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Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt — the popular Republican who has won all three of his mayoral elections with at least 60% of the vote — joins the Chuck Toddcast to make an impassioned and deeply substantive case for pluralism as the foundation of the entire American experiment. Holt, who recently gave a notable speech on the subject, argues that the American system was fundamentally built on the acceptance of pluralism and the idea that compromise should produce something "good enough" rather than perfect for any single faction — and that the founders gave us a pretty good system specifically designed to channel disagreement away from political violence. The problem, Holt argues, is that the system is now actively making compromise harder. He points to closed partisan primaries as a central culprit: because he faces all voters rather than a narrow partisan base, he's incentivized to build consensus, but most candidates today are forced to pass bizarre litmus tests with base voters and campaign on culture-war messaging rather than the bread-and-butter issues people actually care about. The conversation broadens into the structural and cultural threats Holt sees to a pluralistic society. He argues this era has revealed the long-ignored flaws in American democracy — that we've all taken the system for granted — and makes the case that getting rid of closed partisan primaries, sometimes through ballot initiatives, is one of the most important reforms available, provided it's done in a way that doesn't simply flip parties or states for partisan advantage but instead empowers minority-party voters to act as genuine swing votes. Holt is sharp on education's role in all of this: he worries that the voucherization of schools and the explosion of private schools risk teaching kids in ideological monocultures, and laments the erosion of civics education over the past two decades, noting that public schools deliberately deemphasized social studies after No Child Left Behind. He and Chuck dig into whether pluralism can even be taught or whether it has to be lived in a genuinely diverse place, the difficulty of having a nuanced public conversation about AI data centers, and the housing crisis that Holt argues is not getting nearly enough attention from either the national media or Washington — closing with a concrete look at what a federal housing bill would actually mean for a fast-growing city like Oklahoma City. Link in bio or go to https://getsoul.com & enter code TODDCAST for 30% off your first order. Protect your family with life insurance from Ethos. Get up to $3 million in coverage in as little as 10 minutes at https://ethos.com/chuck. Application times may vary. Rates may vary. Refresh your wardrobe with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/chuck for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code CHUCKTODDCAST at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/chucktoddcast Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Mayor David Holt joins the Chuck ToddCast 00:45 Was the city in mourning after the OKC Thunder lost? 02:30 Are San Antonio and OKC set to become rival cities? 04:30 The mayor gave a speech about the importance of pluralism 05:15 The American experiment is based on the acceptance of pluralism 06:00 Compromise should result in “good enough”, not perfect for anybody 07:30 The founders gave us a pretty good system to avoid political violence 09:45 Nowadays, the system is making compromise harder 10:30 OKC’s politics mirror the country, went 49-48 for Trump in ‘24 12:00 Won all three mayoral elections with at least 60% of the vote 12:45 Mayor faces all voters rather than closed partisan primaries 14:00 Electoral system needs to incentivize consensus building 15:45 Candidates used to campaign on their ability to work across the aisle 17:15 Messaging from gubernatorial candidates are not bread & butter issues 18:30 Candidates are forced to pass bizarre litmus tests with base voters 20:30 Can you teach pluralism, or do you have to live in a diverse place? 22:15 There are always opposing views that exist even in highly red/blue areas 24:30 This era has revealed the flaws/weaknesses of our democracy 25:30 We’ve all taken our system for granted 26:00 We have to get away from closed partisan primaries 28:00 How do you convince parties in power to open up primaries to more voters? 29:00 Some states can get rid of partisan primaries via ballot initiatives 30:45 The process shouldn’t flip parties or states 32:30 Voters in the minority should act as swing votes 34:45 Voucherization of schools can lead kids to learning in a monoculture 36:15 There’s been explosion in the creation of private schools 38:00 There’s been an erosion in civics education the past two decades 39:30 Public schools deemphasized social studies after No Child Left Behind 41:45 Can the electorate have a nuanced conversation around AI data centers? 43:30 Hard for elected officials to go against the NIMBY crowd 44:00 Politicians have to argue for the positive trade offs 45:15 Bringing in tech and investment used to be good politics, it’s not with data centers 45:45 Housing is the issue that’s not getting enough attention from media & DC 46:45 What would the housing bill do for you in OKC?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chuck Todd breaks down a seismic primary night in New York, where Mamdani-backed Democratic Socialist candidates swept their races — and argues the DSA may be on the verge of becoming the far-left equivalent of the Freedom Caucus, a small but disciplined faction capable of making the establishment's life genuinely miserable. The most stunning data point: Chuck argues Chuck Schumer likely couldn't win a Democratic primary anywhere in New York right now, that Dan Goldman lost his primary handily, and that while Schumer clearly shouldn't run again, politicians rarely walk away on their own. It was also a quietly bad night for Hakeem Jeffries, and Chuck raises the genuinely open question of whether Jeffries would even survive a primary challenge — and whether he still has a clear path to the speakership if Democrats take the House. The strategic lesson the left has internalized, Chuck argues, is that the smaller the Democratic majority, the more leverage a committed progressive bloc can apply, which means Democrats may have to govern in a fundamentally different way than their leadership wants. But Chuck repeatedly returns to the central tension: this brand of far-left politics plays beautifully in coastal cities but the socialist label simply doesn't travel well elsewhere, the rise of far-left politics has become uncomfortably intertwined with rising antisemitism, pro-Israel Democrats may soon find themselves politically homeless, and the real test will be whether progressives can win anywhere outside their urban strongholds. It all amounts, Chuck says, to a genuine fight for the heart and soul of the Democratic Party. He closes with a heartfelt remembrance of former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, who passed away at 100 — recalling a man who always grounded his opinions in data, and what a personal treat it was to have known him. Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt — the popular Republican who has won all three of his mayoral elections with at least 60% of the vote — joins the Chuck Toddcast to make an impassioned and deeply substantive case for pluralism as the foundation of the entire American experiment. Holt, who recently gave a notable speech on the subject, argues that the American system was fundamentally built on the acceptance of pluralism and the idea that compromise should produce something "good enough" rather than perfect for any single faction — and that the founders gave us a pretty good system specifically designed to channel disagreement away from political violence. The problem, Holt argues, is that the system is now actively making compromise harder. He points to closed partisan primaries as a central culprit: because he faces all voters rather than a narrow partisan base, he's incentivized to build consensus, but most candidates today are forced to pass bizarre litmus tests with base voters and campaign on culture-war messaging rather than the bread-and-butter issues people actually care about. The conversation broadens into the structural and cultural threats Holt sees to a pluralistic society. He argues this era has revealed the long-ignored flaws in American democracy — that we've all taken the system for granted — and makes the case that getting rid of closed partisan primaries, sometimes through ballot initiatives, is one of the most important reforms available, provided it's done in a way that doesn't simply flip parties or states for partisan advantage but instead empowers minority-party voters to act as genuine swing votes. Holt is sharp on education's role in all of this: he worries that the voucherization of schools and the explosion of private schools risk teaching kids in ideological monocultures, and laments the erosion of civics education over the past two decades, noting that public schools deliberately deemphasized social studies after No Child Left Behind. He and Chuck dig into whether pluralism can even be taught or whether it has to be lived in a genuinely diverse place, the difficulty of having a nuanced public conversation about AI data centers, and the housing crisis that Holt argues is not getting nearly enough attention from either the national media or Washington — closing with a concrete look at what a federal housing bill would actually mean for a fast-growing city like Oklahoma City. Finally, skip the reflecting pool… Chuck presents his ToddCast Top 5 list of his favorite Washington D.C. monuments & answers listeners’ questions in the Ask Chuck segment. Link in bio or go to https://getsoul.com & enter code TODDCAST for 30% off your first order. Protect your family with life insurance from Ethos. Get up to $3 million in coverage in as little as 10 minutes at https://ethos.com/chuck. Application times may vary. Rates may vary. Refresh your wardrobe with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/chuck for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code CHUCKTODDCAST at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/chucktoddcast Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Chuck Todd’s introduction 04:00 Mamdani backed DSA candidates sweep in NY primaries 06:00 Democratic socialists could become the far left equivalent of Freedom Caucus? 06:45 Chuck Schumer likely couldn’t win any Democratic primary in New York 07:30 Dan Goldman lost his primary handily 09:45 Schumer shouldn’t run again, but politicians rarely walk away 10:30 It was a bad night for Hakeem Jeffries, would he survive a primary? 13:30 The left has learned that you can make life miserable for the establishment 15:00 The smaller the Dems majority, the more pressure the left can apply in Congress 15:45 Hakeem Jeffries may not have a clear path to the speakership 17:00 Democrats will have to govern differently if the majority is narrow 19:00 The far left politics play on the coasts, but can it win elsewhere? 