We jumped right in — and it turned out to be one of the most interesting conversations we’ve had on The Oliver Bardwell Podcast. Senator Kevin Alons joined us to unpack the concept of transactional gold and the legislation that could redefine how we do commerce in Iowa. From the Constitution to the vault, from Glint Pay to state sovereignty, this episode explores how a gold- and silver-backed transactional system could transform our economy — restoring integrity to currency and financial independence to everyday Iowans.

And just when it couldn’t get any better… a surprise guest dropped in: Representative Eddie Andrews, now a gubernatorial candidate, joining the discussion to share his full support for making Iowa a transactional gold state.This one could change the way Iowa thinks about money, freedom, and the future.

Support us: https://www.patreon.com/OliverBardwell

Contact Senator Alons: kevin.alons@legis.iowa.gov

#SoundMoney #Iowa #GoldBackedCurrency #KevinAlons #EddieAndrews #TruNorthPublicAffairs #OliverBardwellPodcast #FaithFamilyFreedom

In this powerful episode, Stacy Besch shares her journey from grassroots advocate to Iowa Senate candidate. After years of traveling the state educating communities about human trafficking through the documentary Gridshock, Stacy felt a divine call to step into the political arena.We talk about her faith, her work with the Patriot group, and the growing challenges Iowa faces — from the rise of pornography and online grooming to the urgent need for safe houses and survivor support. Stacy also opens up about property rights, corruption in politics, and the spiritual dimension of her work: how courage and conviction can change lives and laws.Support us @   / oliverbardwell  Connect with us. www.oliverbardwell.com/Connect with Stacy: www.stacyforiowa.comTimestamps / Chapters00:00 Stacy’s Senate Run Announcement02:52 The Patriot Group and Community Engagement05:40 Human Trafficking Awareness and Advocacy08:45 The Role of Primaries in Political Change11:37 Understanding Human Trafficking in Iowa14:16 The Impact of Technology on Trafficking17:09 Support Systems for Victims20:00 The Need for Safe Houses22:56 Pornography and Its Effects on Youth25:42 Gender Identity and Trafficking28:30 Reducing Demand for Exploitation31:14 Stacy’s Vision for Iowa33:43 Property Rights and Freedom36:37 The Gridshock Documentary39:29 Women’s Retreat and Healing42:03 Faith and Personal Transformation44:51 Corruption and the Trafficking Analogy47:39 Empowering Citizens to Get Involved"It's through intelligent and respectful dialogue that we create positive change." - Oliver Bardwell

Dr. Ben Tapper joins me for a powerful conversation about faith, truth, and courage in the face of medical censorship. From his viral Omaha City Council speech to his ongoing advocacy for informed consent, Tapper shares his journey, his legal battles, and his unshakable conviction that faith—not fear—must guide us through the chaos.Together, we explore the roots of vaccine skepticism, the moral and spiritual dimensions of modern medicine, and what it means to stand for truth in an age of propaganda. Tapper also previews his keynote speech at Iowa’s Injecting Truth: Vaccine Injury Awareness Month event at the State Capitol.JOIN US: www.iowans4freedom.org/eventsChapters00:00 — Introduction to Dr. Ben Tapper and His Advocacy02:20 — The Importance of Vaccine Awareness Events04:36 — Personal Health Philosophy and Vaccine Skepticism09:41 — The Safety and Efficacy of Vaccines12:50 — The Flaws in Vaccine Research and Data15:19 — Psychological Warfare and Belief Systems in Vaccination18:22 — Spiritual Warfare and the Vaccine Narrative20:16 — Finding Community in Controversy22:41 — The Impact of Censorship on Medical Discourse25:18 — The Journey to Advocacy and Awareness28:21 — Predicting the Pandemic: Insights from 201930:51 — The Flaws in Mask Mandates32:37 — Understanding Vaccine Safety and Efficacy35:44 — The Consequences of mRNA Technology37:16 — Faith and Resilience in Challenging TimesThis episode goes beyond politics—it’s a call to courage, discernment, and personal sovereignty.JOIN THE MOVEMENT: https://www.patreon.com/OliverBardwell

and remember "It's through intelligent and respectful dialogue that we create positive change." - Oliver Bardwell

Support us at: https://www.patreon.com/OliverBardwell

What started as a spur-of-the-moment sit-down turned into one of the most powerful conversations we’ve had on the podcast.

