Podcasts about Hillsdale College

Steve says the newest revelations about American election integrity presented by President Trump last week don't mean anything, unless the Department of Justice steps up. Then, Dr. Ben Whalen of Hillsdale College joins the program to discuss the real "Odyssey" and why Homer is foundational to Western scholastic tradition. In Hour Two, Fake News or Not reacts to a post written by Steve that ruffled feathers over the weekend. Pop Culture Tuesday is Steve's review of Nolan's "The Odyssey." TODAY'S SPONSORS: PREBORN: https://give.preborn.com/preborn/media-partner?sc=IABSD0123RA COVEPURE: https://covepure.com/?ref=151 and get up to $200 off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's finally bipartisan support for something in the U.S. House of Representatives. They've passed a bill to...make Daylight Saving Time permanent? Is this real? Is it a good thing? Our scrappy host, Mike Slater, reviews all of the evidence on both sides of this debate whilst also speaking with listeners like YOU! Following the opener, Slater gabs with Dr. Benedict Whelan, Associate Professor and Chairman of the English Department at Hillsdale College, about the new movie based on Homer's ancient Greek epic poem. Together, these two will get to the heart of the matter: Should people actually watch the 2026 film version? MAGA! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Larry P. Arnn, President of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues to continue a series on The Second World War, Churchill's sprawling memoir and history of World War II in six volumes.Release date: 17 July 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Larry P. Arnn, President of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues to continue a series on The Second World War, Churchill's sprawling memoir and history of World War II in six volumes. Release date: 17 July 2026

Kathleen O’Toole, associate vice president for K-12 Education at Hillsdale College, delivers a lecture elaborating on the relationships between liberal, civic, and moral education and their aims. Dr. O'Toole delivered this lecture as part of the Classical Education Forum on Hillsdale College's campus on February 12th, 2026. Learn more: https://k12.hillsdale.edu/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Larry P. Arnn, President of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues to continue a series on The Second World War, Churchill's sprawling memoir and history of World War II in six volumes.Release date: 17 July 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guests: Benedict Whalen and Carson Holloway Host Scot Bertram talks with Benedict Whalen, chairman and associate professor of English at Hillsdale College, to preview his brand-new online course, “The Odyssey.” And Carson Holloway, department chair and professor of political society at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Washington fellow at the Claremont Institute Center for […]

Guests: Benedict Whalen and Carson Holloway Host Scot Bertram talks with Benedict Whalen, chairman and associate professor of English at Hillsdale College, to preview his brand-new online course, “The Odyssey.” And Carson Holloway, department chair and professor of political society at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Washington fellow at the Claremont Institute Center for the American Way of Life, discusses the shortcomings of American libel law and his new book, No Liberty to Libel: The Constitutional Case against New York Times v. Sullivan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prepare for the upcoming The Odyssey online course from Hillsdale College as Jeremiah and Juan discuss Homer's Odyssey before introducing a lecture from Dr. David M. Whalen. Enroll in The Odyssey here: https://online.hillsdale.edu/courses/promo/odyssey Homer’s Odyssey—which tells the tale of the Greek hero Odysseus and his journey home after the fall of Troy—is one of the great works of Western Civilization. With this poem, Homer establishes the context in which the great cultural and political flowering of 5th century Athens takes place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prepare for the upcoming The Odyssey online course from Hillsdale College as Jeremiah and Juan discuss Homer's Odyssey before introducing a lecture from Dr. David M. Whalen. Enroll in The Odyssey here: https://online.hillsdale.edu/courses/promo/odyssey Homer’s Odyssey—which tells the tale of the Greek hero Odysseus and his journey home after the fall of Troy—is one of the great works of Western Civilization. With this poem, Homer establishes the context in which the great cultural and political flowering of 5th century Athens takes place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this Salcedo Storm Podcast:Reagan Reese is the White House Correspondent for the Daily Caller. She previously served as an education reporter at the Daily Caller News Foundation. Before that, she graduated from Hillsdale College with a degree in Rhetoric, where she played softball. She now serves as a standout outfielder on the Caller softball team.

Dr. Benedict Whalen, Chairman and Associate Professor of English at Hillsdale College, joins the show to discuss this version of "The Odyssey," Christopher Nolan's newest film. How is it doing in the box office so far and what are reviews saying?

