PODCAST · news
The Commonwealth Matters
by Commonwealth Policy Foundation
The Commonwealth Matters is a weekly long-form program on issues and events that affect Kentuckians.
Episodes
-
Are Government Road Contracts Rigged? | Andrew McNeill
If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Policy Center, please email [email protected]. Like and Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/commonwealthpolicy Follow us on X: @CPC4Kentucky Follow us on YouTube: @commonwealthpolicycenter...
-
Chromebooks Hurt Education | Sen. Lindsey Tichenor
Appreciate our work? Click here to DONATE to our 250 For 250 Campaign: https://commonwealthpolicycenter.org/donate/ Kentucky Sen. Lindsey Tichenor joins Richard Nelson to examine the growing use of screens in classrooms and why she believes schools need to restore balance between technology...
-
CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION in KENTUCKY? | w/ ADF Attorney Ryan Tucker
Appreciate our work? Click here to DONATE to our 250 For 250 Campaign: https://commonwealthpolicycenter.org/donate/ ADF attorney Ryan Tucker joins Richard Nelson to discuss religious freedom, government discrimination, and the cases involving Sunrise Children’s Services and Answers in…
more -
Kentucky Has $800 MILLION in Unclaimed Property | Mark Metcalf
Appreciate our work? Click here to DONATE to our 250 For 250 Campaign: https://commonwealthpolicycenter.org/donate/ Kentucky Treasurer Mark Metcalf joins the Commonwealth Matters to discuss his life, work, and the money OWED to Kentuckians. Visit our website at...
-
What Are Voters Looking For? | Fmr. Auditor Mike Harmon
Appreciate our work? Click here to DONATE to our 250 For 250 Campaign: https://commonwealthpolicycenter.org/donate/ Former Kentucky Auditor Mike Harmon joins The Commonwealth Matters to discuss what it takes to run for office in 2026. If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive...
-
Kentucky's BILLION Dollar Medicaid SCAM | Auditor Allison Ball
Appreciate our work? Click here to DONATE to our 250 For 250 Campaign: https://commonwealthpolicycenter.org/donate/ State Auditor Allison Ball joins The Commonwealth Matters to discuss her uncovering of nearly one BILLION dollars in waste, fraud, and abuse. If you would like to interview...
-
Should Christians be Political? | Tom Sculthorpe
Appreciate our work? Click here to DONATE to our 250 For 250 Campaign: https://commonwealthpolicycenter.org/donate/ This week, Richard Nelson and Dr. Tom Sculthorpe discuss how Christians should engage in politics in light of their faith commitments. If you would like to interview Richard...
-
An Andy Beshear Presidency?
Appreciate our work? Click here to DONATE to our 250 For 250 Campaign: https://commonwealthpolicycenter.org/donate/ This week, Richard Nelson and Mike Harmon discuss what a Andy Beshear Presidency might look like based on his recent comments on "Face the Nation." If you would like to interview...
-
Changing Culture Post-Dobbs | David Bereit
Appreciate our work? Click here to DONATE to our 250 For 250 Campaign: https://commonwealthpolicycenter.org/donate/ Richard Nelson talks with David Bereit, founder of 40 Days for Life, about how lasting cultural change begins upstream—in families, churches, communities, and faithful everyday...
-
Is it Sinful to Love America? | Daniel Darling
Visit our website to donate today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/commonwealthpolicycenter Is it sinful for Christians to love America? Daniel Darling, author of In Defense of Christian Patriotism, joins Commonwealth Matters to discuss Christian patriotism, national identity and how Christians…
more -
Three Ways Christians can Change a Nation W/ Mike Harmon
Visit our website at www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org.Like and Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/commonwealthpolicyFollow us on X: @CPC4KentuckyE-Newsletter: https://www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org/mailing-list/General Production/Business Inquiries: [email protected]
-
Fancy Farm 2026: Kentucky's Political Super Bowl Is Here
Fancy Farm is Kentucky's biggest political tradition and one of the state's most influential political events. Richard Nelson and Mike Harmon discuss what to expect this year, the races and candidates to watch, and what the 2026 midterms could mean for Kentucky's future. If you would like to...