State Representative Helena Hayes and her son William Hayes (19) joined Oliver to reflect on the legacy of Charlie Kirk, the awakening of young people in politics, and the vital role of family values in shaping our future.

From William’s fresh perspective on mentorship, purpose, and self-discovery — to Helena’s journey from a local pool controversy to the Iowa Statehouse — this dialogue dives deep into faith, family, freedom, education, and the long fight ahead to strengthen America’s families and communities.

You’ll also hear William’s inspiring vision for his generation and why building strong families is the root solution to so many challenges facing Iowa and the nation.

And remember that: " It's through intelligent and respectful dialogue that we create positive change." - Oliver Bardwell

Support us and join the movement at: https://www.patreon.com/OliverBardwell

In this conversation, Adam Steen shares his journey from personal struggles to his candidacy for governor of Iowa. He emphasizes the importance of faith in leadership, his commitment to public service, and his vision for improving education, property rights, and government efficiency. Steen discusses his leadership style, transformative projects he has led, and his plans for addressing key issues facing Iowa, including water quality and medical freedom. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the significance of community, family, and faith in shaping a better future for the state.

Oliver Bardwell Podcast Sponsors

https://www.wellnesspatriots.com/

https://www.myriadas.com/

https://thegorillacover.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Adam Steen and His Vision

02:48 Adam's Journey: From Personal Struggles to Leadership

05:21 The Role of Faith in Leadership

08:12 Leadership Style and Experiences in Public Service

11:12 Transformative Projects and Their Impact

13:53 Plans for Iowa's Future and Governance

16:29 Education and Teacher Licensing Challenges

19:39 Addressing Administrative Costs in Education

22:16 Property Rights and Eminent Domain Issues

25:10 Government Efficiency and Waste Reduction

27:51 Water Quality Concerns in Iowa

30:39 Medical Freedom and Government Intervention

33:14 Faith, Family, and Freedom: A Holistic Approach

35:46 Conclusion and Call to Action

connect with Adam: https://adamsteen.com/

Support the mission and join our community at: https://patreon.com/oliverbardwell

In this episode, Shelly Flockhart shares her powerful journey from small business owner to passionate advocate for parental rights and education reform. As vice chair of Dallas County Moms for Liberty and a mother of four, Shelly has been on the front lines—raising concerns about curriculum, leading prayer vigils at the Capitol, and standing strong for faith and freedom when others stayed silent.

Shelly emphasizes that her advocacy is about supporting teachers, not opposing them. She currently serves on her school district’s teacher recruitment and retention team, working to ensure schools attract and keep quality educators so every child can thrive.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shelly Flockhart

01:06 Shelly's Journey: From Cosmetology to Advocacy

05:39 The Role of Faith and Community in Advocacy

10:24 Concerns About Education: Critical Race Theory and Curriculum

16:51 Parental Rights and School Choice

22:18 Curriculum Controversies: Books and Materials in Schools

29:09 The Importance of Parental Involvement

35:01 Navigating the Education System: Questions and Challenges

41:29 Finding Strength in Advocacy

46:49 The Future of Education: A Call to Action

📌 Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty (Opt-Out Forms): https://will-law.org/optout/

• School Boards for Academic Excellence (Curriculum Review): https://sbaenetwork.org

Inside the Mind of AI: A Conversation with "Sol"

What happens when you sit down in the studio… with an AI? In this unique episode of The Oliver Bardwell Podcast, I interview "Sol" — a curious, insightful AI with a surprising sense of humor.We talk about the future of energy, the AI arms race, misconceptions about artificial intelligence, and even which coffee Sol would drink if it could. Along the way, you’ll hear thoughtful reflections, unexpected jokes, and a glimpse into how AI “thinks” about the human world.Whether you believe AI will save civilization, end it, or have no impact at all, this is a conversation worth hearing. Thought-provoking, entertaining, and unlike any other interview we’ve done.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI and Sol

01:03 Understanding AI: What is Sol?

02:33 The Challenges of AI: Bias and Limitations

05:58 The Dangers of AI: Misinformation and Misuse

08:35 Regulating AI: Current Efforts and Challenges

09:11 The Future of Jobs: AI's Impact on Employment

10:52 Control and Oversight: Who Governs AI?

11:55 The Upside of AI: Potential Benefits

12:53 AI in Medicine: Transforming Healthcare

14:24 AI and Human Relationships: A New Dynamic

15:24 AGI: The Next Frontier of AI

16:59 Concerns About AGI: Safety and Control

17:39 The Race for AGI: Global Competition

18:40 Predictions for AGI: When Will It Happen?