Ryan Wrecker begins hour 1 by discussing what jobs Brad and himself would and would not like to do. Where are we at with negotiations with Iran? Dr. Benedict Whalen, Chairman and Associate Professor of English at Hillsdale College, joins the show to discuss this version of "The Odyssey," Christopher Nolan's newest film. How is it doing in the box office so far and what are reviews saying? How biased are news stations, and what party to most of their guests identify with? Ryan Wrecker begins the second hour talking about a comment made stating someone felt unsafe in neighborhoods with American flags. The result? Free flags for everyone! Snooky's husband was spotted by one of our own. What music is really in "The Odyssey," and what does Ryan Wrecker think about it? Liberals didn't bother Biden the way they bother Trump when he was falling up the stairs. Hour 3 with Ryan Wrecker begins with Dr. Jacob Olidort, Chief Research Officer and Director of American Security at America First Policy Institute, who joins the show to discuss the ongoing tensions in Iran, as well as where we are and what we can expect to happen in the coming days. Next, we have Ethan's Sports and Local, where he discusses another National League loss in the All-Star Game. Meta spun the wheel to lay off some employers, turns out most were on maternity leave. We round it out with our poll results!

Ryan Wrecker begins hour 1 by discussing what jobs Brad and himself would and would not like to do. Where are we at with negotiations with Iran? Dr. Benedict Whalen, Chairman and Associate Professor of English at Hillsdale College, joins the show to discuss this version of "The Odyssey," Christopher Nolan's newest film. How is it doing in the box office so far and what are reviews saying? How biased are news stations, and what party to most of their guests identify with?

Greg and Julie Alexander visit to talk Marriage Disciples through The Alexander House, and why marriage IS a Sacrament. Shrines and Wonders Wednesday takes us to Greccio, and Joan Lewis checks in from Rome withe the latest from the Vatican. T's Two Sense looks over an IVF story from EWTN News...and, Dr. Matthew Mehan from Hillsdale College joins to talk the importance of fables to the fabric of culture throughout American history.

Today, we end our 12-week study of the Odyssey with a discussion on Books 23-24 with Dr. Justin Jackson and Dr. Benedict Whalen of Hillsdale College alongside host, Dcn. Harrison Garlick.There is yelling, laughter, cursing, and general chaos--but more of Homer's truth is unearthed in the process.Check out our ONLINE LIBRARY for resources on the great books.Check out Dr. Justin Jackson's Substack working through the Bible.Check out Dr. Justin Whalen at Hillsdale College.The long-awaited homecoming unfolds with Odysseus and Penelope's emotional reunion, the famous test of the immovable olive-tree bed, and the climactic confrontation with the suitors' vengeful families. The conversation crackles with insight as the guests unpack Penelope's cunning, Odysseus' complex character, parallels to Achilles and Heracles, and the poem's meditation on fidelity, mortality, justice, and the costs of homecoming.Dr. Jackson brings contrarian fire—challenging heroic ideals, celebrating the domestic, and wrestling openly with whether Odysseus' reckoning is justice or raw revenge—while Dr. Whalen offers sharp textual observations on themes of rootedness, temptation, and the poem's unresolved tensions.Expect yelling, laughter, heartfelt disagreement, and the kind of raw intellectual energy that makes great books come alive.Whether you've followed the whole series or are just dipping in, this capstone will leave you rethinking everything you thought you knew about the Odyssey. Stick around after the discussion for a look ahead at Plato's Republic and more. If you love the Great Books, this is unmissable.Chapters00:00 - Introduction: Finishing the Odyssey Journey04:46 - Host Welcome & Episode Setup06:27 - Guest Introductions: Dr. Justin Jackson & Dr. Benedict Whalen07:04 - Dr. Jackson's New Book on Reading Literature16:28 - Diving into Book 23: Penelope Learns Odysseus Has Returned21:07 - Penelope's Skepticism & the Secret Signs25:05 - The Great Rooted Bed Test & Recognition Scene36:36 - Odysseus & Penelope Reunion, Emotional Moments47:05 - The Final Labor & Comparison to Heracles59:11 - Temptations: Calypso, Nausicaa & Penelope1:11:32 - Transition to Book 24: Laertes & the Avenging Families1:15:26 - Achilles & Agamemnon in the Underworld1:35:02 - Reunion with Laertes & Proof Scenes1:49:10 - Dolius, the Final Battle & Deus Ex Machina Ending2:11:04 - Reflections on Justice, Revenge & the Poem's Message2:16:50 - Closing Thoughts & Upcoming EpisodesKeywordsOdyssey Books 23 and 24, Homer's Odyssey finale, Odysseus Penelope reunion, rooted bed test, immovable olive tree bed, suitors slaughter, Ithaca homecoming, Penelope cunning, Odysseus homecoming, Great Books podcast, Ascend podcast, Hillsdale College professors, Dr. Justin Jackson, Dr. Benedict Whalen, Homer teacher philosopher, Telemachus maturation, Achilles Agamemnon underworld, Laertes reunion, Poseidon penitential journey, justice vs revenge Odyssey, classical literature podcast, Western canon Odyssey analysis, father son reunion Odyssey, Penelope faithfulness, heroic fate comparison, Plato Republic preview.

