Podcasts about Newt

Newt talks with former Senator Tim Hutchinson about his new memoir, From Spavinaw to D.C.: A Conservative's Journey Through Faith, Farm Life, and the Fight for America. Hutchinson reflects on his upbringing on an Arkansas farm, the faith mentors who shaped him, and how Ronald Reagan's 1964 "A Time for Choosing" speech sparked his political awakening as a teenager. He recounts becoming the first Republican popularly elected to the Senate from Arkansas in 1996, his role in the "Gingrich Revolution" and the Cracker Jacks freshman caucus, and the dramatic phone call that pushed him from a safe House seat into a Senate run. Their conversation covers the cultural differences between the House and Senate, formative trips to Israel and China, and his enduring friendships across the aisle, including with Senator Russ Feingold over golf. Hutchinson closes by sharing his Fourth of July plans with family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt celebrates America’s 250th birthday and his 1000th episode of Newt’s World with President Donald J. Trump and the kickoff to the Great American State Fair.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks welcomes Brenda Hafera of The Heritage Foundation to discuss the Heritage Guide to Historic Sites, an interactive website launched ahead of America's 250th anniversary that profiles historic sites across the original 13 colonies, with more states to follow. Hafera and Newt reflect on the power of visiting places like Mount Vernon, Gettysburg, and Independence Hall, where history can be felt rather than just read. The conversation turns to growing efforts to distort America's founding story, including a major foundation's push to remove monuments to figures like Washington and Lincoln in the name of "inclusivity." Hafera explains why preserving accurate, accessible history at the local level is essential to civic education and to passing on an informed, grounded patriotism to the next generation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt is joined by legendary documentary filmmaker Ken Burns to discuss The American Revolution, his sweeping six-part, twelve-hour PBS series exploring America's founding struggle through leaders and ordinary citizens alike. Burns reflects on what he calls "emotional archeology" — his lifelong approach to history — and shares why he considers the Revolution the most consequential event since the birth of Christ. The conversation turns to his star-studded voice cast, including Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, and Paul Giamatti, and the decade-long journey of bringing the project to life. Burns and Newt close on a deeper theme: the idea that there is "no them, only us," and what that means for America as it marks its 250th anniversary. The American Revolution streams free on PBS platforms through July 12th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich joins The Tudor Dixon Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on the rapid rise of Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), the future of the Democratic Party, and why America's 250th anniversary couldn't come at a more important moment. Tudor and Newt discuss Zohran Mamdani's influence, the growing socialist movement within Democratic politics, the 2028 presidential race, election integrity, the SAVE Act, and President Trump's legislative strategy. They also explore why understanding the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution is essential as America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday. Check out Newt's Podcast HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with legal scholar Jonathan Turley about his bestseller, Rage and the Republic. Turley reveals why Thomas Paine — flawed, brilliant, nearly impossible to like — was the most fascinating figure he's ever researched, and traces Paine's improbable rise from failed Englishman to "penman of the revolution" under Benjamin Franklin's wing. The conversation turns to the French Revolution's unbound passions versus America's structured path to liberty, drawing uneasy parallels to today's unrest in cities like Minneapolis. Turley and Newt dig into socialism's resurgence among young Americans and Europeans, the EU's bureaucratic unraveling, and the coming disruption from AI and robotics. They close on America's 250th anniversary and what it truly means to be American in a revolutionary age.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt welcomes back historian Dr. Allen Guelzo to discuss Abraham Lincoln's enduring legacy as America approaches its 250th anniversary. Dr. Guelzo, a leading Lincoln scholar, explores what makes the 16th president endlessly fascinating: his resilience, humor, and remarkable ability to learn the presidency on the job despite having no prior executive experience. They examine underexplored areas of Lincoln scholarship, including his pre-1854 political career, his complicated relationships with his generals, and his dealings with Congress. The conversation turns to how the Civil War reshaped federal power and dispels myths about Northern industrialization versus Southern agriculture. Dr. Guelzo speculates on how Reconstruction might have unfolded had Lincoln survived. Their discussion closes with reflections on America's persistent political polarization throughout history versus today's deeper cultural divisions, and Dr. Guelzo shares how he'll spend the Fourth of July at Gettysburg.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Bret Baier, Fox News Chief Political Anchor about his new book, “The Case for America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation.” Baier makes the case that the United States remains resilient and exceptional despite its flaws. Their conversation moves through American history, tracing the book's structure around six pivotal presidents, from Washington and Jefferson's bitter rivalry-turned-friendship to Lincoln's reframing of the Declaration of Independence. They examine why the nation chooses unity despite constant dissent, the often-overlooked surge of bipartisan legislation in Congress, and the lessons learned from Baier's "Common Ground" segment. They close looking ahead, discussing AI, freedom, and what the next 250 years might hold for America—plus Baier's plans for celebrating the country's 250th birthday on July 4th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with bestselling author Eric Metaxas about his new book, “Revolution: The Birth of the Greatest Nation in the History of the World,” and the deeply Christian roots of America's founding. Metaxas explains why he titled the book simply Revolution, arguing the American Revolution stands apart from failed revolutions like the French and Bolshevik uprisings because the founders explicitly looked to God rather than rejecting him. They explore John Adams's overlooked role, the brutality of British forces during the war, and how figures like George Washington and Samuel Adams saw divine purpose in the fight for independence. Metaxas also pushes back on the secular narrative taught in schools, insisting the founders' faith is inseparable from understanding the Revolution. As America marks its 250th anniversary, he urges listeners to rediscover this history and recognize it as a gift worth defending and passing on.