1819 News: The Podcast

It’s no secret that Alabama has an extreme issue with inner city violence. The solution to these issues goes beyond anything legislation can do, and this week's guest, Sen. Will Barfoot, discusses the fact that this issue, as well as many others we are trying to fix with legislation, are really heart issues. While issues of evil indeed stem from a lack of heart change, the problems that they cause society are very real, so laws need to be put in place to restrain evil and promote good. Sen. Barfoot joins Bryan Dawson this week to discuss legislation he has worked on the last few years to do exactly that, and to share his story of how he got into politics. They also discuss what it might look like if U.S. Sen. Tuberville were to become governor.

In this compelling 1819 News podcast episode, host Bryan Dawson sits down with Alabama State Sen. Lance Bell to discuss his journey from a hardworking upbringing in Cook Springs to a pivotal role in the Alabama Senate. Born into a family of service—his father a retired Army Depot worker and sheriff’s deputy, his mother a teacher’s aide and bus driver—Bell’s roots shaped his commitment to community and resilience. A former sheriff’s deputy and narcotics officer, Bell shares how his law enforcement experience informs his legislative priorities, particularly his sponsorship of the crime package bill, which grants immunity to officers acting within their duties, addressing the challenges they face in split-second decisions. Bell recounts his stand against a gambling bill, resisting intense pressure alongside Sen. Chris Elliott to block earmarks that he believes undermine Alabama’s fiscal priorities. He advocates for a cleaner approach to gambling legislation, emphasizing funds for education, infrastructure, and the general fund over special interests. Bell also reflects on the Senate’s procedural hurdles, including Democratic filibusters that stalled conservative bills, and expresses hope for rule changes to streamline future sessions. Touching on the 2026 gubernatorial race, Bell shares his thoughts on Coach Tommy Tuberville’s candidacy, praising his bold, no-nonsense leadership style while acknowledging Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth’s contributions.  From his unexpected entry into politics to navigating Montgomery’s political landscape, Bell’s story is one of conviction and courage. Join us for an insightful conversation about Alabama’s challenges, leadership, and the path forward.  Overtime: President Trump's first 120 Days and what we can do to bring that energy to Montgomery.

Alabama State Senator Larry Stutts, a medical doctor and advocate for medical freedom, shares his journey from healthcare to politics. He discusses the need for accountability in the medical field post-COVID, emphasizing the erosion of trust in healthcare institutions. Stutts highlights the popular school choice legislation in Alabama and debates the complexities of the medical age of consent, currently at 14. He also addresses the importance of parental rights in healthcare and education, illustrating his commitment to reform and public service.

Troy Carico, a decorated military veteran and intelligence expert, passionately discusses the rise of populism in the Republican Party. He argues for a new Pax Americana under Trump's realpolitik, redefining U.S. foreign policy with a focus on national interests. Carico draws on Machiavelli's teachings, emphasizing strength over appeasement in global relations. His insights challenge criticisms of isolationism, advocating for American supremacy and bold diplomacy as essential to navigating a turbulent world.

U.S. Representative Gary Palmer, a former founder of the Alabama Policy Institute, shares insights from his unique journey from engineering to Congress. He reveals his visions for the Western Hemisphere Prosperity and Security Alliance, highlighting concerns over U.S. dependency on foreign nations for rare earth minerals essential to tech and national security. Palmer also recounts intriguing conversations with Elon Musk and reflects on cultural renewal, leadership, and the impact of faith in driving societal change. A dynamic discussion on navigating contemporary governance and improving outdated systems adds to the richness.

In this engaging discussion, Craig Monger, a savvy reporter at 1819 News, dives into the shocking revelations surrounding a pastor leading a double life. The conversation touches on the fallout from a Pulitzer Prize-winning article that misrepresents the truth about a tragic incident. Monger highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists amid backlash and threats while exploring the implications of societal narratives on children's values. This compelling dialogue emphasizes resilience, accountability, and the urgent need for safeguarding youth from harmful influences.

Join Bryan Dawson, CEO of 1819 News and host of the 1819 News Podcast, in a compelling conversation with Alabama State Rep. Susan DuBose, a dedicated legislator who is making a difference in Montgomery despite the challenges of state governance. DuBose shares her journey from grassroots political engagement to the Alabama House of Representatives, discussing her commitment to stay true to her principles while navigating the complexities of legislative work.  This episode highlights DuBose’s landmark legislation, including the “What is a Woman Act,” which defines male and female by biological terms to protect women’s rights in sports and scholarships. She recounts the resistance faced, the need to educate colleagues, and the pivotal support from Gov. Kay Ivey, who made the bill a priority and signed it into law.  DuBose also tackles the Religious Release Time bill, a constitutional program allowing students to attend off-campus religious classes during electives, which faced unexpected opposition from school board and superintendent associations despite widespread parental support.  Additionally, DuBose discusses her efforts to raise Alabama’s medical consent age from 14 to 16, a significant step toward restoring parental rights in medical decisions. She shares heartbreaking stories of parents sidelined by current laws, underscoring the need for common-sense legislation that prioritizes the majority while addressing exceptions. With a nod to future goals, including tackling DEI in higher education, DuBose’s passion for her constituents and faith-driven approach shine through. She reflects on the camaraderie among legislators, the power of prayer in the Statehouse, and her vision to extend religious freedom to Alabama’s schools.  Tune in to hear how DuBose is fighting for Alabama’s values, supported by 1819 News, the state’s only citizen-funded news outlet. Visit 1819news.com to support their mission and stay informed.

