From the Balcony

In this extended interview, Kansas Farmers Union executive director Nick Levendofsky joins SAB member Ella Rhuems to discuss his experience in advocacy, the impact of recent trade policy on farmers, antitrust issues in agriculture, the importance and impact of the Farm Bill, and how organizations like the Kansas Farmers Union represent rural voters.

Former Chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Sheila Bair speaks with Nathan Binshtok about her new children's book, "How Not to Lose a Million Dollars," her time working for Senator Bob Dole, her role at the FDIC during the 2008 financial crisis, and financial advice for college students.

Republican strategist Kristen Soltis Anderson speaks with Ella Rhuems about how the American people are feeling ahead of the 2026 Midterm Elections. The pair also discussed presidential job approval trends, how voters are interpreting news and media coverage, trends of younger voters, and what to expect in the 2028 Presidential Election.

Free speech expert Dr. Jacqueline Pfeffer Merrill is the senior director of the Civic Learning and Free Expression Projects at the Council of Independent Colleges. She joins Dole Institute Student Advisory Board coordinator Abbie Clements to discuss the challenges and impact of free expression on college campuses, including influence of social media, self-censorship, legislation, and the role of the federal government.

Public educator and Dole Fellow Matt Beat joins the podcast to discuss his journey from the classroom to YouTube, specifically touching on how he fosters civic engagement and education with his audiences, and the impact and benefits of digital education.

This episode was originally recorded in October 2025.

Former Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas President and CEO Rob Kaplan joins Nathan Binshtok to discuss the state of the U.S. economy, and provide insight into economic policymaking.

Kansas State Legislators Brandon Woodard (D) and Chase Blasi (R) join Ella Rhumes to discuss their journeys into public service and party leadership, how their parties are evolving, and priorities for the upcoming session of the Kansas State Legislature.