William van Wagenen, a journalist and writer specializing in the Syrian conflict, shares his insights into the chaos decimating Syria. He discusses the stark contrast between the initial ideals of democracy-loving rebels and the harsh reality of sectarian violence. William delves into U.S. and Israeli involvement, revealing how foreign policies have exacerbated the conflict. His personal accounts highlight the turmoil and resilience of local communities amid ongoing chaos and challenges, enhancing our understanding of this complex geopolitical landscape.

David Stockman, director of the Office of Management and Budget under Ronald Reagan, smashes the bad arguments against Rep. Thomas Massie (he should vote for idiotic spending now because we'll get serious in five months), who made a brave if lonely stand for what his party professes to believe in. Sponsors: Franbassador & Supporting Listeners Book Discussed: How to Cut $2 Trillion: A Blueprint from Ronald Reagan's Budget Cutter to Musk, Ramaswamy, and the DOGE Team Guest's Twitter: @da_stockman Guest's Website: DavidStockmansContraCorner.com Show notes for Ep. 2617

Syndicated columnist and Modern Age editor Dan McCarthy joins us to discuss what the State of the Union said about Donald Trump, and about the Democrats. Sponsors: Factor: Coupon Code: woods50off & Persist SEO Guest's Website: Modern Age: ModernAgeJournal.com  Guest's Twitter: @ToryAnarchist Show notes for Ep. 2616

In this engaging discussion, Dave Smith, a stand-up comedian and insightful commentator, tackles hot-button issues like the evolving narrative around transgender politics and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine. He shares his experiences winning debates and handling hecklers, illustrating how humor can persist through societal tensions. Smith also reflects on the rising libertarian influence in political discourse, emphasizing the need for authenticity in today’s media landscape.

Daniel McAdams, Executive Director of the Ron Paul Institute, shares insights on foreign policy and the Ukraine conflict. He critiques the current U.S. stance, advocating for a more cautious approach until genuine democratic leadership emerges in Ukraine. The conversation also delves into NATO's historical role, Europe's evolving political landscape, and highlights ideas for financial independence through innovative health solutions. McAdams reflects on Ron Paul's enduring influence and the resurgence of non-interventionist principles in today's discourse.

Clifton Duncan, an accomplished actor known for his work on Broadway, shares his journey from skepticism to advocacy in the entertainment industry. He discusses the decline of traditional arts amid the rise of social media and celebrity culture. Duncan also explores how he aims to bring Thomas Sowell’s legacy to life on stage, emphasizing the importance of genuine artistic expression. With insights into navigating career risks and embracing change, Duncan highlights the evolving landscape of arts and culture.

Connor Boyack, founder of Libertas Network and author of the Tuttle Twins series, discusses innovative alternatives to traditional education. He unveils Praxis, designed to equip young adults with skills for high-paying jobs while avoiding college debt and indoctrination. The conversation challenges the necessity of a college degree, promoting entrepreneurship and critical thinking instead. Boyack also shares ambitious plans for educational growth and the importance of informed choices in today's evolving job market.

Scott Horton, Director of the Libertarian Institute and author of "Provoked," offers keen insights into the Ukraine conflict. He discusses missed diplomatic opportunities and critiques current U.S. foreign policy, particularly emphasizing Trump's imperial tendencies. Horton unpacks the Minsk agreements and their repercussions, while exploring the complexities of negotiation dynamics. He encourages listeners to consider alternative narratives and reflects on how the prolonged conflict affects global relations and perceptions of sovereignty.

Mark Changizi, a cognitive scientist known for his innovative insights into vision and human emotion, dives into the societal shifts of 2020. He reflects on the mass hysteria surrounding COVID-19 and the implications for civil liberties. Changizi also sheds light on the fascinating relationship between AI and free expression. Additionally, he shares why motorcycles aren't just about speed, but about sensory experiences and self-expression, revealing their allure as one of humanity's coolest inventions.

Larry Lepard, a sound money fund manager and author of "The Big Print," dives into the critical need for sound monetary policies to tackle America’s economic woes. He critiques the current system, highlighting the gaps between official statistics and everyday experiences of inflation. The conversation explores the historical evolution of monetary systems and their impact on wealth inequality. Lepard advocates for financial decentralization, including Bitcoin, as essential solutions to combat government money creation and hyperinflation.