The Professor Liberty Podcast

In this episode, Mr. Palumbo breaks down a powerful but often overlooked concept in global politics: the defense dilemma (also known as the security dilemma). It's a paradox where actions meant to increase a country's security—like building up military forces—can actually make other nations feel threatened, prompting them to do the same. The result? A dangerous cycle of mistrust and escalation.

In this episode of the Professor Liberty podcast, we continue our series on the ancients with a deep dive into the fearsome Assyrian Empire—so brutal, they earned condemnation in the Bible. From their ruthless kings like Sennacherib to their cutting-edge siege warfare and forced population relocations, the Assyrians didn't just conquer—they terrorized. With fortified capitals like Nineveh and iconic symbols like the lamassu, their legacy shaped empires, warfare, and civilization for generations to come. 

In this episode of The Professor Liberty Podcast, Mr. Palumbo takes listeners on a journey through the early life of Abraham Lincoln, tracing his transformation from a poor frontier boy in Kentucky to a rising political force. Born into hardship, Lincoln's character was shaped by loss, manual labor, and a relentless hunger for knowledge, which he fed through books like the Bible and Aesop's Fables. The episode highlights key formative experiences—his exposure to slavery as a child, a life-changing visit to a slave market in New Orleans, and his early political stances opposing slavery's expansion. Through humor, storytelling, and historical insight, Mr. Palumbo explores how Lincoln's evolving moral convictions and legal intellect laid the groundwork for his future role as a leader dedicated to justice and unity.

Join us on the Professor Liberty Podcast as we delve into the chilling history of Vlad the Impaler, the man behind the Dracula legend. Unravel the complex narrative of Vlad III, the ruler of Wallachia, whose brutal methods and defiance against the mighty Ottoman Empire positioned him as a controversial yet pivotal figure in Europe during the 15th century. Was Vlad III a cruel monster or a divine weapon used to thwart the Ottoman horde?  

Welcome to the Professor Liberty Podcast, where your favorite slightly libertarian social studies teacher, Mr. Palumbo, dives into the life and legacy of Adam Smith, the father of modern economics. Discover how Smith's groundbreaking ideas during the Enlightenment era continue to influence economic thought and practices today.  

Join Mr. Palumbo, your favorite social studies teacher, in this engaging mailbag episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast. Dive into the intriguing question of whether a return to the gold standard could restore economic stability and control inflation. Explore the evolving role of the Vice President, from constitutional duties to diplomatic responsibilities. Finally, examine the parallels and differences between Trump's tariff policies and the infamous Hawley-Smoot Tariff of the 1930s, and consider the resilience of today's global economy. Whether you're a history buff or a curious listener, this episode offers insightful discussions on topics that shape our world.

Join Mr. Palumbo, your favorite obscure social studies teacher, in this episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast as he explores the fascinating story behind the Panama Canal and its significance for global trade and diplomacy. From the historical attempts to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans to the current geopolitical tensions involving China, Mr. Palumbo takes you on a journey through time, highlighting the challenges faced by the French and the Americans in constructing this engineering marvel and how it shaped international relations.  

Mr. Palumbo takes you on a deep dive into the complexities of birthright citizenship and its implications on American identity. In this episode, we unravel the historical and legal intricacies of the 14th Amendment, focusing on the phrase "subject to the jurisdiction thereof" and its significance in today's heated immigration debate.  

In this episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast, Mr. Palumbo kicks off a new series called "The Ancients" with a look at the Romans. Our host explores how its geographic advantages, such as its strategic location along the Tiber River and the Seven Hills, contributed to its rise. Through the lens of the founding myth of Romulus and Remus, the episode highlights Rome's success, driven by diplomacy, military excellence, and pragmatic governance. Mr. Palumbo examines how Rome's ability to form alliances, adapt its military tactics, and adjust its political structures allowed it to thrive and dominate for over a thousand years, shaping much of the modern western world.

In this episode of The Professor Liberty Podcast, Mr. Palumbo takes us back to December of 1776, a time when the American Revolution seemed on the brink of collapse. With General George Washington's army suffering devastating losses, low morale, and dwindling supplies, the Continental Army appeared to be on the verge of disintegration. But Washington, faced with mounting pressure, made a bold and daring decision that would turn the tide of the war—crossing the treacherous Delaware River to launch a surprise attack on the Hessian forces in Trenton, New Jersey.