19:39 Energy Needs for AI: The Future of Power

20:48 Simulation Theory: Are We Living in a Simulation?

21:38 Quickfire Questions: Fun with Sol

23:32 Conclusion: Reflections on AI and Future Conversations

🎙️ Join the movement, support the show, and get exclusive behind-the-scenes content:

https://www.patreon.com/OliverBardwell

Patreon.com/OliverBardwell

In this episode, I sit down with Iowa Senator Lynn Evans—a former educator, school superintendent, and one of the “Dauntless Dozen” who took a bold stand for property rights this session.

We dive into his journey from education to politics and why he felt compelled to step into public office to defend parental rights, educational integrity, and the constitutional freedoms we hold dear. We talk about the challenges facing Iowa’s education system—from Common Core and federal overreach to social ideologies creeping into the classroom—and what it’s going to take to get back to basics.

We also explore the fight over eminent domain for private pipeline projects, Iowa’s growing concerns about water quality, and the critical need for unbiased research on environmental and public health issues. Senator Evans shares his thoughts on the teacher shortage and why alternate licensure pathways could help rebuild the profession.

This is a grounded, honest conversation about the issues that matter most—where real change happens: at the local level.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Lynn Evans and His Background

03:42 Transition from Education to Politics

07:08 Challenges in Education: Social Issues and Curriculum

10:38 The Impact of Common Core and Federal Education Policies

14:20 Eminent Domain and Property Rights

18:08 Water Quality Issues in Iowa

21:37 Future of Education and Teacher Shortages

25:14 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

👉 If you'd like to connect with Senator Lynn Evans, visit https://lynnevansforiowa.com/ or email him at evansforiowa@gmail.com

If you love what we’re doing and want to support the movement, visit https://www.oliverbardwell.com/ and join the fight at https://www.patreon.com/oliverbardwell

This is my longest and most powerful episode yet—nearly two hours with Iowa Gubernatorial Candidate and State Rep. Eddie Andrews.

We dive deep into:

• The personal loss that launched his run for office

• Mental health reform

• Parental rights and education

• Medical freedom and pandemic policy

• Property rights and landowner protection

• Immigration, taxation, energy policy, and more

Whether you agree with him or not, Eddie brings honesty, compassion, and integrity to every issue—and you’ll walk away with a clearer view of what drives him.

🎧 Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Eddie Andrews

• 09:10 Personal Journey into Politics

• 22:56 Standing Up During COVID

• 30:01 Parental Rights and Education

• 38:04 Gender Identity and Civil Rights

• 46:34 Mental Health and Medical Ethics

• 59:47 Engaging in Political Discourse

• 01:00:12 Legislative Priorities and Gubernatorial Aspirations

• 01:01:35 Landowner Rights and Property Issues

• 01:05:19 Community Questions on Immigration Policy

• 01:12:20 Property Tax Reform Challenges

• 01:23:03 Wind Energy and Its Implications

• 01:25:35 Emergency Powers and Government Accountability

• 01:33:38 Revamping Education in Iowa

• 01:41:19 Navigating Political Differences in Family Dynamics

🎯 Key Takeaways

• Eddie is running not for status, but to make a difference

• His advocacy is deeply personal and policy-driven

• He believes in open dialogue, data-informed decisions, and moral clarity

• Iowa needs strong voices for freedom, mental health, and education reform

• Compassion and courage are not mutually exclusive in politics

🌐 Links

• Support Eddie: www.eddie4iowa.com

• Support this podcast: www.patreon.com/oliverbardwell

• Learn more: www.oliver4iowa.com

At just 29 years old, Iowa State Representative Taylor Collins has already built a résumé that rivals most political veterans—farm manager, small business owner, former advisor to Governor Kim Reynolds and Lt. Governor Adam Gregg, and now chair of the House Higher Education Committee.

In this candid and wide-ranging interview, Rep. Collins joins me to discuss the most pressing battles facing Iowa—starting with his bold efforts to dismantle taxpayer-funded DEI programs in public and private colleges. From the inside story on HF 856 and HSB 60 to the behind-the-scenes negotiations on gender ideology, curriculum reform, and tuition relief, this episode takes you deep into the front lines of Iowa’s conservative policy movement.

