In this special Thanksgiving episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, host Bryan Dawson sits down with Col. John Eidsmoe—author, historian, and chairman of the Plymouth Rock Foundation—to explore the true, awe-inspiring story behind Plymouth Plantation, the Mayflower, and the first Thanksgiving. More than a history lesson, this conversation uncovers the spiritual DNA of America: courage, sacrifice, self-government, and unshakeable faith in God’s providence.Dawson opens the episode by connecting the Pilgrims’ story to his own family lineage, tracing his ancestry back to the Wampanoag chief who stood alongside the Pilgrims at that first Thanksgiving. Eidsmoe, joining the show dressed in full Pilgrim attire, begins unpacking the Pilgrims’ rich written history—one of the most well-documented origins of any nation besides ancient Israel. He walks listeners through their persecution in England, their turbulent stay in the Netherlands, and the bold decision to cross the Atlantic for the sake of religious freedom and the advancement of the Christian faith.Together, Dawson and Eidsmoe trace the harrowing voyage of the Mayflower, the drafting of the Mayflower Compact, and the brutal first winter in which half the colony perished. Eidsmoe explains how God’s providence appeared repeatedly—from Squanto’s arrival, to the peaceful treaty with Massasoit, to the Pilgrims’ first successful harvest and their now-legendary feast of thanksgiving to God.The episode also delves into the Pilgrims’ early flirtation with socialism—forced upon them by investors—and how Gov. William Bradford recorded its utter failure and the colony’s explosive success once private property and individual incentive were restored. Eidsmoe even shares the remarkable story of how Bradford’s long-lost manuscript, History of Plymouth Plantation, was miraculously recovered centuries later.This Thanksgiving, Dawson invites listeners to look beyond food, family, and football and remember the faith, fortitude, and God-honoring vision of the men and women who risked everything to establish a Christian foothold in the New World. This powerful episode is a call to gratitude, to remembrance, and to reclaiming America’s true heritage.

In this special edition of 1819 News: The Podcast, you’ll get a front row seat to 1819 News CEO Bryan Dawson's speech at the 2nd Annual Albert Patterson Gala: An Evening of Courage featuring Tucker Carlson. Dawson gave a brief but incredible speech calling Christians to speak the truth and confront wickedness when and where they see it, no matter the cost. God brought everything into existence by speaking and humans are the only creatures in creation who share that ability to speak. Because of this, Dawson highlights the importance of speaking the truth and refusing to be silenced. We hope you’ll enjoy this brief speech and allow it to inspire you to go forth with courage, refusing to be silenced as you speak and live the truth. Please also consider 1819 News in your year-end giving. We are a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, so all contributions toward our work are anonymous and tax deductible. Reach out to Ashley Carter, our VP of Finance and Events (Ashley.Carter@1819news.com), to make a year-end contribution, or give at 1819news.com/give.

In this powerhouse episode, 1819 News CEO Bryan Dawson sits down with Tucker Carlson for the most explosive and candid conversation ever featured on the podcast. Sparked by a seven-year-old viral clip of Carlson debating Ben Shapiro over driverless trucks, Dawson lays out how that single moment shattered the spell of neoliberal economics and exposed the human cost of deindustrialization, mass immigration, and endless foreign wars. What began as a discussion about jobs and GDP quickly became a full-scale autopsy of the conservative movement’s decades-long betrayal of the American working class. Carlson pulls no punches: he traces his own journey from a Weekly Standard neoconservative to the leading voice of America First nationalism, recounting the exact moment in Baghdad in 2003 when he realized he’d been “used” to sell a disastrous war. With unflinching honesty, he admits his past mistakes, explains why he now rejects both libertarian economics and neoconservative foreign policy as “false religions,” and declares that any government not putting its own citizens first has no legitimacy. The conversation then dives into the ongoing civil war inside conservatism—paleocons vs. neocons, Buchanan vs. Buckley 2.0—and why the old gatekeepers are finally losing control thanks to Elon Musk’s X. Carlson defends “America First” against decades of deliberate slander, dismantles the weaponized charge of antisemitism used to silence dissent, and warns that unchecked demographic replacement and anti-white discrimination are destroying the country his children will inherit. From the collapse of Kevin Roberts at Heritage to the rise of Nick Fuentes among a generation of angry young men, Carlson and Dawson confront the uncomfortable truths the establishment refuses to face: the American people have been lied to, sold out, and humiliated—and they’ve finally had enough. A raw, unfiltered, and deeply Christian case for putting America—and Americans—first. If you care about the future of this nation, this is the one episode you cannot miss.