21:45 The socialist label doesn’t travel well outside the left leaning cities 23:30 Far-left politics has become intertwined with rise of antisemitism 24:45 Pro-Israel Democrats could become politically homeless 25:45 Big test will be if progressive can win elsewhere 27:45 There’s a real fight for the heart and soul of the Democratic party29:00 Alan Greenspan passes away at the age of 100 30:30 Greenspan always grounded his opinions in data 33:15 It was a treat to know Alan Greenspan personally 41:45 Mayor David Holt joins the Chuck ToddCast 42:30 Was the city in mourning after the OKC Thunder lost? 44:15 Are San Antonio and OKC set to become rival cities? 46:15 The mayor gave a speech about the importance of pluralism 47:00 The American experiment is based on the acceptance of pluralism 47:45 Compromise should result in “good enough”, not perfect for anybody 49:15 The founders gave us a pretty good system to avoid political violence 51:30 Nowadays, the system is making compromise harder 52:15 OKC’s politics mirror the country, went 49-48 for Trump in ‘24 53:45 Won all three mayoral elections with at least 60% of the vote 54:30 Mayor faces all voters rather than closed partisan primaries 55:45 Electoral system needs to incentivize consensus building 57:30 Candidates used to campaign on their ability to work across the aisle 59:00 Messaging from gubernatorial candidates are not bread & butter issues 01:00:15 Candidates are forced to pass bizarre litmus tests with base voters 01:02:15 Can you teach pluralism, or do you have to live in a diverse place? 01:04:00 There are always opposing views that exist even in highly red/blue areas 01:06:15 This era has revealed the flaws/weaknesses of our democracy 01:07:15 We’ve all taken our system for granted 01:07:45 We have to get away from closed partisan primaries 01:09:45 How do you convince parties in power to open up primaries to more voters? 01:10:45 Some states can get rid of partisan primaries via ballot initiatives 01:12:30 The process shouldn’t flip parties or states 01:14:15 Voters in the minority should act as swing votes 01:16:30 Voucherization of schools can lead kids to learning in a monoculture 01:18:00 There’s been explosion in the creation of private schools 01:19:45 There’s been an erosion in civics education the past two decades 01:21:15 Public schools deemphasized social studies after No Child Left Behind 01:23:30 Can the electorate have a nuanced conversation around AI data centers? 01:25:15 Hard for elected officials to go against the NIMBY crowd 01:25:45 Politicians have to argue for the positive trade offs 01:27:00 Bringing in tech and investment used to be good politics, it’s not with data centers 01:27:30 Housing is the issue that’s not getting enough attention from media & DC 01:28:30 What would the housing bill do for you in OKC? 01:29:45 Chuck’s thoughts on the interview with Mayor David Holt 01:32:00 ToddCast Top 5 list 01:33:30 Top 5 historical attractions in Washington DC 01:35:45 Honorable Mention - Mount Vernon 01:37:15 #5 The World War I Memorial 01:38:45 #4 Albert Einstein Memorial 01:40:30 #3 Arlington National Cemetery 01:43:00 #2 Korean War Memorial 01:44:15 #1 Vietnam Veterans Memorial 01:47:15 Ask Chuck 01:47:30 Thoughts on the predictions Trump might not finish his term? 01:56:15 Do leaders rise due to the political moment, or do they make the history? 02:03:00 Does George W Bush’s “go shopping” mindset say something about boomers? 02:09:15 Where would you rank the Iran war amongst top presidential blunders? 02:18:45 Why can’t the country ever deal with long term crises in advance? 02:23:15 How do you manage to juggle your busy schedule? 02:27:15 Does Trump’s leadership style hurt the ability to make peace?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. JB Hixson Mary welcomes back JB Hixson to talk about his latest book, “Fade to Black: Rise of Global Tyranny”. When he wrote Spirit of Antichrist and Spirit of the False Prophet, these well thought out books became invaluable to those who need a resource on the leading subjects of Bible prophecy today. But in short order, these same subjects have continued to bring ever clearer understanding of how they all reflect the lateness of the hour. In this updated work, JB presents an even sharper picture of not only what is going on, but the spirit behind it, something the Bible lays out fully when it addresses the pride and pretense of our arch-enemy, Satan. Current events playing out in our world are merely symptoms of the cosmic war, with humans as the spoil. We look at the 7 spirits that make up the “signs of the times”: the spirits of Pretense, Power, Phenomena, Pride, Persecution, Perversion, and Pluralism. An insightful hour with JB as the world “fades to black”. Stand Up For The Truth Videos: https://rumble.com/user/CTRNOnline & https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgQQSvKiMcglId7oGc5c46A
In this conversation, Amar Peterman and I get into the slow, local, unglamorous work of becoming neighbors across real difference. We talk about the table as the place where the common good gets built, and why so many of us are far more comfortable playing host than being hosted - flinging our doors open without ever considering who actually walks through them. We get into hospitality as displacement, an accompaniment that refuses to leave, Thomas learning you can't reason your way to resurrection, and an imagination that can see life where everything around us insists there's only division. Here's the challenge: we have to learn to receive before we can ever give, to love people beyond their labels, and to start right where we are, with the one neighbor in front of us.Amar D. Peterman is a constructive theologian working at the intersection of faith and public life. He is the founder of Scholarship for Religion and Society LLC and the former assistant director of civic networks at Interfaith America. Peterman holds an MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary and is currently a PhD student at the University of Chicago Divinity School. His writing and research have been featured in Sojourners, Christianity Today, The Christian Century,The Fetzer Institute, The Berkley Forum, and more. He also publishes regularly on his Substack, This Common Life.Amar's Book:Becoming NeighborsAmar's Recommendations:Make Your Home in this Luminous DarkGlimmeringsConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeSupport the podcast and the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Support the show
In this episode, Noah Tyler sits down with Dr. Ashley Berner, the co-founder and director of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy (IEP) and Associate Professor of Education. Dr. Berner talks about the importance of educational pluralism, the role of values in school success, and the significance of a content-rich education. She explores historical shifts in American education, the impact of curriculum choices, and how assessment can drive better learning outcomes.References:– Pluralism and American Public Education: No One Way to School by Ashley Berner– Educational Pluralism and Democracy by Ashley Berner– Left Back: A Century of Failed School Reforms by Diane Ravitch
A Reason 4 Hope Bible Q&A - Pluralism, Sikhism, and Islam June 12, 2026 by Calvary Christian Fellowship of Tucson
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat does religious freedom actually protect when people are afraid of someone else's faith? Maggie Siddiqi, Senior Advisor at Interfaith Alliance and former Director of the Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships at the U.S. Department of Education, joins Faithful Politics for a conversation about Islam, pluralism, public schools, Christian nationalism, and the fear surrounding Sharia law.Maggie shares her own story of growing up Baptist, converting to Islam, and still holding deep respect for her Baptist roots. She also explains why religious freedom works best when it protects every community equally, including Christians, Muslims, Jews, and people of no faith. The conversation gets into antisemitism, Islamophobia, public school religious expression, the politics of anti-Christian bias claims, and why Sharia law is often used as a political scare tactic. At its core, this episode is about how fear of religious difference can weaken democracy, and how pluralism gives Americans a better way to live together. Relevant Links & ResourcesInterfaith AllianceURL: https://www.interfaithalliance.org/Guest BioMaggie Siddiqi is Senior Advisor at Interfaith Alliance, where her work focuses on religious freedom, interfaith solidarity, public policy, and standing against hate. She previously served as Director of the Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships at the U.S. Department of Education, where she worked on religious freedom issues including antisemitism, Islamophobia, and church-state separation. She has also served as Senior Director of the Religion and Faith team at the Center for American Progress and is a Non-Resident Fellow on Muslim-Jewish Partnerships at MPAC. Her background in Christian-Muslim relations, public policy, and faith-based advocacy makes her a strong guide for this conversation about pluralism, democracy, Islamophobia, and religious freedom in American public life. Support the show
Our Own Backyard - Post Christian Pluralism - Part 1Your support sends the gospel to every corner of Australia through broadcast, online and print media: https://www.vision.org.au/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At a time when politicians across the West are calling for higher taxes on the wealthy, legal scholar and author John O. McGinnis offers a strikingly different view: what if democracy needs the rich? He joins Merryn Somerset Webb to discuss power, inequality, free speech and what he says is the hidden role wealth plays in keeping democratic societies healthy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nevena and Paul are joined live on air by Cameron McTernan, Lecturer & Researcher at Adelaide University; as they discuss the implications of Gina Rinehart – Australia's richest person – buying into Southern Cross Austerio Cameron is a researcher and educator at Adelaide University specialising in social media, political communication and media industries. He is currently an: Executive Committee member for the Australian and Aotearoa-New Zealand Communication Association Researcher for The Global Media and Internet Concentration Project (Australian and Aotearoa-New Zealand teams) Areas of interest and research include Media Diversity and Pluralism in Australia, Political Communication, Social Media and Streaming Services. Teaching areas include Communication and Social Media. Current teaching profile for 2026 is: MDIA 2021 Research Methods in Media and Communication MDIA 2101 Creating Content for Media MDIA 1017 Social Media Audiences and Algorithmic Cultures Read his book: Social Media in Society (Palgrave Macmillan) https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2025-1029 The post Sat, 6th June, 2026: Cameron McTernan, Lecturer & Researcher at Adelaide University; Implications of Gina Rinehart – Australia's richest person – buying into Southern Cross Austerio appeared first on Saturday Magazine.