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most Americans know George Washington as a general and president — but few know him as an obsessive surveyor and land speculator with his eye fixed on the West. In this episode, Newt talks with award-winning historian Brady Crytzer about his new book, “The National Road: George Washington and America's First Highway West.” Crytzer traces Washington's lifelong fixation on connecting the Potomac to the Ohio River, the five crises that threatened westward expansion during Washington's presidency, and the unlikely partnership with Treasury Secretary Albert Gallatin — a Swiss-born frontiersman who turned Washington's river-centric dream into America's first great federally funded highway. They explore how the Cumberland Road became a blueprint for the modern interstate system, why it was simultaneously "too early and too late," and what lessons this audacious infrastructure project offers a nation marking 250 years of independence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rachel Campos-Duffy, cohost of FOX & Friends Weekend and New York Times bestselling author, joins Newt to discuss her new book, All American Patriotism: Celebrating 250 Years of America's Greatness. Rachel shares why she set out to counter decades of what she sees as a "narrative of shame" surrounding American history, and how she gathered her Fox colleagues to write essays on what America means to them, revealing the country's rich regional diversity. She also opens up about her family's Great American Road Trip, inspired by her husband Sean Duffy's own childhood memories, and the deeply personal story of her father's journey from poverty in a Mexican American mining town to the American dream. Newt and Rachel discuss the decline — and possible resurgence — of patriotism among young Americans, the politicization of history curricula, and what the nation's 250th birthday means at this pivotal moment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Augustus Doricko, founder and CEO of Rainmaker. They discuss how drone-based cloud seeding could transform America's water future. Doricko explains how new radar and satellite technology finally lets scientists prove precipitation is manmade, solving a problem that has stumped researchers since GE invented cloud seeding in 1946. He breaks down why drones beat manned aircraft on safety and cost, how atmospheric water gets replenished every eight to ten days, and his ambitious goal to double the Colorado River's flow by 2031. Their conversation also covers his path from a UC Berkeley physics dropout to a Peter Thiel Fellow, the legal and environmental questions raised by manipulating weather, and even a provocative idea about weakening hurricanes before they reach shore. It's a fascinating conversation addressing whether technology can finally solve the West's worsening drought crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Grady Connolly, founder of Social Thomist and author of the new book “Basilicas: A Pilgrim's Guide to America's Most Remarkable Catholic Churches.” Connolly recounts his path from a small town in Maine to a full scholarship at Catholic University of America, where daily visits to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. inspired a lifelong devotion to his faith. He describes learning how to build a major following for Catholic content online. Their discussion turns to Connolly's four-year quest to visit all 94 minor basilicas in the United States plus the four papal basilicas in Rome, what officially makes a church a "basilica," and standout stops like The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis and the immigrant built, The Basilica of St. Fidelis in Victoria, Kansas. His book, “Basilicas” is available for pre-order now: https://a.co/d/0bk6zlAmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Ambassador Sam Brownback about his new book, “China’s War on Faith.” Brownback, who previously served as a United States Senator, the 46th governor of Kansas and Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, has decades of experience on the frontlines fighting for religious liberty around the world. Brownback argues the Chinese Communist Party sees religious freedom as an existential threat and has engaged in a ruthless campaign to suppress people of faith, including forced organ harvesting on the Falun Gong. He believes the party's crackdown on religious groups like the Tibetan Buddhists and Uyghur Muslims constitutes genocide. Brownback calls for the U.S. to elevate religious freedom as a strategic issue in confronting China's totalitarianism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Sarah Westall, host of the Business Game Changers Podcast, about her legal battle against YouTube, Google, and the U.S. government over censorship and free speech on the internet. In 2020, Sarah Westall's YouTube channel with 130,000 subscribers was deleted overnight, along with many others. Westall believes this was due to her interviewing medical experts who disagreed with the COVID-19 narrative. After being reinstated for 3 days, Westall's channel was taken down again, and fake channels with her branding and content started appearing, which YouTube failed to remove despite Westall's requests. Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act was originally intended to protect online platforms and enable free speech but has been "weaponized" to allow Big Tech companies to censor content without impunity. Westall and her co-plaintiffs argue the courts have misinterpreted Section 230. Their case was filed in Washington, D.C. and is ongoing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Elle Minarik, from the Paragon Health Institute, about their new report, “The Persistent Obamacare Enrollment Fraud” which details the widespread fraud and improper enrollment in Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchange plans, driven by enhanced federal subsidies, weak verification systems, and misaligned incentives for insurers and intermediaries. Paragon Health Institute’s analysis compares Census data on people with incomes between 100–150% of the federal poverty level to the number of highly subsidized enrollees, estimating that 6.2 million people are enrolled in heavily subsidized plans despite not having incomes in that range. They project about $25 billion per year in improper Obamacare enrollment by 2026, with at least $75 billion over the last three years, and note that in one year alone $40 billion in federal payments went to insurers for “zero-claim” enrollees who never used their coverage. Improper enrollment is highly concentrated in non–Medicaid expansion states, especially Florida and Texas, which together account for 63% of projected improper enrollees in 2026; five states including Florida, Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina account for 78%.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GC13 and David discuss The Root of Evil and The Core and the King from Amphibia. Apothecary Gary, you’ve come back to us! And you are an awesome farmer! We’re glad that you’ve found people you can form a happy community with, and will be glad to see you back in the finale! But then there’s a history lesson about the fall of the Newt empire, how the loss of the music box meant the loss of the ability to perform the interdimensional conquest that their resources relied on. Somebody teach these guys about rockets please!

