701 Civics

In this enlightening conversation, Brad Hawk, the Executive Director of the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission, discusses the commission's role as a liaison between tribal nations and state government. He shares insights on the commission's responsibilities, communication strategies, and initiatives aimed at education and community engagement. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the commission, including misconceptions about its role, and the importance of addressing both immediate and long-term issues affecting tribal communities. Hawk emphasizes the need for collaboration and communication to strengthen relationships and improve outcomes for Native communities in North Dakota.

In this conversation, Nathan Rivard, a Public Affairs Officer for the North Dakota National Guard, discusses the structure, missions, and community impact of the National Guard. He explains the dual role of the Guard in serving both state and federal needs, the variety of missions they undertake, and the diverse job roles available within the organization. Rivard also highlights the training that Guard members undergo, the importance of coordination with local emergency services, and the benefits of joining the National Guard, particularly for young people considering their career options. He addresses common misconceptions about the Guard and emphasizes the importance of community engagement and understanding the role of service members.

As the United States gears up for the monumental 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, North Dakota is preparing to celebrate its unique story and contributions to American history through the ND250 initiative. This comprehensive program aims to unite communities across the state in a celebration that reflects North Dakota's rich heritage and invites everyone to participate in this historic event.

Melissa Klocke, the ND 250 Coordinator discusses opportunities for citizens and organizations across the state of North Dakota.

North Dakota Social Studies teacher Amber Severson discusses her experiences being selected by the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia to participate in professional development that is geared for rural educators. She emphasizes the need for students to engage in respectful, civil dialogue while recognizing the legal frameworks that govern political beliefs.

Have you ever wondered why you get called to jury duty so frequently? Or why a judge appears to have given an extra-lenient sentence to a person convicted of a serious crime?On this episode, I visit with the Sally Holewa, the North Dakota State Court Administrator. Ms. Holewa has spent her entire career in courts, from Minnesota to North Dakota, and in 2022 received the Warren E. Burger Award for Excellence in Court Administration from the National Center for State Courts (NCSC).

Did you know that, in North Dakota, people don't actually receive prescriptions for medical marijuana? If you didn't, you are not alone. We'll find the answers to a lot of questions surrounding medical marijuana in North Dakota.

On this episode, we visit with Jason Wahl, the Director for Medical Marijuana in North Dakota. It's an interesting conversation around a subject that many people have strong feelings about.

The episode covers a governor's mistake that almost cost the state $35 million, fights within political parties that left voters without representation, and why lawmakers want to build a new office building after 100 years. These stories teach us that democracy needs constant care and attention from regular citizens to keep working properly.

The non-partisan 701 Civics podcast will provide listeners with an introduction to state government in North Dakota. From the Secretary of State to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, learn more about the offices and officials that lead North Dakota.

In this episode, we sit down with Arik Spencer, the CEO and President from the Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC), the state's premier non-partisan business advocacy organization. Joining us is Mallory Humann, the Program & Event Coordinator for GNDC to discuss the Civics Bee in North Dakota and why the GNDC is helping to sponsor the Bee.

The GNDC represents a diverse membership that includes small businesses, large corporations, sole proprietors, and trade associations, serving as a unifying voice for economic prosperity across North Dakota.

Listeners will learn how GNDC champions free-market principles, drives innovation through the North Dakota Manufacturing Council, and collaborates across sectors to ensure the state’s business climate remains the best in the nation. We’ll explore their mission, values, and vision for the future—highlighting their integrity, dedication, and commitment to shaping a thriving economy for all North Dakotans.

Whether you're a business owner, policymaker, or someone invested in the future of the state, this episode offers insight into how GNDC is catalyzing growth, fostering collaboration, and advocating for a stronger, more prosperous North Dakota.

Did you know that the smallest office in state government also gets to handle all warrants or checks drawn against the state of North Dakota? Though the smallest office, it plays a significant role in state government, even if it doesn't really make any headlines.

We are joined on this episode by North Dakota State Treasurer Thomas Beadle as he explains the role of the treasurers office, and his role as a leader of the treasurer's office.

N.D. Treasurer's Office Website: https://www.treasurer.nd.gov/