On this week's episode of the RealClearInvestigations Podcast, RCI Editor J. Peder Zane and RCI Senior Reporter James Varney speak with author Andrew G. Bostom about the rise of Shariah law in the U.S. and the EU and challenges it poses to those western laws, customs and society. On the news round-up, Zane and Varney use a Tablet article saying the U.S. has few good options in Iran to discuss some lessons we have learned so far from the ongoing conflict. They also discuss what sky-high tickets prices to see the New York Knicks play in the NBA finals say about America's wealth gap and what two stories about Sweden – one in Europe Today, the other in the Wall Street Journal – tell us about mass immigration and social cohesion. 00:00 Introduction 04:52 Trump Cutting Bait in Iran?08:00 NBA Championships and the High Cost of Tickets 09:43 WSJ World's Most Surprising Capitalist Makeover 11:00 Sharia Law and Its Implications 15:53 Interview with Andrew Bostom on Islam and Sharia 32:44 Global Perspectives on Sharia Law 39:03 Theological Roots of Anti-Semitism in Islam 51:50 Islamic Theology and Historical Context 54:40 Challenges of Discussing Islamic Anti-Semitism 01:03:11 The Future of Pluralism and Freedom Books & Articles Discussed in This Podcast: Paul; Sperry/RCI: GOP Battles Sharia: Is Islamic Law a Threat or Dog Whistle? Paul Sperry/RCI: Sharia's Growing Influence on U.S. Finance Andrew G. Bostom: The Legacy of Jihad Andrew G. Bostom: The Legacy of Islamic Antisemitism Andrew G. Bostom: A Modern Qur'anic Kampf Against the Jews Tablet: Trump Tries to Cut Bait in Iran New York Times: Knicks Fans Are Stunned by Four-Figure Ticket Prices Europe Today: Sweden Approves Law Banning Cousin Marriages and Close Relative Unions Wall Street Journal: The World's Most Surprising Capitalist Makeover Is Under Way in Sweden Sign up for the RealClearInvestigations Newsletter. Watch each episode on the RealClearPolitics YouTube ChannelContact us with your thoughts and feedback: jpederzane@realclearinvestigations.com
This month, something happened in British politics that would normallysound completely impossible.A Labour mayor appointed a Green council leader as her deputy. Not after a coalition deal, or an election without a clear winner, or becausesomebody lost a bet, but because they decided they might be able to govern better together than apart.In this episode, Lena talks to West of England Mayor Helen Goodwin and her Deputy Mayor Tony Dyer about how pluralism is working for them in practice. Support the showEnjoyed the podcast and want to be a live audience member at our next episode? Want to have the chance in raising questions to the panelist?Support our work and be a part of the Compass community. Become a member!You can find us on Twitter at @CompassOffice.
Eboo Patel is recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of America's best leaders as the founder of Interfaith America. At the Bush Center's 2026 Forum on Leadership, Eboo has just received the George W. Bush Institute Citation, which reads: Eboo Patel understands the power of pluralism. Through his leadership and writing, he encourages others to find the dignity in their fellow man regardless of religion or practice. His commitment to mutual respect strengthens our country by demonstrating how profound differences can coexist with shared democratic values.
Is Christian nationalism inherently violent?Does Christendom inevitably lead to coercion, persecution, and the abuse of power? Or have modern secular states simply hidden their own forms of coercion behind the language of neutrality and liberty? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird respond to Gordon-Conwell Seminary president Dr. Scott Sunquist's article “Nation or Kingdom” and examine some of the biggest assumptions surrounding Christian nationalism, pluralism, church and state, religious liberty, and political theology.Can governments ever be morally neutral?Is every legal system rooted in a religious vision of reality?What are the biblical limits of civil authority?And what does Christ's kingship over the nations actually require?This conversation explores:- Christian nationalism and coercion - The history of Christendom - Religious liberty and pluralism - Protestant political theology - Church and state relations - The role of the civil magistrate - Whether secularism is truly neutral - Christ's authority over nations If you're tired of shallow debates and talking points surrounding Christian nationalism, this episode offers a deeper historical and theological framework for understanding the issue.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
In this episode, we dive deep into the historical and psychological drivers of political polarization with Dr. Allison Ralph, head of Cohesion Strategy.Allison shares how ancient metaphors, like the "body politic," are still being used today to justify othering and the dangerous trend of social purification. We move beyond the idea of "mushy middle" dialogue to discuss productive conflict—the essential, often difficult work of building pluralistic solutions and strategic coalitions even when we fundamentally disagree.If you've ever felt that bridging divides feels like a "kumbaya" fantasy, this conversation is for you. We explore why action-based bridging and collective action are the most powerful tools we have for increasing community trust and protecting our democracy.Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, DavidSupport the showShow Notes:https://outrageoverload.net/ Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.comHOTLINE: 925-552-7885Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episodeIf you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That's the best way to support it.Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverloadAlso check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...
Segment 1 • An architecture student admits buildings require designers… but refuses to apply the same logic to the universe. • A biomedical engineering student claims the universe “just fell into place”—so Todd presses him on morality, guilt, and judgment. • The shocking moment: after admitting guilt under God's law, the student says he still doesn't care if God exists or judges him. Segment 2 • Junior grew up in a Christian home in Jamaica—but realizes he may not actually understand Christianity at all. • Todd walks Junior through lying, lust, blasphemy, and guilt before God… and Junior pushes back hard on blind faith. • “I'm not a sinful person.” Todd challenges the difference between growing up around Christianity and truly knowing Christ. Segment 3 • Dan believes “good people” from many religions can make it to heaven—but Todd asks a devastating courtroom question. • If God simply forgives guilty people without punishment… is He actually a just judge? • Todd dismantles salvation-by-good-works and explains why trying harder can never erase guilt before a holy God. Segment 4 • Todd explains the difference between earning heaven and receiving forgiveness through Christ alone. • Why your “good works” might actually be offensive to God if they come from a sinful heart. • One of the clearest gospel appeals of the episode: stop striving, die to self, and trust the righteousness of Jesus instead. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!
Nora Fisher Onar is Associate Professor and Chair of Global Studies at the University of San Francisco. Her research interests include international relations theory, diplomacy, comparative politics / area studies (Turkey/Middle East; Europe; Eurasia), political ideologies, gender, and history/memory. She is also increasingly interested in the impact of technological change on international affairs. She received her doctorate from the University of Oxford and holds master's and undergraduate degrees from Johns Hopkins (SAIS) and Georgetown universities, respectively. She speaks five languages, has traveled to over 80 countries, and lived in eight. Fisher-Onar is the author of Contesting Pluralism(s): Islam, Liberalism and Nationalism in Turkey, with Cambridge University Press, and lead editor of the volume, Istanbul: Living With Difference in a Global City (co-edited with Susan C. Pearce and E. Fuat Keyman). She is also the editor of special issues of major scholarly journals like: the Journal of Common Market Studies; International Affairs, and Global Studies Quarterly, among others. Fisher-Onar speaks often at policy fora like Brookings, Carnegie, and the German Marshall Fund (GMF) where she has served as a Ronald Asmus Fellow, Transatlantic Academy Fellow, and Non-Residential Fellow. She further contributes commentary to platforms like the Washington Post, Foreign Affairs, and OpenDemocracy.
