Pints & Diplomacy

Latest Episodes:

Nathan SAGE Against the Machine joins Pints & Diplomacy Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy, we sit down with U.S. Senate candidate Nathan Sage in the bar tucked beneath the historic Val Air Ballroom. Over a couple cold ones, we dig into his candidacy, his military service and how it shaped his worldview, and talk about some classic Hawkeye sports heroes. A laid-back, honest conversation with a candidate who isn’t afraid to mix policy with personality. Cheers!

Chair of the Iowa Democratic Party Rita Hart Oct 11, 2025

Show notes

We sat down with Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart at Lua Brewing in Des Moines for a wide-ranging conversation over a few pints.

We talked about the recent special election wins for Democrats, what Rita has been focused on as IDP Chair, and how the party is working to rebuild across the state. Rita also shared her thoughts on Iowa’s struggling economy, the most popular Democratic Candidate in Iowa Rob Sand, and why she’s optimistic about the strong slate of Democratic candidates stepping up for 2026.

Whether you’re a political junkie or just curious about what’s brewing in Iowa politics, this one’s worth a listen. 🍺

Building Cyclone Nation: A Conversation with Jamie Pollard Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

On this week’s episode of Pints & Diplomacy, we sit down with Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard for a wide-ranging conversation on the past, present, and future of Cyclone athletics. From the growth of ISU’s national profile to the challenges of modern college sports, Pollard shares insights into what it takes to lead one of the Big 12’s rising programs. Plus, in our signature segment, we convene the Supreme Court of Iowa State Athletes to debate and decide which Cyclones deserve a spot on the ultimate Supreme Court of ISU legends. Grab a pint and join us for an episode filled with Cyclone pride, big-picture perspective, and a few tough choices.

US Senate Candidates Josh Turek & JD Scholten Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

We sit down with US Senate Candidates JD Scholten and Josh Turek as JD announces that he is suspending his campaign and endorsing Josh Turek. We hold the first sit down interview with both guests as they explain the thought process behind their decision! We also talk about the issues State Representative Turek seeks to address if elected US Senator. We also talk about Josh's experience in the Paralympics and make predictions for this years Super Bowl and World Series.

SPECIAL ELECTION Candidate Catelin Drey Aug 15, 2025

Show notes

This SPECIAL ELECTION Episode with SD-01 Candidate Catelin Drey covers everything you need to know for the upcoming August 26th Special Election. We touch on issues that are important to Iowa along with other topics including raising children, Taylor Swift, and life on the Campaign Trail!

IA State Senator Matt Blake Aug 11, 2025

Show notes

From 4th of July Parade to the State Senate—and even deployments overseas—Matt Blake has a story worth hearing. In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy, we start with our Buzzed Briefings and our wildly competitive Supreme Court of Lawyers draft, then dive into a conversation with the newly elected Iowa State Senator representing District 22.

We talk about service, leadership, and the surprising moments that shaped his journey. Politics, pints, and plenty of stories—this one’s got it all.

IA State Senator Mike Zimmer Running for Re-Election Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy, we sit down with Iowa State Senator Mike Zimmer as he officially announces his campaign for reelection. Over a beer, we dive into his legislative goals, lessons from his time in office, and what’s next for Iowa politics.

🍺 Plus, in our Buzzed Briefings, we share a few headlines that caught our eye — some serious, some just plain strange.

🕵️‍♂️ Then we take a sobering turn and unpack the timeline of Donald Trump’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, tracing public statements and key moments that raise important questions.

From local races to global scandals, we’re bringing the conversation back to the table — one pint at a time.

Episode 18 - "Wicked" Author Gregory Maguire and the Supreme Court of Witches Jul 11, 2025

Show notes

What happens when you share a beer with the man who made Elphaba iconic? We sit down with Wicked author Gregory Maguire to talk about the political soul of Oz, the surprising Hollywood twists his story has taken, and how villains aren’t always what they seem. Plus — we close the case on the ultimate debate: who belongs on the Supreme Court of Witches? (Yes, it gets delightfully weird.) Pour one and join us for a magical, meaningful conversation that defies gravity — and expectations.

Episode 17 - Candidate for US Congress Travis Terrell & Supreme Court of Dream Bachelor Party Destinations Jun 27, 2025

Show notes

This week on Pints & Diplomacy, we sit down with Travis Terrell, candidate for Congress, to talk about why he's running, how his background shapes his political views, and what he'd bring to Washington. Then, we shift gears and take the bench for the Supreme Court of Dream Bachelor Party Destinations—from Vegas to the woods, we make our ruling. Grab a beer and join the conversation.

Episode 16 -- Supreme Court of Appetizers, Biles vs. Gaines, LA Protests & Wells Fargo Memories Jun 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy, we serve up a sizzling segment: the Supreme Court of Appetizers—where we debate the ultimate starter foods and lay down some snack-based rulings. Then, we dive into the viral clash between Riley Gaines and Simone Biles, unpack the political energy behind the LA Protests, and take a nostalgic trip through our favorite memories at Des Moines’ own Wells Fargo Arena. From mozzarella sticks to medal counts—this episode has range. Grab a pint and press play.

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