First Things Podcast

Cameron Sexton, Speaker of the Tennessee House of Representatives, shares insights from his faith-driven public service. He explores his Southern Baptist roots and advocates for classical education, while emphasizing the importance of a moral order in politics. Sexton addresses pressing issues such as Tennessee's abortion laws, policies on gender transition, and the impacts of COVID mandates. He also balances compassion in immigration discussions with the need for public safety, offering a perspective on navigating faith in state politics.

Michael Knowles, political commentator and author, dives into his docuseries “The Pope and the Führer: The Secret Vatican Files of World War II.” He tackles the controversial legacy of Pope Pius XII, arguing against the 'Hitler's Pope' label and highlighting his efforts to save Jews during the war. The conversation also touches on the need for a return to traditional values within the Catholic Church and the unity of worship, emphasizing how contemporary practices can draw people closer to faith amidst societal changes.

The podcast dives deep into the assassination of a conservative figure, linking it to historical political upheaval. It examines the motivations behind political violence, challenging the notion that perpetrators are merely unhinged. The conversation shifts to the intersection of faith and politics, highlighting the balancing act of religious beliefs amidst rising extremism. It also tackles justice in the aftermath of violence, exploring generational views on punishment. Lastly, the impact of deinstitutionalization on urban areas raises questions about mental health and public safety.

Mary Harrington, a writer and commentator focusing on technology, culture, and politics, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the impact of the digital revolution on communication and political engagement. She delves into the evolution of reasoning in a world increasingly influenced by social media and conspiracy theories. Harrington emphasizes the historical ties between literacy and democracy while pondering the role of AI in shaping future literacy and labor dynamics. Expect insights that challenge the sustainability of democratic ideals in today's tech-driven landscape.

In this episode, Jaspreet Singh Boparai joins Rusty Reno on The Editor's Desk to talk about his recent essay, "Waugh Against the Fogeys," from the August/September 2025 issue of the magazine.

In this episode, Fr. Thomas Joseph White joins Rusty Reno on The Editor's Desk to talk about his recent essay, "The Future of Catholic Theology," from the August/September 2025 issue of the magazine.

Christopher Caldwell, a renowned journalist and author known for his insights on political culture, joins the discussion to uncover the life of William F. Buckley Jr. They explore Buckley's surprising leftist roots and how his father shaped his worldview. Caldwell reveals the complexities of Buckley's legacy within conservatism and his founding of National Review, which transformed American political thought. The conversation highlights Buckley’s charisma and his lasting influence on younger generations, making for an engaging exploration of his contributions.

Yoram Hazony, president of the Herzl Institute and author of influential books on conservatism and nationalism, joins the discussion to unpack his views on the rising tide of nationalism. He connects Brexit and Trump to a global resurgence of national identity, arguing for a positive redefinition of nationalism. Hazony highlights nationalism's role in countering extreme ideologies while emphasizing the need for unity in multi-ethnic societies. His insights aim to reshape perceptions around nationalism as a force for democratic integrity in the West.

Alan Dershowitz, a Harvard Law professor and renowned legal expert, dives deep into the themes of his book, discussing the balance between preventing harm and preserving civil liberties. He explores contemporary national security challenges and promotes proactive legal measures against terrorism. The conversation touches on historical presidential assassination attempts and the evolution of security protocols. Additionally, Dershowitz navigates the ethics of prediction and the moral dilemmas surrounding free speech and public safety, sparking a critical examination of societal values.

Christopher Scalia, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and author of "13 Novels Conservatives Will Love (but Probably Haven't Read)," dives into the importance of overlooked literary works embodying conservative values. He discusses how literature reflects conservative principles, emphasizing a deeper connection between fiction and educational contexts. Scalia also examines dystopian narratives, touching on societal issues of government control and social manners, highlighting their relevance in today’s discussions.