In this compelling conversation on 1819 News: The Podcast, host Bryan Dawson, CEO of 1819 News, investigates a growing movement to bring classical education—and timeless values—back to Alabama’s classrooms. Dawson opens by challenging listeners to imagine a future where the destiny of Alabama’s children depends on returning to the classics—where education once again forms virtue, wisdom, and freedom of thought. Together, he and Ron Packard, founder and CEO of ACCEL Schools, discuss the philosophical and practical renewal of education through the Alabama Virtual Classical Academy, a new tuition-free online school launching in partnership with Sylacauga City Schools. Enabled by Alabama’s recent school choice reforms, this initiative gives families statewide access to a rigorous, virtue-centered education rooted in the timeless ideas of Aristotle, Socrates, and America’s founding fathers. Packard draws on nearly three decades in education to explain why teaching children how to think, not what to think, is more crucial than ever in the age of technology and moral confusion. The pair trace the history of classical learning—from the trivium of grammar, logic, and rhetoric to the liberal arts tradition that formed leaders like the architects of the American Republic. They contrast this approach with today’s industrial-age schooling system, which too often prioritizes bureaucracy over character and test scores over truth. The conversation also highlights the cultural and spiritual dimensions of education, exploring how beauty, virtue, and objective truth were once considered essential to forming free citizens. With insights from figures like Dr. William J. Bennett, former U.S. Secretary of Education and now provost of ACCEL Classical Academies, Dawson and Packard make a compelling case for reclaiming the lost art of education as the foundation of liberty itself. This episode isn’t just about curriculum reform—it’s a call to arms in the generational battle for the hearts and minds of Alabama’s children, urging parents and educators alike to rebuild a free and flourishing Alabama grounded in truth, virtue, and classical wisdom.

In this thought-provoking episode, host Bryan Dawson welcomes Father Calvin Robinson—a British Anglican priest, commentator, and outspoken cultural critic—for a wide-ranging conversation about faith, politics, and the challenges facing Western civilization. The discussion opens with Dawson recounting how he met Father Calvin at a Turning Point USA event in Huntsville, Ala., where the two connected over shared convictions and a passion for defending truth in turbulent times. Father Calvin shares his personal journey from the United Kingdom to the United States, explaining how his willingness to speak out on issues of national identity, faith, and culture has come at great personal and professional cost. Together, he and Brian explore the state of modern Britain, the rise of multiculturalism, and the tension between religious freedom, national values, and political correctness. Father Calvin describes what he views as the moral and spiritual decline of Western Europe, citing the erosion of Christian foundations and the emergence of parallel social and legal systems. The conversation turns to broader cultural questions, including the role of men and women in society, the decline of family life and faith, and the moral consequences of abortion and secularism. Both Dawson and Father Calvin frame these trends as symptoms of a deeper spiritual crisis—one that transcends politics and calls for a renewal of moral courage and conviction. Though controversial and at times unsettling, this episode offers a candid and unfiltered look at how two Christian thinkers interpret the West’s current crossroads. Listeners will hear strong opinions, passionate arguments, and sobering reflections on faith, culture, and the future of civilization. Whether you agree or disagree with their views, this conversation invites reflection on what it means to preserve truth, tradition, and belief in an increasingly divided world. Tune in for an unflinching dialogue on faith, culture, and the courage to stand firm in conviction—no matter the cost.

