https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/701-civics--6517655enGovernmentCopyright Dakota Media Accesshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/d2b13c5b4f5253d282d02059f1fe74fc.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/701-civics--6517655Fri, 07 Aug 2026 14:16:25 +0000Dakota Media AccessDakota Media Accessfeeds@spreaker.comThe 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...falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-27-america-s-unfinished-idea-david-j-bobb-on-civic-ideals-constructive-debate--73618783https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73618783Fri, 07 Aug 2026 14:13:17 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn this episode, David J. Bobb, President and CEO of the Bill of Rights Institute, discusses the enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence, exploring its historical debates, moral weight, and relevance for contemporary civic life. He...2016false27fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-26-summer-2026-civics-roundup--73089469
In this episode of 701 Civics, we look back at some of the most important civic developments in North Dakota over the past two months. From the June primary election to a voter-approved constitutional amendment requiring ballot measures to address only one subject, we unpack the stories that will shape North Dakota government in the months and years ahead.

We also take a closer look at one of the summer's most significant constitutional cases: the North Dakota Supreme Court's decision to remove the Legislature's proposed term limits amendment from the ballot. What was the Legislature trying to change? Why did the Court rule it unconstitutional? And what does the decision teach us about the balance of power between the people, the Legislature, and the judiciary?

Whether you're a lifelong North Dakotan or simply interested in how state government works, this episode provides clear, nonpartisan explanations to help you better understand the civic issues making headlines. Join us as we move beyond the news and explore the constitutional principles, election processes, and public institutions that shape life in the Peace Garden State.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73089469Tue, 21 Jul 2026 16:29:07 +0000Dakota Media AccessWhat has been going on politically in North Dakota since June 2026? LOTS! In this episode of 701 Civics, we look back at some of the most important civic developments in North Dakota over the past two months. From the June primary election to a...
In this episode of 701 Civics, we look back at some of the most important civic developments in North Dakota over the past two months. From the June primary election to a voter-approved constitutional amendment requiring ballot measures to address only one subject, we unpack the stories that will shape North Dakota government in the months and years ahead.

We also take a closer look at one of the summer's most significant constitutional cases: the North Dakota Supreme Court's decision to remove the Legislature's proposed term limits amendment from the ballot. What was the Legislature trying to change? Why did the Court rule it unconstitutional? And what does the decision teach us about the balance of power between the people, the Legislature, and the judiciary?

