Best Silk Road Project Podcasts (2025)

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Sugar-Brined Pork Chops and Parenthood: Chef Elijah Rock 27:35

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1d ago27:35

27:35

Send us a text Ever wonder what happens when French culinary techniques meet Caribbean flavors in a small Florida town? Chef Elijah Rock is answering that question at Bricks (B-R-I-X) in Port Richey, where he’s crafting accessible fine dining while embracing first-time fatherhood. The journey from Vermont to Florida’s Gulf Coast has been transforma…

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Porcupine Report #68: “The Revolution is Here” with Eric Brakey at PorcFest 2024 55:40

2d ago55:40

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With Eric at PorcFest this week, please enjoy his talk from PorcFest 2024 about his journey from neoconservative to libertarian activist, sparked by Ron Paul's influence. He recounts his transformation from a war-supporting teenager to a key player in the Ron Paul Revolution, including his leadership in the dramatic takeover of the 2012 Maine Repub…

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Breaking Silence: Motherhood, Mental Health, and the Future of Hospitality” Featuring Colleen Silk of Hospitality Bites & Chef Ciji Castro of Domestic Gourmet 49:02

9d ago49:02

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Send us a text In this powerful episode of the Walk-In Talk Podcast, Carl Fiadini is joined by two dynamic women reshaping the hospitality industry from the inside out. Colleen Silk, founder of Hospitality Bites Media and North American Director of The Burnt Chef Project, opens up about mental health, motherhood, and how storytelling became her pat…

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Porcupine Report #67: “Kibbe on PorcFest” with Matt Kibbe 1:05:21

10d ago1:05:21

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Matt Kibbe joins the Eric to discuss his documentary Off the Grid with Thomas Massie, highlighting the congressman's off-the-grid lifestyle and principled stand for liberty. Kibbe explains how Massie’s independence from Washington power structures gives him the courage to challenge establishment narratives, including Donald Trump’s big-spending pol…

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The real purpose of cooking isn't what you think it is: Chef Brent Weathers 52:09

14d ago52:09

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Send us a text The heart of the culinary industry isn't found in offices or award ceremonies – it's at the stove. Chef Brent Weathers proves this with every dish he creates and every truth bomb he drops in this refreshingly honest conversation about what really happens behind kitchen doors. Unlike many of his contemporaries who chase titles and man…

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Porcupine Report #66: “Ross Ulbricht’s Silk Road to Porcest” with Martha Bueno 49:38

17d ago49:38

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Ross Ulbricht, creator of the Silk Road and a central figure in the early crypto movement, is now a free man—and will be making his first-ever PorcFest appearance this month! Eric and guest Martha Bueno reflect on the long road to Ross's release, highlighting the libertarian community's unwavering support over more than a decade. They introduce Mot…

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Inside the Growth of America’s Top Restaurant Trade Shows with Paul Pedrow of Restaurant Events LLC 42:29

22d ago42:29

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Send us a text How do you blend passion and business in the food industry? Paul Pedrow has mastered this combination through his remarkable journey from a high school pizza shop employee to a key executive at Restaurant Events LLC, where he now leads major industry trade show Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances sa…

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Porcupine Report #65: “The Road to Digital Serfdom” with Aaron Day 53:41

24d ago53:41

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Aaron Day joins the show to share his journey into the liberty movement, including his early business ventures, his political activism in New Hampshire, and how federal overreach radicalized him. He focuses on the threats posed by central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and how current stablecoin regulations are paving the way for digital financial…

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Gulf Shrimp A look into the Tagliatelle Short Documentary | Culinary | 2025: Chef Thomas Parker 35:38

30d ago35:38

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Send us a text Dawn breaks over Tampa's shrimp docks as Chef Thomas Parker begins a culinary odyssey that will fundamentally transform how he approaches his craft. This powerful journey, captured in Walk- In Talk Media's debut mini-documentary, takes us beyond the polished restaurant plates to the weathered hands that first touch our food. At the d…

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Porcupine Report #64: “Crypto Freedom at the PorcFest Exit Lounge ” with Christopher Gronski, Paul Puey, Catherine Bonadin, and Daniel J 56:56