Newt talks with Dr. Gad Saad, a scholar at the Declaration of Independence Center for the Study of American Freedom at the University of Mississippi and professor of marketing at Concordia University. His new book, “Suicidal Empathy: Dying to Be Kind,” is a number one New York Times nonfiction bestseller. Dr. Saad argues that empathy is vital but must be properly calibrated; too little empathy risks psychopathy, while “hyperactive empathy” misdirected toward the wrong targets becomes “suicidal empathy,” which he believes underlies many domestic and foreign policy failures. Dr. Saad links “Suicidal Empathy” to his earlier book “The Parasitic Mind,” arguing that human decision-making is shaped by both cognitive and affective systems. He claims that just as minds can be infected by ideological brainworms, they can also be captured by dysregulated empathy, allowing activists and policymakers to hijack emotional responses and override critical thinking. Dr. Saad dates the roots of today’s academic and cultural crises to “parasitic ideas” incubated in universities 50–100 years ago, including cultural relativism and postmodernism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us Fan MailWe revisit an unending topic with cover tunes this week.  Fair amount of hazing to go along with some laughs.Song Sung BlueCock-eyedSide effectsGolf recapMark's new MotorbikePressure cookerPun of the DayGet on over to Newt'sInverted golf courseSong of the WeekSugaree--Jorma KaukonenLove Hurts--The Everly BrothersCover songsVH did it rightGrammar meltdownBill ShatnerPearl Jam covers Pink FloydBlack Crowes guy covers Velvet UndergroundFoo Fighters cover The DoorsJoan Jett covers The ArrowsPearl Jam and Post Malone cover Jay Frank Wilson & the CavaliersHot or hideous (nothing in between)#NewtsAppleValleyMNTheAscertainers@gmail.comThe Ascertainers | FacebookJorma Kaukonen -- SugareeEverly Brothers - Love Hurts(AUDIO RESTORED) William Shatner "Sings" 'Rocket Man' 1978

Newt talks with Neil Chilson, Head of AI Policy at the Abundance Institute about the latest AI news. They discuss Anthropic’s IPO and the current AI investment surge. Chilson maintains it is a genuine boom rather than a speculative bubble, driven by massive datacenter and energy buildouts that are already generating substantial revenue. Their conversation turns to Pope Leo’s 42,000-word encyclical on AI. Chilson praises its emphasis on human flourishing but notes its academic skepticism toward technology and markets and observes that it appears only four years into the AI era, long before the full benefits and risks are known. They discuss China as a “fast follower” pursuing “good enough” AI models powered by abundant energy and released as open source, in contrast to U.S. labs’ focus on proprietary frontier models, and Chilson cautions that China may gain economic and military advantages by rapidly integrating AI across its economy and systems even without surpassing U.S. model quality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Dan Doyle, president of Reliance Well Services and Arena Resources and author of the new book, “Of Roughnecks & Riches: A Start-Up in the Great American Fracking Boom.” They discuss his decision to found a fracking company in 2009 amid the post-2008 financial crisis, despite severe industry volatility and personal setbacks. Doyle recounts his early fascination with oil sparked by family drilling projects in northwestern Pennsylvania, his shift to geology at the University of Pittsburgh, and his early career raising money for wells in Pennsylvania and Texas. He characterizes the broader oil and gas sector as a high-risk, “cowboy” culture that persists even as the industry becomes more corporate. Doyle explains that he wrote “Of Roughnecks and Riches” because the chaotic, risk-filled story of his startup, from volatile partners and a truck builder who pulled a knife on him after receiving substantial funds, to visits from the Attorney General’s office, was too dramatic not to document.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Brent Dusing, Founder and CEO of TruPlay, a faith-based gaming and entertainment platform for children. They discuss the growing fears surrounding A.I. and the urgent need for values-driven technology. Dusing began his career at Menlo Ventures leading to his first startup, Cellfire. He describes his conversion to Christianity in the early 2000s and how it led him to create Lightside Games, a Christian gaming studio that reached over seven million players. He created TruPlay as a response to what he describes as a crisis facing American children and the time they spend on screens. TruPlay’s game design is protective: the platform has no chat rooms, no ads, and no micro-purchases, relying instead on a single subscription fee. He emphasizes that TruPlay’s mission is to safeguard children while providing enjoyable experiences that convey messages about God’s truth, aiming to create a space parents can trust. Dusing argues that current AI systems embed anti-Christian values and warns that as AI increasingly governs speech, social media access, and financial transactions, it could be used to classify Christian organizations as “dangerous” groups, restricting their funding and public presence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Scott Rasmussen, President of RMG Research, about his new book, “Out of Touch: The Elite One Percent and the Battle for America’s Soul.” They discuss the “We the People” project that gathered 1.6 million words from over 2,000 voters across every congressional district to draft a modern Declaration of American Ideals. Rasmussen describes the country as a “10-10-80” nation: 10% on the left and 10% on the right locked in conflict, while 80% quietly embrace founding ideals and focus on everyday life. Rasmussen’s research on the “elite 1%” identifies a small, politically active group, disproportionately postgraduates, high-income earners, and dense-city residents, whose views diverge sharply from most voters, including strong trust in the federal government, support for sweeping climate policies, and belief that Americans have too much individual freedom. He contends this elite group rejects core ideals of freedom, equality, and self-governance, with about half believing only college graduates should be allowed to vote and traces its intellectual lineage to Woodrow Wilson’s vision of “government by the unelected” and the administrative state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does “sustainable seafood” actually mean and are we being misled about the fish on our plates? This week on Food Rebels, AJ Sharp meets chef patron Ben Champkin from Catch at The Old Fish Market in Dorset. After training in some of the world's top kitchens including L'Enclume, The Newt and three Michelin-starred Meadowood in California, Ben returned to the South West with a mission to champion truly sustainable British seafood. From dayboat fish and dry-ageing sea bass to why we should be eating cuttlefish instead of imported squid, Ben lifts the lid on the realities of the UK fishing industry and the huge misconceptions around “local” seafood. The pair discuss disappearing cod stocks, why lobster shouldn't be eaten in winter, the surprising rise of octopus in British waters and how supermarkets and food culture may be holding back lesser-known sustainable species. It's a fascinating deep dive into provenance, food miles, restaurant ethics and the future of British fishing.