Host Charlie James expresses deep disappointment with contemporary television network programming and Hollywood's output, characterizing a significant portion of it as "absolute garbage." In light of this, James points to the upcoming release of The Odyssey movie as an example of potentially highly politicized media, and contrasts this trend by highlighting alternative, high-quality educational resources. Specifically, he recommends a free 12-session course on The Odyssey offered by Hillsdale College, as well as the robust conservative learning environment provided by Ralston College in Savannah. Callers also join the conversation, sharing similar views that modern storytelling has shifted from traditional, wholesome "coming-of-age" arcs to themes that are less helpful for traditional child development.

Host Charlie James shares his frustration with modern network television and Hollywood previews, describing the upcoming entertainment lineup as absolute garbage. He singles out an upcoming film adaptation of The Odyssey directed by Christopher Nolan, predicting it will be filled with "woke BS," and notes the casting of Elliot Page as a sign of this cultural shift. In contrast to Hollywood's offerings, James highly recommends alternative, substantive educational resources, pointing listeners to a free 12-section online course on The Odyssey offered by Hillsdale College. He also praises Ralston College in Savannah, Georgia, as an excellent, deeply conservative higher education option for families seeking an alternative to mainstream academic indoctrination.

This week: The future of British democracy, the growing wealth disparity between generations, and the rise of socialist candidates in New York City. Dr. Larry P. Arnn, president of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues. Release date: 10 July 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week: The future of British democracy, the growing wealth disparity between generations, and the rise of socialist candidates in New York City. Dr. Larry P. Arnn, president of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues. Release date: 10 July 2026

Chris McCourry, artist and director of jazz ensembles at Hillsdale College, joins host Scot Bertram to discuss the principles of jazz music, what makes a great jazz musician, and what jazz music can teach us about democracy. Learn more: https://k12.hillsdale.edu/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week: The future of British democracy, the growing wealth disparity between generations, and the rise of socialist candidates in New York City. Dr. Larry P. Arnn, president of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues. Release date: 10 July 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The greatest proof that God is real may be far simpler than most people expect. Zach recalls dismissing his mom's uncomplicated answer about seeing God in creation, only to hear one of the world's leading Christian philosophers give nearly the same response the very next day. Al, Christian, and John Luke join him to examine how nature, Scripture, reason, and faith work together to reveal who God is, why blind faith is not biblical faith, and how believers can keep growing beyond shallow social media theology. The guys laugh about Jase promising a 15-minute sermon when he's famously long-winded and come to the realization that announcing only the winner's first name could leave multiple Mirandas wondering if they're the winner of the 'Unashamed' studio visit giveaway.   In this episode: 1 John; James 1–2; Genesis 1; John 1; Romans 1:20; Hebrews 11; Ecclesiastes 3:11; Psalm 139 Today's conversation is about Lesson 1 of Theology 101: The Western Theological Tradition. Take the Hillsdale College online course with us at no cost to you. More about Theology 101: Examine the great questions of Western theology from the ancient Hebrews through today. The gift of speech, or reason, given by God to man, enables us to think about God and to worship Him.  This free online course pursues this purpose by examining the nature of God as revealed in the Bible, exploring the great theological questions and controversies of the early Christian church, studying the history of the Reformation and Counter-Reformation, and much more.  We invite you to join us and explore the nature of the relationship between God and man, and how a proper understanding of this relationship can lead to a free and happy life. Sign up at ⁠http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 Announcing the Studio Visit Winner 07:45 Unashamed's Audience Is Getting Younger 11:29 Jase Promises a 15-Minute Sermon 16:15 The Four Principles Behind Hillsdale College 20:25 The Biggest Questions We Can Ask About God 24:10 Who Shapes What Christians Believe? 30:15 Divine Nature of God Seen in His Creation 35:55 Faith Is Not a Blind Leap 41:10 Longing for Perfection Points Beyond This World 46:38 Proving God Doesn't Exist Requires Borrowing from Him — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guests: Gad Saad and Stephen Smith Host Scot Bertram talks with Gad Saad, professor, evolutionary behavioral scientist, and host of The Saad Truth podcast, about the potential dangers of altruism and his new book, Suicidal Empathy: Dying to Be Kind. And Stephen Smith, dean of humanities and Temple Family Chair in English Literature at Hillsdale College, discusses the […]