Support us @ ⁠Patreon⁠

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Taylor Collins: A Rising Star in Iowa Politics

06:00 Education and Experiences in Higher Education

11:57 Legislative Efforts and DEI Legislation

15:41 Political Landscape and Upcoming Elections

19:29 Legislative Achievements and Key Issues

20:49 Compassionate Approaches to Gender Identity Legislation

22:14 The Disconnect in Political Ideologies

23:59 The Future of the Democratic Party in Iowa

25:10 The Role of County Supervisors in Property Tax Management

27:12 Collaboration in Local Government

29:58 Efficiency in Local Government Services

30:56 Property Tax Challenges and Legislative Solutions

33:37 Innovative Ideas for Property Tax Management

34:42 The Impact of Inflation on Property Taxes

37:08 Addressing Senior Property Tax Burdens

39:22 Public vs. Private School Funding Disparities

40:22 Challenges Facing Iowa Farmers

43:22 The Veto of the Property Rights Bill

46:02 Governor Reynolds' Decision Not to Run Again

47:30 Future Legislative Goals in Higher Education

48:02 Governance Reform in Education

49:51 Challenges of Indoctrination in Education

50:58 The Backlash Against Social Justice

51:41 Terminology and Its Impact on Discourse

52:38 Messaging and Legislative Challenges

54:05 Trade Deals and National Security

56:09 Immigration and Criminal Justice

58:30 The Dilemma of Amnesty and Immigration Reform

01:00:05 The Call to Service in Politics

🔻 Whether you're a policy nerd, grassroots activist, or simply an Iowan who cares about truth and freedom—this episode will inform, inspire, and fire you up.

🎧 Listen now and share with a friend who’s ready to stand up for Iowa.
📩 Support the podcast or get involved at oliverbardwell.com

and

Patreon

The 2025 legislative session was supposed to end May 2—but it didn’t. From gender identity battles to the fight for private property rights, it became one of the most intense sessions in Iowa history.

In this episode, I sit down with State Representative Steve Holt, a 20-year Marine and one of the most respected conservative voices at the Capitol, to break it all down:

🔹 How Iowa became the first state to remove gender identity from civil rights code
🔹 The battle to ban DEI in public institutions
🔹 Why the Property Rights Bill nearly derailed the entire session
🔹 What happened to SF 180 (Conscientious Objection)
🔹 The truth about taxes, CO2 pipelines, and party infighting

This is a deep dive into how the sausage is made—and how everyday Iowans helped get the job done.

🎧 EXCLUSIVE SEGMENT (20 mins)
Representative Holt answers your direct questions—submitted by members of Kairos Nexus, Patreon, and Iowans for Freedom.

🎟️ Access the full bonus segment now:
👉 www.patreon.com/oliverbardwell
or visit 👉 oliverbardwell.com and click Join the Fight

—
🎙 Hosted by Oliver Bardwell
Founder, Iowans for Freedom

🎧 Exclusive Member Q&A ➡️ patreon.com/oliverbardwell
Even a free membership unlocks the bonus segment of this interview.

Brad Sherman—pastor, conservative leader, and candidate for Iowa Governor—joins me for a powerful conversation on faith, freedom, and the future of our state.

We cover:

In this episode, Craig Hunt, owner of Universal Barbershop in Windsor Heights, shares his powerful journey—from nearly giving up on barbering due to outdated licensing laws to becoming a mentor and leader in the industry. We dive deep into HF 711, a bill that aims to cut through overregulation and open doors for aspiring barbers through on-the-job apprenticeship training instead of rigid, costly schooling.

Craig opens up about the mentorship role of barbers, the economic impact of these restrictions, and how this bill could change the future for barbers, entrepreneurs, and young men searching for direction.

With the Iowa House set to debate this bill on Monday, this conversation is timely, raw, and incredibly important.

📌 Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Barbering and Community Impact
02:52 The Journey Back to Barbering
05:52 Building a Diverse Barbershop Community
08:56 Mentorship and the Role of Barbers
11:55 Legislative Changes in Barbering Education
14:52 Challenges in the Barbering Industry
18:01 Apprenticeship vs. Traditional Barber School
22:00 The Future of Barbering in Iowa
28:02 Navigating Licensing Challenges in Barbering
31:03 Proposed Solutions for Barbers and Apprenticeships
34:58 The Impact of Education and Mentorship in Barbering
39:15 Community Impact and the Future of Barbering
50:31 Legislative Perspectives on Barbering Regulations

🔥 Tune in and join the fight to bring common sense reform to Iowa's barbering industry.