1M ago56:56

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Eric welcomes four special guests to explore the excitement surrounding this year’s PorcFest, taking place June 16–22. Representing Edge, Pirate Chain, Destination Freedom, and Anarchapulco, the guests introduce the Exit Lounge—a dynamic collaboration centered on privacy, cryptocurrency, and personal sovereignty. Together, they share their vision o…

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Porcupine Report #63: “Sound Money Across the States ” with Daniel Diaz 55:50

1M ago55:50

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Executive Director of Citizens for Sound Money, Daniel Diaz, joins the program to discuss the nationwide push to restore gold and silver as legal tender. Daniel shares major legislative victories in states like Florida and Missouri, the role of sound money in protecting economic freedom, and the legacy of the late Jim Forsythe. He also explains the…

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Chef Aaron Brooks: From Four Seasons to Fire-Cooked Flavor in Miami’s Little River 42:02

1M ago42:02

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Send us a text The sizzle of fat dripping onto hot embers, the aromatic smoke wafting upward, and the unmistakable char marks on a perfectly grilled steak – few things speak more directly to our primal connection with food than cooking over live fire. For Chef Aaron Brooks, this elemental approach to cooking bridges his Australian roots and his cur…

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Porcupine Report #62: “A Bitcoin Recovery Story” with Josh Swift and Joshua Groth 1:00:53

1M ago1:00:53

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Joshua Groth and Josh Swift join the Porcupine Report to share their unique journeys into the world of Bitcoin and personal freedom. Groth, an adventure athlete, explains how discovering Bitcoin gave him the power to save, invest in his future, and rethink what truly matters. Swift recounts the incredible story of finding a long-lost bitcoin wallet…

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From Humboldt Park to Haute Cuisine: Chef David Reyes on Survival, Soul Food, and Building Culinary Culture 55:31

2M ago55:31

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Send us a text Chef David Reyes shares his remarkable journey from Chicago's Humboldt Park to culinary innovation at St. Pete Distillery, revealing how experiences in European Michelin kitchens and family traditions shaped his cooking philosophy. • Growing up in inner-city Chicago during the 1980s amid violence and danger • Learning foundational ho…

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Porcupine Report #61: “The Legacy of Ron Paul” YALCON Panel with Jack Hunter and JP Cortez 52:49

2M ago52:49

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Eric shares the stage with Jack Hunter and Jp Cortez at YALCON Atlanta to discuss the legacy of Dr. Ron Paul. They emphasize how Ron Paul’s campaigns significantly reshaped American political discourse—especially within the Republican Party—by introducing anti-war, pro-liberty, and sound money ideas. They marvel at the way his presence was disrupti…

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Fork in the Road: Chef Nelson Millán’s Leap from Law to the Line 39:03

2M ago39:03

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Send us a text Sacrifice, resilience, and cultural pride converge in this profound conversation with Chef Nelson Millán, whose remarkable journey from Puerto Rico to global culinary ambassador demonstrates the transformative power of unwavering commitment. Born in Puerto Rico and initially pursuing law to please his father, Millán's life changed co…

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Eric Brakey at Young Americans for Liberty "Keepers of the Revolution" Conference 1:18:21

2M ago1:18:21

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Eric Brakey speaks with Young Americans for Liberty student activists at Westfield State University in Massachusetts, sharing powerful insights on how to effectively fight for liberty—and why New Hampshire is the best place to do it. The conversation included engaging questions from the audience, sparking thoughtful discussion and deeper exploratio…

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First L.A. Female Chef President in a Century: Chef Fionna España 45:50

2M ago45:50

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Send us a text When Chef Fionna España was told she should "just stay home" because she had "too many kids" to become a real chef, she didn't just push back—she made history. As the first female president of the LA chapter of the American Culinary Federation in over 100 years, this proud Latina executive chef has transformed barriers into stepping …

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Porcupine Report #60: “Sound Money in the States” with Jp Cortez 58:39

2M ago58:39

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Executive Director of the Sound Money Defense League, Jp Cortez, joins Eric to discuss his work with sound money and Ron Paul’s influence through his longstanding advocacy for it. Jp highlights the growing global shift toward de-dollarization and alternative stores of value like gold, silver, and Bitcoin. He also emphasizes grassroots efforts and l…