Guests: Gad Saad and Stephen Smith Host Scot Bertram talks with Gad Saad, professor, evolutionary behavioral scientist, and host of The Saad Truth podcast, about the potential dangers of altruism and his new book, Suicidal Empathy: Dying to Be Kind. And Stephen Smith, dean of humanities and Temple Family Chair in English Literature at Hillsdale College, discusses the life and teachings of St. Thomas More and his new book, The Last Riddle: Advice on Living and Dying Well from the Imprisoned Saint Thomas More.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Curtailing public chaos and institutional corruption are vital objectives to reclaiming a healthy American citizenship. But what can ordinary people do to rein in corrupt elites? And why have elected officials failed to push back for generations?Dr. Matt Mehan, associate dean of Hillsdale College's Graduate School of Government, joins Oren and Chris to make sense of what went wrong. They discuss how a fixation on legal rights has crowded out a public commitment to the responsibilities and duties inherent in citizenship, and why that shift has done so much damage. Finally, they discuss Dr. Mehan's new book, The American Book of Fables, and why his work to adapt timeless lessons for the youngest generation is so important at a moment defined by declining educational quality and oversaturation of technology.Further Reading:The American Book of Fables by Matt Mehan

Despite the Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity closing its doors on the Hillsdale campus in the late 1980s, for more than 40 years the Phi Sigs continued to gather on their property on Hillsdale Street for Homecoming and other special events to reconnect, remember, and celebrate their friendships. In 2016, Phi Sig alumni came up with a pavilion idea and concept for their property. Partnering with the College, that plan was eventually finalized, and in 2024, the Phi Sig Alumni Pavilion was built and dedicated. Two of those Phi Sigs, Trip Banks and Ross Anderson, talk about the project and their lasting legacy. ------ Informative. Inspirational. Uplifting. Those are the goals of the White and Blue podcast. We are here to tell the interesting stories of Hillsdale College alumni, who number more than 15,000 strong. Our guests will share about their time and experiences while on campus, and also the impact they have had on the world since graduating. What makes the Hillsdale College graduate unique? We will explore that question and more, including how alumni have impacted the past, present, and future of the College. Won’t you join us?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prepare for the upcoming The Odyssey online course from Hillsdale College as Jeremiah and Juan discuss Homer's Iliad before introducing a lecture from Dr. Stephen Smith. Enroll in The Odyssey here: https://online.hillsdale.edu/courses/promo/odyssey Homer’s Iliad can be best understood by examining some of its major major themes: rage, desire, delusion, deception, disaster and double-dealing, death and outrage, responsibility and evasion, and ultimately, glory. The poem tells the story of the Trojan War, and of Achilles, the greatest warrior of the Greeks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prepare for the upcoming The Odyssey online course from Hillsdale College as Jeremiah and Juan discuss Homer's Iliad before introducing a lecture from Dr. Stephen Smith. Enroll in The Odyssey here: https://online.hillsdale.edu/courses/promo/odyssey Homer’s Iliad can be best understood by examining some of its major major themes: rage, desire, delusion, deception, disaster and double-dealing, death and outrage, responsibility and evasion, and ultimately, glory. The poem tells the story of the Trojan War, and of Achilles, the greatest warrior of the Greeks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thomas I. Treloar, professor of mathematics and dean of faculty at Hillsdale College, joins host Scot Bertram to discuss the mathematics behind voting, how voters decide how to cast their vote, and why we'll never develop a perfect voting system. Learn more: https://k12.hillsdale.edu/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this edition of The Federalist Radio Hour, Dr. Bradley Birzer, Hillsdale College professor of history and Russell Amos Kirk chair in American Studies, joins Federalist Senior Elections Correspondent Matt Kittle to discuss the Declaration of Independence, the "radicalism" of the founders versus modern leftist radicalism, and what the founders would think of America today. You can find Dr. Birzer's new book, The Declaration of Independence: A Radical Experiment in Liberty, here.The Federalist Foundation is a nonprofit, and we depend entirely on our listeners and readers — not corporations. If you value fearless, independent journalism, please consider a tax-deductible gift today at TheFederalist.com/donate. Your support keeps us going.

