
First Things Podcast
First Things is published by The Institute on Religion and Public Life, an interreligious, nonpartisan research and education institute whose purpose is to advance a religiously informed public philosophy for the ordering of society.
Learn more: www.firstthings.com/learnmore
Latest episodes

Mar 6, 2025 • 46min
Oscars and the Oval Office
The editors discuss last week’s incident in the Oval Office, and what it might portend for American foreign policy. Then they talk the Oscars, and why young people are suddenly going to the movies. Rusty Reno, Dan Hitchens, and Germán Saucedo join Julia Yost.

Feb 27, 2025 • 30min
Catholicism at the End of the World
In the latest installment of the ongoing interview series with contributing editor Mark Bauerlein, Jeremy Beer joins in to discuss her recent book, "Beyond the Devil's Road: Francisco Garcés and the Spanish Encounter with the American Southwest."
Intro music by Jack Bauerlein.

Feb 27, 2025 • 30min
Fiction and Last Things
In the latest installment of the ongoing interview series with contributing editor Mark Bauerlein, Cassandra Nelson joins in to discuss her recent book, "A Theology of Fiction."
Intro music by Jack Bauerlein.

Feb 23, 2025 • 49min
Brave New World Conservatism
In this episode, Nathan Pinkoski joins Rusty Reno at The Editor’s Desk to talk about his book review, “Paleofuturism” from the February 2025 issue of the magazine. Please subscribe at www.firstthings.com/subscribe in order to access this and many other great pieces!

Feb 19, 2025 • 28min
Cicero the Comedian
In the latest installment of the ongoing interview series with contributing editor Mark Bauerlein, Michael Fontaine joins in to discuss his recent translations, "How to Tell a Joke: An Ancient Guide to the Art of Humor" by Marcus Tullius Cicero and "How to Get Over a Breakup: An Ancient Guide to Moving On" by Ovid
Intro music by Jack Bauerlein.

Feb 13, 2025 • 40min
Super Bowls and Bad Samaritans
The editors dive into the excitement of Super Bowl 59, analyzing player narratives and cultural impact. They discuss the intriguing intersection of Taylor Swift's romantic life with NFL fandom, revealing its societal implications. The dialogue explores how sports victories symbolize broader social changes and shifts in celebrity activism. Cultural perceptions of a sitting president at the Super Bowl are examined, alongside an insightful look at moral priorities through 'Ordo Amoris.' Finally, they reflect on the evolving views of military service and community obligations.

Feb 8, 2025 • 42min
Architecture for Real People
In this episode, Anselm Audley joins Rusty Reno at The Editor’s Desk to talk about his essay, “Cities for Humans” from the January 2025 issue of the magazine. Please subscribe at www.firstthings.com/subscribe in order to access this and many other great pieces!

Feb 4, 2025 • 32min
From Science to God
In the latest installment of the ongoing interview series with contributing editor Mark Bauerlein, Spencer A. Klavan joins in to discuss his recent book, “Light of the Mind, Light of the World: Illuminating Science Through Faith."
Intro music by Jack Bauerlein.

Jan 23, 2025 • 49min
The Reboot
In this episode, editors Rusty Reno, Julia Yost, and Dan Hitchens discuss the vibe shift, the Trump electoral and cultural victory, the Catholic vote, the future of the pro-life movement, and JD Vance’s promising future. Please subscribe to the magazine and support our work at www.firstthings.com/subscribe!

Jan 22, 2025 • 30min
The Bible Throughout The Ages
In the latest installment of the ongoing interview series with contributing editor Mark Bauerlein, Bruce Gordon joins in to discuss his recent book, “The Bible: A Global History."
Intro music by Jack Bauerlein.
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