The Rational Egoist

A Great Talk with James Valliant Concerning the Recently Discovered Letters Wherein Murray Rothbard Discussed Ayn RandIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz sits down with James Valliant, author of The Passion of Ayn Rand’s Critics and co-author of Creating Christ, to discuss a fascinating historical discovery — the recently unearthed letters in which Murray Rothbard writes about Ayn Rand and her philosophy.Together they explore the complex and often contentious relationship between Rand and Rothbard, two towering figures in the libertarian and Objectivist movements. What did Rothbard really think of Rand? How did their intellectual split shape the future of the liberty movement? And what do these letters reveal about the philosophical divide between individualism and anarcho-capitalism?This is an illuminating conversation for anyone interested in the history of ideas, the moral foundations of freedom, and the enduring tension between Objectivism and libertarianism.🎧 Tune in for a deep dive into the minds that helped shape the modern liberty movement.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#objectivism #aynrand #murrayrothbard #jamesvalliant #philosophy #libertarianism #individualism #rationalegoist #michaelliebowitz #reason #freedom

Debating the Legitimacy of Anarcho-Capitalism – with Mann SharmaIn this thought-provoking episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz sits down with Mann Sharma, a young and aspiring intellectual in the liberty movement, to debate the legitimacy of anarcho-capitalism.Is a stateless society truly compatible with individual rights, or does it invite chaos and private tyranny? Together, Michael and Mann explore the moral and practical foundations of government, the role of objective law, and whether freedom can survive without a state.Watch more from Mann Sharma on his YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@rationalfrontier2609About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose — Xenia's thought-provoking essays on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#Libertarianism #AnarchoCapitalism #Objectivism #Philosophy #IndividualRights #Reason #Freedom #TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #XeniaIoannou #AynRand

Discussing Economic Inequality with Robert F. MulliganIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz sits down with economist Robert F. Mulligan to discuss one of the most debated issues in modern economics—economic inequality.Dr. Mulligan brings a rigorous, data-driven perspective to the conversation, examining what inequality actually measures, whether it’s inherently unjust, and how government intervention often worsens the very disparities it claims to solve. Together, they explore the moral and economic implications of wealth distribution, the dangers of envy-based policies, and why freedom—not forced equality—is the foundation for human flourishing.Dr. Mulligan holds a BS in Civil Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and both an MA and PhD in Economics from the State University of New York at Binghamton. He also earned an Advanced Studies Certificate in International Economic Policy Research from the Institut fuer Weltwirtschaft Kiel in Germany. His academic career includes teaching positions at SUNY Binghamton, Clarkson University, and Western Carolina University, where he has inspired countless students to think critically about markets, policy, and individual choice.Read more here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1630691836/ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_HHGKSW9Z8Y3HVXHGBSHB🎧 Tune in for an intellectually grounded discussion on the true meaning of fairness, productivity, and liberty in a free society.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia’s thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#EconomicInequality #RobertFMulligan #TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #AynRand #Objectivism #FreeMarkets #IndividualRights #Reason #Liberty

What is Metacognition, and Why Do You Need to Know? – With Kristen Carter, M.S.In this episode, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Kristen Carter, M.S., founder of Design for Fitness, LLC. With over 30 years of experience in fitness and nutrition, Kristen brings a unique perspective that integrates psychology, motivation, and health. Together, they explore the concept of metacognition—the ability to think about your own thinking—and why understanding it can transform not only your approach to fitness and nutrition but your entire life.From breaking bad habits to improving self-awareness, Kristen explains how metacognition helps you recognize the patterns behind your decisions, build better strategies for change, and ultimately align your mind and body toward rational self-improvement.Kristen is the creator of the Design for Fitness Health and Fitness Blog and contributor to the Psychology Today blog Health and Human Nature, where she bridges science, psychology, and practical wisdom to help people live healthier, more deliberate lives.Learn more about Kristen’s work here:https://www.designforfitness.com/https://a.co/d/6YVEzQNRead her Psychology Today blog here:https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/health-and-human-natureAbout Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Xenia’s thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #KristenCarter #DesignForFitness #Metacognition #FitnessMindset #RationalSelfInterest #Objectivism #PsychologyToday #AynRand #SelfAwareness #Reason #Individualism