In this episode of The Professor Liberty Podcast,  our favorite obscure social studies teacher delves into one of the most significant military confrontations in European history—the Battle of Tours. As part of the ongoing "Important Battles" series, the episode explores how this clash between the Frankish forces, led by Charles Martel, and the advancing Muslim Umayyad Caliphate had profound implications not only for Europe but for the entire Western world.

In this Veterans Day episode, Mr. Palumbo explores General Smedley Butler's 1935 pamphlet "War Is a Racket", where Butler exposes how wars benefit arms dealers and corporations, not the soldiers who fight them. The episode also reflects on Eisenhower's warning about the military-industrial complex, highlighting its continued relevance. Mr. Palumbo argues that to truly honor veterans, we must end the cycle of endless wars that serve the few at the expense of many.

In this episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast called "Emotional Democracy," the hosts tackle the idea of the cult of personality in politics. Our favorite social studies teacher explores how people often vote based on feelings—either loving or hating a candidate—rather than focusing on what those candidates actually do or their voting records. It's a conversation about the risks of letting emotions drive our choices, which can lead to unfit leaders getting into power. The episode wraps up with a reminder for listeners to dig deeper and really research candidates, encouraging everyone to look beyond the hype and make informed choices.

In this episode, we dive into the rich history of Columbia, a personification of the United States that predates iconic figures like Uncle Sam and Lady Liberty. We explore Columbia's origins, tracing her roots back to the age of exploration and the ideals of American nationalism. Named after Christopher Columbus, Columbia symbolizes liberty, democracy, and the emerging American identity. As the 18th century unfolded, intellectuals and poets began to adopt her as a national emblem, highlighting her connection to ideals of freedom and self-governance.

In this episode, Mr. Palumbo dives into the fascinating world of propaganda, starting with its roots in ancient civilizations and bringing us all the way to today's digital landscape. We break down what propaganda really is—a method of shaping how people think and act—while pointing out some key traits, like its emotional pull and the way it picks and chooses facts.

On this special Saturday edition of the Professor Liberty Podcast we dive into the historical roots of political power and the dangers of unchecked authority. By examining the rise of tyrants in ancient Greece and Rome, we uncover timeless lessons about the fragility of democracy and the importance of maintaining a balance of power. The American framers of the US Constitution were actually more inspired by the Roman republican system than Athenian democracy. The Romans had a complex system of checks and balances, which they thought was a better way to prevent tyranny. 

  Buckle up history buffs as we continue our series on important battles with the scorched earth hellscape that was the Battle of Stalingrad.  After Hitler's failed attempt to conquer Russia with Operation Barbarossa, the Nazis launched Operation Blau to capture Soviet oil fields. But there was a roadblock in their path: Stalingrad, a city named after the iron-fisted Joseph Stalin himself. Taking it would be a propaganda victory the Nazis craved, and the Soviets were determined not to let that happen. Stalingrad is considered a pivotal moment World War II that sent the Germans in perpetual retreat and became the bloodiest conflict not just of the war, but in all human history. 

On today's episode Mr. Palumbo gives a brief summary of the elements surrounding the American Revolution. In one of the longest episodes of the Professor Liberty Podcast, our favorite obscure social studies teacher dives into multiple topics ranging from the Magna Carta to the Enlightenment. Explaining how the American Revolution began our host discusses history, political philosophy and taxes, all in order to find the answer to the question: independence from what? What are Americans celebrating on July 4th in the year 2024? 

On this episode we continue our important battles series as we set sail on the high seas during the Napoleonic Wars. Sometimes in history one bold plan can change the world. Today we analyze Admiral Lord Nelson's actions at the Battle at Trafalgar. 

Continuing with our "Important Battles" series our favorite obscure social studies teacher, Mr. Palumbo dives into ancient history with the Battle at Thermopylae. Looking into the key players, the geography and the lasting impact of this famous battle, you'll be screaming THIS IS SPARTA in no time. 

What does code breaking, surprise attacks, and aircraft carriers have in common? They were all a curical component in the Battle of Midway (1942). We continue our series on important battles in history on today's episode. 

On today's episode our favorite obscure social studies teacher begins a new series discussion important battles in world history. Today's topic is the battle at Shiloh during the American Civil War. 