Newt talks with Senator Lamar Alexander, former Governor of Tennessee and U.S. Education Secretary, about his memoir, “The Education of a Senator: From JFK to Trump.” He traces his public life from a 1963 Justice Department job under Robert Kennedy, where he heard Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, through the rise of “digital democracy,” social media, globalization, the Great Recession, and the Obama and Trump eras, arguing that social media and economic disruption have transformed American politics since around 2008. Alexander contrasts gubernatorial and senatorial leadership, likening governors to Moses and Senate leaders to drum majors who must recruit, align, and manage diverse “marchers,” and notes that many governors find the Senate frustrating while some senators struggle as pragmatic executives. He credits Howard Baker with teaching him to be an “eloquent listener,” to “learn to count” votes, and to remember “the other fellow might be right.” Relationships, he argues, are the essence of the Senate: he cultivated them by visiting House counterparts, maintaining courtesy, and hosting about 60 Senate couples, both Republicans and Democrats alike, at his Tennessee home. Alexander reflects on his own presidential bids, which he compares to moving from eighth-grade basketball to the NBA finals. He warns that presidential politics are increasingly dominated by “media and money,” recalling a 1999 quip predicting a Trump-like figure emerging from this environment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with historian Laurence Jurdem about his new book, “41: George H. W. Bush and the End of the American Establishment.” They discuss Bush’s upbringing in a patrician, duty-bound family culture shaped by his parents and elite institutions such as Phillips Academy and Yale. Bush’s wartime service as the youngest U.S. Navy fighter pilot in World War II, and other formative experiences deepened his sense of mission and sacrifice. Bush’s decision to reject a conventional Connecticut finance career and instead pursue a career in the West Texas oil industry was motivated by a desire for risk, independence and a desire for entrepreneurial achievement. They discuss Bush’s political evolution from an ambitious Senate candidate to President. In assessing Bush’s legacy, Jurdem contends that Bush represents the culmination and “end of the American establishment”: a multi-generational elite of highly experienced, institutionally loyal leaders whose credibility was later undermined by events such as the financial crisis and the Iraq War under subsequent administrations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Steve Brusatte, paleontologist and bestselling author of “The Story of Birds: A New History from Their Dinosaur Origins to the Present.” They discuss a recent fossil discovery in China, a gigantic, long-necked dinosaur found at a construction site that may approach the largest known dinosaur sizes. Brusatte compares these massive sauropods—potentially 100 feet long and 50–60 tons—to modern aircraft. Brusatte reflects on his role advising Jurassic World filmmakers, contrasting his technical academic work with the opportunity to reach mass audiences through films and popular books. They also discuss the modern scientific consensus that birds are living dinosaurs: a surviving, flight-capable branch of the dinosaur family that flourished after the mass extinction. Brusatte likens dinosaur diversity to that of mammals today, emphasizing that many dinosaurs were small and that birds are the dinosaur equivalent of bats—highly specialized, small-bodied fliers within a larger group. He notes that while non-avian dinosaurs died out in the asteroid impact, birds represent the last remnant of this once-dominant lineage. They discuss how birds have become extraordinarily successful: while there are about 6,500 mammal species, there are likely 10,000–15,000 bird species, meaning roughly twice as many bird species as mammals today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Weifeng Zhong, of the America First Policy Institute, about President Trump’s visit to Beijing and his meetings with Xi Jinping. They describe Chinese diplomatic style as highly choreographed, such as the airport reception and elaborate youth choirs that are used to project confidence and set the stage for pressing core issues like Taiwan. Zhong argues that China’s slowing, export-dependent economy and severe demographic pressures from the one-child policy make closer economic ties with the U.S. necessary. Trump’s large delegation of top U.S. business leaders, especially from technology, semiconductor, and AI sectors, is seen as both a bid for market access and a reflection of where U.S.– China tensions are most acute. Their discussion turns to Chinese dishonesty in areas such as arms transfers to Iran, support for Russia in the Ukraine war, fentanyl exports, COVID transparency, and propaganda in state-controlled media, emphasizing the need to read beyond official narratives. On Taiwan, Zhong argues that Xi’s lack of major achievements and the loss of Hong Kong as a credible model make “reunification” with Taiwan central to the Chinese Communist Party’s search for legitimacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there anything more comforting in horror than the relationship between Ripley and Newt in Aliens (1987)? Comfort Horror. It’s a thing. It keeps the fandom fed. We come back time and again to get scared, and we love it. Why? This is the third of my series of Crypticon Seattle convention panel recordings. Panels are the lifeblood of this annual horror gathering, feeding the fandom’s macabre knowledge cravings. Horror movies are the bonds this community shares, and to understand why, this panel examines the lure of horror for many of us. In Kim Douthit’s panel, Comfort Horror, she asks her panelists the question, “Why do we replay the same nightmares? What movies bring us comfort in a time rife with anxiety?” It seems antithetical that many of us crave the experience of being scared. For some, it’s a ritual. A rite of passage. We overcome our perceived fears. Building up the courage to soldier through a horror movie is a peak emotional triumph for many people. For others, the familiarity of the repeated horror experience becomes a form of comfort. There are a few horror movies that I know, frame by frame, and each story beat and moment. I’ll bet that you have a movie or two where you have seen it so many times, you can recite the dialogue when watching it. Several of those movies were discussed on this panel. In an era where most people don’t get to feed their adrenaline through hunting or exploring, horror movies can fill that need. Curiosity is a challenge. Mysteries are meant to be uncovered. Horror movies show us what might be hiding under the bed, within