's diminished influence compared to its heyday under Paul Hubbert, and also Orr's views on higher education, including prioritizing in-state students, scrutinizing out-of-state tuition benefits, and enforcing compliance with laws banning divisive concepts (DEI). He warns of funding cuts for non-compliant institutions and critiques leftist biases in university curricula, advocating for meritocracy and race-neutral policies. Orr also touches on controversial topics like the Magic City Acceptance Academy, suggesting oversight by the state charter commission and potential use of the "power of the purse." Finally, he spotlights his "success sequence" bill—now law—teaching middle schoolers three research-backed steps to escape poverty: graduate high school, get a job, and avoid out-of-wedlock children, boasting a 96% success rate. Tune in for an honest, forward-looking dialogue on reforming Alabama's education system, fostering conservative values, and building a brighter future. Whether you're a parent, educator, or policy enthusiast, this episode offers invaluable insights into the decisions shaping the Yellowhammer State.

In this special edition of 1819 News: The Podcast, 1819 News CEO Bryan Dawson co-hosts a Town Hall with the Point Clear Republican Women, featuring Congressman Barry Moore and his wife Heather. The conversation hits a wide array of emotions as Barry and Heather give their testimony of standing up to weaponized prosecution and the effect that it had on their family. They share how God called them into running for the soon to be vacated United States Senate Seat. Barry also talks about what it has been like to serve as a Congressman during arguably the most pivotal point in our nation's history. They discuss the Big Beautiful Bill and recent happenings in DC as well. Passion and providence show out in this episode and it's one you don't want to miss. CORRECTION: In the interview, Bryan said that Congressman Moore beat Jeff Coleman in 2020 and in 2022. Jeff Coleman attempted to run in 2022, made campaign commercials and was rolling out his campaign but filed too late to appear on the ballot, allowing Moore to run unopposed.

In this compelling episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, host Bryan Dawson, CEO of 1819 News, sits down with Cam Ward, Director of the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, to tackle the critical issue of prison reentry and public safety in Alabama. With a shared passion for balancing a tough-on-crime stance with practical solutions, Ward and Dawson dive into the innovative Parole Reentry Program (PREP) Center in Perry County. Ward shares how the program equips formerly incarcerated individuals with job training, mental health support, and substance abuse treatment to reduce recidivism and transform lives. From welding to treeline trimming, the PREP Center partners with private sector companies to provide real career opportunities, boasting a 0% recidivism rate among its 450+ graduates. Dawson draws from his own experience with incarceration and reentry, while Ward brings his experience as a former legislator with a deep understanding of Alabama’s prison challenges to the conversation. The two discuss the importance of addressing underlying issues like addiction and mental health to break the cycle of crime. They also explore the “three-legged stool” of reentry—mental health, substance abuse treatment, and job skills—while emphasizing the power of second chances, family reconnection, and community support.  Tune in for an inspiring conversation about forward-thinking solutions that enhance public safety, empower individuals, and address Alabama’s workforce needs. 1819 News: The Podcast is citizen-supported journalism. Become a member at 1819news.com to support the mission of a free and flourishing Alabama.

We have watched liberals run the same play for decades. They find a beautiful place, move there en masse, and begin taking over the local government only to turn it into a hell hole. Whether it's turning the streets of San Francisco into a public outhouse or flipping Colorado from a reliably red state into one with an openly homosexual governor where your children will be taken if you don't want them to be transitioned to the opposite gender, the progressives have been very "successful" in finding gorgeous destinations and destroying them. A friend and trusted source reached out to 1819 News to say that he believed that to be happening in the Lake Martin area, so this week Bryan Dawson brings on Alexander City Mayor Woody Baird to hear his story and vision for keeping Alexander City and the Lake Martin area conservative. Baird served in the special forces and owned a gun store before running for elected office and says he was motivated to do so by seeing the millions he was paying in taxes to the city be wasted. Baird has been outraised in the race and says that old money liberals are funding his challenger in an effort to bring their worldview and ways of doing things to Alexander City. Take a listen and see what you think. Are liberals really trying to take over Lake Martin?!?