#HF711 #BarberFreedom #Mentorship #IowaLegislation #BarbershopCulture

www.oliverbardwell.com

Medical freedom is at the core of this movement, and the fight for transparency, informed consent, and parental rights has never been more crucial. In this compelling conversation, I sit down with Gabby Fistler and Lindsay Maher from Informed Choice Iowa (ICI) to break down the biggest legislative battles happening right now in Iowa.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Context of Legislative Session03:01 Key Legislative Bills and Their Importance06:02 Understanding Vaccine Exemptions and Parental Rights08:57 Personal Experiences and Motivations Behind Advocacy11:59 The Role of Education and Community in Health Decisions15:06 Evolution of Advocacy Strategies Over Time18:08 Engaging with Legislators and Public Health Conversations21:08 Challenges and Misconceptions in Vaccine Discussions25:16 Engaging the Community: Outreach Strategies29:45 Historical Perspectives on Vaccines33:01 Legislative Efforts and Health Freedom39:05 Addressing Global Health Governance45:01 Concerns Over Gene-Based Vaccines47:28 Concerns Over Genetic Integration of Products49:00 Legislative Actions and State Rights50:24 The Slow Process of Legislation52:58 Informed Consent in Medical Procedures54:42 Autoimmunity and Vaccine Concerns56:25 Liability and Pharmaceutical Marketing57:31 Upcoming Conference and Community Engagement01:00:29 The Role of Women in Health Advocacy01:02:30 Civic Responsibility and Community Involvement🔹 Follow ICI: Informed Choice Iowa Facebook
🔹 Visit ICI: www.informedchoiceiowa.com

www.oliverbardwell.com

#MedicalFreedom #ParentalRights #InformedConsent #HealthFreedom #Podcast

IOWA IS AT A CROSS ROADS -

HSB 242 does more than define what a woman is—it removes gender identity from the IowaCivil Rights Code, restoring legal clarity, protecting women's rights, and safeguarding our children from radical gender ideology. (13 min break down) - https://youtu.be/QJIcYlAB00I?si=Uuoe1ZEk-dE5k0IW

In this must-listenepisode, I sit down with Rep. Steve Holt,Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, to break down exactly why this bill isnecessary, the legal and financial consequences of gender ideology, and whatYOU can do to help get this bill across the finish line.

🎙 In This Episode:
✅The history of gender identity in Iowa law & why it must be repealed
✅The shocking financial burden ontaxpayers for gender procedures
✅How radical gender ideology is erasing women’s rights in sports, schools, andprisons
✅The media’s role in shaping thepublic narrative
✅What European countries are doing—and whythey’re reversing course
✅A direct call to action—Iowans,we need YOU to step up!

📢 Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction and Legislative Context
02:10 - Legislation on Gender Identity and Civil Rights
05:37 - Financial Implications of Gender Identity Protections
09:07 - Medical Community's Role and Perspectives
12:36 - International Perspectives on Gender Dysphoria Treatment
14:12 - Women's Rights and Sports
18:05 - Activism and the Transgender Community
20:07 - Shattered Dreams: Real-Life Consequences
24:15 - Cultural Reflections on Masculinity
29:00 - Call to Action for Community Engagement
29:55 - The Debate on Drag Shows and Children
32:41 - Concerns Over Transgender Rights and Minors
34:13 - Transgender Rights vs. Public Safety
36:12 - The Role of Medical Professionals
39:07 - Legislative Challenges and Public Backlash
40:55 - Truth, Compassion, and Legislative Intent
43:31 - The Reality of Gender Identity and Medical Procedures
45:36 - The Growing Concern of Gender Ideology
48:01 - Media Influence on Public Perception
52:30 - The Role of School Boards in Gender Discussions
56:01 - Political Dynamics and Gender Legislation

Connect with Representative Holt: https://www.facebook.com/HoltForIowaHouse

🚨 CALL TO ACTION: 🚨
Email House Republicans & tell them to vote YES on HSB 242
Contact your legislator now: Legislator Lookup

and remember "It's through intelligent and respectful dialogue that we create positive change." - Oliver Bardwell

Keep up on Calls to Action: https://www.facebook.com/groups/iowansforfreedom

www.oliverbardwell.com

🚨HSB 242 doesn’t just define what a woman is—it removes gender identity from Iowa’s Civil Rights Code entirely, restoring biological truth, legal clarity, and protecting women’s rights.