the mirror, or sneaking around in the woods. Kids demand answers. For many in the horror community, these youthful questions persist, and horror offers some shocking responses. Some adrenaline junkies chase thrills by going on roller coasters, skydiving, or downhill skiing. Horror movies can provide those thrills without the threat of injury. The Crypticon Seattle “Comfort Horror” panelists (L to R): Tony Gee, Kim Douthit, Kennedy Rainer, Heather Alexander, and Melissa Leigh. Comfort Horror, a Crypticon Seattle Panel Recording This is the third panel recording from Crypticon Seattle 2026. If you enjoyed listening to this panel, I have two others you can listen to. Tiki Terrors and Tropical Horror, hosted by Brian Callahan, and Good Boy: Pets in Horror Movies, hosted by Brien Gorham. For those of you who don’t go to horror conventions, this gives you a flavor of what it’s like, and hopefully, you will come out to Crypticon one of these years. The Panelists: Kim Douthit, Host: Ghoulish Tendencies, CinemacrazeTony “SkeleTony” Gee: The Great Plot Podcast, Skeletony ArtKennedy Rainer: The Unorthodox PlayersHeather Alexander: The Portland Horror Movie Massacre, The Scariest ThingsMelissa Leigh: Seattle Horror Writers Association, Beneath the Rainshadow Movies Discussed within the Comfort Horror Panel: Hell House LLC (2015) Carrie (1976) Fright Night (1985) House of 1000 Corpses (2003) Friday the 13th (the Franchise) Midsommar (2019) Night of the Living Dead (1990) The Thing (1982) Ready or Not (2019) Sinners (2025) The Conjuring (2012) You’re Next (2013) Dawn of the Dead (2004) Would You Rather (2012) In a Violent Nature (2024) Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Newt talks with Peter Carter, President of Delta Air Lines. Their conversation traces Carter’s transition from 23 years as a trial lawyer to airline leadership. Carter explains how trial practice honed his skills in narrative, simplification of complex issues, and problem-solving, which he now applies to business decision-making and risk navigation, helping Delta pursue opportunities. Carter contrasts law firm culture with corporate leadership, describing the shift from revenue generator to support function and emphasizing the need to add enterprise-wide value in a 100,000-person organization. He underscores the hidden complexity of airline operations—about 5,000 procedures must run correctly daily to deliver safe, clean, on-time flights with baggage and high-quality service—and characterizes Delta as an “endlessly complex” business highly sensitive to geopolitical dynamics. Carter highlights Delta’s safety culture and industry-wide collaboration with the FAA, noting that U.S. airlines do not compete on safety but instead fully report and analyze incidents to drive continuous improvement. Looking to the future, Delta aims to become a leading global airline, focusing on expanding its international route network, particularly in underserved markets like the Middle East, Africa, and India.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Bret Baier, Chief Political Anchor of Fox News Channel and the anchor and executive editor of Special Report with Bret Baier, about his new book, “The Case for America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation.” Baier makes the case that the United States remains resilient and exceptional despite its flaws. He draws heavily on six presidents, George Washington, Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, and Ronald Reagan, to describe American resilience, leadership, and optimism. He argues that the Declaration of Independence was a courageous, high-risk act that defined the nation’s core truths: choosing unity despite dissent, serving as a beacon of freedom, demonstrating a unique capacity for resilience, and remaining a land of opportunity. Their discussion extends to the founders’ disagreements, the risk they faced in signing the Declaration, and the evolution of American political rivalry and reconciliation, exemplified by the bitter split and later warm correspondence between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Turning to contemporary politics, Baier contends that the upcoming America 250th celebration offers a chance to rebuild shared civic affection across ideological lines by acknowledging both the country’s problems and its strengths.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with John Tillman, CEO of the American Culture Project, about his new book, “The Political Vise: How the Radical Left Controls America and the Path to Regaining Our Liberty.” They discuss how the “radical left” wields power in America and how conservatives should respond. Tillman argues that the left outperforms the right in emotional storytelling, especially on economic issues like gas prices, and contend that conservatives must connect policy to everyday experiences to win public sentiment. Tillman introduces his “political vise” framework, describing politics as a pressurized system in which media pressure from the left, people pressure from the right, and elite influencers, especially government unions, trial lawyers, and nonprofits dependent on government funding, squeeze political decision-makers. Their conversation also examines why Republicans struggle to recruit and retain strong candidates. Tillman argues that people on the right are more drawn to business than politics, that some politicians adopt policy agendas mainly to advance their careers, and that the culture of Washington often pulls conservatives leftward through constituent and donor pressures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Sean Spicer, the 30th White House Press Secretary, about his new book, “Trump 2.0: The Revolution That Will Permanently Transform America.” They discuss how President Trump’s second term in office could be among the most consequential in history. Spicer argues that Trump’s second term will be fundamentally different because of four years of planning by groups like the America First Policy Institute and Gingrich’s America’s New Majority Project, which studied lessons from the first term and built a detailed policy blueprint. He emphasizes that Trump now relies on long-standing loyalists who understand his agenda to serve in roles in the White House and cabinet, reducing internal resistance that hindered his first term in office. Looking ahead, Spicer defines the key theme of Trump 2.0 as “permanency” using legislation rather than executive orders to lock in policy changes that cannot be easily reversed by future administrations. Their conversation concludes with a discussion about Spicer’s extensive political memorabilia collection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Carl DeMaio, California State Assemblymember, representing District 75, and Chairman of Reform California. They discuss the California governor’s