Rob Tracinski Discusses His New Book, “Dictator from Day One: How Donald Trump is Overthrowing the Constitution and How to Fight Back.”Rob Tracinski joins The Rational Egoist to discuss his latest book, Dictator from Day One: How Donald Trump is Overthrowing the Constitution and How to Fight Back.Tracinski studied philosophy at the University of Chicago and has been a writer, lecturer, and commentator for more than 25 years. He is the editor of Symposium: A Journal of Political Liberalism, a columnist for Discourse Magazine, and the author of The Tracinski Letter, where he writes on politics, culture, and philosophy from a pro-reason, pro-liberty perspective.Get the book here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FQNZN9VT?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_2K0N0NNFZGM29GRPEDXX&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_2K0N0NNFZGM29GRPEDXX&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_2K0N0NNFZGM29GRPEDXX&bestFormat=true&titleSource=trueRead more of Rob’s work:https://www.tracinskiletter.com/About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#TheRationalEgoist #RobTracinski #DictatorFromDayOne #Objectivism #Liberty #Reason #IndividualRights #Philosophy #AynRand #MichaelLiebowitz

Phil Magness Joins the Show to Debunk Much of the 1619 ProjectPhil Magness is an economic historian whose work focuses on the United States and the broader Atlantic world. His research explores the intersection of history and political economy, including the 19th century as well as longer-term trends in the macroeconomy such as taxation, trade, and economic inequality.In this episode, Phil joins Michael to critically examine and debunk key claims made by The 1619 Project, addressing its historical inaccuracies, political motivations, and the broader implications of rewriting America’s founding through a lens of perpetual victimhood. This is a conversation about truth, evidence, and the dangers of ideological distortion in historical scholarship.🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Life on Purpose — Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#TheRationalEgoist #PhilMagness #1619Project #History #Economics #IndividualRights #Objectivism #Liberty #Reason #Truth

Overcoming Negative Self-Talk – with Betsy Holmberg, Ph.D.Betsy Holmberg, Ph.D., joins the show to discuss how to overcome negative self-talk and the traps of overthinking. An award-winning psychologist, Betsy has devoted her career to understanding and addressing the inner critic that undermines mental health and self-confidence.Before becoming an author and therapist, Betsy led the mental health service line at McKinsey & Company and conducted groundbreaking research at Harvard University on self-injury and suicide. She is trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT therapies, and earned her B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. from Duke University.Her new book offers powerful insights and tools for breaking free from destructive thought patterns:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1648484719?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_MEZ95QCT2HWSAA46M8FK&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_MEZ95QCT2HWSAA46M8FK&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_MEZ95QCT2HWSAA46M8FK&bestFormat=trueAbout Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#SelfTalk #Overthinking #Psychology #RationalEgoistPodcast #Objectivism #MentalHealth

Robert Begley Joins the Show to Discuss His New Book Voices of Reason: Lessons for Liberty’s LeadersThe audio is now available! Robert Begley joins Michael to talk about his new book Voices of Reason: Lessons for Liberty’s Leaders. Together they explore what makes a truly great communicator, the timeless principles behind effective speech, and why mastering the art of communication is essential for advancing liberty.Get the book here: https://a.co/d/4EcBK5hvisit the website here: https://speakingwithpurpose.llc/About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#VoicesOfReason #RobertBegley #SpeakingWithPurpose #GreatCommunicators #RationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #Objectivism #Liberty

Objective Investing for The Middle Class – with Mark ShupeMark Shupe joins Michael Liebowitz on The Rational Egoist to discuss the principles of investing through the lens of Objectivism. Mark is an Objectivist, an author, and an investor who has developed a unique approach to wealth-building for everyday people. His work focuses on empowering the middle class to think rationally about money and investment strategies rather than chasing trends or relying on conventional “expert” wisdom.Mark is the author of The Moneyball Method: Investing for the Middle Class, which applies clear, objective principles to help investors make smarter decisions:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1696009111He also publishes The Moneyball Method on Substack, where he shares regular insights on investing, finance, and rational decision-making:https://moneyballmethod.substack.com/This episode explores how Objectivist principles—reason, self-interest, and long-range thinking—can be applied directly to the way we handle money, build wealth, and secure financial independence.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuHashtags:#Investing #Objectivism #RationalEgoism #WealthBuilding #MiddleClass #MoneyballMethod #AynRand #FinancialIndependence

Discussing Million Dollar Baby with Professor Andrew BernsteinIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by philosopher and author Professor Andrew Bernstein for a deep dive into Clint Eastwood’s acclaimed film Million Dollar Baby. Together they unpack the philosophical themes embedded in the story—from the value of ambition and the human will to the moral and cultural implications of the film’s controversial ending.Professor Bernstein brings his Objectivist perspective to the discussion, exploring how the movie confronts issues of life, death, choice, and the role of reason in navigating tragedy. Whether you’re a fan of the film or interested in the ethical debates it raises, this conversation offers a thoughtful lens through which to view one of Hollywood’s most talked-about dramas.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose—Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#MillionDollarBaby #AndrewBernstein #TheRationalEgoist #Philosophy #Objectivism #AynRand #FilmAnalysis #Ethics