Here are two concise paragraphs suitable for podcast show notes: As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, Brad Onishi and Dan Miller examine how Donald Trump has transformed the semiquincentennial celebration into a showcase for political patronage, executive power, and Christian nationalism. They unpack the controversy surrounding the America250 festivities on the National Mall, including allegations of corruption, the role of PragerU and Hillsdale College in shaping historical narratives, and what the celebration reveals about competing visions of American identity and democracy. The conversation then turns to the Vatican's dramatic excommunication of clergy and members associated with the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), exploring what the schism says about the growing influence of traditionalist Catholicism in American politics and its connections to the broader Christian nationalist movement. Brad and Dan close by discussing the rise of democratic socialists in Congress, what these electoral victories reveal about generational shifts in American politics, and why the future of democracy may depend on who gets to define the nation's story. As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the nation's semiquincentennial should be a moment for civic reflection, shared history, and democratic renewal. Instead, Donald Trump is transforming the celebration into a political spectacle centered on himself, military power, patronage, and Christian nationalism. In this episode, Brad Onishi and co-host Dan Miller examine how the National Mall and America's founding story are being repurposed to advance a vision of the country rooted in executive power, religious nationalism, and loyalty to one political movement. From corporate influence and political corruption to the growing role of Christian nationalist organizations in shaping the celebration, they ask what happens when a national commemoration becomes a vehicle for ideological power. Brad and Dan also discuss a major story from the world of American Catholicism: the excommunication of a priest associated with the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX). The case offers a window into ongoing tensions over authority, tradition, Catholic identity, and the growing influence of far-right and traditionalist movements within the American Church. The conversation explores how these conflicts intersect with broader political currents, including Christian nationalism and the reshaping of conservative religious activism in the United States. As America approaches its 250th birthday, the stakes are larger than a single event. They concern who gets to tell the nation's story—and what kind of democracy that story will sustain. Subscribe for weekly analysis of Christian nationalism, authoritarianism, religion, democracy, and American politics from the hosts of Straight White American Jesus. Support independent religion and politics journalism:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://axismundinetwork.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Donate today: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.axismundi.us/fundraise?hsCtaAttrib=215444059319 Listen to the Axis Daily Brief: Axis Daily Brief on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/axis-daily-brief/id1896931494⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Axis Daily Brief on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/033zp4MbwXJvxp6MoDkmtj?si=a758e87169e74ede⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Axis Daily Brief RSS Feed: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/1145852/s/400220.rss⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. Donate today: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.axismundi.us/fundraise?hsCtaAttrib=215444059319

