The Libertarian Christian Podcast

Though the Libertarian Christian Podcast may have a slight bias towards podcasts, we also love a good book. In this episode, host Doug Stuart and Alex Bernardo of the Protestant Libertarian Podcast sit down to talk about their reading habits and the books they've been enjoying recently, ranging from works of fiction like Harry Potter all the way to historical narratives about the Soviet Union. Whether you're looking for some quality book recommendations or just want to know more about the hosts and their approaches to reading, this is a delightful and laid-back episode you're not going to want to miss.  Alex Bernardo is part of the Christians for Liberty Network and is the host of the Protestant Libertarian Podcast. There, he explores the intersection between protestant Biblical studies and libertarian philosophy, addressing topics related to theology, history, culture, economics, philosophy, and current events from both protestant and libertarian perspectives.  More about Alex as well as links to all the books discussed in this episode can be found in the additional resources section below.   Main Points of Discussion: 00:00    Introduction     01:45    Kindle, physical copies, & audiobooks     07:24    Highlighters or pens?     11:51    Doug and Alex's reading goals     19:25    Fiction books     32:24    Books that impacted Alex     38:40    What's Alex reading next?     40:14    Books that impacted Doug     44:11    What's Doug reading next?   Additional Resources: - The Protestant Libertarian Podcast: libertarianchristians.com/shows/protestant-libertarian-podcast/ - Follow Alex Bernardo on Twitter: @ProLibertyPod - Fiction books:         The Chronicles of Narnia series, by C.S. Lewis         The Harry Potter series, by J.K. Rowling         Amon's Adventure, by Arnold Ytreeide         The Memoirs of Stockholm Sven, by Nathaniel Ian Miller         Space: A Novel, by James A. Michener - Impactful books          The Peril of Modernizing Jesus, by Henry J. Cadbury         The Artist, the Philosopher and the Warrior, by Paul Strathern         The White Pill, by Michael Malice - Next up:          The Case Against the Fed, by Murray Rothbard         Ideology and Insanity, by Thomas S. Szasz         The Individualists, by Matt Zwolinski and John Tomasi         Fossil Future, by Alex Epstein         The Viking Heart, by Arthur Herman         Roger Williams and the Creation of the American Soul, by John M. Barry         Biblical Critical Theory, by Christopher Watkin - Other:         Human Action, by Ludwig Von Mises         Surprised by Scripture, by N.T. Wright         Revelation for the Rest of Us, Scot McKnight         Paul and the Faithfulness of God, by N.T. Wright         The Crucifixion of the Warrior God, by Gregory A. Boyd         Cross Vision, by Gregory A. Boyd         The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling, by The Free Press         The Quest of the Historical Jesus, by Albert Schweitzer   Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Libertarian Christian Podcast, host Doug Stuart interviews John Odermatt, co-founder of the Lions of Liberty Network. John opens up about his journey towards becoming a leading advocate within the criminal justice reform movement, rooted in both personal experience and his Christian faith. His passion for the subject has been fueled by firsthand encounters with the injustices of the system, leading him to create and host the Felony Friday podcast, a platform that raises awareness about the issue and brings powerful stories of redemption from those affected. Odermatt's dedication towards reforming a broken system is a testament to the importance of addressing the consequences of crime in a restorative, compassionate manner. A major aspect of the conversation about criminal justice reform revolves around the necessity for compassion and grace. Whether discussing rehabilitation, reintegration, or individual struggles, understanding the importance of mercy and forgiveness is an integral part of any lasting solution. As Christians, this approach aligns with the core teachings of Jesus and underscores the value of treating others with respect, regardless of their past mistakes. For John Odermatt, compassion plays a significant role in his advocacy efforts. Through his podcast and personal interactions, he emphasizes that providing second chances and acknowledging the humanity of those who have been through the criminal justice system can open doors for healing and reintegration. Odermatt highlights that one's past should not dictate their future, and a system that embraces restorative justice can foster genuine growth and change. John Odermatt is a passionate advocate for criminal justice reform and libertarianism. He began his journey in the world of podcasting nearly a decade ago, and has since become a co-founder of the Lions of Liberty Network. With years of experience under his belt, John now hosts the popular Finding Freedom Podcast, where he interviews individuals who have faced the injustices of the criminal justice system, as well as those who have overcome adversity and found success after incarceration. Raised in a conservative