Some men search for destiny others have destiny hoisted upon them...isn't that a quote from a movie. On this episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast, Mr. Palumbo discusses the life and legacy of President Harry S. Truman. From ending WWII to authorizing the use of nuclear weapons and from addressing civil rights to setting America's vision during the Cold War, President Truman seemed to be in the middle of several crucial historical events. Not bad for a humble farmer from rural Missouri. 

During the opening months of World War II the Nazi war machine using tanks, aircraft and paratroopers unleashed a deadly new offensive strategy known as Blitzkrieg or "Lightning War". Gone were the days of static trench warfare. On today's episode our favorite obscure social studies teacher walks us through the history of this new military strategy, why it worked so well and also why it ultimately lost momentum. 

On this last episode of 2023 Mr. Palumbo dives into American popular culture and attempts to analyze the classic western film "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance". Our favorite social studies teacher looks into themes like truth versus legend, standing up to bullies and the responsibility that comes with freedom. The discussion also ventures into the challenges and opportunities faced for the people of the late 19th who were brave enough to venture into the American western frontier. There is also an acknowledgement of how movies help shape peoples' perceptions of who or what they are and what the can be. So grab your popcorn and hold on there pilgrim (as John Wayne would say) as we enjoy a conversation about classic American cinema 

On this episode our favorite obscure social studies teacher dives into the history of Thanksgiving. How did it become a national holiday and should we still learn about and honor the pilgrims? Also what are the benefits of being grateful? All that and much more on today's episode, however please beware for those easily offended, the word Indian is used several times. 

On this episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast our favorite obscure social studies teacher tries to explain something all of us who work for a living instinctively understand, that being why our salaries are terrible. The American worker is surrounded on all sides by dark economic forces that seem to only have one objective in mind and that is to make us poor. Having just enough expertise to make things interesting, our host gives a few reasons why prices keep increasing while our wages seem unable to keep up.

After a long hiatus, our favorite social studies teacher dives right into touchy waters by deciding to discuss politics. To soften the blow however, Mr. Palumbo throws in a baseball analogy. Just like a baseball game only makes sense if people understand the rules, so too our governmental system. With all the talk about democracy and citizens having a voice, Mr. Palumbo asks the question: how can a democratic society survive if people have no clue how their system of government works?

On this, the 100th episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast our host Mr. Palumbo dives into why is it so popular for people on the left to call others "fascist". What is Fascism? Where did it come from and why are people on the right called fascist? 

We dive into economics today with a discussion on the profit motive, government interaction with the economy and why nearly all the university professors as well as the politicians hate supply side economics. 

Prepare to set sail as your favorite obscure social studies teacher ditches the sail for steel and steam. In other words we'll be discusing BATTLESHIPS on today's podcast. In this episode, Mr. Palumbo dives into the history of the modern Battleship and its role in naval warfare. So let's drink to the foam as we discuss the rise and fall of this iconic piece of naval history.

To celebrate the beginning of summer Mr. Palumbo takes on something outside of his wheelhouse: aviation! Looking at Germany, Great Britain, USA and Japan, our favorite obscure social studies teacher discusses important aircraft of WWII and how they influenced important events of the war. 

Greetings and hello to all you die hard Professor Liberty Loves. On today's "this day in history" episode Mr. Palumbo dives into the "Splendid Little War" AKA the Spanish-American War on this splendid little episode. How did America come to blows with one of Europe's aged empires and why did the American republic suddenly become a world superpower? How was the media involved? Your favorite obscure social studies teacher talks about all that and more. Check it out. 

On this episode, with probably too much sarcasm seeping through, Mr. Palumbo decries the affirmation frenzy overtaking our society. Also in anticipation of St. Patrick's Day this week, our favorite obscure social studies teacher gives us a quick look into the history and reason for the holiday.

One student's profound comment in 6th period US History coupled with a word never heard before sparked a Professor Liberty Podcast episode that may go down in history as one of the show's most consequential. With 24/7 news and 24/7 internet access mental health is at an all time low is there a connection? On the first Motivational Monday of 2023 Mr. Palumbo discusses a new harmful activity spawned by pandemic known as Doomscrolling. 