In this hilarious and insightful Ward Radio episode, Cardon Ellis sits down with filmmaker Barrett Bergen (director of the new Mormon comedy short Java Jive) and James Hall to unpack the future of Latter-day Saint comedy.Why is so much "Mormon humor" either too insider for outsiders or overly sanitized? How can we create comedy that's authentically LDS yet universally funny — like Jewish comedians have mastered for generations? They discuss ditching the "cringe" and shame around everyday faith quirks (like coffee on a date), embracing confidence in our identity, and why self-deprecating humor earns respect.Plus: Clips and breakdown of Java Jive — a future missionary on a date with a non-member, forbidden fruit (coffee) on the menu, and the hilarious fallout. A must-watch for anyone who loves clean comedy, LDS culture, or wants better Mormon media.If you've ever felt awkward explaining the Word of Wisdom or wondered why ex-Mormon voices stay obsessed, this episode nails it.#MormonComedy #LatterDaySaints #JavaJive #LDSHumor #ChristianComedy #WordOfWisdom #BookOfMormon00:00 Intro: The Cringe of Trying Too Hard to Be "Normal"00:45 Why Mormon Comedy Matters & Cultural Confidence01:40 Guest Introduction: Barrett Bergen & Java Jive Overview02:45 The Legacy of LDS Comedy — What's Missing?04:10 Learning from Jewish Comedy: Authentic Yet Universal Humor05:50 Breaking Down Java Jive Scenes — Coffee Date Awkwardness07:30 The Real Absurdity: Self-Loathing vs. Owning Your Faith09:20 Missionary Moments, Ex-Mormon Identity & Social Fabric12:00 Advice for Creators: Be Bold, Be You15:30 Hollywood Experiences & Everyone Has Their "Crazy"18:45 Film Breakdown Continued: Lies, Escalation & Comedy Timing22:10 Shame in LDS Culture vs. Embracing Identity26:00 Pluralism, Nuance & Lasting Testimonies30:15 More Java Jive Clips & Audience Reactions35:40 The Power of Self-Deprecating Humor & Respect39:20 Future of Mormon Media & Bold Storytelling43:50 Final Thoughts: Own It Because You Can't Escape It46:30 Closing Reflections & Call to ActionJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnmsAFGrFuGe0obW6tkEY6w/joinAmazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1AQLMTSMBM4DC?ref_=wl_shareVisit us for this and more at: WardRadio.comThe following authors and/or sponsors are generously offering discounts on their gospel-related publication to Ward Radio listeners.⚡For free trial of Scripture Notes please visit the following link!: https://scripturenotes.com/?via=wardradio⚡For a discount on Tiny 3D Temples, Save 15% with code WARDRADIO at checkout or visit tiny3dtemples.com/wardradio⚡Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids book visit the following linkhttps://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids . Use the code "Ward Radio" for 10% off. ⚡To Order Jonah's Book, “Lost Gems of Genesis” visit the following link and use coupon Code: WARDRADIO https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/coming-soon-the-lost-gems-of-genesis-how-apocryphal-texts-prove-joseph-smith-fixed-the-bibleFor 10% off Plain and Precious Publishing Books, visit plainandpreciouspublishing.com and use Coupon Code: WARDRADIOFor a 5% discount on Go and Do Travel, visit goanddotravel.com and use the promo code WARDRADIO5#christian #mormon #exmormon #latter-daysaints #latterdaysaints #latterdays #bible #bookofmormon #archaeology #BYU #midnightmormons #jesus #jesuschrist #scriptures #sundayschool #biblestudy #christiancomedy #cardonellis #kwakuel #bradwitbeckTo support the channel:Venmo @WardRadio or visit: https://account.venmo.com/u/MidnightMormonsPaypal: paypal.me/@midnightmedia CashApp: $WardRadioFollow us at:Instagram: @cardonellis @kwakuel @braderico @boho.birdyFacebook: @WardRadioWorldwideTwitter: WardRadioShowTikTok: WardRadioWorldwide
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In this episode, I walk through my recent JOSPT paper arguing that no single treatment modality has proven itself superior for musculoskeletal pain and that the profession should stop pretending otherwise. Drawing on Isaiah Berlin's distinction between the hedgehog and the fox, I make the case for treatment pluralism: the idea that multiple interventions can lead to recovery, and that rigid allegiance to any one approach is not supported by the evidence. Key resources Powell et al 2026. Many Paths to Recovery: The Case for Treatment Pluralism. JOSPT. DOI: https://www.jospt.org/doi/10.2519/jospt.2026.13992 Register for the complete shoulder online course Register for my Brisbane workshop Connect with Jared and guests: Jared on Instagram: @shoulder_physio Jared on X: @jaredpowell12 See our Disclaimer here: The Shoulder Physio - Disclaimer
This week, Scott was joined by Almas Muscatwalla, co-founder of Faith Forward Dallas at Thanksgiving Square. Almas provides leadership in a number of North Texas faith spaces and is a leader in encouraging pluralism and interfaith dialogue. Almas talked about her Ismaili Muslim faith tradition and how it encourages a commitment to community. She also discussed challenges facing our communities in our current political climate. She challenged listeners to work to connect with those with whom we disagree, even discussing a recent encounter with a January 6 leader at the Dallas No Kings Rally. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite a friend to listen along. If you share it in your social media, make sure to tag us! To learn more or get involved, check out Texas Impact's Action Center at texasimpact.org. Weekly Witness is hosted by Scott Atnip and engineered and produced by David Vassallo. Our executive producer is Bee Moorhead. Theme music by Kimberly Zielnicki, Hayden Havard and Andres Garcia-Bonilla. The opinions expressed on Weekly Witness are those of Texas Impact and our guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views of our sponsors. Weekly Witness is a product of Texas Impact. Visit us online at texasimpact.org. Get full access to Texas Impact at texasimpact.substack.com/subscribe
In this expansive episode of the VDAO Series, Gregory shares a sweeping journey across ecology, permaculture, economics, crypto, and community building all anchored in a bold thesis: Humans can become a planetary keystone species. Drawing on decades of work in regenerative design, supply chains, eco-villages, and Web3 infrastructure, Gregory explores how broken relationships between humans and the biosphere sit at the root of today's "meta-crisis" and how regeneration offers a practical path forward. From Alaska fisheries to intentional communities, from the Eight Forms of Capital to founding Regen Network, this conversation connects local land stewardship with global coordination technologies. Topics covered: • Keystone species thinking & planetary stewardship • Resilience vs antifragility in ecosystems and society • Origins in permaculture & eco-village movements • Environmentalism beyond doom narratives • Regeneration as a "third way" beyond political polarization • Degrowth vs regrowth debates • Traditional skills, technology & appropriate scale • The Eight Forms of Capital framework • Financial permaculture & local economics • Regen Network and ecological credit markets • Carbon, biodiversity & ecosystem service valuation • Blockchain as infrastructure for living capital accounting • Limits of supply-chain sustainability efforts • Personal resilience through land-based living • Rural-urban reconnection (Kuni model) • Community as the core of antifragility • Network nations & place-based coordination • Regeneration as the root solution to the meta-crisis The core message: The future isn't choosing between nature and technology. It's learning how to regenerate both together. greenpill.network vdao.org https://x.com/JoinVDAO https://x.com/greenpillnet https://x.com/gregory_landua https://www.registry.regen.network/team/gregory-landua Timestamps 00:00 — Introduction & Gregory's "why" 00:44 — Humans as a planetary keystone species 03:08 — What regeneration looks like in practice 04:52 — Relationship between humanity and nature 05:37 — Resilience vs antifragility explained 07:21 — Applying resilience in everyday life 08:37 — Early roots: Alaska, fisheries & environmental science 10:55 — Frustration with doom-focused environmentalism 12:20 — Discovering permaculture & eco-villages 15:43 — From apprentice to educator & consultant 17:53 — Financial permaculture & early Bitcoin era 20:15 — Founding TerraGenesis & large-scale projects 22:08 — Optimism vs activist pessimism 24:42 — Regeneration as a "third way" 29:25 — Pre-political nature of land stewardship 31:39 — Degrowth, primitivism & collapse narratives 33:19 — Practical preparedness vs ideology 35:39 — Regrowth as a design challenge 37:38 — Critiques of techno-civilization 38:58 — Learning from diverse communities 40:56 — Back-to-the-land movements today 43:20 — Pluralism & shared human needs 45:46 — Global shifts & regenerative acceleration 47:35 — The Eight Forms of Capital framework 49:09 — Origins in financial permaculture workshops 53:36 — Regenerative Enterprise & practical tools 55:53 — Capital beyond money 57:29 — Applying the framework personally & locally 59:18 — Early path toward Regen Network 01:01:42 — Building cacao farms & regenerative supply chains 01:04:00 — Consulting with mission-driven brands 01:05:58 — Why good intentions fail in markets 01:08:06 — Need for ecological accounting systems 01:10:24 — Carbon markets & ecosystem services 01:12:49 — Regen Network's on-chain ledger approach 01:14:25 — Moving upstream for systemic change 01:16:41 — Limits of education & consulting alone 01:18:20 — Aligning markets with regeneration 01:19:35 — Creating value systems around ecological health 01:21:52 — Crypto, fintech & systemic shifts 01:25:08 — Technology vs culture in adoption 01:26:52 — Personal resilience practices 01:27:02 — Living on land & community building 01:29:27 — Local enterprise: maple sugaring operation 01:31:41 — Kuni model: reconnecting urban & rural 01:33:36 — Relationships as true resilience 01:34:30 — Invitation to collaborate & co-create 01:36:58 — Network nations & shared infrastructure 01:39:24 — Grounding digital visions in physical places 01:41:48 — Regeneration as the solution to the meta-crisis 01:42:55 — Closing reflections
Host Andrew Kaufmann and Manu Meel, CEO of BridgeUSA, joined Bush Institute experts Chris Walsh and Nicole Bibbins Sedaca for a Strategerist After Hours roundtable on pluralism: what it is, how it can be applied in daily life, and their hopes for our great nation.