In this hard-hitting monologue episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, host Bryan Dawson, CEO of 1819 News, breaks down the "flea flicker" political plays being run on Alabama values. Using football as a metaphor, Dawson exposes how opponents manipulate public opinion to advance agendas that erode traditional values—warning listeners to spot the setup at the line of scrimmage before the snap. Using previous major political failures as game film, he traces the path liberals have used to attain power. Talking points repeated ad nauseum, paying off people of influence, and employing the power of media is the flea flicker that our foes continue to use and we can't seem to stop them.Dawson explains how this same strategy normalized LGBTQ ideology, starting with "love is love" talking points, turning into media saturation via shows like Will & Grace, which led to the Obergefell decision, which forced same sex marriage onto all 50 states. The downward spiral has turned into gay pride parades, the trans agenda, and now homosexual men adopting young boys. What could go wrong?This downward spiral started with a few talking points being repeated ad nauseum and ended with gay couples renting women's wombs to create designer babies. In a democracy, the only thing you need to move your political objectives forward is to win the battle for public opinion and the left has mastered this play.Next, Dawson reveals the Alabama Education Association's (AEA) rebrand from a liberal powerhouse—once dictating votes from the gallery under Paul Hubbert—to a "conservative Christian" entity cozying up to Republican supermajority legislators with big checks and conservative rhetoric. Despite being an affiliate of the radical Marxist NEA, the AEA infiltrated the GOP, stalled school choice, and is now pushing homeschool regulation after losing public school enrollment. Their conservative mask slipped with their communicated intent to regulate homeschoolers, and when they recently made a $100,000 donation to Marxist Mobile mayoral candidate, Barbara Drummond. Finally, Dawson sounds the alarm on creeping Islamic influence, dubbing the Islamic activists in Hoover the emerging "Hoover Caliphate." Drawing parallels to Dearborn and Minneapolis, he cites grooming scandals in the UK, H-1B visa labor displacement, and a personal encounter with a young Muslim woman offering partnership and funds to 1819 News—rejecting it as a conquest play masked in shared "Republican values." This Islamic play is the play that is about to be run, and Dawson encourages everyone to see it for what it is so it can be stopped before putting any points on the board. Dawson urges vigilance: don’t allow our kindness to be weaponized against us. Reject pay-for-play media, refuse tainted money, and call out infiltration before cultural subversion becomes demographic dominance. You won't want to miss this powerful episode. Overtime Segment: Crossing the Rubicon and Burning the Boats!

In this compelling and urgent conversation, Bryan Dawson of 1819 News sits down with Daily Wire culture reporter and bestselling author Megan Basham to discuss her explosive book, Shepherds for Sale: How Evangelical Leaders Traded the Truth for a Leftist Agenda. With sharp insight and meticulous research, Basham exposes how secular progressive forces have infiltrated seminaries, evangelical institutions, and churches across America—not merely to influence theology, but to reshape the political and cultural convictions of millions of Christians. Basham lays out a troubling pattern: left-wing organizations, including those funded by George Soros and the Hewlett Foundation, are funneling money through “evangelical” front groups like the Evangelical Immigration Table—entities that appear grassroots but are in fact top-down influence campaigns. Their goal? To convince believers that leftist policies on immigration, climate, race, and even vaccine mandates are not just political stances, but biblical imperatives. Dawson and Basham also explore the downfall of prominent evangelical leaders like Russell Moore, once a conservative icon, now seen as a mouthpiece for progressive causes. From promoting amnesty under the guise of “loving your neighbor” to urging COVID-19 vaccinations as a Christian duty, Moore’s trajectory serves as a case study in how influence, prestige, and foundation money have corrupted evangelical leadership. Basham explains how even well-meaning pastors are unwittingly swept into these networks, signing onto statements and participating in campaigns that subtly (or overtly) push progressive policy—often without full awareness of who’s funding or driving the agenda. The discussion is a wake-up call to American Christians. The church, as Basham and Dawson argue, is the final obstacle to full-scale cultural conquest by the radical left. If believers don’t recognize the war being waged within their own walls, they may lose not just theological clarity, but national influence and moral credibility. This episode calls for spiritual vigilance, cultural awareness, and a bold return to biblical truth in an age of compromise.

In a raw, heartfelt conversation, Alabama State Rep. Reed Ingram sits down to share a story that’s far more than politics—it’s a powerful testimony of redemption, resilience, and purpose. From living homeless on a beach in Pensacola as a child to becoming a successful entrepreneur and lawmaker, Ingram’s life is a vivid reminder that no past is too broken for God to redeem. The episode kicks off with a lighthearted dive into the secret behind the famously delicious watermelons at Sweet Creek, Ingram’s popular farm market located right off the beach-bound highways of Alabama. But it quickly goes deeper as he opens up about a childhood scarred by addiction, instability, and years without schooling. Taken by his mother at age seven after his parents' divorce, he spent much of his early life sleeping in roadside parks and restrooms—avoiding crime by hiding in the safest places he could find. At 17, after a brush with the law and a near-tragic incident involving a stolen car and the governor’s mansion, Reed found himself at a crossroads. What followed was a divine intervention—marrying the daughter of a preacher, starting a business with nothing but faith, and slowly rebuilding his life. By God’s guidance, he launched six successful businesses and became a steady presence in Alabama’s legislature. Yet Reed has never forgotten where he came from—or the God who carried him. Sweet Creek is more than a fruit stand; it’s a ministry in motion. With 800 young applicants each year, he’s instilling work ethic, teaching life skills, and connecting families back to their roots in agriculture and community. This interview is a wake-up call, reminding us of what’s possible when someone refuses to be defined by their past—and instead lets purpose, faith, and hard work define their future. Listen in and be inspired.