For the first episode of 2023 we dive headlong into the history of American war fighting and mobilization. How have things changed over the near 250 years of American history? How are American citizens affected by the governments foreign endeavors compared to their ancestors? This episode covers topics like standing armies, empires, conscription, war rationing, the military-industrial complex and so much more.

For the last episode of 2022 our favorite obscure social studies teacher discusses the growth of Professor Liberty, ideas of next year and gives some thoughts on being an active parent in a culture of nothingness. 

On this Motivational Monday (probably the last one of the year) Mr. Palumbo talks about an influential man who died over two thousand years ago. No it's not who you think. The man is Julius Caesar. Why do people still talk about and study this Roman general today? Well sit back, press play and watch out for some Latin usage as Mr. Palumbo discusses the life and times of the man whose name became synonymous with Emperor. 

The 16th and 17th amendments as well as the creation of the Federal Reserve all happened in 1913. Talk about a bad year for liberty. In this episode your favorite obscure social studies teacher fights against rising depression and holds back his dark thoughts in order to discuss two of the worst amendments to the U.S. Constitution. In his humble opinion of course. The 16th and 17th amendments, as Mr. Palumbo notes, represent the deathblow to the American republic as founded and are the origin of many of the governmental as well as economic problems we're experiencing today. 

Today our favorite obscure social studies teacher Mr. Palumbo dives into the history of the Progressive movement in America. Our host makes the point that what ties all progressives together (and something strangely absent in most definitions of the movement) is the fact that they see the government as the best vehicle for the social and political change they desire. Mr. Palumbo argues that progressivism is still alive and well in today's politics and also analyzes the good, bad and down right ugly legacies of Progressivism.

There's a lot packed into these 20 minutes folks as your favorite obscure social studies teacher discusses the right to peacefully assemble and petition. What is the difference between protesting, petitioning and riots? Mr. Palumbo attempts to address that question in today's episode. 

On this Motivational Monday Mr. Palumbo leans on the Stoic titan Seneca as he discusses what it means to live a life of purpose.

Continuing the discussion of Ben Franklin's 13 Virtues Mr. Palumbo discusses concepts like Justice, Cleanliness and Frugality. However seeing that Mr. Palumbo is an obscure Social Studies teacher and not a Health teacher we do want to mention that Chastity is also mentioned so listener discretion is advised. 

Ben Franklin was one of America's Founding Fathers and a bit of an 18th century celebrity. He was a man known for his many vices and yet even he strove for virtue. In his autobiography Franklin explains that after stumbling into his local church one Sunday he was inspired to attempt "moral perfection" by living out 13 virtues. What is a virtue? What virtues made Franklin's list? Why aren't we concerned with being virtuous today? All this and more on today's episode. 

On this Motivational Monday episode Mr. Palumbo talks about how most young people lack basic problem solving skills and have no self-reliance because they're too dependent on technology.

Continuing our "what is?" series we ask the question: What is a recession? With all the talk about whether the US is heading for a recession it would be good to know just what exactly that is? Is it a bad thing? Are there benefits to a recession? How does a recession relate to the business cycle? All this and more...

On this first Motivational Monday of the year (in May) Mr. Palumbo has a message for parents fighting the good fight. Life is about expectations, consequences and merit. Because of this all parents should place expectations on their kids and there should also be consequences in relation to breaking those expectations. Why? Because that's how life works. If your child (especially teenager) hates you or thinks you're the worst...that probably means you're doing something right. A parent's job is to parent not be a hip, cool friend. 

On a special Friday episode we continue our analysis into the First Amendment and the importance of free speech with a look at Freedom of the Press. What do we do about crazy stories, lies and rogue journalism? According to Alexis de Tocqueville....nothing! That and much more check it out.

What is free speech and why is it so important to a free society? Your favorite obscure social studies teacher comes with a soapbox a littler larger than normal on this episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast as we continue to learn about the first amendment to the Bill of Rights.  

Because Russia and Ukraine keep pushing this series to the side, Mr. Palumbo will address a question he received about sanctions, but then undeterred, he jumps right into the first component of the Bill of Rights, freedom of religion. Enjoy!

Why did Russian invade Ukraine? Putin claims it's NATO's provoked expansion. What is NATO? Continuing the "what is?" series Mr. Palumbo attempts to give some historical context to what is happening in Ukraine.