Guests: Khalil Habib and Wilfred McClay Host Scot Bertram talks with Khalil Habib, associate professor of politics and Allison and Dorothy Rouse Professor in Politics at Hillsdale College, about the American Founding and his recent essay, “The Importance of the Fourth of July, According to the Adams Family.” And Wilfred McClay, Victor Davis Hanson Chair in Classical History and Western Civilization at Hillsdale College, discusses the importance of measured patriotism and his recent article, “Memory and America’s Birthday.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Dr. Matthew Spalding of Hillsdale College to break down the core ideas that shaped the founding of the United States. Dr. Spalding explains how the Founding Fathers weren't just philosophers, but practical leaders who brought bold ideas like equality, natural rights, and self-government to life. He highlights why the Declaration of Independence was so radical at the time—and why those same principles still matter today. The conversation also explores the meaning of liberty, virtue, and the pursuit of happiness, and why understanding these ideas is essential for preserving freedom in modern America. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, this episode is a powerful reminder of the principles that define the American experiment—and why they're worth defending.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss America at the turn of millennium before introducing Wilfred McClay. Americans have overcome many challenges throughout our history, including the American Revolution, the Civil War, the Great Depression, two World Wars, and the Cold War. Studying the great stories from our past inspires us to preserve the blessings of liberty in our day. Now you can study these stories with Hillsdale College. Hillsdale’s free online course, “The Great American Story: A Land of Hope,” explores the history of America as a land of hope founded on high principles. In presenting the great triumphs and achievements of our nation’s past, as well as the shortcomings and failures, it offers a broad and unbiased study of the kind essential to the cultivation of intelligent patriotism. Ronald Reagan restored the office of the presidency to its place of prominence through policies that fostered a productive economy and that led to the collapse of the Soviet Union and an end to the Cold War. Despite the optimism that surrounded the end of the Cold War, the decades since have seen the United States divided over a series of important issues. To restore our common purpose, Americans should learn from the great examples of our nation’s past. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss America at the turn of millennium before introducing Wilfred McClay. Americans have overcome many challenges throughout our history, including the American Revolution, the Civil War, the Great Depression, two World Wars, and the Cold War. Studying the great stories from our past inspires us to preserve the blessings of liberty in our day. Now you can study these stories with Hillsdale College. Hillsdale’s free online course, “The Great American Story: A Land of Hope,” explores the history of America as a land of hope founded on high principles. In presenting the great triumphs and achievements of our nation’s past, as well as the shortcomings and failures, it offers a broad and unbiased study of the kind essential to the cultivation of intelligent patriotism. Ronald Reagan restored the office of the presidency to its place of prominence through policies that fostered a productive economy and that led to the collapse of the Soviet Union and an end to the Cold War. Despite the optimism that surrounded the end of the Cold War, the decades since have seen the United States divided over a series of important issues. To restore our common purpose, Americans should learn from the great examples of our nation’s past. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AMDG. Kolbe's own Neva Hernandez joins Bonnie and Steven to welcome Dr. Matthew Mehan to the Kolbecast. Dr. Mehan is a best-selling author and the Associate Dean and Professor of Government at the Van Andel Graduate School of Government at Hillsdale College's Washington D.C. campus.   As we come to our country's 250th birthday, we discuss history, poetry and Dr. Mehan's new book The American Book of Fables.   This new book explores our country and its history through the eyes of American animals and has materials for “Littles”, “Middles” and “Bigs” and with its beautiful illustrations can be enjoyed by the whole family.  Links mentioned and relevant:  The American Book of Fables by Dr. Matthew Mehan  Trailer for The American Book of Fables  Mr. Mehan's Mildly Amusing Book of Mythical Mammals and The Handsome Little Cygnet, also written by Dr. Matthew Mehan and illustrated by artist John Folley  Dr. Mehan is @mtmehan on Instagram and X  Watch trailers for Dr. Mehan's books on YouTube  Dr. Gerard Wegemer of the Thomas More Studies program at the University of Dallas  Relevant Kolbecast episodes:  192 Kitchen Doings, Neva's Kolbecast debut  175 A Both-And Approach with Dr. Jonathan Sanford, president of the University of Dallas  312 Educating for Liberty with Dr. Tom Harmon  Have questions or suggestions for future episodes or a story of your own experience that you'd like to share? We'd love to hear from you! Send your thoughts to podcast@kolbe.org and be a part of the Kolbecast odyssey.   We'd be grateful for your feedback! Please share your thoughts with us via this Kolbecast survey!  The Kolbecast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most podcast apps. By leaving a rating and review in your podcast app of choice, you can help the Kolbecast reach more listeners. The Kolbecast is also on Kolbe's YouTube channel (audio only with subtitles).  Using the filters on our website, you can sort through the episodes to find just what you're looking for. However you listen, spread the word about the Kolbecast! 

For the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we are pleased to share an intimate discussion with Dr. Matthew Spalding whose timely new book The Making of the American Mind explores the philosophic underpinnings of and story behind the Declaration. Please enjoy this special Anchoring Truths episode as a celebration of our nation's Independence and Founding.Spalding, dean of Hillsdale College's Van Andel graduate school in Washington D.C. and new board member of the James Wilson Institute, shares the microphone with Professor Hadley Arkes, JWI's Founder and Co-Director.Purchase The Making of the American MindLearn more about Dr. Spalding

As America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, it's a good time to ask a simple question: Why does a document written nearly two and a half centuries ago still matter today? In this conversation, Dr. Matthew Spalding of Hillsdale College helps us look beyond the familiar phrases and historical events to uncover the ideas that have shaped the American experiment from the beginning. Together, we explore the enduring truths found in the Declaration, why generations of leaders have returned to it in moments of national challenge, and what it can still teach us about freedom, equality, self-government, and human dignity.We also discuss the often-overlooked role of faith and providence in America's founding, why the founders believed these principles were rooted in something bigger than politics, and what the upcoming America 250 celebration can mean for our nation today. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a student of civics, or simply someone who wants to better understand the ideas that have influenced the United States for 250 years, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into America's past, present, and future—and why those truths are still worth revisiting.

