Conservative Conversations with ISI

In this engaging episode of Conservative Conversations, Tom Sarrouf sits down with historian and scholar Miles Smith to explore the transformative era of the Gilded Age and Westward Expansion. They discuss the economic growth that characterized the late 19th century, the development of new industries, and the rise of America as an economic power.Smith and Sarrouf also delve into the complexities of the relationship between the North and South during this period, examining the lasting effects of the Civil War, regional economic disparities, and the shifting political landscape. This conversation offers a deep dive into a pivotal moment in American history, unpacking the forces that shaped the nation's future and laid the groundwork for the 20th century.

In this thought-provoking episode of Conservative Conversations, Tom Sarrouf sits down with philosopher and scholar Michael Hanby to explore the evolving landscape of political thought. Together, they delve into the roots of liberalism, unpack the rise of post-liberalism, and examine the profound role of bioethics in shaping government policies. Hanby shares his insights on the increasing influence of technology in modern society and the ethical challenges it poses to human dignity and freedom.The conversation also explores the impact of Trump’s administration on the political climate, the ongoing challenge of self-governance, and the importance of virtue in sustaining a thriving republic. This wide-ranging discussion offers listeners a deep dive into the intersection of politics, technology, and ethics, with a focus on how contemporary ideas are reshaping our understanding of human life and governance.

In this episode, we sit down with Bobby Angel, Catholic author, speaker, and mentor, to discuss his latest book, The Postmodern Predicament. This conversation unpacks the challenges of faith, truth, and identity in a world shaped by postmodernism.Bobby explores how the erosion of objective reality and the rise of radical individualism have led to confusion, despair, and a crisis of meaning—especially among young people. Drawing from philosophy, theology, and cultural analysis, he offers a hopeful vision for reclaiming truth, virtue, and a sense of purpose in today’s world.

Why does literature still matter in our modern world? In this episode, ISI’s Conservative Conversations welcomes scholar Jason Baxter to discuss his latest book, Why Literature Still Matters. Baxter explores how great literature shapes our moral imagination, cultivates wisdom, and connects us to timeless truths. From Dante to C.S. Lewis, he reveals how classic works offer profound insights into human nature, virtue, and beauty—insights that are increasingly neglected in today's culture.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on why preserving the literary tradition is essential for the future of civilization.

Is the social contract broken? In this episode, Paul DeHart joins ISI to discuss his latest book, The Social Contract in the Ruins: Natural Law and Government by Consent. He challenges the idea that consent alone legitimizes government, exploring the role of natural law, classical philosophy, and the American Founding in shaping just governance.Get the BookSubscribe for more ISI conversations: @EducatingForLiberty

What can we learn from President William McKinley’s leadership, and how does his legacy compare to the modern political landscape? In this fascinating conversation, historian and journalist Robert W. Merry joins ISI to discuss his latest book, President McKinley: Architect of the American Century.McKinley, often overshadowed by his more flamboyant successors, was a transformational figure who reshaped America’s global role and set the stage for the 20th century. Merry breaks down McKinley’s underrated statesmanship, his approach to economic and foreign policy, and his impact on American conservatism.The discussion takes an intriguing turn as McKinley’s leadership is compared to Donald Trump—examining their similarities in political realignment, media battles, and their roles as champions of the "forgotten American."

In a world increasingly marked by isolation, instability, and cultural decay, how can families remain strong, joyful, and rooted in tradition? In this episode, we sit down with Edward Habsburg—Catholic thinker, writer, and Hungary’s ambassador to the Holy See—to discuss his new book, Building a Wholesome Family in a Broken World.Drawing from both personal experience and the time-tested wisdom of the Habsburg dynasty, Edward shares practical insights on fostering deep familial bonds, raising children with purpose, and restoring a culture of faith and virtue within the home. We explore the key pillars of a strong family life, the challenges posed by modernity, and why subsidiarity—the principle of governance closest to the family unit—is more important than ever.Join us for a conversation that blends history, faith, and humor as we uncover what it truly means to build a resilient, loving, and wholesome family in today's chaotic world.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more thought-provoking discussions with leading scholars and thinkers!

In this episode, Charles Keckler joins us to discuss regulatory reform and the growing power of the executive branch. Drawing on his experience in law and public policy, he examines how the administrative state has reshaped the balance of power and what reforms are needed to restore constitutional order.We explore the role of Congress in checking executive overreach, the challenges of regulatory agencies, and practical steps to rein in the modern administrative state. Don’t miss this timely conversation on reshaping the balance of power in American government.

Join host Tom Sarrouf as he sits down with historian and theologian Andrew Willard Jones to discuss his latest book, The Church Against the State: The Birth of Liberty in the Late Middle Ages. In this thought-provoking episode, Jones explores the fascinating historical relationship between the Church and state during the medieval period and how these tensions shaped the development of liberty as we know it today.From the sacramental vision of society under St. Louis IX to the modern misunderstandings of freedom and authority, Jones offers deep insights into the spiritual, cultural, and political implications of his research. Together, Tom and Andrew unpack how these historical lessons challenge contemporary notions of power, governance, and faith.Whether you're a student of history, a seeker of truth, or simply curious about the Church’s role in defending human dignity, this conversation will leave you with a richer understanding of how faith and politics can—and should—interact.Tune in for a compelling exploration of the past that offers fresh perspectives on the present.

In this thought-provoking episode, Frank DeVito, counsel at Napa Legal, explores the complexities of defining religion in a pluralistic society and shares his fight against the rise of Satanism and attacks on traditional values. With his unique blend of legal expertise and philosophical insight, Frank unpacks the critical role of faith in preserving freedom and the importance of standing firm against cultural and moral decline.Whether you’re passionate about defending religious liberty or seeking inspiration in today’s challenges, this episode offers compelling insights and practical guidance.More from Frank: www.napalegalinstitute.org/good-counselor-fellows/frank-devito