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Grilling for Good: Aaron Norris on BBQ, Faith, and Philanthropy 40:14

2M ago40:14

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Send us a text We dive into the inspiring story of Aaron Norris, member of Hog Addiction Team and winner at Hogs for the Cause 2025, where they raised over $50,000 for pediatric brain cancer research while taking home the Grand Champion title. • Aaron shares his journey from growing up on an Indiana farm to launching innovative cooking equipment • …

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Porcupine Report #59: “Ron Paul’s Legacy 13 Years Later” with Jack Hunter 1:10:12

2M ago1:10:12

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Seasoned Porcupine Report guest Jack Hunter joins Eric to share in the excitement for the upcoming Porcupine Freedom Festival, where he’ll return as a featured speaker. Together, they dig into current hot topics, including Cory Booker’s 25-hour performative Senate speech—which pales in comparison to past substantive filibusters like Rand Paul’s 201…

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Chef Christian Barruos-Brens: What drives a 21-year-old to cook with the wisdom of veterans? 43:07

3M ago43:07

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Send us a text When adversity strikes, some crumble under its weight while others transform it into remarkable opportunity. At just 21 years old, Chef Christian Barruos-Brens exemplifies the latter, having built a thriving culinary career from the most challenging circumstances life could throw his way. Christian's remarkable journey began at 16 wh…

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Porcupine Report #58: “PorcFest is Coming!” with Amy Norris 43:52

3M ago43:52

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Amy Norris joins the program to talk about all things PorcFest! She discusses her experiences at the event, the diverse groups people who attend, and the key themes explored there, such as personal freedom, voluntary exchange, and self-sufficiency. She shares memorable moments and interactions from the festival, illustrating the community-driven at…

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Hogs for the Cause: Cooking for Kids with Brain Cancer with Clint Scroggs 29:51

3M ago29:51

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Send us a text Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries…

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Porcupine Report #57: “The Parent Revolution” with Corey DeAngelis 53:12

3M ago53:12

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Corey DeAngelis is a prominent advocate for school choice. He joins the Porcupine Report to discuss the growing momentum of education freedom policies across the U.S., particularly in New Hampshire. Corey notes the rapid expansion of school choice in the last few years, with 15 states adopting universal programs as well as how pandemic school closu…

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"Balancing Work, Family, and Mental Health in the Food Industry with Chef Thomas Parker and Jamie Wyckoff" 48:02

3M ago48:02

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Send us a text Introducing the SupraCut System - the automated solution that enhances safety, quality, and efficiency, cutting up to 120 perfect citrus wedges per minute, 6 times faster than manual. Patented tech delivers uniform slices, reducing waste and eliminating plastic, while the hygienic, contactless design lowers contamination and injuries…

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Porcupine Report #56: “Education Freedom” with Jody Underwood 49:31

3M ago49:31

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Our latest guest on the Porcupine Report, Jody Underwood, is an advocate for education freedom and founder of Ed Opt. She shares her journey within the Free State movement and her experience serving on the Croydon School Board. She explains the variety of educational options available in New Hampshire, including homeschooling, learning centers, cha…

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Breaking the Kitchen's Silent Struggles: Burnt Chef Project with Imrun Texeira 41:54

3M ago41:54

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Send us a text Chef Imrun Texeira takes us on a powerful journey through the intense world of professional kitchens, from his humble beginnings as a 14-year-old dishwasher to competing on Top Chef Canada and staging at the world-renowned Noma restaurant. With remarkable candor, he reveals how his multicultural heritage—blending Northern Indian, Eas…

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Porcupine Report #55: “Cruising Towards Liberty” with Tom Woods 54:54

3M ago54:54

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Tom Woods and Eric recap the recent Tom Woods Cruise, which included stops in places like Prospera, Honduras, a hub for libertarian free cities. The cruise featured discussions on liberty, a pitch contest, and a concert by Broadway performer Clifton Duncan. Tom also discusses the rise of populist sentiment and how libertarians can use it to push th…

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Behind the Camera: Food Media with the U.S. Culinary Open at NAFEM25 40:30

