

The Rational Egoist
The Rational Egoist with Michael Liebowitz
The Rational Egoist podcast aims to explore the philosophy of rational egoism and how it can be applied in our daily lives. Hosted by Michael Liebowitz and produced by Xenia Ioannou with experts in the field of philosophy, psychology, and economics, the podcast will provide listeners with a wealth of knowledge and insight into the benefits of rational egoism.
Copyright of all audio, printed material and colour schemes including logos, owned exclusively by Michael Liebowitz and Xenia Ioannou and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission
Copyright of all audio, printed material and colour schemes including logos, owned exclusively by Michael Liebowitz and Xenia Ioannou and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 3, 2024 • 57min
The Rational Egoist: Exploring Individual Rights with Jim Valliant
The Rational Egoist: Exploring Individual Rights with Jim Valliant
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes back Jim Valliant for an in-depth discussion on the concept of individual rights. Valliant, known for his sharp philosophical insights, breaks down the nature, origin, and importance of individual rights in a free society.
Together, they explore how these rights form the foundation of liberty, justice, and human flourishing. This conversation dives into the historical, moral, and legal aspects of rights, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of what it means to truly respect and uphold individual autonomy. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode that reaffirms the essential role of individual rights in shaping a prosperous and just society.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.
Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.
Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/

Aug 29, 2024 • 41min
The Rational Egoist: Concluding the Intellectual Property Debate with Stephan Kinsella (Part 2 of 2)
The Rational Egoist: Concluding the Intellectual Property Debate with Stephan Kinsella (Part 2 of 2)
In this final episode of a two-part series, host Michael Liebowitz concludes his engaging debate with Stephan Kinsella, a libertarian patent attorney and author, on the moral and legal status of intellectual property. Building on the groundwork laid in the previous discussion, Michael and Kinsella delve further into the core arguments surrounding IP rights, examining their effects on creativity, innovation, and property law.
The episode offers compelling insights into both sides of the debate, providing a thorough exploration of one of the most contested issues in legal and economic theory. Tune in for the conclusion of this thought-provoking exchange that challenges established viewpoints and offers fresh perspectives on intellectual property.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.
Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms.
He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“
View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/

Aug 29, 2024 • 44min
The Rational Egoist: Resuming the Intellectual Property Debate with Stephan Kinsella (Part 1 of 2)
The Rational Egoist: Resuming the Intellectual Property Debate with Stephan Kinsella (Part 1 of 2)
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz resumes his debate with Stephan Kinsella, a libertarian patent attorney and author, on the contentious issue of intellectual property. Picking up from their conversation a couple of weeks ago, Michael and Kinsella dive even deeper into the philosophical and legal arguments concerning IP rights.
This is part one of a two-part series that explores the impact of intellectual property on innovation, individual rights, and economic systems. Join them for a rigorous exchange of ideas that challenges conventional thinking and sets the stage for the next episode's continuation.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.
Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”:
https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/

Aug 25, 2024 • 54min
The Rational Egoist: Understanding Cognitive Biases with Dr. Jessica Koehler
The Rational Egoist: Understanding Cognitive Biases with Dr. Jessica KoehlerIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Dr. Jessica Koehler, an Associate Faculty member in the University of Arizona Global Campus Psychology Department, to discuss cognitive biases.
Dr. Koehler delves into the various types of cognitive biases that influence our thinking and decision-making, explaining how these mental shortcuts can lead to errors in judgment. Through a thoughtful exploration of these biases, she offers strategies for recognizing and mitigating their effects in everyday life.
This episode provides valuable insights into the workings of the human mind and the challenges of maintaining objectivity. Tune in for a fascinating conversation that sheds light on the subtle yet powerful ways our minds can deceive us.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism.
His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.
Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.
Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“
View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/