-
Discipling the Nations Through Culture W/ Darrow Miller
If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Policy Center, please email [email protected]. The Commonwealth Matters has moved to our new website at www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org . Please visit the new site to access the program. Like...
-
The Theology of the Declaration of Independence w/ Lathan Watts
On this episode of The Commonwealth Matters, Richard Nelson is joined by ADF Attorney Lathan Watts to discuss the theology of the Declaration of Independence. While primarily a political document, Watts points out the deep Christian roots of the Declaration—including what he calls "the most...
-
Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman's Education Policy W/ Dr. Gary Houchens
The newest episode of The Commonwealth Matters with Richard Nelson and Dr. Gary Houchens explored the education policy gubernatorial candidate Jacqueline Coleman.
-
America's Founding In Light of the Semiquincentennial W/ Mark David Hall
If you liked the episode, give us a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to our channel!Visit our website at www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org.Like and Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/commonwealthpolicyFollow us on X: @CPC4KentuckyE-Newsletter: https://www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org/mailing-list/General...
-
Christian Patriotism: Dr. John D. Wilsey
America's 250th birthday prompts a crucial reflection: what does patriotism really mean for Christians? Is loving your country compatible with biblical faith, or does it risk misplaced loyalty? Join Dr. John Wilsey, renowned church historian and author of God and Country, as he unpacks the…
more -
Welcome to Fidelity Month! W/ Dr. Robert George
Welcome to Fidelity Month! This is the first week of Fidelity Month here in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Fidelity Month is a proactive, forward-looking ideal of the things that make for healthy society. Dr. Robert George was the founder of Fidelity Month, starting it four years ago, and…
more -
Primaries Upon Us! W/ Mike Harmon
In this episode of Commonwealth Matters, Richard Nelson and Mike Harmon discuss Kentucky's candidate comparison project, a tool for voters seeking informed, faith-aligned decisions. They reveal how the project provides insights into candidates' stances on life, family, and faith beyond campaign...
-
KY Senate Candidate Interview: Daniel Cameron
Daniel Cameron, Kentucky’s former Attorney General, reveals the hidden truths of government waste, fraud, and corruption costing taxpayers billions. He shares a bold plan to restore accountability and integrity in Washington, tackling issues like Medicaid fraud and border security. This episode…
more -
On Christian Statesmanship W/ David Walls
In this episode, Richard Nelson from the Commonwealth Matters discusses the upcoming May 19th midterm election with David Walls, Executive Director of the Family Foundation. They explore the importance of voting, the role of character in leadership, and the distinction between 501(c)(3) and...
-
Abortion Exceptions and the Right to Life W/ Richard Nelson
If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Policy Center, please email [email protected]. The Commonwealth Matters has moved to our new website at www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org . Please visit the new site to access the program. Like…
more -
What is Christian Nationalism? w/ Dr. John Wilsey
In this week's edition of The Commonwealth Matters we are joined by Dr. John Wilsey of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary to discuss what Christian nationalism is and if Christians should support it. If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive Director of the Commonwealth…
more -
Social Media's Harms to Children W/ Richard Nelson
In this episode, Richard Nelson delves into the alarming impact of social media on minors, highlighting a landmark ruling against Meta for failing to protect children. With insights into how social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are designed to be addictive, the discussion explores…
more -
Foster Care Uncovered W/ Allison Ball
Kentucky's foster care system is in crisis, with children placed in unsafe environments. State Auditor Allison Ball uncovers shocking findings from a 129-page investigation, revealing systemic failures and neglect. Discover how bureaucratic resistance and lack of transparency have allowed these...
-
Legislative Highlights W/ Richard Nelson
Most Kentuckians are unaware of the powerful role faith and morality play in shaping public policy—and why Christian involvement in government is deeply biblical, not optional. Richard Nelson uncovers how biblical principles justify believers’ active engagement in politics, spotlighting specific...
