Episode 16 -- Supreme Court of Appetizers, Biles vs. Gaines, LA Protests & Wells Fargo Memories
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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Episode 15 -- JD Scholten's BIG Announcement and Supreme Court of 90s Sitcoms
This week we get a surprise visit from JD Scholten and he discusses his recent candidacy for US Senate. We also cover our Supreme Court of 90s TV Show Sitcoms and recap the news of the week!
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Episode 14 -- State Senator Sarah Trone Garriott & Supreme Court of War Movies
This week, the guys sit down with Iowa State Senator and current U.S. House candidate Sarah Trone Garriott for a wide-ranging conversation on faith, public service, and the politics of religion. We dive into her perspective as a Lutheran pastor in the state legislature, her thoughts on the controversial School Chaplain bill, and what it’s like balancing spiritual values with the demands of public office.Then, Ryan, Josh, and Tyler shift gears and debate their Supreme Court of War Movies—each host nominates their top three films for the ultimate war movie canon. Will your favorite make the cut?Grab a pint, tune in, and join the conversation.
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Episode 13 - Your Friendly Neighborhood Reporter Zachary Oren Smith
This week on Pints & Diplomacy, we sit down with fellow Big J Journalist Zachary Oren Smith and maybe our next Best Friend to talk about his journey from growing up in Mississippi to reporting in Iowa. We dive into the role of journalism in today's world, hear personal stories from Zach’s career, and put his friendship to the test with our signature Best Friend Quiz. We also spend some time discussing our favorite expletives. It’s a thoughtful, funny, and honest conversation you won’t want to miss.
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Episode 12 - LIVE Interview w/ Candidate for Governor Rob Sand & Supreme Court of Summer
this live episode from the hoppy heart of Des Moines at Lua Brewing, we sit down with Iowa State Auditor—and now gubernatorial candidate—Rob Sand. Over some top-tier craft beers, we ask the big questions: Why’s he running for governor? What’s his go-to music festival? And can our half-baked money-saving ideas actually fix the state budget (spoiler: probably not, but he humors us anyway)?We also dig into the serious stuff—like the real challenges facing Iowans—and Rob shares why showing up and listening still matter in politics. It’s equal parts civic discourse, brewery banter, and dad-joke diplomacy. Come for the policy, stay for the pints.