Whether you're a lifelong North Dakotan or simply interested in how state government works, this episode provides clear, nonpartisan explanations to help you better understand the civic issues making headlines. Join us as we move beyond the news and explore the constitutional principles, election processes, and public institutions that shape life in the Peace Garden State.
]]>1637false26fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-25-jury-duty-in-north-dakota--73089466
On this podcast, we look at the experience of the host and his recent experience as a potential juror. Spoiler - it was pretty interesting to be a part of the jury process.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73089466Tue, 21 Jul 2026 16:28:25 +0000Dakota Media AccessHow many times have you opened the mail and got that letter from your clerk of court calling you for jury duty? What is it that makes people cringe when they get that letter? And do you really get a jury of your peers? On this podcast, we look at the...
On this podcast, we look at the experience of the host and his recent experience as a potential juror. Spoiler - it was pretty interesting to be a part of the jury process.
]]>1864false25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-24-league-of-women-voters--70926381https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70926381Sun, 29 Mar 2026 14:00:02 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn this interview, Kathleen Tweeten, the President of the League of Women Voters of North Dakota, shares the history, mission, and current initiatives of the League. Topics include voting rights, civics education, election integrity, and ways to get...1363false24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-23-north-dakota-boys-state--70926355
Discover how North Dakota Boys State educates young men about civics, leadership, and government through a hands-on, mock government experience. Learn about the program's history, application process, and the impact it has on participants' understanding of civic responsibilities.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70926355Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:18:21 +0000Dakota Media AccessOn this podcast, Garrett Anderson, North Dakota Boys State Deputy Director of Recruitment visits and lets us know the history, mission, and purpose of North Dakota Boys State, as well as how North Dakota high school Juniors can apply to participate in...
Discover how North Dakota Boys State educates young men about civics, leadership, and government through a hands-on, mock government experience. Learn about the program's history, application process, and the impact it has on participants' understanding of civic responsibilities.]]>1598false23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-22-potpouri-feb-2026--70181029]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70181029Sun, 22 Feb 2026 23:00:05 +0000Dakota Media AccessThis episode covers recent legislative and judicial developments in North Dakota, including special sessions, school funding initiatives, and judicial elections. It also provides some insights into state politics, legal processes, and upcoming changes...]]>2167false22fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-21-civics-education-in-action-insights-from-we-the-people--70181024
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.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70181024Fri, 20 Feb 2026 18:40:17 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn 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,...
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.]]>1576false21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-20-n-d-indian-affairs-commission--69439877https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69439877Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:17:42 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn 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...1665false20fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-19-the-nd-national-guard-a-deep-dive-into-its-missions-and-roles--69261592https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69261592Wed, 31 Dec 2025 17:33:09 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn 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...1756false19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/701-civics-ep-18-nd-250-celebration--68901403
Melissa Klocke, the ND 250 Coordinator discusses opportunities for citizens and organizations across the state of North Dakota.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68901403Sun, 07 Dec 2025 15:00:08 +0000Dakota Media AccessAs 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....
Melissa Klocke, the ND 250 Coordinator discusses opportunities for citizens and organizations across the state of North Dakota.
]]>1354false18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/civics-education-with-guest-and-teacher-amber-severson--68901386https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68901386Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:34:50 +0000Dakota Media AccessNorth 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...1319false17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-dakota-state-court-administrator-sally-holewa--67522214https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67522214Tue, 26 Aug 2025 21:00:25 +0000Dakota Media AccessHave 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...1681false16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/medical-marijuana-in-north-dakota--67057242
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.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67057242Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:41:19 +0000Dakota Media AccessDid 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...
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.
]]>1809false15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/civics-lessons-in-north-dakota--66773250https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66773250Sun, 29 Jun 2025 14:00:08 +0000Dakota Media AccessThe 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...1423false14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-dakota-supreme-court-law-clerk--66653059https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66653059Sun, 22 Jun 2025 17:00:07 +0000Dakota Media AccessThe 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...1273false13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-greater-north-dakota-chamber-the-voice-of-north-dakota-business--66653055
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.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66653055Fri, 20 Jun 2025 13:53:24 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn 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...
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.

]]>1632false12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-dakota-treasurer-s-office--66653051
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/

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66653051Fri, 20 Jun 2025 13:52:01 +0000Dakota Media AccessDid 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...
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/

]]>1937false11fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-a-bill-becomes-a-law-part-3--66122081
In the first two installments, we followed the process of getting an idea turned into a bill, a committee meeting, and passage in the House of Representatives. Now, we see what takes place in the Senate, and discuss the outcome of the Senate vote.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66122081Sun, 18 May 2025 14:00:07 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn this episode, we cover the final step in the process of following a bill to declare October 1st as 'North Dakota Constitution Day'. In the first two installments, we followed the process of getting an idea turned into a bill, a committee meeting,...
In the first two installments, we followed the process of getting an idea turned into a bill, a committee meeting, and passage in the House of Representatives. Now, we see what takes place in the Senate, and discuss the outcome of the Senate vote.
]]>1793false10fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/auditor-josh-gallion--66121980
Listeners will learn about the size of the office, recent efforts to make reports more accessible to citizens of the state, types of audits, how long audits can take, and helping to provide transparency for citizens.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66121980Fri, 16 May 2025 16:35:07 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn this podcast, the current North Dakota State Auditor, Josh Gallion, took time to sit down and discuss the state auditor's office and its role in state government, as well as what it can - and cannot - do. Listeners will learn about the size of the...
Listeners will learn about the size of the office, recent efforts to make reports more accessible to citizens of the state, types of audits, how long audits can take, and helping to provide transparency for citizens.
]]>1464false8fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sen-sean-cleary--65857574
On this episode, we discuss how bills are drafted and make their way through the legislative process. We also visit about keeping in touch with constituents, the role of lobbyists, and committee assignments.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65857574Sun, 04 May 2025 14:00:11 +0000Dakota Media AccessFreshman legislator Sen. Sean Cleary sits down to discuss the role of a state senator in North Dakota. Senator Cleary represents District 35 in the North Dakota Senate, and is half-way through his first term. On this episode, we discuss how bills are...
On this episode, we discuss how bills are drafted and make their way through the legislative process. We also visit about keeping in touch with constituents, the role of lobbyists, and committee assignments.
]]>1108false9fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-american-dream-is-still-alive--65350215
With all of the talk surrounding immigration, particularly in the past decade, I thought it would be good to hear from someone who immigrated to the United States and went through the process of becoming an American citizen.