-
Can Christianity Affirm LGBTQ Identity? w/ Dr. Hershael York
It’s becoming common for Christian leaders and denominations to reject biblical authority when it comes to human sexuality and marriage. In a recent column in the Lexington Herald-Leader one Kentucky pastor goes so far as to bless the LGBTQ community. The column says Kentucky’s conversion therapy...
-
Defending Children Online W/ Chelsey Youman
This episode features Chelsey Yeoman from Alliance Defending Freedom discussing the harmful effects of social media on minors, recent legislative efforts in Kentucky, and the need for regulation to protect children's mental health and well-being.
-
K-12 Education in the Commonwealth W/ Richard Nelson
If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Policy Center, please email [email protected]. The Commonwealth Matters has moved to our new website at www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org . Please visit the new site to access the...
-
The Fight for Life in Kentucky W/ Rep. Nancy Tate
If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Policy Center, please email [email protected]. The Commonwealth Matters has moved to our new website at www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org . Please visit the new site to access the...
-
Kentucky Assembly Highlights
If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Policy Center, please email [email protected]. The Commonwealth Matters has moved to our new website at www.commonwealthpolicycenter.org . Please visit the new site to access the…
more -
How Abortion Harms Everything w/ Alexandra DeSanctis
In this week's edition of The Commonwealth Matters we are joined by Alexandra DeSanctis, a writer for National Review and fellow at the Ethics & Public Policy Center, to discuss her new book, co-authored with Ryan Anderson, "Tearing Us Apart: How Abortion Harms Everything and Solves Nothing." If...
-
KY Profiting Off the Losses of its People W/ Les Bernal
If you would like to interview Richard Nelson, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Policy Center, please email [email protected]. Like and Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/commonwealthpolicy Follow us on X: @CPC4Kentucky Follow us on…
more -
Oppposing Gender Ideology W/ Vernadette Broyles
In this compelling episode, Richard Nelson engages with Vernadette Broyles, founder of the Child and Parental Rights Campaign, to explore the contentious issues surrounding gender ideology, parental rights, and the protection of minors. They delve into the legal battles and societal implications…
more -
Understanding DEI in Public Schools W/ Senator Lindsey Tichenor
In this episode of The Commonwealth Matters, Richard Nelson engages with State Senator Lindsay Tichenor to explore the implications of Senate Bill 26, which seeks to remove Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs from Kentucky's K-12 public schools. The discussion delves into the…
more -
Should 18-Year-Olds Gamble on Sports? w/Richard Nelson
Kentucky is one of the few states that allows 18-year-olds to gamble on sports, even as most set the minimum age at 21. On this episode of Commonwealth Matters, we examine the risks legalized sports betting poses to young adults—especially college students—through aggressive advertising, mobile...
-
Reflecting on 2025: Chaos, Controversy, and the Hope for 2026
In a candid year-end reflection, Richard Nelson surveys the tumultuous political landscape of 2025. From the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk to ongoing controversies over gambling, from debates around Medicaid reform to the sweeping “Big Beautiful Bill,” Nelson examines how the nation...
-
What Human Dignity Requires of Kentucky w/ Dr. Robert P. George
This week, Richard Nelson sits down with Dr. Robert P. George, McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence at Princeton University, for a wide-ranging conversation on human dignity and the moral challenges posed by abortion, IVF, and medical aid in dying (MAID). Drawing on philosophical and theological...
-
Preparing for 2026: Moral, Social, and Fiscal Priorities in Kentucky w/ Rep. Max Wise
Richard Nelson of the Commonwealth Policy Center sits down in the office of Senate Majority Floor Leader Max Wise for an in-depth conversation on priorities for Kentucky’s 2026 legislative session. The discussion explores a range of pressing moral and social issues facing the Commonwealth, as…
more -
Navigating Political Turbulence: Faith as a Refuge w/ Richard Nelson
Join us as we tackle the complexities of today's political climate and discuss how to stay grounded in the chaos. We'll dive into recent polling data, explore the media's impact, and consider how timeless principles can guide us through these challenging times. It's all about finding ways to…
more -
The Battle for Conscience: What's at Stake in Kentucky? w/ Greg Chafuen
What would you do if you were told by your boss to use gender-preferred pronouns in the work place forcing you to violate your conscience, and if you refused to do so, you would lose your job? Or what would you do if you were a pro-life nurse and were forced to give abortion-inducing drugs to a...