race and the “top two” primary election system. DeMaio describes the risk that Republican candidates may face by potentially being shut out of the general election if no Republican candidates receive a 35% share of the primary vote. After candidate Eric Swalwell dropped out of the race, establishment Democrats are coalescing their support around Xavier Becerra, while billionaire Tom Steyer continues to spend millions of his own money on his campaign. DeMaio urges Republicans to vote for the Republican candidate that is polling the highest to secure a position in the runoff election. They also discuss the details of the California Voter ID Initiative; a proposed 2026 constitutional amendment DeMaio co-authored that would require voter identification and citizenship verification in all future California state elections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21st), Chairwoman of the House Republican Leadership, about her new book, “Poisoned Ivies: The Inside Account of the Academic and Moral Rot at America’s Elite Universities.” They discuss how America’s elite universities, once proud symbols of academic excellence, have become centers of far-left indoctrination and division. Stefanik traces her own political and professional trajectory, from volunteering for the New York Republican State Committee at age 14 and ultimately running as a 28-year-old underdog who has become a long-serving New York Republican in Congress. Drawing on her experience as a Harvard alumna, Stefanik argues that many elite universities have shifted from liberal leaning but pluralistic to ideologically lopsided, with a dramatic imbalance between Democratic and Republican faculty and a growing culture of political indoctrination over academic rigor. Stefanik’s participation in the hearing with university presidents was a historic turning point in the national debate over higher education. She concludes by expressing her hope, both as a policymaker and as a parent, that this earthquake in public awareness will help restore American universities to global excellence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Brian Blase, President of the Paragon Health Institute, about their new report, “The Hospital Cost Crisis: How Government Policies Drive Consolidation, Undermine Competition, and Fuel Soaring Prices.” Hospital prices have increased three times faster than inflation and more than twice as fast as worker wages since 2000, making rising hospital prices a major threat to middle-class families. Their discussion highlights that hospital care now totals about $1.6 trillion annually, roughly one-third of national health expenditures, and that large hospital systems deploy substantial lobbying resources, including over $115 million in federal lobbying in 2025 alone, to preserve favorable policies and block reforms. Blase explains how cost-based reimbursement in Medicare historically encouraged hospitals to increase costs, fueling administrative bloat and higher spending, a dynamic that still persists when higher hospital costs trigger higher government payments. He argues that Medicare’s centrally set prices and cost-based methodologies distort the entire healthcare market. Policies that pay more for the same service in a hospital than in a physician’s office further drive consolidation and higher prices. As potential solutions, their conversation emphasizes price transparency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with New York Times bestselling author and Pulitzer Prize Finalist, Dr. Arthur Herman, about his new book, “Founders Fire: From 1776 to the Age of Trump,” and the enduring founder mindset in American history, business, and culture. Herman defines a new generation of founders as Americans who embody a core national trait: the belief that individuals can build new enterprises, institutions, and futures through risk-taking, creativity, and self-reliance. He traces this founder spirit through business titans such as John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, Henry Ford, Steve Jobs, and Elon Musk, arguing that their innovations transformed society and exemplify American exceptionalism in entrepreneurship and innovation. They discuss President Lincoln’s deep engagement with technology and commerce, his advocacy for railroads, his work as a railroad lawyer, his unique status as the only U.S. president with a patent, and his vision for a transcontinental railroad, as evidence of a founder’s technological and economic mindset. Herman identifies the core traits of founders and encourages listeners to see the fire of genius within themselves and to consider whether they might be founders shaping the nation’s next chapter as it marks its 250th anniversary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with former FBI counterintelligence special agent Wayne Barnes, whose 29-year career included working KGB espionage, running double agents, recruiting hostile intelligence officers, and debriefing Cold War defectors before becoming a private investigator, signature expert, and specialist in recovering stolen impressionist paintings. Barnes recounts his path from inner-city Philadelphia through Penn State and Villanova Law into the FBI, where high scores on a language aptitude test led to Romanian training in Monterey and a Washington Field Office posting focused on Eastern Bloc counterintelligence. Barnes’ book, “A Traitor in the FBI: The Hunt for a Russian Mole,” documents his investigation to uncover an internal FBI spy for the Russians, Robert Hanssen. After he wrote the book, it was a seven-year struggle to get it through FBI pre-publication review. An initial submission in 2016 was returned almost entirely redacted except for half a page, leading to multiple trips to Washington, wording changes, and securing permission from 32 named individuals before final clearance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Wayne Crews, the Fred L. Smith Fellow in Regulatory Studies at the Competitive Enterprise Institute. His work explores the impact of government regulation of free enterprise. They discuss CEI’s annual report “Ten Thousand Commandments: An Annual Snapshot of the Federal Regulatory State.” Crews argues that rising federal spending and regulation move together, citing post-COVID laws such as the CARES Act, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act as examples of “hyper-regulatory” spending that expands the administrative state even before agencies write rules. Crews contends that government is ill-suited to pick market winners, set prices, or manage sectors like energy and finance, and that market forces—suppliers, customers, investors, media, and civil society—already discipline firms without heavy-handed regulation. He stresses that rejecting overregulation does not mean “no regulation,” but rather preferring competitive over political discipline. Crews warns that massive federal spending has weakened the coalition for regulatory reform by aligning businesses, governors, and mayors with Washington through funded mandates and programmatic strings tied to priorities like DEI, climate, and the “care economy.