In this powerful live episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, host Bryan Dawson sits down with Alabama Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth at the Point Clear Republican Women’s Group for a raw, unfiltered conversation about courage, faith, and the future of Alabama. Known for his principled leadership and willingness to take on entrenched powers, Ainsworth discusses how he has transformed the historically “defanged” role of lieutenant governor into one of the most active and impactful positions in the state. From championing school choice and cutting Alabama’s grocery tax, to fighting for military families and calling out unaccountable agencies like ALDOT and the Alabama High School Athletic Association, Ainsworth shares how conservative policies can move from talking points to real results. He highlights the importance of building coalitions, creating relationships, and standing on biblical values even when the backlash is fierce. This episode also dives into some of the most pressing issues facing conservatives nationwide. Dawson and Ainsworth address the tragic attempted assassination of President Trump, the death of Charlie Kirk, and the growing hostility toward public figures who speak hard truths. Ainsworth outlines why his decision to step aside from a potential gubernatorial run to support Coach Tuberville was rooted in faith, family, and a long-term vision for Alabama. More than just politics, this conversation is about a movement. Ainsworth speaks to the next generation of conservatives and Christians rising up on campuses across the nation—leaders inspired by Kirk and others—who are refusing to be silent in the face of cultural decay. He calls on listeners to be bold, to step into leadership, and to defend their values with both courage and compassion. If you’ve ever wondered what real conservative leadership looks like in action—or how faith and principle can drive policy and shape a state’s future—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Dive into a provocative and eye-opening episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, hosted by CEO Bryan Dawson, as he sits down with filmmaker Chad O. Jackson to discuss his groundbreaking docuseries, The MLK Project, premiering October 3rd. In this candid conversation, Jackson fearlessly challenges the widely accepted narrative surrounding Martin Luther King Jr., exposing a side of the civil rights icon that has been obscured by decades of public education and media portrayal. With meticulous research and historical receipts, Jackson unveils King’s ties to Marxist ideologies, his role in expanding federal power, and the subversive impact of the Civil Rights Movement on both black communities and American society. Jackson, a plumber who moonlights as an independent historian and filmmaker, shares his journey of uncovering unsettling truths about King’s legacy, inspired by figures like the late Voddie Baucham. From King’s documented personal scandals to his strategic alignment with communist influencers, this episode dismantles the myth of MLK as a moral paragon, revealing him as a calculated figure who advanced a social gospel antithetical to Christian values. Dawson and Jackson explore how the Civil Rights Movement shifted black culture away from self-reliance, as championed by Booker T. Washington, and toward government dependency, with devastating consequences still visible in urban communities today. The discussion also delves into the broader implications of King’s legacy, from the erosion of state sovereignty to the infiltration of Marxist ideas into modern churches. Jackson’s docuseries promises to deliver a hard-hitting exposé, backed by primary sources and contributions from scholars like Dr. Carol Swain. Tune in to hear why Jackson believes we must confront these uncomfortable truths to reclaim a free and flourishing America. Find The MLK Project at chadojackson.com, Patreon, or Vimeo on Demand, and follow Jackson’s work on social media @ChadoJackson. Join 1819 News: The Podcast for a bold pursuit of truth that challenges everything you thought you knew about a national icon.