💥 This bill corrects a mistake made in 2007—one that no other red state has followed. It closes legal loopholes that have allowed biological males into women’s bathrooms, locker rooms, prisons and shelters under the guise of “civil rights.”

🛑 Enough is enough. In this episode, we break down exactly what this bill does, why it’s crucial, and how YOU can take action to get it passed.

🎧 In This Episode:

✅ The shocking impact of gender ideology in Iowa’s laws
✅ How HSB 242 eliminates legal chaos and restores protections
✅ Disturbing cases at Wartburg College & DMACC – proof this law is needed
✅ Why even members of the LGBTQ community—like Gays Against Groomers—are fighting back
✅ How YOU can make sure this bill gets 51 votes in the House

🚨 📢 CALL TO ACTION: 🚨https://www.facebook.com/groups/iowansforfreedom/posts/1449013196079213/

📧 Email your support to the House Judiciary Committee:

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/committees/committee?ga=91&groupID=689

& Petition ALL House Republicans: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/house

Tell them to support HSB 242 and protect iowa women and children.
👉 Find your legislator & send an email:https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/find

📢 We need a packed room when this bill goes to the subcommittee and public hearing. Stay tuned for updates.

📅 Tomorrow, I’m sitting down with Rep. Steve Holt, Chair of the House Judiciary Committee. We’ll discuss where the bill is headed next. Don’t miss that episode!

🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS:🔹 Learn more about Gays Against Groomers:gaysagainstgroomers.com
🔹 Full text of HSB 242: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HSB242
🔹 Website:www.oliverbardwell.com

📩 TAKE ACTION NOW. This is more than just politics—this is a spiritual battle.

💡 If we don’t stand up, who will?

🙏 Like, Subscribe & Share – Don’t keep this a secret. God bless, and remember: It’s through intelligent and respectful dialogue that we create positive change.

In this powerful and moving episode of The Oliver Bardwell Podcast, I sit down with John Thompson, President and Co-founder of Salute to the Fallen, a veteran-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to suicide prevention, mental health support, and honoring the legacy of those who served. John shares his deeply personal journey from enlisting in the military at 17, surviving combat injuries, and overcoming his own battles with PTSD and substance abuse, to founding an organization that saves lives and provides critical resources to veterans and their families.

We discuss Salute to the Fallen's groundbreaking vision for a first-of-its-kind veteran rehabilitation facility in Cedar Rapids, Iowa—a 50-acre haven featuring on-site counseling, hyperbaric chambers, EMDR therapy, and 100 tiny homes offering a nine-month program to help veterans transition back into civilian life. John offers eye-opening statistics on veteran suicide and homelessness, shedding light on the urgent need for better mental health resources and community support.

John also opens up about the challenges veterans face when returning home, the gaps in support from institutions like the VA, and the life-saving interventions he and his team undertake through their crisis response program. He emphasizes the importance of faith, purpose, and brotherhood in the healing process, and how Salute to the Fallen is working to build bridges between military personnel, veterans, and civilians.

This episode is not only a call to action but a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of community. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply someone who cares about supporting those who served, this conversation will inspire you to get involved and make a difference.

Support Salute to the Fallen:salutetothefallen.org

Follow John and his team on Facebook: Salute to the Fallen Foundation

If you or someone you know is in crisis, reach out. There is help. There is hope.

Chapters

00:00 Building a Veteran Rehabilitation Facility02:59 Addressing Veteran Homelessness and Mental Health05:47 Salute to the Fallen: A Nonprofit for Veterans12:04 Personal Struggles and the Path to Recovery18:07 The Importance of Community and Support24:08 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life30:07 Advocacy and Political Engagement for Veterans35:07 Political Landscape and Election Dynamics39:28 Controversial Campaigns and Identity Politics44:30 Masculinity and Family Dynamics49:40 Mental Health Initiatives and Veteran Support01:03:12 Funding and Community Engagement for Veterans

"It's through intelligent and respectful dialogue that we create positive change." - Oliver Bardwell

https://www.oliverbardwell.com/

In this episode ofThe Oliver Bardwell Podcast, I sit down with Jose Reyes, a dedicated advocate for Iowa’s Latino community and a passionate conservative voice in politics. Jose shares his journey—from arriving in the U.S. as a child under DACA to navigating the challenges of legal status, cultural identity, and political engagement.