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with former Congressman and physician Dr. Greg Ganske about the growing public health risks posed by online sports betting and emerging prediction markets, framed by a broader discussion of sports’ role in personal development and community life. Dr. Ganske argues that sports uniquely teach discipline, teamwork, goal setting, and community cohesion. He warns that the rapid expansion of online betting, driven by ubiquitous smartphone access and aggressive advertising campaigns featuring major sports leagues and star athletes, threatens this integrity by increasing incentives for cheating, point shaving, and manipulation at both professional and collegiate levels. Dr. Ganske highlights gambling disorder as a medically recognized condition associated with loss of control, financial ruin, deception, and bankruptcy, affecting an estimated 2-4 million Americans, with another roughly 10 million people at high risk. Their conversation also examines prediction markets on platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket, which position themselves as regulated futures markets under the CFTC but, in Ganske’s view, exploit regulatory gaps while enabling betting on elections, assassination risks, and other sensitive events, compounding incentives for abuse. Dr. Ganske outlines potential federal responses, favoring regulation over outright bans due to constitutional and First Amendment concerns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Zack Smith, Senior Legal Fellow at The Heritage Foundation, about Trump v. Barbara, also known as the birthright citizenship case. The Supreme Court heard oral arguments on April 1, 2026, to determine if President Trump’s executive order violates the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause. Trump’s order seeks to deny automatic U.S. citizenship to children born in the U.S. to undocumented or temporary visa holding parents. The key issues include the meaning of the "subject to the jurisdiction thereof" language in the 14th Amendment, which the Trump administration argues was intended to only grant citizenship to children of U.S. citizens or permanent residents, not to those born to temporary or illegal residents. They also discuss whether the historical context and original understanding of the 14th Amendment at the time of its adoption supports the administration's position, or the broader interpretation of birthright citizenship. Modern issues like "birth tourism" and the ability for large numbers of people to easily travel to the U.S. to give birth, are discussed in the context of the intent of the 14th Amendment's framers. The Court appeared divided during oral arguments, with some justices seeming skeptical of the administration's position, but Smith notes it is difficult to predict the ultimate outcome. A decision is expected by the end of the Court's term in late June 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with David Winston and Myra Miller of the Winston Group, about the 2026 midterm elections. Inflation and the economy remain the central issue for voters. They discuss how war-driven spikes in gas prices may be seen as temporary, potentially buying the Trump administration time if voters expect prices to fall once the Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz tensions ease. Turning to party dynamics, they describe the growing importance of independents, whose share of the electorate rose from 27% in 2020 to 34% in 2024 and now exceeds at least one major party in many competitive states. Historical swings show how dramatically independents can shift outcomes. David and Myra argue that independents are becoming an “existential threat” to both parties and that their voting is driven primarily by economic concerns, especially cost of living. Looking ahead to 2026, they recommend that every Republican campaign adopt two core strategies: a clear economic message that educates voters on the benefits of the “Big Beautiful Bill” and a specific plan to win independents, recognizing that an effective independent strategy is inseparable from a strong economic strategy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Congressman Rick Crawford, (AR-1st) Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, about the importance of counterintelligence reform, the Iran war, and fully funding the Department of Homeland Security. Chairman Crawford explains that the United States needs counterintelligence reform to address threats from China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba, which are actively engaging in espionage and intelligence operations within the U.S. homeland. There is a need for better coordination and cooperation between federal agencies like the FBI and military counterintelligence assets to leverage their different capabilities for threat mitigation rather than just law enforcement. Iran poses a significant threat, with the capability to deliver radioactive materials or a "dirty bomb" via their ballistic missile program, in addition to their support for terrorism and proxies. Our European allies have been unwilling to adequately fund their own defense, relying heavily on U.S. protection. Lastly, they address the challenge to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security and discuss the risks a shutdown poses by leaving critical security gaps in areas like border security, cybersecurity, and disaster response.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with attorneys Joseph VanZandt of the Beasley Allen Law Firm, and Mark Lanier of The Lanier Law Firm about the landmark case in California where Meta and YouTube were deemed liable for addiction-related harm to children and young adults. They represented the plaintiff in the case, known as K.G.M. The case was initiated after former Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen leaked internal documents showing that Meta was aware of the harms its platforms were causing to young users, but prioritized growth over user safety. The case was structured as individual lawsuits rather than a class action, with the judge selecting 9 bellwether cases to go to trial. The K.G.M. case was the first one selected. The key evidence used in the case was internal documents and depositions from current and former employees of the tech companies, which showed intentional efforts to design addictive features targeting children. The lawyers argued that the tech companies' actions constituted addiction, drawing parallels to the tobacco industry, and presented expert testimony