In this episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, host Bryan Dawson, CEO of 1819 News, sits down with Emily Jones, Director of Moms for Liberty Alabama, to discuss pressing issues in education, parental rights, and conservative activism in the state. Jones, who is also running for the Alabama State School Board against incumbent Wayne Reynolds, shares her passion for empowering parents and combating bureaucratic overreach. The conversation kicks off with the recent medical age of consent legislation, which raised the threshold from 14 to 16 despite fierce opposition from medical associations and state health departments. Jones highlights hidden gems in the bill, effective Oct. 1, prohibiting schools from providing mental health counseling, suicide prevention, or bullying programs to children 16 and under without parental consent. This addresses loopholes allowing ideological indoctrination, such as LGBTQ-related discussions, and calls for urgent updates to state education standards by board members like Kelly Mooney and Alan Long. Dawson and Jones then delve into the FOCUS Act, a new law banning cell phones and wireless devices in classrooms to enhance student focus and academic performance. Jones defends it against parental rights critiques, citing studies linking device access to rising anxiety, depression, and distractions. Drawing from Jonathan Haidt's The Coddling of the American Mind, she argues that removing screens for school hours benefits mental health and learning, while respecting family choices outside class. Throughout, they emphasize building conservative coalitions to advance bold policies, celebrating wins like school choice despite imperfections, and urging parents to reclaim responsibility from government entities. Jones recounts Moms for Liberty events, including a successful fundraiser with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene amid protests, and stresses civic engagement amid Alabama's "red state" challenges.

Join 1819 News CEO Bryan Dawson for a gripping episode of 1819 News: The Podcast as he sits down with retired Department of Homeland Security Special Agent Angelo Fermo. Hailing from Daphne, Ala., Fermo shares riveting tales from his extensive career combating drug cartels, sex trafficking, and immigration challenges. This episode dives deep into law enforcement’s toughest battles, blending heart-pounding "war stories" with personal reflections that shaped Fermo’s journey from a tumultuous childhood to a decorated federal agent. Fermo recounts his early life, including his father’s life as a drug smuggler, offering a raw perspective on how those experiences fueled his drive to uphold justice. From undercover operations and wiretapping drug lords to confronting the darkest corners of human trafficking, Fermo’s stories are both chilling and inspiring. The conversation takes a sobering turn as Dawson and Fermo discuss high-profile cases like the Bibb County sex-trafficking ring and the Epstein scandal, exploring the complexities of justice, systemic failures, and the urgent need for stronger laws against predators. With a mix of humor, camaraderie, and unflinching honesty, the two reflect on the emotional toll of facing humanity’s worst evils, the importance of protecting the vulnerable, and the challenges of navigating a changing law enforcement landscape. From tales of a monkey smuggled with cocaine to the heartbreak of rescuing exploited children, this episode is a rollercoaster of emotions and insights. Tune in for an unforgettable narrative that underscores 1819 News’ mission to pursue a free and flourishing Alabama. Whether you’re drawn to true crime, justice reform, or personal redemption stories, this episode delivers.

Join investigative journalist Apryl Marie Fogel as she dives deep into the challenges of local journalism and its crucial role in holding powerful entities accountable. Apryl shares her compelling journey from skepticism to collaboration with Bryan Dawson, highlighting the fearless reporting that often goes against the grain. The conversation touches on the complex dynamics of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives at Samford University and emphasizes the need for transparency and traditional values in academia. Her dedication to truth shines through in the face of adversity.

Pastor Rich Lusk, a Reformed Catholic leader, dives into the pressing question of whether it's time to find a new church after the challenges brought on by COVID-19. He emphasizes key factors like aligning personal beliefs with church teachings and the crucial role of leadership in spiritual growth. Discussing accountability in faith communities, Lusk highlights the need for churches to adhere to biblical principles. He also explores the importance of masculine leadership and the value of Christian education in nurturing the next generation's faith.

Rick Burgess, author of 'Men Don't Run in the Rain' and host of the Rick Burgess Show, shares heartfelt stories from his father, a humble football coach. He reflects on lessons of accountability and perseverance, urging young men to embrace traditional masculinity amidst modern challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of personal narratives in spiritual growth while humorously critiquing soccer as a 'communist plot.' Burgess concludes with a powerful call to faith and a reflection on father-son legacies.