The Aaron Renn Show

In this fascinating discussion, A. M. Hickman, also known as Shagbark Hick, shares his journey from being a homeless hitchhiker to a proud owner of a $33,000 home in rural New York. He reveals how he lives on just $600 a month, emphasizing frugality and the rejection of conventional paths. Hickman discusses the joys of rural life, the importance of land ownership, and his experiences with the Amish for healthcare. His unique perspective challenges the traditional American Dream, advocating for a simpler, meaningful lifestyle.

In this engaging conversation, Chris Arnade, a former Wall Street quant turned author and ethnographer, shares his transformative experiences walking through America’s toughest neighborhoods. He discusses how McDonald's serves as a communal hub and the dangers of social fragmentation. Arnade delves into the cultural divides between the educated elite and everyday Americans, stressing the importance of social trust for revitalizing urban spaces. His insights offer a stark look at the state of American society and the urgent need for policy solutions.

Join host Aaron Renn and cultural diagnostician Dr. John Seel in this thought-provoking podcast episode as they dive into the crisis of masculinity, the unraveling of modern culture, and the path to aspirational manhood. From the influence of sociologists like James Davison Hunter and Peter Berger to the societal implications of nihilism and technology, this conversation explores headwater issues shaping families, society, and civilization. Dr. Seel also introduces his new book, Aspirational Masculinity, offering a bold vision for men rooted in faith and purpose. Don’t miss this engaging discussion that challenges conventional narratives and calls for a renewed understanding of what it means to be a man today.CHAPTERS:(0:00:01 - Introduction and Welcome)(0:00:49 - Dr. John Seel on Masculinity)(0:01:31 - Working with James Davison Hunter and Oz Guinness)(0:08:23 - The Cultural Inflection Point: Nihilism and Modernity)(0:11:10 - Technology’s Acceleration vs. Cultural Decline)(0:13:41 - Power, Authority, and Nietzschean Nihilism)(0:22:03 - The Crisis of Masculinity: A Headwater Issue)(0:26:51 - Framing the Masculinity Problem)(0:31:16 - Identity Formation: Postmodern, Modern, and Biblical Views)(0:39:37 - Aspirational Masculinity and Christ-Centered Identity)(0:49:01 - Grace, Nature, and Masculinity)(0:58:14 - The Parable of the Talents and Agency)(1:03:28 - The Marines: A Secular Model for Identity)(1:09:50 - Final Thoughts on a Positive Vision for Masculinity)(1:11:18 - Book Announcement: Aspirational Masculinity)JOHN SEEL'S LINKS:📖 Buy Aspirational Masculinity: https://store.standrewsalmanor.org/products/aspirational-masculinity/CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with David Yancey, president of Presbyterians for the Kingdom, and Generation Z influencer Redeemed Zoomer to discuss their mission to renew the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) and the broader Operation Reconquista movement. They dive into the challenges and opportunities of restoring traditional theology within mainline Protestant denominations, the role of young conservatives in this revival, and their plans for the future. From institutional commitment to the power of historic churches, this episode explores why they’re staying to reform rather than leaving.CHAPTERS:(00:00 - Introduction)(00:33 - What is Presbyterians for the Kingdom?)(01:07 - Operation Reconquista and Its Inspiration)(02:48 - Networks within the PCUSA)(06:21 - Challenges of Mainline Decline)(08:19 - A Generational Shift Toward Conservatism)(11:11 - Personal Ties to the PCUSA)(16:11 - Perceptions of the Movement within PCUSA)(19:46 - Institutional Commitment in the PCUSA)(27:01 - Balancing Word and Sacrament in Reformed Theology)(33:40 - Biblical Case Against Splitting from the Church)(37:06 - Stewardship of Historic Resources)(42:30 - Future Plans for Presbyterians for the Kingdom)GUEST LINKS:🌐 Presbyterians for the Kingdom Website: https://www.kingdompresbyterians.com/🐦 Presbyterians for the Kingdom Twitter/X: https://x.com/kingdompresbys🌐 Redeemed Zoomer's Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@redeemedzoomer6053🐦 Redeemed Zoomer Twitter/X: https://x.com/redeemed_zoomerCONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Caleb Morell, author of A Light on the Hill, dives into the fascinating 150-year journey of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in D.C. Founded by Civil War veterans, the church has remained a stronghold of orthodox faith amidst cultural changes. Morell highlights its pivotal role during the fundamentalist-modernist controversy and the challenges of urban life, including gentrification and a COVID-19 lawsuit. He discusses how under pastor Mark Dever, the church revitalized while committed to a singular worship model, showcasing resilience in the face of changing times.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Joel Carini, a PhD student and writer known as The Natural Theologian, dives deep into the challenges of truth-seeking within evangelicalism. He contrasts the insular nature of seminary education with the open inquiry at the University of Chicago. Topics include presuppositionalism, the fear among evangelicals of engaging with differing views, and the importance of finding common ground with non-believers. Joel advocates for learning from diverse perspectives to strengthen faith and navigate complex questions.