Western man is told he faces a binary choice:➡️ Religious pluralism➡️ Establishmentarianism But what if that's a false dilemma?In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird respond to Andrew T. Walker's recent comments and the broader debate surrounding religion and the state. Drawing from historic Reformed and Presbyterian political theology, they argue that the modern conversation has lost an entire category — one that shaped early America and Protestant thought for centuries.This isn't about choosing between two extremes. It's about recovering a forgotten framework.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Can the meaning crisis be addressed by transforming how we perceive reality rather than what we believe about it? In this episode, John Vervaeke and Ethan Hsieh introduce the course Between East and West, which explores Zen Neoplatonism as a dialogical framework integrating Eastern and Western traditions. The course is designed not as a system of belief but as a training in perception, participation, and understanding. Zen offers a path of intimacy, presence, and immanence, while Neoplatonism provides intelligibility, transcendence, and coherence. Together, they form a stereoscopic vision that allows for a renewed encounter with meaning and the sacred. The discussion reframes mysticism, philosophy, religion, and spirituality, while confronting the meaning crisis and the limitations of modern categories. It proposes a shift beyond theism and atheism toward a participatory understanding of reality grounded in insight and practice. Ethan Hsieh is a writer, educator, and dialogue facilitator working across philosophy, cognitive science, and contemplative practice, helping to bridge theory and lived experience. Guest Links Ethan Hsieh: https://sg.linkedin.com/in/ethan-hsieh-828a63240 Join the full course Between East and West https://lectern.johnvervaeke.com/courses/between-east-and-west Explore more courses and teachings from The Lectern https://lectern.johnvervaeke.com/ Support the Lectern and join a growing community of wisdom seekers https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke 00:00 Welcome to the Lectern 01:00 What is Zen Neoplatonism 05:00 Silk Road origins and Pyrrho 07:00 Mysticism, philosophy, and religion 11:30 Religion as dynamic ecology 12:21 Christianity as a family resemblance network 16:30 Spirituality and the meaning crisis 21:00 Religious philosophy gray zone 26:30 Synergy not syncretism 30:30 Course overview and proposal 32:00 Zen and Neoplatonism stereoscopic vision 38:30 Aporia, koans, and Socrates 44:30 Accessibility beyond East and West 50:30 Sacredness demands accountability 51:00 Singapore religious caution 51:30 Religion and war myths 52:30 Pluralism without conversion 53:30 Attachment theory and faith 57:00 Self versus others in religion 01:00:00 From substance to community 01:05:00 Do I even need this 01:08:30 Fear of losing meaning 01:12:30 Beyond theism and atheism 01:18:00 Meaning beyond morality 01:21:30 Goodness and self transcendence 01:26:00 Neoplatonic ladder 01:27:00 Logos and agape 01:30:00 Practice, way, and identity Follow John Vervaeke https://johnvervaeke.com/ https://x.com/DrJohnVervaeke https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke/videos https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke
What do the Soviet Union and the current British economy have in common? What can studying the philosophy of science reveal about our economic systems? Is the depoliticisation of economics a dangerous pipe dream?Join political economist Abby Innes as she argues that treating society as a closed system that can be controlled and regulated ignores man's unrelenting capacity for new ideas and technologies. Abby Innes is Associate Professor of Political Economy in the European Institute at the LSE.To see your favourite thinkers tackle philosophy's most current issues, buy tickets for our upcoming festival: https://howthelightgetsin.org/festivals/And visit our website for many more articles, videos, and podcasts like this one: https://iai.tv/You can find everything we referenced here: https://linktr.ee/philosophyforourtimesAnd don't hesitate to email us at podcast@iai.tv with your thoughts or questions!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Saving Elephants | Millennials defending & expressing conservative values
Ever since Leo Strauss published his magnum opus Natural Right and History, which ends by heavily implying Edmund Burke opened the door for the evils of historicism in the modern world, a great fissure in conservative nerddom erupted between those who align with either titan. Were Strauss' criticism of Burke warranted? Did Burke disavow natural rights and pave the way for the evils of authoritarianism, fascism, Marxism, and progressivism to come? Does a careful, esoteric reading of Natural Right and History reveal the Strauss secret family chili recipe? Saving Elephants has assembled an all-star panel to answer these questions and more. Representing Edmund Burke: Dr. Gregory Collins is one of the most celebrated Burke scholars of the rising generation. He is a Lecturer in the Department of Political Science and Program on Ethics, Politics, and Economics at Yale University. He recently received the Buckley Institute's 2024 Lux and Veritas Faculty Prize. His first book, Commerce and Manners in Edmund Burke's Political Economy, examined Edmund Burke's understanding of the connection between markets and morals. Greg has also published articles on Adam Smith, F.A. Hayek, Frederick Douglass, Eric Voegelin, Leo Strauss, and Britain's East India Company. His additional writings and book reviews can be found in Modern Age, Law & Liberty, National Affairs, National Review, and University Bookman. You can follow Greg on Twitter @GregCollins111 Lauren Hall is an author and professor helping people combat overwhelm in an age of extremes. Her writing rejects binary and black-and-white thinking to help people lead more balanced lives, build stronger relationships, and restore individual and civic well-being. Hall is a 2024 Pluralism Fellow with the Mercatus Center's Program on Pluralism and Civil Exchange and serves on the Board of Advisors for the Prohuman Foundation. Her Substack and speaking spread the message of radical moderation to new audiences via public writing, speaking, and podcast interviews. Hall has presented her work on radical moderation at conferences including the Heterodox Academy Conference, the State Policy Network Conference, the Mercatus Center's Pluralism Summit, and various political science and related conferences and has a range of talks and podcast interviews available on radical moderation and other topics. In her "real" job, she is a Professor of Political Science and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and author of the books Family and the Politics of Moderation (Baylor U. Press, 2014) and The Medicalization of Birth and Death (Johns Hopkins U. Press, 2019). Hall has a PhD in Political Science from Northern Illinois University (2007) and a BA in Philosophy from Binghamton University (2002). Representing Strauss: Steven F. Hayward is a fellow of the Public Law and Policy Program at Berkeley Law and visiting professor in School of Public Policy at Pepperdine University. Steven frequently writes on a wide range of current topics, including environmentalism, law, economics, and public policy for publications including National Review, Reason, The Weekly Standard, The American Spectator, The Public Interest, the Claremont Review of Books, and the Policy Review at the Hoover Institution. His newspaper articles have appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Chicago Tribune, and dozens of other daily newspapers. He is the author of a two-volume narrative history of Ronald Reagan and his effect on American political life, The Age of Reagan: The Fall of the Old Liberal Order, 1964-1980, and The Age of Reagan: The Conservative Counter-Revolution, 1980-1989. His other books include Index of Leading Environmental Indicators; The Almanac of Environmental Trends; Mere Environmentalism: A Biblical Perspective on Humans and the Natural World, Churchill on Leadership; Greatness: Reagan, Churchill, and the Making of Extraordinary Leaders; Patriotism Is Not Enough; and M. Stanton Evans: Conservative Wit, Apostle of Freedom. Steven has also served as visiting fellow professor, scholar, or lecturer at the Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI), Ashland University, Mont Pelerin Society, Pacific Research Institute, The Heritage Foundation, American Enterprise Institute, Georgetown University, The Fund for American Studies, and University of Colorado Boulder. His blog, powerlineblog.com, is one of the nation's most-read political websites. The international woman of mystery, Lucretia, teaches at the University of Arizona. Steve and Lucretia—along with John Yoo—host the 3 Whiskey Happy Hour podcast.
Scholars keep predicting nationalism will fade, and it keeps surprising us. Slavica Jakelic argues we're asking the wrong questions. Drawing on her experience in Croatia during the Yugoslav wars and her research on religious-secular alliances in Poland and South Africa, she makes the case for 'ethical nationalism,' a form of belonging that serves pluralism rather than undermining it. We discuss why particular attachments matter, how religious and secular actors can work together, and what it might mean to reclaim symbols like the American flag for more expansive visions of national identity.Show Notes:Collectivistic Religions: Religion, Choice, and Identity in Late Modernity (https://www.routledge.com/Collectivistic-Religions-Religion-Choice-and-Identity-in-Late-Modernity/Jakelic/p/book/9781138260399)Pluralizing Humanism: Religions and Secularisms Beyond Power (https://www.routledge.com/Pluralizing-Humanism-Religions-and-Secularisms-Beyond-Power/Jakelic/p/book/9781032151083)Send a text
My conversation with Thanassis starts at about 45 minutes in to today's show after headlines and clips Join us in Vegas for Podjam 3! Subscribe and Watch Interviews LIVE : On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you! Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 750 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Thanassis Cambanis is an author, journalist, and director of Century International. His work focuses on U.S. foreign policy, Arab politics, and social movements in the Middle East. He is currently working on a book about the impact of the 2003 Iraq invasion on the international system. He is the author of Once Upon A Revolution: An Egyptian Story (Simon and Schuster: 2015); A Privilege to Die: Inside Hezbollah's Legions and Their Endless War Against Israel (Free Press: 2010); and editor of Hybrid Actors: Armed Groups and State Fragmentation in the Middle East (TCF press: 2019), Citizenship and Its Discontents: The Struggle for Rights, Inclusion and Pluralism in the Middle East (TCF press: 2019), Order from Ashes: New Foundations for Security in the Middle East (TCF press: 2018), and Arab Politics Beyond The Uprisings: Experiments in an Era of Resurgent Authoritarianism (TCF press: 2017). He regularly contributes to Foreign Affairs, The New York Times, World Policy Review, and other publications. He is an adjunct professor at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs. On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Listen rate and review on Apple Podcasts Listen rate and review on Spotify Pete On Instagram Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on Twitter Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page
Exploring Unitarian Universalism's value of Pluralism, and the influential spiritual traditions of Reb Zalman, Krishnamurti, and Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan. Music: Chalice Choir, under the direction of Susan Peck.
