1819 News: The Podcast

Join Alabama talk radio host Leland Whaley, known for his sharp insights on politics and economy, as he shares his views on the alarming state of job losses in Washington, D.C. He compares it to the decline of blue-collar industries, pointing out the hypocrisy of bureaucrats seeking sympathy for their struggles. Whaley also dives into the intensifying race for rare earth minerals with China, suggesting it could redefine global dynamics. He further comments on the resurgence of the working class in politics and what Trump's America might look like.

State Senator Chris Elliott from Baldwin County, a common sense advocate, dives into the challenges of governance in Alabama. He shares his journey into politics and his firm stance against controversial gambling legislation. Elliott discusses the need for occupational licensing reform and transparency in government, as well as advocating for veterans and sensible infrastructure spending. The conversation also sheds light on pressing issues like prison overcrowding and mismanagement, with a vision for accountability in public spending.

Join John McInnis III, CEO of McInnis Industries and co-owner of the Flora-Bama Lounge, as he shares insights from his diverse entrepreneurial journey. John transformed his family's construction legacy into a billion-dollar empire while embracing his Christian faith. He discusses the Flora-Bama's evolution from a beach bar to a cultural hub, thriving on community connection. Additionally, he reflects on balancing business accountability with flexibility and shares his personal journey from material success to a fulfilled life rooted in faith.

Stephanie Smith, President and CEO of the Alabama Policy Institute, dives into the new Alabama Department of Government Efficiency, echoing national trends in waste reduction. She highlights the alarming increase in state budgets under Gov. Kay Ivey and discusses the intriguing dynamics of tax cuts for wealthy athletes versus working-class families. Smith also critiques the push for gambling expansion and emphasizes accountability in public services, urging citizens to engage in governmental oversight.

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville from Alabama, known for his outspoken conservative views, shares his experience battling Department of Defense policies that funded employee abortions. He discusses the fallout from placing holds on military promotions and how President Trump later vindicated his stance. Tuberville also talks about relocating Space Command, restoring Title IX fairness in sports, and his experience attending the Super Bowl with Trump, offering candid thoughts on the game and halftime show.

In this discussion, Jeff Poor, Editor-in-Chief of 1819 News, dives into Alabama's 2025 Legislative Session. He highlights the tension between proposed tax cuts and increasing taxes from Republican leaders. The conversation also covers Governor Ivey's lackluster state of the state speech and its implications for essential issues like gambling legislation and immigration reform. Poor emphasizes the importance of public engagement and transparency in governance while scrutinizing current economic struggles and the legislative response to local challenges.

What we have witnessed since the swearing in of President Donald Trump has been nothing short of incredible. Conservatives have never seen what it looks like for one of our people to ascend to power and then wield that power for the objective good. This is new for us, and it’s riveting to watch. This week, Dawson breaks down what he believes led to the steely resolve we are seeing in President Trump. From the fake Russian collusion accusations to China Flu and eventual lawfare and assassination attempts, today’s Trump is a different man than we saw in 2016. Dawson also shares about his trip to D.C. for the inauguration, what that experience was like, and then breaks down some of the most impactful executive orders signed on day 1 and what they will mean for the country. Finally, Dawson brings it home by asking where this type of leadership is in our Republican supermajority state.

Rick Burgess, host of the newly launched Rick Burgess Show, shares his journey from the beloved Rick & Bubba Show. He addresses the rumors surrounding the change while emphasizing his vision for the new show, balancing humor with serious topics. Together with Bryan Dawson, they delve into the significance of the 'Man Church' initiative for empowering spiritual leadership among men. The conversation also touches on college football's challenges and the pressing need for political change, making for a captivating and insightful discussion.

Rear Admiral Kent Davis, former Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs, shares his captivating journey in military and public service. He dives into the contentious circumstances surrounding his dismissal, questioning the authority of Governor Kay Ivey. The discussion reveals the critical state of veteran mental health services, stressing the need for better funding and innovative solutions. Kent emphasizes the importance of integrity in leadership and advocates for improved collaboration to support veterans, while sharing intriguing war stories, including one involving Hunter Biden.

Two Alabama Political Firestorms to Start the New Year Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA) head David Bronner recently published an article in the RSA's monthly publication The Advisor in which he bashed conservatives and conservative organizations, lamenting that we never offer any positive solutions and then pitching gambling as the panacea for all that ails the state. He named 1819 News specifically as one of those “smart” but troublesome organizations. Bronner added to his attack with a letter to the editor of Lagniappe Daily in Mobile, criticizing 1819 News' Editor-in-Chief Jeff Poor. Turning to the other firestorm, there was an obviously coordinated communications strategy in which numerous state agencies showered Governor Kay Ivey with praises almost in eulogistic fashion. In the wake of those adulations, rumors have abounded that she is going to step down. When 1819 News reached out to her office to see if. these rumors were true, we were told "No Comment." All of that has set the conspiracy wheels ablaze as her stepping down would hand not only the throne to Lt. Gov Will Ainsworth but also incumbency going into what could be a hotly contested gubernatorial primary in 2026. This week's podcast with 1819 News CEO Bryan Dawson and Editor-in-Chief Jeff Poor is as entertaining and engaging as it is informative and educational. If you want to be in the know, this podcast is for you! Relevant articles below: Debbie Downer: RSA's Bronner Blasts Conservatives Speculation Ramps Up Over Ivey's Future