Pints & Diplomacy

We sit down with Sean Bagniewski and Mandy Newton Rosenow for a fun conversation about Mandy’s campaign for the Iowa House, Iowa politics, and what’s at stake in November. Plus, Sean mixes up his famous Old Fashioneds while we talk politics, life, and everything in between. Grab a drink and join us!

This week we sit down with Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Chris Jones to talk about Iowa water quality, why so many farmers vote Republican, and how Democrats can better connect with rural Iowa. We also dive into science, busted a few myths, drank a few beers, and had the kind of honest conversation you probably will not hear in a campaign ad.

John Norwood joins Pints & Diplomacy to talk about his campaign for Iowa Treasurer and why he believes the office matters more than most people realize. We discuss protecting IPERS, the debate over legalizing marijuana in Iowa, his thoughts on his opponent, and what he would bring to the Treasurer's office. Grab a pint and join us for a conversation about retirement security, state finances, cannabis policy, and the future of Iowa politics.

This Mother’s Day, we sit down with State Senator Catelin Drey for a fun, honest, and relatable conversation about balancing life under the Capitol dome and life at home as a mom. From surviving her first legislative session as a State Senator to navigating the chaos of parenting, Senator Drey shares her experiences with us over a couple beers. We also dive into the important questions: Which little white lies are acceptable to tell your kids? Is “the ice cream machine is broken” fair game? Recorded over great beer at Twisted Vine Brewery, this special episode is equal parts politics, parenting, and personality. Perfect for Mother’s Day weekend.

In this episode, we sit down with Taylor Wettach, who’s currently running for Iowa State Auditor, for a wide-ranging and entertaining conversation. Taylor opens up about his decision to drop out of the congressional race and what ultimately led him to pivot toward a statewide run for auditor. He shares the strategic thinking behind the move and what he hopes to accomplish in this new role. We also dive into the performance of current State Auditor Rob Sand, discussing his record, approach to accountability, and how Taylor would differentiate himself if elected. Of course, things don’t stay too serious for long—Taylor takes on the important task of auditing a questionable hairline, weighs in on beer preferences, and even steps in to settle a few ongoing arguments once and for all. It’s a mix of politics, personality, and plenty of laughs—giving listeners a clearer picture of Taylor as both a candidate and a person.

In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy , we sit down with Independent candidate Dave Bushaw for a wide-ranging conversation recorded live at Carl’s Place. Over a couple of beers, we dig into the common myths surrounding Independent candidates—why many voters assume they “can’t win,” what it actually takes to run outside the two-party system, and why Bushaw believes more independents could change the tone of American politics. The conversation also gets personal and a little fun as we play our classic segment: “Who would you rather have a beer with?” —putting politicians and public figures head-to-head to see who makes the better barstool conversation. Along the way, we explore everything from the challenges of campaigning as an Independent in Iowa's 2nd congressional district to the broader frustrations many voters feel with the current political climate. It’s a laid-back but thoughtful discussion about politics, independence, and whether sharing a drink might actually help people find common ground. Grab a pint and join us for a conversation that proves political dialogue doesn’t have to be hostile—it can start with a handshake and a beer. 🍻

This week on Pints & Diplomacy , we’re joined by Iowa State Representative and infectious disease physician Megan Srinivas. She discusses how her career in medicine shapes her approach to policymaking and public service. We also break down Iowa’s budget crisis! What led to it, its impact across the state, and potential solutions for moving forward. A thoughtful conversation on public health, fiscal responsibility, and governing in Iowa.

In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy, were joined by Des Moines attorney Ben Lynch to unpack the intersection of law, power, and everyday life. Ben discusses a Draft Kings lawsuit he's currently involved in, explains the work he does through charity and community service (Charles City), and breaks down the legal realities of ICE encounters. What agents can or cannot do, and what people should know about their rights. It's a clear, grounded conversation about accountability, civic responsibility, and why understanding the law matters more than ever!