We get to hear of the challenges faced after arriving in Lakota, North Dakota speaking limited English, with little more than three suitcases, and a determination to succeed. Mirabela and her husband have succeeded, and are now small business owners in Bismarck, operating the Little Odessa Eastern European Market.

Little Odessa Eastern European Market Website:
https://www.little-odessa.com/

Little Odessa Eastern European Market:
https://www.instagram.com/littleodessand/
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65350215Sun, 06 Apr 2025 14:00:08 +0000Dakota Media AccessOn this podcast, I interview Mirabela Punga, a native of Moldova, and now, with her husband and children, a resident of Bismarck, North Dakota for over a decade. With all of the talk surrounding immigration, particularly in the past decade, I thought...
With all of the talk surrounding immigration, particularly in the past decade, I thought it would be good to hear from someone who immigrated to the United States and went through the process of becoming an American citizen.

We get to hear of the challenges faced after arriving in Lakota, North Dakota speaking limited English, with little more than three suitcases, and a determination to succeed. Mirabela and her husband have succeeded, and are now small business owners in Bismarck, operating the Little Odessa Eastern European Market.

Little Odessa Eastern European Market Website:
https://www.little-odessa.com/

Little Odessa Eastern European Market:
https://www.instagram.com/littleodessand/
]]>2157false7fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/minority-parties-in-nd-w-democratic-rep-corey-mock--65350161
This episode dives into the role of a minority party, in this case Democrats, in a state like North Dakota, in which the party in power, the Republicans, has a super-majority. We look at the ability of minor parties to impact legislation and how they work to get their issues heard.

Towards the end of the podcast, Representative Mock and I discuss the potential impact of the term limits initiative that was passed by North Dakota voters in 2022. Does he believe it will lead to more Democrats in the North Dakota legislature?
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65350161Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:13:43 +0000Dakota Media AccessOn this episode, I chat with Representative Corey Mock, a Democrat who served in the house of representatives from 2009 and, as of this interview, is wrapping up his time in the House, having decided to not run for re-election in 2024.  In fact, Mr....
This episode dives into the role of a minority party, in this case Democrats, in a state like North Dakota, in which the party in power, the Republicans, has a super-majority. We look at the ability of minor parties to impact legislation and how they work to get their issues heard.

Towards the end of the podcast, Representative Mock and I discuss the potential impact of the term limits initiative that was passed by North Dakota voters in 2022. Does he believe it will lead to more Democrats in the North Dakota legislature?
]]>2994false6fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-north-dakota-governor-s-office-w-gov-ed-schafer--64888115
On this episode, the governor talks about why he decided to run for office in 1992, his favorite thing about campaigning for the statewide office, and the most difficult decisions he had to make as governor.

Unlike many former office holders, he has not written a book on his time in office, but he has been generous with his time and speaks frequently on podcasts and a variety of other platforms.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64888115Sun, 16 Mar 2025 14:00:07 +0000Dakota Media AccessFormer Governor Ed Schafer was elected governor of North Dakota in 1992 and served for two terms. He was a popular governor that could have probably been elected to a third term, but he walked away from the office, followed by service in 2008 as the...
On this episode, the governor talks about why he decided to run for office in 1992, his favorite thing about campaigning for the statewide office, and the most difficult decisions he had to make as governor.

Unlike many former office holders, he has not written a book on his time in office, but he has been generous with his time and speaks frequently on podcasts and a variety of other platforms.
]]>2002false5fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-a-bill-is-made-part-2--64629150https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64629150Sun, 02 Mar 2025 15:00:07 +0000Dakota Media AccessOn this episode, we provide an update about making October 1 'North Dakota Constitution Day'. The big news is that the idea to celebrate the state constitution has gone from an idea, to an actual bill, to a bill that has passed the North Dakota House!...1710false4fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/nd-insurance-commissioner-godfread--64629167
Commissioner Godfread noted that the Insurance Department is one of the best kept secrets in the state, and he wants to change that so consumers are more aware of what the department can do for them.