Join host Bryan Dawson on this week’s edition of 1819 News: The Podcast for an engaging conversation with Officer Brandon Tatum, a prominent conservative voice and close friend of the late Charlie Kirk. In this deeply moving episode, Dawson and Tatum reflect on their providential connection, the legacy of Charlie Kirk, and the spiritual awakening his martyrdom has sparked across the nation. Kirk’s life and death as a Christian martyr have left an indelible mark on millions. Tatum recounts his friendship with Kirk, from their work together at Turning Point USA to Kirk’s relentless drive and infectious faith, which inspired Tatum to push harder in his own mission. Dawson and Tatum explore the spiritual weight of Kirk’s legacy, discussing how his death has galvanized believers and non-believers alike, with figures like JD Vance and Marco Rubio boldly proclaiming Christ in public forums. They marvel at the global reach of Kirk’s message, amplified by social media, and challenge listeners to respond to this moment of revival. Tatum doesn’t hold back, calling out churches that fail to acknowledge Kirk’s martyrdom while contrasting their silence with the outpouring of grief and action following his death. With raw honesty, he urges listeners to seek communities that fearlessly proclaim truth.   This episode is a stirring blend of personal stories, spiritual reflection, and a call to action, encouraging listeners to honor Kirk’s legacy by living boldly for faith and truth. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation that will inspire, challenge, and uplift. X - @theofficertatumYoutube - www.youtube.com/@TheOfficerTatum Don't miss this heartfelt op ed by Brandon Tatum here: theofficertatum.substack.com/p/charlie-kirk-a-life-that-ignited

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 host Bryan Dawson, CEO of 1819 News, and investigative journalist Apryl Marie Fogel for a compelling episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, where fearless reporting meets unapologetic truth-telling. This episode dives into the heart of 1819 News’ mission to hold the powerful accountable, no matter who they are, and exposes the challenges of delivering hard truths in a polarized world. The episode kicks off with a candid recounting of how Bryan and Apryl Marie first connected—spoiler: it wasn’t exactly a warm introduction. Three years ago, as 1819 News emerged as a bold new media outlet, rumors swirled about its funding and intentions. Apryl Marie, then an independent journalist, was rumored to be writing a “hit piece” on the organization. A single phone call from Bryan, offering transparency (minus donor names), turned suspicion into a mutual respect that later proved pivotal. Apryl Marie's relentless questioning put Bryan in the hot seat, but her suggestion that Jeff Poor lead 1819 News’ editorial team planted a seed that transformed the outlet’s trajectory. Fast forward to the explosive Bubba Copeland story, where 1819 News faced national backlash for exposing a public figure’s misconduct. While the media vilified 1819, Apryl Marie emerged as an unexpected ally, passionately defending their work on radio stations across Alabama. Her stance wasn’t personal—it was about truth. This galvanizing moment solidified 1819’s resolve to pursue fearless journalism, no matter the cost. Apryl Marie’s investigative work takes center stage as she discusses her exposés on institutions like Samford University, where she uncovered a troubling disconnect between its Christian branding and DEI-driven practices. From professors promoting radical ideologies to programs undermining the faith-based values parents expect, Apryl Marie’s reporting reveals how sacred institutions can betray trust. Bryan and Apryl Marie emphasize that their critiques stem from love for Samford’s potential, not hate, and a desire to protect the next generation from ideological overreach. Tune in for an unfiltered look at the courage, conviction, and relentless pursuit of truth that define 1819 News. Whether it’s taking on entrenched powers or navigating friendly fire, Bryan and Apryl Marie prove that doing what’s right often means standing alone—until the truth prevails.

The COVID lockdowns pulled back the curtain on every level of our society. Wequickly found out who has the courage to stand on principle and who caved to the tyrannical forces of power. In a deeper way, we came to see what our leaders, friends, and family really valued. The results were deeply troubling. For many of us, our faith is our core strength and motivator. It shapes our every action and inaction. As faith is our guide, we need our pastors, our shepherds, to be courageous in the face of the prowling wolves. Unfortunately, we saw a lot of pastors and priests waver in the face of authoritarian policies. In the wake of the lockdowns, there’s been a quiet reshuffling as Christians seek out shepherds they can trust to stand strong. As such, the question of whether someone should find another church has become increasingly prevalent. Pastor Rich Lusk discusses this issue with Bryan Dawson, helping listeners evaluate and discern whether they should stay or find a new church home. It’s not an easy or light decision and, thankfully, Pastor Lusk gives some great tips and questions we should all consider. To join the fight and become an 1819 News Member and have access to all of our behind the scenes content, click here: https://1819news.com/membership