Shaun Newman Podcast

#880 - E.M. Burlingame

Jul 7, 2025
E.M. Burlingame, an author, Green Beret, and Senior Research Fellow at the National Foundation for Integrative Medicine, dives into intriguing discussions. He contrasts the chaotic 'great game' of power with the strategic 'sport of kings,' reflecting on leaders like Trump and Putin. Burlingame shares insights on sobriety's benefits, his personal journey, and the complexities of financial markets. The conversation also highlights the crucial role of fatherhood in governance and the unity forged through adversity during the pandemic.
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INSIGHT

The Lost Art of Kingship and the Power of Civilization

EM Burlingame explains the dichotomy between the "Great Game"—a strategy of manipulation, chaos, and estrogens' control—and the "Sport of Kings," which represents alpha-based leadership rooted in strength, skill, and civilization. He argues that modern society has lost its kings and princes, who historically balanced chaos by leading with skill and protecting their people.

Putin, for example, retains the support of the Russian civilization, giving him a foundational strength Trump lacks because the English-speaking world has been deliberately fragmented from its civilizational identity for centuries. Burlingame emphasizes that the common people and the king (or leader) must come together to resist the great game’s divisive tactics.

The English civilization, particularly in America, retains deep historical roots and resilience. The return of strong leadership—"kings" who understand the sport of kings—is crucial to counter the era of chaos, manipulation, and societal breakdown. Trump embodies aspects of that leadership and connection with the people, but the path is fraught with resistance and peril.

This insight highlights the necessity of recognizing civilization as a unifying framework and the importance of experienced, alpha leadership to restore order and resist enslavement through chaos.

INSIGHT

Great Game vs Sport of Kings

  • The "Great Game" involves constant chaos and warfare to maintain control, targeting regions like Russia and Saudi Arabia.
  • The "Sport of Kings" counters this by embodying alpha-based leadership that navigates threats to preserve civilization.
INSIGHT

Civilization Support Defines Leadership

  • Putin has the backing of Russian civilization, giving him deep societal support.
  • Trump lacks a clear civilizational backing, complicating his leadership and efforts.
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