Christian household, John's personal experiences and background in law have shaped his compassionate approach to reform and liberty. Main Points of Discussion: 00:00    Introduction     05:57    Pivoting to Finding Freedom     06:26    Criminal Justice Reform     12:28    Compassion and Responsibility     13:18    Growing in Faith     15:13    Taking Command of Our Liberty     19:10    Choosing Your Suffering     22:20    Overcoming Hurdles     23:43    Education in America     28:47    Libertarians during COVID     32:53    Technology and Tyranny     36:10    Resisting Sin and Oppression     39:42    Lions of Liberty Network     40:52    Conclusion Additional Resources: - Lions of Liberty Network: https://lionsofliberty.com/  - Finding Freedom Podcast: https://www.lionsofliberty.com/episodes  - Interview with Jacob Winograd: https://www.lionsofliberty.com/episodes/christianity-and-liberty-with-jacob-winograd  - Connect with John Odermatt on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JohnOdermatt  - Lions of Liberty on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LionsofLiberty  Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Libertarian Christian Podcast, host Doug Stuart discusses the topic of faith and violence with Jerry Robinson, founder of True Riches Academy and host of True Riches Radio. Raised a Jehovah's Witness, Robinson eventually found his way to the gospel and now challenges Christians to think critically about their faith and the associated ethical implications. Together, Doug and Jerry take on the topic of "gun culture" in America, which Jerry suggests is contradictory to Christ's teachings on radical nonviolence. In addition to the rich discussion on the ethics of gun ownership and gun use, the conversation highlights the importance of understanding God's character despite the pervasive interpretative pluralism and hermetical difficulties of today. Jerry Robinson is the founder and executive director of the True Riches Academy and host of True Riches Radio, a podcast dedicated to challenging believers to think and thinkers to believe. Through the True Riches ministries, Jerry and his team seek to “educate, equip, and empower” followers of Christ through the creation and distribution of educational materials in a variety of formats including: podcasts, video teachings, and e-books. Since 2002, Robinson has served in both pastoral and lay leadership in the local church, has taught and lectured in a variety of Bible colleges, universities, and churches, and has preached and lectured around the world, including Europe and the East. He holds a degree in Economics from the University of Tulsa. Main Points of Discussion: 00:00    Introduction     04:31    From Jehova to Jesus     7:19    Faith and hermeneutics     12:44    Why do Evangelicals go against Christ?     17:37    What is "gun culture?"     21:42    The book of Revelation and Jesus' return     24:45    Extrabiblical prohibitions and prescriptions     30:38    Christians for Liberty Network plug     31:09    Romans 13: State sovereignty vs God's sovereignty     32:32    Good vs. evil     37:18    The only way to stop a bad guy with a gun...      43:52    Can guns be used as a last resort?     46:39    WWJD? Additional Resources: - TrueRichesRadio.com  - https://www.youtube.com/@TrueRichesAcademy  - Related episodes: --- https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/does-the-conquest-of-canaan-conflict-with-anarchism/  --- https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/ot-case-non-violence-matthew-curtis-fleischer/  --- https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/cross-vision-greg-boyd/  --- https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/jesus-bible-politics-brian-zahnd/  --- https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/loving-enemies-age-of-violence-ron-sider/  --- https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/pacifism-self-defense-christian-ethics/  --- https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/christian-pacifism-explained-ted-grimsrud/  --- https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/pacifism-prophecy-praxis-todd-lewis/  Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Doug Stuart welcomes professor Art Carden to the show to discuss his book "Leave Me Alone and I'll Make You Rich: How the Bourgeois Deal Enriched the World." Co-authored by author Deidre McCloskey, the book looks at the history of the bourgeoisie and details the economic impact on global wealth. Art picks up on these concepts in his conversation with Doug, explaining in detail topics like "the Bourgeois Deal", "The Great Enrichment," "innovism," and many more. With roots in history, philosophy, economics, politics, culture, etc, this episode truly has something for everyone, so you won't want to miss it. Art Carden is a professor of economics at Samford University's Brock School of Business. He has worked with and contributed to a number of other organizations, including the American Institute for Economic Research, the Institute for Faith, Work, and Economics, the Beacon Center of Tennessee, the Independent Institute, and the Foundation for Economic Education. He received his PhD from Washington University in Saint Louis. More information can be found in the "additional resources" section below. Main Points of Discussion: 00:00    Introduction 03:15    Writing style analysis 04:55    What does "bourgeois" actually mean?  08:22    The Great Enrichment 10:43    Economic growth and the rule of 70 12:34    What about the poor?  14:49    Global wealth distribution 15:50    What is liberalism? 