We discuss how the rural nature of North Dakota can affect insurance, the role and services provided by the insurance department, and the role of the insurance commissioner.

North Dakota Insurance Department: https://www.insurance.nd.gov/

North Dakota Insurance Department Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/NDInsuranceDepartment
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64629167Fri, 28 Feb 2025 16:28:30 +0000Dakota Media AccessIn our continuing series on state government, North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread explains the role of the insurance department for the consumer and the state. Commissioner Godfread noted that the Insurance Department is one of the best...
Commissioner Godfread noted that the Insurance Department is one of the best kept secrets in the state, and he wants to change that so consumers are more aware of what the department can do for them.

We discuss how the rural nature of North Dakota can affect insurance, the role and services provided by the insurance department, and the role of the insurance commissioner.

North Dakota Insurance Department: https://www.insurance.nd.gov/

North Dakota Insurance Department Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/NDInsuranceDepartment
]]>1540false3fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-making-of-a-bill-in-n-d-legislature--64303123
Join host Bryan Pechtl and special guest host Samantha Pechtl as they dive into the process of getting a bill submitted to the North Dakota Legislature during the 69th Legislative Session, and the processes of getting the bill through committee, and onto the North Dakota House for a vote. But that is only half of the process to get a bill passed.

This is the first of a short series of episodes that will focus on getting 'North Dakota Constitution Day' recognized and passed into law in order to raise awareness about the North Dakota Constitution and its contents.




Links:

North Dakota Constitution: https://ndlegis.gov/constitution
North Dakota Legislature: https://ndlegis.gov/ 
N.D. Bills and Resolutions Index: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/bill-index.html? 
N.D. Find Your Legislator: https://ndlegis.gov/legend/constituent/districts/public/find_my_legislator/ 
N.D. Legislative Calendar: https://ndlegis.gov/calendar 
N.D. Legislative Video Broadcast: https://video.ndlegis.gov/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64303123Mon, 10 Feb 2025 18:30:58 +0000Dakota Media AccessDid you know that North Dakota even has a constitution? Do you know what it says? Or that its more than triple the length of the U.S. Constitution? If you answered 'no', then the intent of a proposed bill before the North Dakota Legislature is for...
Join host Bryan Pechtl and special guest host Samantha Pechtl as they dive into the process of getting a bill submitted to the North Dakota Legislature during the 69th Legislative Session, and the processes of getting the bill through committee, and onto the North Dakota House for a vote. But that is only half of the process to get a bill passed.

This is the first of a short series of episodes that will focus on getting 'North Dakota Constitution Day' recognized and passed into law in order to raise awareness about the North Dakota Constitution and its contents.




Links:

North Dakota Constitution: https://ndlegis.gov/constitution
North Dakota Legislature: https://ndlegis.gov/ 
N.D. Bills and Resolutions Index: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/bill-index.html? 
N.D. Find Your Legislator: https://ndlegis.gov/legend/constituent/districts/public/find_my_legislator/ 
N.D. Legislative Calendar: https://ndlegis.gov/calendar 
N.D. Legislative Video Broadcast: https://video.ndlegis.gov/]]>1791bills,government,laws,northdakotafalse2fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/secretary-of-state-michael-howe--64303049
The office itself is one of the most consequential offices in the state, especially as it relates to elections. Secretary Howe discusses the role that the office of Secretary of State plays in the lives of North Dakotans.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64303049Mon, 10 Feb 2025 18:26:29 +0000Dakota Media AccessThe North Dakota Secretary of State Michael Howe is charged with ensuring secure elections, registering lobbyists, business registrations, and also acts as the Commissioner of Combative Sports, among the many hats that he and his staff wear. The...
The office itself is one of the most consequential offices in the state, especially as it relates to elections. Secretary Howe discusses the role that the office of Secretary of State plays in the lives of North Dakotans.
]]>1913government,michaelhowe,northdakotafalse1full