4M ago40:30

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Send us a text The inaugural US Culinary Open at NAFEM in Atlanta brought together world-class chef talent, premium ingredients, and a media team determined to document every moment of culinary excellence. Have you ever wondered what happens when top culinary professionals compete on a world-class stage? Our team spent five intense days (working up…

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Eric Brakey on Kibbe on Liberty 54:34

4M ago54:34

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Eric joins Matt Kibbe to discuss New Hampshire's emergence as a hub for libertarian policies and highlights the Free State Project's success in attracting thousands of libertarians to the state, resulting in legislative wins like abolishing income taxes and expanding school choice. Eric emphasizes the importance of community-building, which helped …

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Eric Brakey on The Way Forward Podcast 1:51:52

4M ago1:51:52

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Eric joins The Way Forward Podcast to discuss the Free State Project’s goal of concentrating libertarians in New Hampshire to create a politically influential community, emphasizing localism over federal engagement. He critiques the challenges of libertarian success in federal politics, highlights New Hampshire’s relative freedom during COVID-19, a…

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Porcupine Report #54: “True Crimes: P'Nut the Squirrel” with Ivy Karns 55:35

4M ago55:35

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Partner Relations Director for Emergent Order Foundation, Ivy Karns, joins the program to tell the true crime story of P’Nut the squirrel, killed by government thugs in New York. P’Nut was rescued by Mark Long and became an internet sensation, amassing over 500,000 followers. His fame helped fund an animal sanctuary, P’nuts Freedom Farm, which Mark…

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Matthew Beaudin: The Indiana Jones of Culinary 41:39

4M ago41:39

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Send us a text Chef Matthew Beaudin explores the intersection of culinary innovation and sustainability while advocating for responsible seafood sourcing. His discussion sheds light on global sourcing practices, community engagement, and the vital role of consumer awareness in conservation efforts. • Chef Matthew’s diverse culinary background and i…

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Chicago's Flavor Innovator Anthony Martorina 44:25

4M ago44:25

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Send us a text Anthony Martorina’s culinary journey, from film editing to becoming a well known food critic, unfolds in a lively discussion about Chicago’s dining scene, memorable food experiences, and innovative trends in cuisine. Tune in to learn about the art of judging food and discover tips for aspiring creators passionate about sharing their …

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Porcupine Report #53: “News from the State House” with Michael Granger 57:51

4M ago57:51

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Eric is joined by Representative Michael Granger to give an update on the latest liberty-driven initiatives in New Hampshire including Defend the Guard, Right to Work Legislation, Education Freedom Accounts, and State Budget Cuts. Michael’s outlook for this year in the State House is determined and mission-driven, with a focus on long-term, increme…

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Matt Haines, Chef Sara Salgado: King Cakes and Mardi Gras Season 43:30

4M ago43:30

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Send us a text Author and journalist, Matt Haines explains how King Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a cultural celebration that blends history, tradition, and culinary artistry, especially during Mardi Gras. The episode explores the origins, varieties, and the community rituals surrounding King Cake, highlighting its significance in New Orle…

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Porcupine Report #52: “Homesteading in the Free State” with Jay Noone 1:04:07

5M ago1:04:07

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Jay Noone is a homesteader who runs a homeschool co-op for kids to learn farming in the Free State. Jay moved to New Hampshire as part of the Free State Project in 2016. A proud father of two, Jay started raising cows, pigs, and chickens while starting his kids program to prepare the next generation to live a self sufficient lifestlye. Part of Jay’…

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Chef Cynthia Romstadt: From Dirt Roads to Fine Dining and Major Culinary Competitions 37:47

5M ago37:47

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Send us a text The latest podcast episode explores the inspiring journeys of Chef Cynthia Romstadt and Chef - turned Proteins Salesman, Curt Hicken, who share their insights on unique ingredients, culinary competition preparation, and the evolving role of women in the kitchen. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of mentorship and …

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Porcupine Report #51: “Free[d] Ross ” with Carla Gericke 58:26

5M ago58:26

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Carla Gericke joins the program once again to celebrate the pardoning of Ross Ulbricht by Donald Trump, emphasizing the relentless activism of his mother, Lyn Ulbricht. She recalls how the Free State Project and many libertarians have supported Ross’s cause for over a decade, organizing events, spreading awareness, and pressuring politicians to act…