to establish the clinical criteria for addiction. The verdict found Meta and YouTube liable, marking a significant legal precedent in holding social media platforms accountable for the harms caused by their products. The lawyers expressed concerns about the ongoing lobbying efforts by the tech companies to prevent further lawsuits through legislative means, highlighting the need for greater transparency and regulation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Wynton Hall, the director of social media at Breitbart News about his new book, "Code Red: The Left, the Right, China, and the Race to Control AI." Hall describes AI as a defining national security challenge, emphasizing its dual role as a tool and a form of political power, particularly in the context of AI warfare and the race against China. Their conversation highlights the importance of AI in military applications, including cybersecurity and battlefield dominance, and the need for increased investment in AI-related government spending. Hall also discusses the democratization of AI, which could empower mid-level countries and non-state actors, potentially leading to both positive and negative outcomes. Their discussion touches on the challenges of autonomous weapons and the ethical considerations surrounding their use. They explore the broader implications of AI on society, including job displacement and the potential for AI to create new opportunities and challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Bob Crawford, Grammy-nominated bassist for The Avett Brothers, and author of, “America’s Founding Son: John Quincy Adams, from President to Political Maverick.” They discuss the life and legacy of John Quincy Adams, emphasizing his role as a statesman whose career spanned diplomacy, the presidency, and 17 years in Congress after leaving the White House. They highlight his upbringing in the extraordinary Adams family, including the intellectual influence of his mother Abigail Adams and his early witness to the Battle of Bunker Hill. They discuss his achievements as a leading diplomat and Secretary of State, his controversial one-term presidency marked by the “corrupt bargain” election of 1824 and fierce populist opposition from Andrew Jackson, and his later transformation into a congressional maverick who defied his party and the pro-slavery bloc. They also discuss his Supreme Court victory in the Amistad case, where he secured freedom for enslaved Africans by appealing to due process and the principles of the Declaration of Independence, a moment portrayed as his personal and public redemption. His lifelong habit of keeping a massive diary—about 14,000 pages from youth to age 80—now digitized and publicly accessible, is presented as an invaluable resource for understanding early American politics and his personal life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Michael Faulkender, Co-Chair of American Prosperity at the America First Policy Institute, about the Supreme Court ruling that limits President Trump's ability to impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, emphasizing that tariff authority primarily resides with Congress. This decision impacts the President's flexibility in using tariffs for economic and national security purposes, although other legislative provisions still allow for some presidential tariff authority. Additionally, their conversation explores the challenges of housing affordability, noting that the median age of first-time homebuyers has risen to 40 years old. Factors contributing to this include increased housing costs, higher interest rates, and regulatory burdens. The America First Policy Institute is working on solutions to address these issues, focusing on reducing regulatory costs and increasing housing supply.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Congressman Bryan Steil, (WI – 1st) Chairman of the Committee on House Administration about the Stop Insider Trading Act. The Act is aimed at prohibiting members of Congress and their families from trading individual stocks to prevent conflicts of interest and personal profit. The Act has garnered significant public support, with 86% of Americans favoring the ban. Despite challenges in scheduling the bill for a vote, there is optimism about its passage due to bipartisan backing and President Trump's endorsement. Additionally, they discuss the SAVE America Act, which seeks to enhance election integrity by requiring voter ID and ensuring only U.S. citizens vote. They also cover the Withhold Members Pay During Shutdown Act, which proposes that members of Congress should not receive a paycheck during government shutdowns, aligning their experiences with those of federal employees. Newt concludes with a new segment addressing listener’s questions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Dr. William LeoGrande, a non-resident fellow at the Quincy Institute and Associate Vice-Provost for Academic Affairs, Professor of Government, and Dean Emeritus of the School of Public Affairs at American University in Washington, D.C. They discuss the foreign policy strategies of President Trump, including actions in Venezuela, Ukraine, and Iran, and the challenges faced by the United States in maintaining dominance in the Western Hemisphere. Dr. LeoGrande provides insights into Cuba's historical and current socio-political landscape, emphasizing the impact of the Cuban Revolution and subsequent U.S. – Cuba relations. They also discuss the geopolitical influence of Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Advisor, and his impact on Latin American policy, particularly regarding Cuba and Venezuela. The episode concludes with a new segment addressing listener’s questions on topics such as the Strait of Hormuz and the SAVE Act.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Jack Salmon, Gibbs Scholar and Research Fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. They discuss the introduction of wealth taxes in several U.S. states, including California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, and Washington, which are targeting high net worth individuals. This has led to a migration of wealthy individuals to states with no such taxes, like Florida and Texas. Washington State, which previously had no income tax, has introduced a 9.9% tax on income over a million dollars, contributing to a significant exodus of high earners, including notable figures like Jeff Bezos. Their discussion highlights the economic consequences of such tax policies, including the loss of tax revenue and potential negative impacts on local economies. The also discuss the importance of fiscal responsibility at the state level and the need for states to prepare for potential federal funding reductions based on the increasing national debt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.