This week: The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, whether the United States will survive another 250 years, and the potentially apocryphal compliment that King George III paid George Washington. Dr. Larry P. Arnn, president of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues. Release date: 26 June 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week: The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, whether the United States will survive another 250 years, and the potentially apocryphal compliment that King George III paid George Washington. Dr. Larry P. Arnn, president of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues. Release date: 26 June 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

THE CREATION OF THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE IS AN EXPRESSION OF THE AMERICAN MIND And the esteemed Dr. Matthew Spalding of Hillsdale College has written an incredible book about it. You can buy The Making of the American Mind: The Story of our Declaration of Independence by clicking here. It is OUTSTANDING and taught me a lot I simply did not know. Matthew joins me at 2:30 to chat about it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guests: Brad Birzer Host Scot Bertram talks with Brad Birzer, professor of history and Russell Amos Kirk Chair in American Studies at Hillsdale College, about the years leading up to 1776, the importance of the common law tradition to the American Founders, and his new book, The Declaration of Independence: A Radical Experiment in Liberty.

Guests: Brad Birzer Host Scot Bertram talks with Brad Birzer, professor of history and Russell Amos Kirk Chair in American Studies at Hillsdale College, about the years leading up to 1776, the importance of the common law tradition to the American Founders, and his new book, The Declaration of Independence: A Radical Experiment in Liberty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special double feature, Chris welcomes the authors of two new books about the American way of life—one about the many things that make it great, and the other about something we've lost. First, Matthew Mehan of Hillsdale College's Washington, DC, campus discusses his latest children's book, The American Book of Fables, a collection to help the young […]

On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss the legacies of Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon before introducing Wilfred McClay. Americans have overcome many challenges throughout our history, including the American Revolution, the Civil War, the Great Depression, two World Wars, and the Cold War. Studying the great stories from our past inspires us to preserve the blessings of liberty in our day. Now you can study these stories with Hillsdale College. Hillsdale’s free online course, “The Great American Story: A Land of Hope,” explores the history of America as a land of hope founded on high principles. In presenting the great triumphs and achievements of our nation’s past, as well as the shortcomings and failures, it offers a broad and unbiased study of the kind essential to the cultivation of intelligent patriotism. Lyndon B. Johnson entered office with an ambitious plan to expand the scope of government. Dubbed “The Great Society,” his efforts to transform domestic policy were stalled in part by his party’s opposition to America’s mounting commitments in Southeast Asia. While Richard Nixon achieved important diplomatic victories in Vietnam and China, the American economy suffered from low growth and inflation. Nixon’s resignation, and the failures of the Carter administration, diminished America’s confidence in the presidency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Larry P. Arnn, President of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues to continue a series on The Second World War, Churchill's sprawling memoir and history of World War II in six volumes.Release date: 16 June 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Larry P. Arnn, President of Hillsdale College, joins Hugh Hewitt on the Hillsdale Dialogues to continue a series on The Second World War, Churchill's sprawling memoir and history of World War II in six volumes. Release date: 16 June 2026

America's 250th birthday is just a few weeks out, and festivities are underway. But, leaving aside disputes about fist fights and daring stunts on the White House South Lawn, a question emerges about what a serious celebration of the American way looks and feels like. To consider this and more, Charles, James, and a visiting Peter Robinson sit down with Matthew Mehan, author and Associate Dean of Hillsdale College's graduate school in Washington, D.C., to discuss The American Book of Fables.The gang thinks through the meaning of our civic inheritance and the endeavor to pass on the baton to the young. Matt's here to remind us that the arduous effort can be joyful and that hopefulness is a trait that marks the serious thinker. Our trio also kvetches (and then some!) over the Iran deal, winces at the newly unveiled Obama Presidential Center, and chortles with bewilderment at the accusation that a Pride-themed baseball cap was "desecrated" by a Bible verse.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ricochet-podcast--5817275/support.