This week on Pints & Diplomacy , we break down a slow news cycle, touching on Michigan football drama, Randy Feenstra’s rocky campaign, and the enduring appeal of Conan O’Brien. The heart of the episode is a candid, wide ranging conversation with Iowa State Senator and U.S. Senate candidate Zach Wahls. We crack open a few beers, talk politics and public life, and do it all while watching the Packers/Vikings game from Iowa City.

In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy , we sit down with U.S. Senate candidate Nathan Sage in the bar tucked beneath the historic Val Air Ballroom. Over a couple cold ones, we dig into his candidacy, his military service and how it shaped his worldview, and talk about some classic Hawkeye sports heroes. A laid-back, honest conversation with a candidate who isn’t afraid to mix policy with personality. Cheers!

We sat down with Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart at Lua Brewing in Des Moines for a wide-ranging conversation over a few pints. We talked about the recent special election wins for Democrats, what Rita has been focused on as IDP Chair, and how the party is working to rebuild across the state. Rita also shared her thoughts on Iowa’s struggling economy, the most popular Democratic Candidate in Iowa Rob Sand, and why she’s optimistic about the strong slate of Democratic candidates stepping up for 2026. Whether you’re a political junkie or just curious about what’s brewing in Iowa politics, this one’s worth a listen. 🍺

On this week’s episode of Pints & Diplomacy , we sit down with Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard for a wide-ranging conversation on the past, present, and future of Cyclone athletics. From the growth of ISU’s national profile to the challenges of modern college sports, Pollard shares insights into what it takes to lead one of the Big 12’s rising programs. Plus, in our signature segment, we convene the Supreme Court of Iowa State Athletes to debate and decide which Cyclones deserve a spot on the ultimate Supreme Court of ISU legends. Grab a pint and join us for an episode filled with Cyclone pride, big-picture perspective, and a few tough choices.

We sit down with US Senate Candidates JD Scholten and Josh Turek as JD announces that he is suspending his campaign and endorsing Josh Turek. We hold the first sit down interview with both guests as they explain the thought process behind their decision! We also talk about the issues State Representative Turek seeks to address if elected US Senator. We also talk about Josh's experience in the Paralympics and make predictions for this years Super Bowl and World Series.

This SPECIAL ELECTION Episode with SD-01 Candidate Catelin Drey covers everything you need to know for the upcoming August 26th Special Election. We touch on issues that are important to Iowa along with other topics including raising children, Taylor Swift, and life on the Campaign Trail!

From 4th of July Parade to the State Senate—and even deployments overseas— Matt Blake has a story worth hearing. In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy , we start with our Buzzed Briefings and our wildly competitive Supreme Court of Lawyers draft, then dive into a conversation with the newly elected Iowa State Senator representing District 22. We talk about service, leadership, and the surprising moments that shaped his journey. Politics, pints, and plenty of stories—this one’s got it all.

In this episode of Pints & Diplomacy , we sit down with Iowa State Senator Mike Zimmer as he officially announces his campaign for reelection . Over a beer, we dive into his legislative goals, lessons from his time in office, and what’s next for Iowa politics. 🍺 Plus, in our Buzzed Briefings , we share a few headlines that caught our eye — some serious, some just plain strange. 🕵️‍♂️ Then we take a sobering turn and unpack the timeline of Donald Trump’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein , tracing public statements and key moments that raise important questions. From local races to global scandals, we’re bringing the conversation back to the table — one pint at a time.

What happens when you share a beer with the man who made Elphaba iconic? We sit down with Wicked author Gregory Maguire to talk about the political soul of Oz, the surprising Hollywood twists his story has taken, and how villains aren’t always what they seem. Plus — we close the case on the ultimate debate: who belongs on the Supreme Court of Witches ? (Yes, it gets delightfully weird.) Pour one and join us for a magical, meaningful conversation that defies gravity — and expectations.

This week on Pints & Diplomacy , we sit down with Travis Terrell, candidate for Congress, to talk about why he's running, how his background shapes his political views, and what he'd bring to Washington. Then, we shift gears and take the bench for the Supreme Court of Dream Bachelor Party Destinations —from Vegas to the woods, we make our ruling. Grab a beer and join the conversation.

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.

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!