Newt's World

Newt talks with former federal prosecutors and veterans of the United States Air Force, Katie and Andrew Cherkasky. They discuss their new book "Woke Warriors: How the Left Is Destroying America's Ability to Fight and Win Its Wars". They argue that the U.S. military has become a "woke industrial complex", with diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, social justice reform, and preferred pronouns taking precedence over traditional military values and skills. They claim that this shift in culture is causing dedicated service members to lose their careers, retirements, and in some cases, their freedom. The authors also express concern about the military's ability to fight and win wars, given the focus on identity-based promotions and the prioritization of "woke" policies over operational needs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt is joined by former CIA analyst, Fred Fleitz, and they discuss his new book with AFPI, "An America First Approach to U.S. National Security". Fleitz argues that the United States needs a decisive and competent commander-in-chief who will use military force prudently to defend national interests and avoid unnecessary wars. He also advocates for a strong U.S. military that is not tied down with social engineering and DEI, and for working with allies and international organizations, but ensuring they carry their own weight. Fleitz believes that the world has become more dangerous and unstable since President Donald Trump left office, and that the deterioration of our foreign policy is due to the abandonment of the America first approach to national security. He also discusses the threat posed by China and the need for decoupling from the Chinese economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The American K-12 education system is experiencing a decline in teacher morale, according to a recent survey by EdChoice and Morning Consult. Factors contributing to teacher job dissatisfaction include stagnant wages, the rising cost of post-secondary education and a lack of job security. The survey found that only 39% of teachers believe K-12 education is on the right track in their local school district, and only 15% would recommend the teaching profession to friends and family. Robert Enlow, President and CEO of EdChoice, suggests that the solution lies in school choice, which allows parents to choose the best educational setting for their children. He also highlights the need for better integration of technology in the classroom and warns of a looming fiscal cliff for schools as pandemic funding runs out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World-renowned portrait photographer Platon, joins Newt to discuss his career and his latest book, "The Defenders: Heroes of the Global Fight for Human Rights". Platon has photographed many influential figures, including Vladimir Putin, Muhammad Ali, Bill Clinton and Donald Trump. He also worked with Human Rights Watch to document struggles in Burma, Egypt, Russia, the United States, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Platon emphasizes the importance of humanizing subjects in his photographs, regardless of their status or power. He also shares his experiences photographing ordinary people who are fighting for their rights and dignity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Dr. Ben Carson about his new book, "The Perilous Fight: Overcoming Our Culture's War on the American Family". He argues that the erosion of traditional marriage, rising divorce rates, radical ideologies, attacks on faith, and government interference are causing a breakdown of the family unit, which he believes is the cornerstone of strong communities and a strong nation. Dr. Carson encourages a return to biblical and familial values. He also discusses his work with the American Cornerstone Institute and the Carson Scholars Fund, which aim to promote academic achievement and humanitarian qualities in young people. He emphasizes the importance of citizens actively participating in the democratic process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Dr. Greg Autry, author of "Red Moon Rising: How America Will Beat China on the Final Frontier". They discuss the new space race between the United States and China, with the moon as the ultimate high ground. Autry highlights the vast lunar resources that could determine the quality of life on earth in the future. He also discusses the potential of space for manufacturing and medical advancements, such as growing stem cells and creating pharmaceuticals in zero gravity. However, Autry expresses concern about the United States’ ability to beat China to the moon, citing a lack of top-level support in the current administration for the space program.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Pulitzer Prize finalist Annie Jacobsen, about her new book "Nuclear War: A Scenario". The book explores the potential aftermath of a nuclear missile launch, based on interviews with military and civilian experts. Jacobsen discusses the concept of "Mad King Logic", where one irrational leader with a nuclear arsenal could trigger a global catastrophe. She also explains the devastating environmental and human impacts of a nuclear war, including nuclear winter and the death of billions. Jacobsen suggests that the way forward is to reduce the number of nuclear weapons and make their use taboo, following the example set by President Reagan. They also discuss how this could be implemented in a world with unpredictable leaders like Kim Jong Un and Ayatollah Khomeini.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Brigadier General Anthony Tata (U.S. Army, Retired) about the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The Israeli Defense Force has taken control of the border crossing at Rafah and is focusing on destroying Hamas targets. There are also ongoing talks of a ceasefire to free remaining hostages. Tata provides his expert analysis on the situation. He believes that Israel must destroy Hamas to ensure the security of the Israeli people. They also discuss the rise of pro-Palestinian protests in the United States, and Tata's career as a novelist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with wildlife filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer, Bertie Gregory, about his experience filming Emperor Penguin chicks in Antarctica for the upcoming National Geographic series, Secrets of the Penguins to be released in April 2025. The footage, which has never been captured for television before, shows the chicks diving off a 50-foot Antarctic ice shelf into the ocean. Bertie discusses the challenges of filming in such a remote and cold location, and the unexpected behavior of the penguins. He also describes how his career began and the importance of understanding and respecting wildlife in his work. Learn more about the historic penguin leap at NatGeo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What can current university leaders learn from Governor Ronald Reagan's approach to college protests? Newt discusses the history of student unrest on college campuses, particularly focusing on the role Governor Reagan played in handling the protests at the University of California, Berkeley. He draws parallels between the student protests of the 1960s and the unrest on campuses today, noting that many of the issues are similar. He discusses Reagan's firm and clear approach to dealing with student protests. This episode includes archival audio from Governor Reagan, in his own words.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.