How the Right is blurring the line between church and state, and the danger that poses to democracy; Former Obama Deputy National Security Adviser during the Obama Administration weighs in on what's happening in the West Bank; and new reporting shows ICE's coming expansion. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
"150 universities have adopted neutrality policies just since October 7th. I'm on the losing end of this trend." — Brian SoucekUniversities keep claiming what they see as the moral high ground of neutrality. But Brian Soucek, who holds the MLK chair at UC Davis School of Law, believes that's a dangerous myth. In his new book, The Opinionated University: Academic Freedom, Diversity, and the Myth of Neutrality in American Higher Education, Soucek argues in favor of the biased university. His argument is that even (or, perhaps, particularly) when universities stay quiet, they're actually taking sides through their policies, their hiring, their building names, their actions. Silence isn't neutral. It's ideological.This fetish with neutrality is gaining in popularity, Soucek warns. Since October 7th, an estimated 150 universities have adopted neutrality pledges—pushed by well-funded efforts from the Goldwater Institute and others. Every pledge has a vague moral carve-out: universities will still speak when their "mission is at stake." But everyone has a mission and they are all different. That's the whole point. Soucek claims the moral high ground of pluralism. That's why he wants Boston College to be different from Yale, UC Davis different from University of Austin. The flattening of higher education into some imagined neutral sameness is what terrifies this classical liberal.The real crisis, Soucek insists, isn't self-censoring students or woke professors. It's the external threat of federal funding cuts, hostile state legislatures, a Trump administration that has declared DEI illegal without exactly making it so. Universities are staying quiet because, as one UC president put it, "We don't want to be the tallest nail." But Harvard's faculty spoke out through the AAUP, and it changed the conversation. For Soucek, silence isn't safety. It's surrender. Eventually everyone will become the tallest nail. And will be flattened by a hammer-wielding ideological foe.On the promise or threat of AI, Soucek is blunt: the idea of objective algorithms deciding what statues to take down or what books to read sounds to him "completely dystopian." We'd lose something essential if we stopped allowing communities to make these contested decisions differently, he says. For Soucek, that's not a bug of an otherwise unbiased university. It's the feature of any credible institute of higher learning. Five Takeaways● Neutrality Is a Myth: Universities claim neutrality but act in non-neutral ways—through policies, hiring, building names. Silence is a choice, not an absence of choice.● 150 Universities Signed Neutrality Pledges Since October 7th: Well-funded efforts from the Goldwater Institute are pushing this flattening of higher education. Soucek sees himself on the losing end.● The External Threats Are the Real Crisis: Not self-censoring students. Federal funding cuts are existential. Universities are staying quiet so as not to be "the tallest nail."● Pluralism, Not Homogeneity: Different universities should have different missions. That's why University of Austin is fine. New College Florida—where changes were imposed from above—is a disaster.● AI Objectivity Is Dystopian: Letting algorithms decide which statues to take down or which books to read? We'd lose something essential. Contested decisions should stay contested. About the GuestBrian Soucek is Professor of Law and holds the Martin Luther King Jr. Chair at UC Davis School of Law. He is the author of The Opinionated University: Academic Freedom, Diversity, and the Myth of Neutrality in American Higher Education. He earned his JD from Yale Law School and his undergraduate degree from Boston College.ReferencesConcepts mentioned:● The Kalven Report was a 1967 University of Chicago faculty report on institutional neutrality. It's been revived by organizations pushing neutrality pledges.● The Goldwater Institute has funded efforts to get university boards to adopt neutrality policies modeled on the Kalven Report.● Heterodox Academy is a campus speech advocacy organization that estimated 150 universities adopted neutrality policies since October 7th.● FIRE (Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression) conducts surveys on campus self-censorship that Soucek references.Universities mentioned:● University of Austin is a new university founded by tech figures with a consciously different mission. Soucek supports its existence as an example of pluralism.● New College Florida was transformed by Governor DeSantis and Chris Rufo. Soucek calls it a disaster—changes imposed from above, not through shared governance.About Keen On AmericaNobody asks more awkward questions than the Anglo-American writer and filmmaker Andrew Keen. In Keen On America, Andrew brings his pointed Transatlantic wit to making sense of the United States—hosting daily interviews about the history and future of this now venerable Republic. With nearly 2,800 episodes since the show launched on TechCrunch in 2010, Keen On America is the most prolific intellectual interview show in the history of podcasting.WebsiteSubstackYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction: The myth of neutrality (02:18) - A challenge to both Left and Right (03:15) - Is there really a free speech crisis? (05:33) - Who wants the neutral university? (06:48) - The Kalven Report and Goldwater Institute (07:54) - October 7th and Gaza (09:22) - Where does intolerance come from? (10:00) - Can courts be neutral? (11:24) - DEI and the university's mission (14:04) - Should universities speak out against Trump? (15:53) - Does the university tilt Left? (17:03) - MLK and the right to break unjust laws (20:13) - The myth ...
Work shapes identity, community, and meaning—but how should faith show up in professional life? Sociologist Elaine Ecklund discusses religion in the workplace, drawing on research conducted with co-author Denise Daniels.“I think our faith compels us to hope for and enact flourishing for everyone.”In this episode with Evan Rosa, Ecklund reflects on vocation, gender, authenticity, and principled pluralism in modern workplaces. Together they discuss workplace identity, gender discrimination, calling across occupations, boundaries around work, religion's public role, and pluralism in professional life.Episode Highlights“I think our faith compels us to hope for and enact flourishing for everyone.”“People use their religion to bring justice to their workplaces.”“They don't want to pretend they're someone different.”“There are ways in which our faith traditions can put needed boundaries around our work.”“I am being fully who I am and I am oriented toward the other.”About Elaine EcklundElaine Howard Ecklund is a sociologist of religion and professor at Rice University, where she directs the Boniuk Institute for the Study and Advancement of Religious Tolerance. Her research focuses on religion in public life, science and faith, and workplace culture. She is the author or co-author of numerous books, including Religion in a Changing Workplace and Working for Better: A New Approach to Faith at Work (with Denise Daniels). Her work has been supported by the National Science Foundation and featured in major media outlets.Helpful Links And ResourcesWorking for Better: A New Approach to Faith at Work https://www.ivpress.com/working-for-betterReligion in a Changing Workplace https://academic.oup.com/book/58194Boniuk Institute for Religious Tolerance https://boniuk.rice.edu/Elaine Ecklund website https://elaineecklund.comShow NotesReligion and workplace lifeSociology of belief research backgroundStudying scientists and religionExpanding research beyond science workplacesCollaboration with Denise DanielsAcademic and practical faith-at-work booksDefining work as paid laborHonoring caregiving and volunteer labor“People don't want to pretend they're someone different.”Bringing whole selves to workCalling across occupational sectorsWorkplace autonomy and meaning“People use their religion to bring justice to their workplaces.”Faith creating boundaries around workGender dynamics in workplacesStory of hiding motherhood in academiaFragmentation and identity performance“There are ways in which our faith traditions can put needed boundaries around our work.”Church gender expectationsBilly Graham rule implicationsWork skills serving congregationsLiving in pluralistic societyPrincipled pluralism explained“I am being fully who I am and I am oriented toward the other.”Embrace, dignity, and learning from difference#FaithAndWork #ElaineEcklund #PrincipledPluralism #ReligionAndWorkplace #Vocation #GenderAndWork #HumanFlourishingProduction NotesThis podcast featured Elaine EcklundEdited and Produced by Evan RosaHosted by Evan RosaProduction Assistance by Noah SenthilA Production of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture at Yale Divinity School https://faith.yale.edu/aboutSupport For the Life of the World podcast by giving to the Yale Center for Faith & Culture: https://faith.yale.edu/give
In this episode, we talk with Mike Whitenton, Director of Academic Initiatives at Interfaith America (IA). Mike works at the intersection of rhetoric, religious narrative, and cognitive science to help educators create classroom spaces where students can engage meaningfully across differences.Our conversation explores what pluralism means in practice and how it intersects with existing research and practice to foster inclusivity and belonging in the classroom. Mike introduces listeners to the three core principles of pluralism: Respect for diverse identities (even those that make us uncomfortable); Relate to those around us in a way that is genuine and mutually enriching; and Cooperate together in the service of the common good. Rather than avoiding disagreement, pluralism asks us to lean into it intentionally. In an educational environment, this means giving students structured opportunities to develop empathy, practice perspective-taking, and build bridges before they encounter real-world conflicts. By creating low-stakes opportunities for students to engage with divergent perspectives, we help them develop the skills they'll need long after they leave our classrooms.Learn more about Interfaith America: https://www.interfaithamerica.org/ Other materials referenced in this episode: Eck, D. L. (n.d.). The Pluralism Project. Harvard University. https://pluralism.org/Ed Up Experience Podcast [Audio podcast]. https://www.edupexperience.com/Interfaith America. (n.d.). Pedagogies for pluralism. https://www.interfaithamerica.org/resources/pedagogies-for-pluralism/Interfaith America. (n.d.). Pluralism Texts Bibliography. https://www.interfaithamerica.org/resources/pluralism-texts-bibliography/ Interfaith America. (n.d.). Teaching & Learning Pluralism Cohort. https://www.interfaithamerica.org/grants/teaching-learning-pluralism-cohort/ Zangwill, I. (1909). The melting-pot: Drama in four acts. Macmillan.
Rabbi Angela Buchdahl of Central Synagogue reflects on her journey, from growing up in Tacoma, Washington with a strong sense of communal purpose, to finding belonging and identity, and feeling like a stranger along the way. In a reflective conversation with David Bryfman, Rabbi Buchdahl provides lessons applicable to any Jewish educator: how pluralism has helped shift her views, the power of music, and more. Learn more about The Jewish Education Project at jewishedproject.orgThis episode was produced by Miranda Lapides and Rina Cohen Schwarz. The show's executive producers are David Bryfman, Karen Cummins, and Nessa Liben. This episode was engineered and edited by Nathan J. Vaughan of NJV Media. If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a 5-star rating and review, or even better, share it with a friend. Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and be the first to know when new episodes are released. To learn more about The Jewish Education Project visit jewishedproject.org where you can find links to our Jewish Educator Portal and learn more about our mission, history, and staff. We are a proud partner of UJA-Federation of New York.