In a deep dive into America’s housing crisis, Chief Economist Adam Ozimek shares his expertise on the escalating challenges of homebuying in 2025. He explains the key drivers behind soaring prices, from rising construction costs to zoning restrictions and the influence of institutional investors. Ozimek discusses innovative solutions such as YIMBYism, density zoning, and single stairwell reform to tackle affordability. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach between local control and effective housing policies to create a more accessible market.

Ted Esler, President of Missio Nexus, offers a compelling look into the evolution and future of global missions. He highlights the historical impact of figures like William Carey and discusses the challenges posed by globalization and cultural shifts. Ted navigates the role of unreached people groups and examines the complex influence of American imperialism. Notably, he emphasizes the vital contributions of women in missions and analyzes how modern dynamics are reshaping the global church's approach to evangelism and discipleship.

Michael Foster, pastor of East River Church and author of 'It's Good to Be a Man', discusses the cultural tumult of recent years. He explores the rise of the Manosphere and its influence on masculinity, alongside the shift in dating dynamics prompted by social media. Foster reflects on the pandemic's impact on churches and societal roles, emphasizing a new cultural 'vibe shift' that prioritizes genuine engagement over negativity. His insights on modern faith challenges and the importance of stability offer a fresh perspective on navigating today's world.

Professional boxer Ed Latimore talks about his inspiring journey from growing up in Pittsburgh’s housing projects during the crack epidemic to earning a physics degree and overcoming addiction. In this episode, Ed shares raw insights from his book, Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: Boxing and the Art of Life, diving into the challenges of poverty, the psychological traps of subsidized housing, the impact of corporal punishment, and how boxing gave him discipline and community. Ed also opens up about his battle with alcoholism and offers practical advice for those struggling with addiction. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about resilience, pattern recognition, and transforming your life against all odds.CHAPTERS(00:00 - Introduction)(01:02 - Growing Up in the Projects: Life During the Crack Epidemic)(03:11 - The Systemic Traps of Subsidized Housing)(06:13 - How Childhood Beatings Shaped Ed’s View on Boxing)(09:01 - Boxing as a Path to Discipline and Community)(14:48 - Why Ed Rejects Corporal Punishment)(24:43 - Writing Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: A Memoir with Purpose)(26:54 - Discovering His Intelligence Through Boxing and Education)(33:08 - From Boxing to a Physics Degree: Ed’s Academic Journey)(37:18 - How Intelligence Kept Ed from Self-Destruction)(44:01 - Overcoming Alcoholism: Ed’s Strategies for Recovery)(53:15 - Final Thoughts and Book Details)ED LATIMORE'S LINKS:📖 Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Lessons-Hurt-Business-Boxing/dp/0593716361/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20🌐 Ed Latimore's web site: https://edlatimore.com/ 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/edlatimoreCONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/