19:20    Christians for Liberty Network Plug 20:02    Capitalism vs "innovism"  23:02    The finer things in life 28:42    Billionaires and special interests 31:15    Salvation from sin: strategies for preaching the gospel 32:17    What is the "Bourgeois deal" and how does it benefit us? 38:02    Art's upcoming book "Strangers with Candy" Additional Resources: - Leave Me Alone and I'll Make You Rich: How the Bourgeois Deal Enriched the World - https://www.amazon.com/Leave-Alone-Ill-Make-Rich/dp/022673966X  - https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/L/bo61545999.html  - https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/51941581  - Art's website: https://artcarden.com/  - Follow Art on Twitter: @ArtCarden - More from Art:  -- https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/cf_dev/AbsByAuth.cfm?per_id=508839  -- https://www.aier.org/people/art-carden/  - Our World In Data Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

Like everyone else, we here at LCI enjoy a good crossover episode. Tune in to this installment of the Libertarian Christian Podcast to hear Doug Stuart talk with Protestant Libertarian Podcast host Alex Bernardo about Christianity, libertarianism, and the relationship between the two. Doug and Alex speak to the fundamental compatibility between Christianity and libertarianism, explaining how they came to be libertarian Christians and what kind of impact that's had on their lives. The two move on to contemporary strategies on how to sell libertarianism to Christians, as well as how to effectively evangelize to libertarians. Whether you're interested in these strategies or want to know more about Doug, critical theory, or the behind-the-scenes of this podcast, tune in today! Alex Bernardo is part of the Christians for Liberty Network and is the host of the Protestant Libertarian Podcast. There, he explores the intersection between protestant Biblical studies and libertarian philosophy, addressing topics related to theology, history, culture, economics, philosophy, and current events from both protestant and libertarian perspectives. More information can be found in the additional resources section below. Main Points of Discussion: 00:00    Introduction 07:10    Doug's spiritual journey 14:10    The influence of academia 19:16    Doug's libertarian journey 22:18    Joining LCI 24:05    How to name your podcast 25:40    What's the process for picking guests? 32:04    What is the relationship between Christianity and libertarianism? 38:44    Strategies for explaining libertarianism to Christians 40:35    Strategies for evangelizing to libertarians 42:46    Christians for Liberty Network plug 43:35    Freedom Fest and Christianity 47:46    Influential libertarians 50:18    Critical theory (in a nutshell) 57:43    Cultural implications of critical theory Additional Resources: - The Protestant Libertarian Podcast - Follow Alex Bernardo on Twitter: @prolibertypod - Turn Neither to the Right Nor to the Left, by Eric Schansberg - Missional Theology, by John Franke - The Third Temptation, by Austin Rogers Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Doug Stuart is joined by the hosts of the Silver Screen Biases podcast, Jeff and Nelson. After explaining their process for picking which movies to cover and how they deal with spoiler alerts, the hosts of SSB move on to discuss a number of fascinating film topics with Doug: what is the difference between film and entertainment? Is there such a thing as a libertarian movie? How has the rise of streaming services impacted cinema and storytelling more broadly? For answers to these questions and many others, tune in to this exciting episode today. In their own podcast, Jeff and Nelson sit down every two weeks to discuss a critically acclaimed movie and the truth claims made within it, as well as to wrestle with their own biases and analyze those of Hollywood. See additional resources if you want more from Silver Screen Biases. Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, author Connor Boyack joins Doug Stuart to discuss the latest edition in the well-known Tuttle Twins book line. "The Tuttle Twins Guide to Modern Villains" highlights the nastiest villains throughout recent history, with notable figures including Adolf Hitler, Karl Marx, and Woodrow Wilson. If you're interested in knowing why Connor chose the villains he did or if you just want to know more about the background and writing process of the Tuttle Twins series, this is the episode for you! Connor Boyack is the founder of the Libertas Institute and has authored nearly 40 books, including the Tuttle Twins series, which has sold over 4.5 million copies. Connor graduated from Brigham Young University and has since been named one of Utah’s most politically influential people by The Salt Lake Tribune. Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Doug Stuart is joined by author Ryan McMaken to discuss his book Breaking Away: The Case for Secession, Radical Decentralization, and Smaller Politics. After exploring the roots and history of secessionist movements, the conversation moves to a more conceptual discussion where Ryan explains the meaning of decentralization, its associated benefits, and alternatives. Doug then asks Ryan to elaborate on the relationship between localism and federalism and how the tension impacts universal rights. Acknowleding the recent relevance of secession, Doug and Ryan turn to practical considerations, rounding out the episode with a discussion on nuclear weapons, national debt, and the potential role of blockchain technology. Ryan McMaken is a senior editor at the Mises Institute and co-hosts the Radio Rothbard podcast. He earned his bachelor's degree in economics and master's degree in public policy and international relations from the University of Colorado.   Main Points of Discussion: 00:00    Introduction 06:20    Is secession an American or un-American idea? 08:44    What does it mean for the world to be “decentralized?” 10:50    Benefits of decentralization 14:19    Alternatives to secession 17:09    Was the original constitution secessionary? 19:05    Universal rights versus localism 22:13    Localism versus federalism 22:06    The case for secession 29:38    What are the common arguments against secession?  33:06    Christians for Liberty Network plug 33:35    Practical considerations: what about the nukes? 39:00    What happens to the debt?  41:44    Blockchain technology and it’s impact on geopolitical governance   Additional Resources: - https://mises.org/library/breaking-away-case-secession-radical-decentralization-and-smaller-polities  - https://twitter.com/ryanmcmaken Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Doug Stuart speaks with Nilay Saiya, author of The Global Politics of Jesus: A Christian Case for Church-State Separation. They discuss the two primary ways Christians approach politics and what those errors are. Nilay discusses these approaches in juxtaposition to so-called "Christian Nationalism." He posits a third approach which he believes is aligned with historic Two Kingdoms theology and borrows from Catholic social teaching. He called this approach, Prophetic Witness. Nilay Saiya is assistant professor of public policy and global affairs at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. His research concerns the influence of religion on global politics. He is author of the book Weapon of Peace: How Religious Liberty Combats Terrorism (2018). He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame.   Main Points of Discussion: 00:00    Introduction 04:19    How is Christian nationalism distinct from Christians having a voice in governance? 05:56    Why can't much political theology cannot be reconciled with the teachings of Christ? 09:53    Is there a proper way to "take America back for God?" 14:00    How does the church see itself? Is it the new (nation) Israel? 15:43    Living as strangers and exiles; Christianism; political detachment 19:43    Two kingdoms theology - kingdom of the world and of the cross 26:46    Third approach: prophetic witness and faithful presence 29:07    The value of Catholic social teaching 29:45    When confusing prophetic witness with political activism (dual citizenship) 32:49    Godless people elected to power and the Christian response 36:37    Do we need elected officials who will listen to Christians? 39:40    Are the Sojourners Christian nationalists but on the left? 42:50    How do we live out the prophetic witness? 44:28    Closing thoughts   Additional Resources: - https://sites.google.com/site/nilayjsaiya/home?authuser=0  - The Global Politics of Jesus: A Christian Case for Church-State Separation: https://amzn.to/3ZLxLrd  Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

Dr. Calvin Beisner is President of The Cornwall Alliance for the Stewardship of Creation, a network of Christian theologians, natural scientists, economists, and other scholars educating for Biblical earth stewardship, economic development for the poor, and the proclamation and defense of the good news of salvation by God’s grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection.   Main Points of Discussion: 00:00    Introduction 01:15    Who is Dr. Cal Beisner and what is the Cornwall Alliance for the Stewardship of Creation? 07:52    How combative was the correction of the dominion mandate? 11:50    The "green" study bible 13:05    Human centered approach to the environment 22:15    The conflict of goals between environmentalists and the poor 29:07    Kuznitz curve 31:33    If we could advise those who are negligent about the environment, what would we say? 37:47    Is there a cost of doing nothing? 44:20    Closing thoughts   Additional Resources: - https://cornwallalliance.org/  - https://www.facebook.com/CornwallAlliance  - https://reformedlibertarians.com/episode/climate-alarmism-cornwall-alliance/    Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com  ★ Support this podcast ★