Épisodes

  • 701 Civics Ep. 21 - Civics Education in Action Insights from We the People

    701 Civics Ep. 21 - Civics Education in Action Insights from We the People
    Feb 20 2026
    In this episode, Bryan interviews Jennifer Kallenbach, a dedicated social studies teacher and the state coordinator for the We the People program in North Dakota. Jennifer shares her journey from growing up in Wisconsin to teaching in North Dakota, emphasizing the importance of civics education in fostering informed and engaged citizens. The We the People program, initiated in the 1980s, aims to enhance students' understanding of democracy and civic participation through a structured curriculum that includes a textbook and a simulated congressional hearing competition. Jennifer highlights the program's focus on developing critical thinking, collaboration, and public speaking skills among students, which are essential for active participation in democracy.

    Jennifer elaborates on the various ways teachers can implement the We the People curriculum, whether as a supplement to existing classes or as a standalone program. She discusses the professional development opportunities available for teachers, including the We the People Summer Teacher Institute, which provides resources and training to enhance their teaching methods. The conversation also touches on the impact of the program on students, with examples of former participants who have gone on to pursue careers in law and public service. Overall, the episode underscores the significance of civics education in empowering the next generation to engage meaningfully in their communities and government.
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    26 min
  • 701 Civics Ep. 20 - N.D. Indian Affairs Commission

    701 Civics Ep. 20 - N.D. Indian Affairs Commission
    Jan 14 2026
    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.
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    28 min
  • 701 Civics Ep. 19 - The ND National Guard A Deep Dive into Its Missions and Roles

    701 Civics Ep. 19 - The ND National Guard A Deep Dive into Its Missions and Roles
    Dec 31 2025
    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.
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    29 min
  • 701 Civics Ep. 18 - ND 250 Celebration

    701 Civics Ep. 18 - ND 250 Celebration
    Dec 7 2025
    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.
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    23 min
  • Civics Education with Guest and Teacher Amber Severson

    Civics Education with Guest and Teacher Amber Severson
    Dec 5 2025
    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.
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    22 min
  • North Dakota State Court Administrator: Sally Holewa

    North Dakota State Court Administrator: Sally Holewa
    Aug 26 2025
    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).
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    28 min
  • Medical Marijuana in North Dakota

    Medical Marijuana in North Dakota
    Jul 21 2025
    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.
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    30 min
  • Civics Lessons in North Dakota

    Civics Lessons in North Dakota
    Jun 29 2025
    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.
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    24 min