-
What Actually Happened on That First Thanksgiving? w/ Dr. Thomas Kidd
In this week's edition of The Commonwealth Matters we are joined by Dr. Thomas Kidd, a professor and historian at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, to discuss the first Thanksgiving and how to study history from a Christian perspective. If you would like to interview Richard Nelson,...
-
The Horrific Reality of Human Trafficking w/ Dr. Jeanne Allert
In this week's edition of The Commonwealth Matters we are joined by Dr. Jeanne Allert, Executive Director of the Institute for Shelter Care, to discuss human trafficking in the United States and in Kentucky. You can find out more and contact Institute for Shelter care at...
-
Cultural Sanctification: Engaging the Culture with the Early Church w/ Dr. Stephen Presley
How should Christians engage the culture? And should Christians engage politically? To help us think through these important questions with help from the wisdom of the early Church, we are joined by Dr. Stephen Presley to discuss his latest book Cultural Sanctification: Engaging the World like…
more -
Did America Have a Christian Founding? w/ Mark David Hall
Is America a Christian nation? If so, how should Christianity influence public policy? In this week's edition of the Commonwealth Matters, we are joined by Dr. Mark David Hall, professor at the Robertson School of Government at Regent University. We discuss his latest books Proclaim Liberty...
-
Protecting Kids or Censoring Books? The Debate at Daviess County Library w/ Richard Nelson
On this episode of The Commonwealth Matters, Richard Nelson addresses the controversy surrounding sexually explicit LGBTQ books found in the Daviess County Public Library’s youth section. Nelson explains why protecting children from pornographic and graphic material is not an act of censorship…
more -
Christ for Kentucky w/ Robert Cunningham
In this week's edition of the Commonwealth Matters, we are joined by Robert Cunningham, founder and director of Christ for Kentucky and former Senior Pastor of Tates Creek Presbyterian Church. We discuss what it means to be faithful and to do God's will in our post-modern society, and we discuss...
-
Christian Hope in a Modern World w/Richard Nelson
In this episode, Richard Nelson explores what it means to hold fast to Christian hope amid the challenges of modern life. He examines how faith can remain steady in a culture marked by doubt, distraction, and moral confusion. Through biblical reflection and personal insight, Nelson shows how the...
-
Biblical Leadership for Your Life and Work w/ Todd Gray
What is leadership? How do you become a leader? What biblical principles can leaders integrate into their lives and work? To talk further about biblical leadership is Todd Gray, the Executive Director of the Kentucky Baptist Convention and host of the podcast "Leadership Lessons." If you would…
more -
Accountability in Kentucky Schools w/ Sen. Lindsey Tichenor
On the latest episode of Commonwealth Matters, Richard Nelson sits down with Sen. Lindsey Tichenor for a wide-ranging conversation about education in Kentucky. As a member of the Senate Education Committee, Tichenor offers insight into the challenges facing the state’s schools, including recent...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Commonwealth Matters is a weekly long-form program on issues and events that affect Kentuckians.
HOSTED BY
Commonwealth Policy Foundation
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Commonwealth Matters have?
The Commonwealth Matters currently has 422 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Commonwealth Matters about?
The Commonwealth Matters is a weekly long-form program on issues and events that affect Kentuckians.
How often does The Commonwealth Matters release new episodes?
The Commonwealth Matters publishes regularly with 422 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to The Commonwealth Matters?
You can listen to The Commonwealth Matters on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Commonwealth Matters?
The Commonwealth Matters is created and hosted by Commonwealth Policy Foundation.
URL copied to clipboard!