Saving Elephants | Millennials defending & expressing conservative values
In a world of exhaustive binary thinking sometimes complexity offers relief. Lauren Hall joins the show to offer her alternative living in 4D she calls "radical moderation". In the latter half of the conversation Saving Elephants host Josh Lewis happily takes Lauren up on her offer to geek out on Edmund Burke. About Lauren Hall Excerpts from laurenkhall.com Lauren Hall is an author and professor helping people combat overwhelm in an age of extremes. Her writing rejects binary and black-and-white thinking to help people lead more balanced lives, build stronger relationships, and restore individual and civic well-being. Hall is a 2024 Pluralism Fellow with the Mercatus Center's Program on Pluralism and Civil Exchange and serves on the Board of Advisors for the Prohuman Foundation. Her Substack and speaking spread the message of radical moderation to new audiences via public writing, speaking, and podcast interviews. Hall has presented her work on radical moderation at conferences including the Heterodox Academy Conference, the State Policy Network Conference, the Mercatus Center's Pluralism Summit, and various political science and related conferences and has a range of talks and podcast interviews available on radical moderation and other topics. In her "real" job, she is a Professor of Political Science and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and author of the books Family and the Politics of Moderation (Baylor U. Press, 2014) and The Medicalization of Birth and Death (Johns Hopkins U. Press, 2019). Hall has a PhD in Political Science from Northern Illinois University (2007) and a BA in Philosophy from Binghamton University (2002). Introducing Conservative Cagematches One of the most invigorating and interesting aspects of conservative history is how often luminaries on the Right disagreed and fought one another. From Strauss' take down on Burke to Frank Meyer defending his fusionist views from the likes of Brent Bozell and Murray Rothbard to Harry Jaffa fighting just about everyone, the Right has gained vitality and endurance through the process of disagreeing well (and sometimes not so well). In that same spirit, Saving Elephants will soon launch a new venture: Conservative Cagematches. These livestream events will feature experts and acolytes from differing schools of thought on the Right to engage in their differences. We're working now to put together the first panel for an Edmund Burke vs. Leo Strauss debate and can't wait to share the august line-up we have so far. More to come soon!
@O.G.Rose.Michelle.and.Daniel on @WhiteStoneName Is Pluralism Actually Possible? https://www.youtube.com/live/azyvgOUxt-8?si=s07eBf5iiVnwTa4O @VanderKlips O.G. Rose on Pluralism from Luke Livestream https://youtu.be/poPO4C7zaJw?si=muRJ9nBQJOgXqRWT PVK Randos Archives 2018 to 2023 https://www.youtube.com/live/1ZAZME_cP1Q?si=WuJ1rIhe8W3-v8DW Spirits, Programs, Parts, Through, Above and Within. IFS and Theological Anthropology https://youtu.be/KRfxWhyJNow?si=0jYQKvO_zaj0oO-f Why the Jordan Peterson Biblical Earthquake? Sedimentary Collective Biblical Relevance Realization https://youtu.be/g2Voo1EYREE?si=Gs6dMjKKJfN0wSnv https://www.livingstonescrc.com/give Register for the Estuary/Cleanup Weekend https://lscrc.elvanto.net/form/94f5e542-facc-4764-9883-442f982df447 Paul Vander Klay clips channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0jIcadtoxELSwehCh5QTg https://www.meetup.com/sacramento-estuary/ My Substack https://paulvanderklay.substack.com/ Bridges of meaning https://discord.gg/VPaK2vCX Estuary Hub Link https://www.estuaryhub.com/ There is a video version of this podcast on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/paulvanderklay To listen to this on ITunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-vanderklays-podcast/id1394314333 If you need the RSS feed for your podcast player https://paulvanderklay.podbean.com/feed/ All Amazon links here are part of the Amazon Affiliate Program. Amazon pays me a small commission at no additional cost to you if you buy through one of the product links here. This is is one (free to you) way to support my videos. https://paypal.me/paulvanderklay Blockchain backup on Lbry https://odysee.com/@paulvanderklay https://www.patreon.com/paulvanderklay Paul's Church Content at Living Stones Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh7bdktIALZ9Nq41oVCvW-A To support Paul's work by supporting his church give here. https://tithe.ly/give?c=2160640 https://www.livingstonescrc.com/give
Free ZWILLING Four Star Chef's Knife on your 3rd box ($144.99 value) + 10 Free Meals and your first box ship free with code CURTJHFZWL at https://hellofresh.yt.link/4u4Vh7m! This is an interview with Oxford's Timothy Williamson. He's one of the most cited living philosophers, and simultaneously one of the most controversial (yet respected). He dismantles physicalism, solipsism, and reductionism––explaining why consciousness is philosophically overrated and why AI in its current form likely lacks genuine mental states. This will be a tour‐de‐force episode into all things related to looking deeply and fundamentally. If you're interested in consciousness, free will, art, language, and meaning, I believe you'll love this episode. As a listener of TOE you can get a special 20% off discount to The Economist and all it has to offer! Visit https://www.economist.com/toe SUPPORT: - Support me on Substack: https://curtjaimungal.substack.com/subscribe - Support me on Crypto: https://commerce.coinbase.com/checkout/de803625-87d3-4300-ab6d-85d4258834a9 - Support me on PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=XUBHNMFXUX5S4 JOIN MY SUBSTACK (Personal Writings): https://curtjaimungal.substack.com LISTEN ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gL14b92xAErofYQA7bU4e TIMESTAMPS: - 00:00:00 - Vagueness & Sorites Paradox - 00:07:12 - Identity, Physicalism, Non-Physicals - 00:22:30 - Realism vs. Anti-Realism - 00:29:50 - The Problem of Skepticism - 00:35:40 - Cognitive Heuristics & Doubt - 00:43:00 - Solipsism's Appeal & Pitfalls - 00:50:00 - Solipsism: A Critique - 00:57:30 - Pluralism & Consciousness - 01:06:00 - AI, Mental States, Ontology - 01:15:50 - Mind, Knowledge, Meaning - 01:26:00 - Philosophical Heuristics - 01:32:00 - Counterfactuals & Logic - 01:38:00 - Personal Philosophy LINKS MENTIONED: - Overfitting and Heuristics in Philosophy [Book]: https://www.amazon.com/Overfitting-Heuristics-Philosophy-Rutgers-Lectures/dp/0197779212 - Timothy Williamson's Published Papers: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=IH-44VwAAAAJ&hl=en - Sorites Paradox: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/sorites-paradox/ - Philosophical Investigations [Book]: https://www.amazon.com/Philosophical-Investigations-Ludwig-Wittgenstein/dp/0631205691 - I Do Not Exist [Paper]: https://academic.oup.com/book/53296/chapter-abstract/422023005 - O'Shaughnessy Ventures: https://www.osv.llc/ - Barry Loewer & Eddy Chen [TOE]: https://youtu.be/xZnafO__IZ0 - Bas Van Fraassen [TOE]: https://youtu.be/lhpRAWxvY5s - Matthew Segall [TOE]: https://youtu.be/DeTm4fSXpbM - Jennifer Nagel [TOE]: https://youtu.be/CWZVMZ9Tm7Q - Leo Gura [TOE]: https://youtu.be/YspFR9JAq3w - Iain McGilchrist [TOE]: https://youtu.be/M-SgOwc6Pe4 - The Consciousness Iceberg [TOE]: https://youtu.be/65yjqIDghEk - Karl Friston [TOE]: https://youtu.be/uk4NZorRjCo - Geoffrey Hinton [TOE]: https://youtu.be/b_DUft-BdIE - Elan Barenholtz [TOE]: https://youtu.be/A36OumnSrWY - Ben Goertzel & Joscha Bach [TOE]: https://youtu.be/xw7omaQ8SgA - Claudia de Rham [TOE]: https://youtu.be/Ve_Mpd6dGv8 - Stephen Wolfram [TOE]: https://youtu.be/0YRlQQw0d-4 - Elan Barenholtz & Will Hahn [TOE]: https://youtu.be/Ca_RbPXraDE - Greg Kondrak [TOE]: https://youtu.be/FFW14zSYiFY - Robert Sapolsky [TOE]: https://youtu.be/z0IqA1hYKY8 SOCIALS: - Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOEwithCurt - Discord Invite: https://discord.com/invite/kBcnfNVwqs Guests do not pay to appear. Theories of Everything receives revenue solely from viewer donations, platform ads, and clearly labelled sponsors; no guest or associated entity has ever given compensation, directly or through intermediaries. #science Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Beyond the Buffet: A Unitarian Universalist Sermon About Pluralism | Return to Who You Are | Rev. Beth Dana In her sermon, "Beyond the Buffet," Rev. Beth Dana explores what it truly means to be Unitarian Universalist in a world of many religions and cultures. Rev. Dana invites us to move past the idea of religion as a pick-and-choose buffet and instead embrace genuine pluralism, deep respect, and real engagement with difference. She also reflects on the other shared Unitarian Universalist values of transformation, justice, equity, interdependence, generosity, and love, and shows how they call us to honor many paths to the sacred without claiming to hold all the answers.
Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Michael Bailey, Deputy Director of Leadership Programs for the George W. Bush Institute. We talk about some of the initiatives of the Bush Institute, including the Veteran Leadership Program, the Democracy is a Verb initiative and the Bush Institute's efforts to celebrate America 250.Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you. If you PsychArmor has helped you learn, grow, and support those who've served and those who care for them, we would appreciate hearing your story. Please follow this link to share how PsychArmor has helped you in your service journey Share PsychArmor StoriesAbout Today's GuestMichael Bailey serves as Deputy Director, Leadership Programs, for the George W. Bush Institute. In this role, he manages the Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program, which focuses on developing the leadership skills of veterans and those who serve them and their families. Bailey also supports alumni engagement efforts for the Institute's international leadership programs.Prior to joining the George W. Bush Institute, Bailey provided operations, media, and communications support to The American Choral Directors Association, a music organization dedicated to the excellence and advancement of choral music.Bailey is a native of Arlington, Texas. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Music (Voice) from The University of Oklahoma, and he holds a Master of Business Administration with concentrations in finance and real estate from Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business. He has a passion for running and enjoys racing in half and full marathons.Links Mentioned During the EpisodeGeorge W. Bush InstituteStand-To Veteran Leadership ProgramAmerica 250Democracy is a Verb initiative PsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's PsychArmor Resource of the Week is The PsychArmor course The Myths and Facts of Military Leaders. This course identifies four of the most popular myths about military leaders and how they don't align with the reality of working alongside Veterans and Service members. You can find the resource here: https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/The-Myths-and-Facts-of-Military-Leaders Episode Partner: Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on XPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
We've reached the end of 2025, so we thought it's a good time to answer questions from the Holy Post community. Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn cover a wide assortment of issues, from how they decompress after a difficult podcast, and how they pick which politicians to interview, to their favorite movies, and who is best at changing a tire. They also tackle theological questions about the nature of grace, the limitations we will still have in the new creation, and why demons may not be fallen angels. They also give their predictions for 2026. Along the way, Phil has weird ideas about hair, Skye wants to be a mango, and Kaitlyn makes a big announcement. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/146537688/ Advice-ish with Malcolm Foley: https://www.patreon.com/posts/146452896/ 0:00 - Show Starts 3:15 - Theme Song 3:38 - Sponsor - Glorify - Sign up for the #1 Christian Daily Devotional App to help you stay focused on God. Go to https://glorify-app.com/en/HOLYPOST to download the app today! 4:40 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST 8:42 - Holy Post Team as Veggies 14:30 - Can You Be Ethical and Non-Christian? 21:41 - Stories and Conflict in Heaven 25:45 - Republicans on Holy Post 31:05 - Sponsor - World Relief - Start a monthly partnership with World Relief to help families in crisis at https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost 32:15 - Will Skye Fix Flat Tires? 36:33 - Is Salvation Free? 39:12 - Impactful Movies 42:39 - Self-Care 52:06 - Pluralism and Faithfulness 1:09:41 - End Credits Links: Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/ Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
In 2024, 'polarization' was Merriam-Webster's word of the year. That division still grows, making it increasingly difficult to connect to one another. But there are people having important conversations and they have advice for us all. From fighting for LGBTQ+ rights in Colombia, championing human rights in Southern Africa and working for a two-state solution post Oct. 7, the winners of the The Global Centre for Pluralism awards tell host Nahlah Ayed about how minds can and do change, and why we need to not only talk, but listen.
In this episode of the Green Pill Podcast, Kevin Owocki and co-host Devansh Mehta sit down with Vitalik Buterin for their annual deep dive into the future of public goods funding in the Ethereum ecosystem. They explore where funding will come from in 2026, how the landscape has shifted from "vibes-based" funding to verifiable, dependency-driven mechanisms, and why this is the best moment to reform PGF using new tools like programmable cryptography, AI-assisted evaluation, and deep funding models. Vitalik also shares how he thinks about dependencies, credible neutrality, open-source licensing, pluralism, accountability, and what builders should prioritize in the coming year. A must-listen for anyone designing mechanisms, funding public goods, or building the next era of Ethereum governance.
One of the most compelling personal and political stories in Congress today — raw, principled, and deeply human. In this ICYMI episode, Corey revisits his conversation with Congressman Ritchie Torres, who represents New York's 15th district in the Bronx. With refreshing candor, Torres shares his journey from public housing and poverty to becoming the first openly LGBTQ elected official from the Bronx and one of the most forthright voices in American politics. He discusses the values that shape his independence, his commitment to social justice, why he proudly defends Israel despite intense backlash, and the inner tools he uses to face personal and political challenges — all while staying focused on the people he serves.
One of the most clarifying conversations we've had about conscience, character, and navigating our divisions with integrity. In this ICYMI release, Corey revisits his conversation with David French — New York Times columnist, attorney, veteran, and one of the most thoughtful voices on religious liberty, civic virtue, polarization, and how principled disagreement can strengthen rather than destroy a pluralistic society. David unpacks how he thinks about political persuasion, why courage and humility are twin civic virtues, what it means to disagree in good faith, how social media distorts our moral instincts, and why democracy requires both conviction and restraint. If you're new to TP&R thanks to Podbean, Overcast, or a friend's recommendation, this episode is an ideal introduction: rigorous, nuanced, grounded in lived experience, and rooted in a deep belief in the dignity of difference.
Vince Fakhoury Horn reflects on his experiences within the Insight meditation tradition, as an authorized teacher in the lineage, arguing that its senior leaders have remained complicit, through their silence, on the genocide of Palestinians in Gaza.
Mike Erre joins Phil and Skye to discuss a New York Times column by David Brooks. He says America's divisions will only heal when we abandon shallow labels and war metaphors, and instead see one another as fellow pilgrims on a journey. America's Catholic bishops issue a stern rebuke of the Trump administration's dehumanizing rhetoric and policies, which makes Phil wonder why evangelical leaders can't do the same. Then, Skye talks to Kentucky's Democratic governor, Andy Beshear, about why he's so popular in a state that Donald Trump won by 30 points, and how his party can begin to narrow the "God gap" with voters. Also this week—an A.I. vacuum cleaner has an existential crisis. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/143884054/ 0:00 - Show Starts 3:32 - Theme Song 3:54 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month! 4:54 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Get the AG1 welcome pack when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST 6:20 - AI Roomba Has a Breakdown 16:08- David Brooks on Pilgrimage and Pluralism 45:50 - Catholic Bishops Critical on Immigration Law 50:12 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST 51:15 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST 52:21 - Interview 54:48 - What Went Wrong with Democrats? 1:03:42 - Fire with Fire Approach? 1:09:06 - Democrat's Aversion to Religious Language 1:13:30 - Pro-Life Democrats? 1:21:51 - How Will Democrats Change? 1:25:32 - End Credits Links Mentioned in News Segment: Roomba Butter Breakdown: https://futurism.com/artificial-intelligence/llm-robot-vacuum-existential-crisis David Brooks Article on Pluralism: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/13/opinion/christian-nationalism.html Catholic Bishops on Trump's Immigration Policies: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/12/us/bishops-trump-immigration.html Other Resources: Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/ Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
The term “culture wars” is most often associated with issues of sexuality, race, religion, and gender. But, as recent months have made plain, when Donald Trump refers to the culture wars, he also means the arts. He fired the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which Republicans want to rename for him. His Administration fired the national archivist and the Librarian of Congress, and pressured the director of the National Portrait Gallery to resign; it is reviewing the entire Smithsonian Institution, looking for what the President calls “improper ideology.” Some view these moves as low-hanging fruit for Trump, and a distraction from bad press about Jeffrey Epstein, the Putin meeting, and tariffs. But Adam Gopnik believes that interpretation is a misreading. The loyalty purge at institutions such as the National Portrait Gallery is a key part of his agenda. “Pluralism is the key principle of a democratic culture,” Gopnik tells David Remnick. Could we be following the path of Stalinist Russia, where a head of state dictated reviews of concerts, Remnick asks? “I pray and believe that we are not. But that is certainly the direction in which one inevitably heads when the political boss takes over key cultural institutions, and dictates who's acceptable and who is not.” Gopnik recalls saying after the election that “Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert would be next.” “You would see them disappear,” he added. “Each time, we find a rationale for it or a rationale is offered. And it's much easier for us to swallow the rationale than to face the reality.” Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
The term “culture wars” is most often associated with issues of sexuality, race, religion, and gender. But, as recent months have made plain, when Donald Trump refers to the culture wars, he also means the arts. He fired the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which Republicans want to rename for him. His Administration fired the national archivist and the Librarian of Congress, and pressured the director of the National Portrait Gallery to resign; it is reviewing the entire Smithsonian Institution, looking for what the President calls “improper ideology.” Some view these moves as low-hanging fruit for Trump, and a distraction from bad press about Jeffrey Epstein, the Putin meeting, and tariffs. But Adam Gopnik believes that interpretation is a misreading. The loyalty purge at institutions such as the National Portrait Gallery is a key part of his agenda. “Pluralism is the key principle of a democratic culture,” Gopnik tells David Remnick. Could we be following the path of Stalinist Russia, where a head of state dictated reviews of concerts, Remnick asks? “I pray and believe that we are not. But that is certainly the direction in which one inevitably heads when the political boss takes over key cultural institutions, and dictates who's acceptable and who is not.” Gopnik recalls saying after the election that “Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert would be next.” “You would see them disappear,” he added. “Each time, we find a rationale for it or a rationale is offered. And it's much easier for us to swallow the rationale than to face the reality.”