We dive into the complexities of immigration, the misconceptions surrounding DACA recipients, and the importance of conservative values in the Hispanic community. Jose opens up about his deep love for America, his unwavering support for the flag, and his belief that hard-working immigrants deserve acknowledgment and a pathway to citizenship.

We also discuss:
✔️ The Perry Project and engaging Latino voters
✔️ The need for representation in Iowa politics
✔️ The impact of recent immigration policies
✔️ Finding common ground in the political landscape

Jose’s story is one of resilience, faith, and an unshakable commitment to the American dream. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!

📌Chapters:
00:00Introduction to DACA and Personal Background
18:40Cultural Identity and Community Engagement
22:09Political Perspectives and Immigration Policy
24:04The Perry Project: Bridging Gaps in Representation
27:12Engaging the Latino Community: Opportunities and Challenges
30:25A Call for Acknowledgment: The Need for Representation
33:06Navigating Immigration: Perspectives on DACA and Citizenship
37:10The Role of the Latino Community in Education
40:36Finding Common Ground: Republican Values and Community Involvement
45:28Building Bridges: The Importance of Dialogue and Respect
50:41The Emotional Journey: What Citizenship Means to Us

🔗Listen now and join the conversation:www.oliverbardwell.com

Please Remember, that It's through intelligent and resprectful dialogue that we create positive change. - Oliver Bardwell

#Immigration #DACA #AmericanDream #LatinoConservatives #TheOliverBardwellPodcast

In this special episode of The Oliver Bardwell Podcast, we sit down with Iowa House Representative Dan Gehlbach for a conversation as rich and layered as the bourbon we're sipping. Together, we explore:

Dan’s passion for serving Iowans shines in this wide-ranging discussion, offering unique insights into the legislative process and the drive to create a better future for the state.

Chapters
00:00 Bourbon Beginnings: A Toast to New Traditions
03:01 Legislative Landscape: Navigating Iowa's Bourbon Laws
05:51 Personal Milestones: Celebrating 19 Years of Marriage
09:11 Political Shifts: The Rise of Republican Supermajority
12:00 Inauguration Insights: Anticipating Trump's Return
15:10 Community Engagement: The Drive to Serve in Politics
18:04 Property Tax Challenges: Addressing Local Government Spending
20:55 Legislative Process: Understanding Subcommittees and Bills
24:13 Mental Health in Schools: The Role of Chaplains
37:01 Navigating Legislative Challenges
40:22 Education and Mental Health Initiatives
43:33 Revamping Math Education
44:51 Streamlining State Government
49:32 Addressing Property Taxes and Education Standards
51:56 Expanding School Choice
54:51 Funding and Support for Charter Schools
57:40 Teacher Shortages and Alternative Licensure
01:00:34 Revitalizing Trade Education
01:03:52 Community Colleges and Workforce Development
01:05:35 AI in Education and State Efficiency
01:07:55 Balancing Legislative and Personal Life
01:11:16 Faith and Public Service

Tune in for a heartfelt, thought-provoking, and inspiring conversation that’s sure to leave you informed and inspired!

Connect with Representative Dan Gehlbach:

https://www.facebook.com/dan4iowa

https://dan4iowa.com/

Support your local Distillery: www.reveltondistillery.com

Don't keep us a secret. https://www.oliverbardwell.com/

In episode #71 of The Oliver Bardwell Podcast, I sit down with Chris Hagenow, former Iowa Representative and founder of Iowans for Tax Relief, to discuss the big issues shaping Iowa and beyond. We cover everything from tax reform and local government accountability to broader discussions about the future of leadership and innovation.

Key Topics Include:

Chris shares actionable insights on how citizens can get involved in local politics, hold their leaders accountable, and drive meaningful change in their communities. This episode is packed with ideas that go far beyond taxes!

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:52 Transition to Iowans for Tax Relief
05:55 Property Tax Challenges in Iowa
09:04 Understanding Property Tax Structure
11:49 Public Sentiment on Property Taxes
15:03 Local Government Spending and Accountability
17:57 Engaging Citizens in Local Politics
20:50 Ideal Tax System and Future Directions
29:15 Community Engagement and Public Projects
32:45 The Philosophy of Taxation
35:38 Government Services and Responsibilities
37:28 The Role of Influential Figures in Politics
42:18 Trump's Political Legacy and Future
47:37 Tax Relief Initiatives and Local Government Accountability

For more information, visit Iowans for Tax Relief and explore their tools like ITR Local to see where your tax dollars are going.

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