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From New Orleans to Around The World: Chef Paul Gaskins & The Inn at Celebration 41:31

5M ago41:31

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Send us a text Chef Paul Gaskins shares his culinary journey influenced by Southern roots and global flavors while navigating a major renovation at the Inn of Celebration. He emphasizes the importance of innovation in dishes while leading and motivating his culinary team to embrace change and excellence. • Chef Paul introduces himself and his culin…

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Eric Brakey on The Black Powder Podcast 1:53:05

5M ago1:53:05

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Eric joins The Black Powder Podcast to share the vision of the Free State Project as well as its many goals and successes. Thousands have come to New Hampshire to influence the state towards greater liberty and individual freedom, greatly influencing local politics in areas like school choice, tax abolition, and Second Amendment rights. He boasts t…

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Two-Time Chopped Winner Opal Poullard: From Military to Mentoring - A Culinary Journey of Resilience and Inspiration 34:32

5M ago34:32

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Send us a text Chef Opal Poullard’s journey from the military to the culinary world is an inspiring tale of resilience and dedication. She shares her experiences, from competing on Food Network's Chopped to her upcoming goals of fostering the next generation of chefs through mentorship. • Chef Opal's military background and its influence on her cul…

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Porcupine Report #50: “Food Freedom in the Free State” with Stephen Nass 56:14

5M ago56:14

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On the 50th episode of the Porcupine Report, chef and food advocate, Stephen Nass, joins the program to share his activism in the Free State, including the Free State Food Network, which promotes local food producers and advocates for food freedom by networking and supporting businesses, while also addressing political issues like unnecessary regul…

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Table Talk: The Art of Dining with RAK Porcelain's Tina Davis and Guest Chef, Kevin Rasberry 58:08

5M ago58:08

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Send us a text The Walk-In Talk Podcast explores the interconnectedness of food, ambiance, and emotional experience in dining with insights from Chef Kevin Rasberry and Tina Davis from RAK Porcelain USA. They discuss the power of colors, shapes, and tableware in enhancing culinary presentation, especially in assisted living environments, emphasizin…

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Porcupine Report #49: “New Year, New Legislature” with Tom Mannion 58:31

5M ago58:31

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Freshly elected to a second term in the NH House, Assistant Majority Whip Tom Mannion joins the program once again to discuss the upcoming battles in the NH Legislature, including universal school choice, building more housing, Right to Work, legalizing cannabis, and bringing our troops home with Defend the Guard.…

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Porcupine Report #48: “2024 in Review” with Carla Gericke 58:14

6M ago58:14

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Carla and Eric join to rejoice in the many wins for the FSP in 2024, including successfully meeting the end of the year fundraising goal and the significant election victories for freedom friendly candidates in New Hampshire - securing legislative dominance and advancing libertarian priorities, such as eliminating the state's interest and dividends…

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Porcupine Report #47: “Christmas Special” with Dennis, Chris, Constance, and Jason 58:11

6M ago58:11

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Merry Christmas from The Porcupine Report! Eric is joined by a panel of regulars to the show to talk about Christmas spirit in New Hampshire. They celebrate New Hampshire's rank as the state with the most Christmas spirit, due to the many holiday events that happen annually as well as activities such as snowmobiling, ice fishing, skiing, and ice sk…

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Chef Lance Nitahara’s Hawaiian Roots & CIA Flare with Pooch Rivera 23:36

6M ago23:36

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Send us a text Join us for an illuminating conversation with the extraordinary Chef Lance Nitahara as he takes us on a personal culinary journey from the tropical shores of Oahu to the esteemed Culinary Institute of America (CIA) and beyond. Discover how Chef Lance masterfully marries his Hawaiian heritage with classical culinary traditions, transf…

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Porcupine Report #46: “AI for Liberty” with Matt Barney 55:24

6M ago55:24

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Matt Barney is a long-time supporter of and recent mover to the Free State. His book, Growing Liberty: Nurturing Personal and Economic Freedom in an Unfree World, highlights stories of Free State Project participants and provides psychological insights to help libertarians thrive in New Hampshire.Matt discusses his work as an industrial-organizatio…