Former U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby used the third episode of the Grand Old Podcast to reflect on the philosophy that guided his 44 years in Congress: Give people opportunities rather than government dependency. “My thoughts were always dealing with how to help people back home when I was in Washington and give them opportunities,” Shelby said. Shelby shared his story with Alabama Republican Party Chairman Scott Stadthagen on the party’s podcast, which features conversations with leaders who have helped shape the state. “There was President Reagan, Vice President Bush and Chief of Staff Jim Baker, later secretary of state, three and me.” He later helped build the Alabama Republican Party by focusing on county courthouses and local offices across the state.