Join us for an electrifying episode of our podcast as we sit down with AJ Rice, the dynamic CEO of Publius PR and a self-described “anti-woke samurai.” Rice pulls back the curtain on the high-stakes world of political public relations, sharing his experiences working with some of the most influential figures in the MAGA movement, including Judge Jeanine Pirro, Donald Trump Jr., and a roster of disruptors shaping the second Trump administration. Rice dives into the dichotomy of the PR landscape in Washington, D.C., exposing the “deep state” firms that vacuum up money while the American people are left in the dust. He recounts his bold decision to back Trump early on, a move that led to bestselling books and a front-row seat in the MAGA cinematic universe.  From navigating the publishing world to working with Trump’s publishing house and Vivek Ramaswamy’s campaign, Rice reveals how his firm became a hub for disruptors like Pam Bondi, Tulsi Gabbard, and Dan Bongino, who are now shaking up the political establishment. Beyond PR, Rice discusses his own literary contributions, “The Woking Dead” and “The White Privilege Album,” which he describes as humorous yet incisive counterattacks against wokeism and cultural Marxism. Drawing from his Philadelphia roots and love for comedy, Rice uses irreverent humor to challenge political correctness, defend Western civilization, and dismantle the race hustle. He argues that terms like “white privilege” are coded attacks on the middle class and nuclear family, designed to erode the foundations of a free society. With a nod to his mentors, including Lee Habeeb, Rice shares his formula for engaging audiences: inform, educate, and entertain. He warns of the dangers of controlling language and thought, likening modern wokeism to historical authoritarianism. As he prepares to release the third volume of his series, Rice leaves listeners with a call to resist cultural erasure and embrace the disruptive spirit of Trump’s second term.  Tune in for a no-holds-barred conversation that’s as entertaining as it is thought-provoking! https://publiuspr.com/ Twitter/X - @PubliusPR

Childhood obesity. Sexual indoctrination. Medical tyranny. The attacks on our children are real, and we're fighting back. Join us as we uncover the battles reshaping our state and nation with State Rep. Mack Butler. Continuing with our pattern of bringing on good folks doing good work in Montgomery, this week 1819 News CEO Bryan Dawson sits down with Butler to hear his story and learn about some of the legislation he is working on this session. Butler is out front on some of the most controversial bills happening in the legislature, like his bill restricting the ADPH from getting tens of millions of dollars to advertise experimental medical treatments that are neither safe nor effective. But these bills are really just common sense. Butler says if the big pharmaceutical companies want to advertise, that is one subject, but why is our government funding these ads all over the state, especially now that we’re several years removed from the "pandemic"? Butler also has a piece of legislation that will prevent sexual indoctrination in our public schools. Again, common sense, but extremely controversial. The bill is making serious headway, and if it passes, educators will not be allowed to talk about sexual orientation, gender identity, or other sexual subjects in the classroom. The conversation then turns to RFK, MAHA, and what the powers-that-be are doing to our foods. Grateful that there is so much momentum in D.C. right now, Butler says that we are fortunate to be living in what will be written about in history books decades from now. Dawson ends the conversation by asking Butler what it will take to get the momentum in D.C. to Montgomery so that our Republican Supermajority government begins to move towards a more conservative way of doing things. You don't want to miss this incredible conversation!

When the Lord leads you to share the gospel with someone or tell them about Him, you never know where it might lead. Today, we're bringing on Kyle Collins, a former Auburn football player who the Lord told to pray for and speak to a really bitter and angry young man on the team named Chette Williams. Those attempts to reach Chette eventually led to him receiving Christ. The incredible story of how these two men's lives, who could not be more different, were interwoven in times of joy and hardship is one worth listening to and one that will encourage you to share your faith when prompted by the Spirit in the future. Brother Chette Willimas went on to be the Chaplain for Auburn's football team and the Director of Auburn's chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. His ministry was incredibly impactful and Coach Tuberville said his success would not have been possible without the ministry of Chette Williams. Brother Chette passed away last year and at his funeral the large crowd was asked to stand if Chette Williams had led them to the Lord or baptized them. 70% of the crowd stood. Collins took the reins of the Freedom Cowboys, formerly the Rocket City Cowboys, a homeschool football team based in Huntsville, from Stan McDonald 20 years ago and has been working tirelessly to evangelize and disciple young men through football ever since. It's an interesting mix of homeschoolers to at-risk youth that make up the team and no matter their background they are being introduced to biblical manhood and having their character developed through adversity. This is an incredible episode where God's providence is on full display.