Aug 22, 2024 • 28min
The Rational Egoist: Integrating Philosophy into Music with Lucas Cuadra
The Rational Egoist: Integrating Philosophy into Music with Lucas Cuadra
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Lucas Cuadra, a musician and student of Objectivism, to explore how he integrates philosophical concepts into his music. Cuadra shares his creative process, discussing how the principles of Objectivism and other philosophical ideas influence his compositions and artistic expression. Discover how philosophy can enrich the art of music, providing deeper meaning and intentionality to each piece. This episode offers a unique perspective on the intersection of art and philosophy, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in how ideas shape creative work. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that bridges the worlds of music and thought.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles. Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms.
He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.
Explore his work and journey further through his books:
“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit...
“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-r...

Aug 20, 2024 • 30min
The Rational Egoist: Cultivating Civil Engagement with Martha Anderson
The Rational Egoist: Cultivating Civil Engagement with Martha Anderson
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Martha Anderson, Associate Director of Programs & Operations for the Program on Pluralism and Civil Exchange at the Mercatus Center.
Anderson discusses the crucial role of civil engagement in a healthy society and how her organization fosters it through innovative workshops called Pluralist Labs. These labs are designed to bring diverse voices together, encouraging constructive dialogue and collaboration across ideological divides.
Anderson shares insights into the importance of pluralism, the challenges of fostering civil discourse, and the impact of these workshops on participants. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that highlights the value of active participation in civic life and the tools to make it more effective.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.
Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.
Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/

Aug 16, 2024 • 1h 1min
The Rational Egoist: Debating the Moral Status of Intellectual Property with Stephan Kinsella
The Rational Egoist: Debating the Moral Status of Intellectual Property with Stephan Kinsella
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz engages in a thought-provoking discussion and debate with Stephan Kinsella, a libertarian writer and patent attorney, on the moral status of intellectual property. The complexity of the issue sparks a deep dive into the ethical and legal dimensions of IP rights, leading to a conversation so rich that it had to be continued in a future episode.
Kinsella, known for his critical views on intellectual property, challenges conventional notions, while Michael offers his own perspective. This episode promises to be a captivating exploration of one of the most debated topics in the intersection of law, philosophy, and economics. Tune in for a rigorous and intellectually stimulating debate that leaves no stone unturned.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.
Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms. He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.
Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“
View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/

Aug 14, 2024 • 32min
The Rational Egoist: Life After Prison with Carlos Rebollo
The Rational Egoist: Life After Prison with Carlos Rebollo
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Carlos Rebollo, an entrepreneur who owns his own hair braiding business after serving 24 years in prison.
Carlos shares his journey of reintegration into society and the unique challenges he has faced since his release just 22 months ago. From rebuilding his life to navigating the obstacles of post-incarceration, Carlos offers a candid and inspiring look at the realities of life after a long prison sentence.
This episode provides valuable insights into resilience, entrepreneurship, and the complex process of adjusting to freedom after decades behind bars. Tune in for a powerful conversation about redemption, personal growth, and the determination to succeed against the odds.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.
Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms.
He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.
Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/

Aug 11, 2024 • 31min
The Rational Egoist: Debunking the Kamala Harris Myth with Elizabeth Nolan Brown
The Rational Egoist: Debunking the Kamala Harris Myth with Elizabeth Nolan Brown
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Elizabeth Nolan Brown, Senior Editor at Reason, author of Reason's bi-weekly newsletter Sex & Tech, and cofounder of Feminists for Liberty. Brown offers a critical examination of Kamala Harris, challenging the narrative that positions her as a political savior.
Drawing on her expertise in politics, media, and liberty, Brown unpacks the complexities of Harris's career and policies, providing a nuanced perspective that cuts through the mainstream portrayal.
This episode promises to offer a thought-provoking analysis for those seeking a deeper understanding of political leadership and media narratives. Tune in for a compelling conversation that questions popular assumptions and encourages independent thought.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism.
His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles. Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms.
He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.
Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”:
https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/

Aug 7, 2024 • 56min
The Rational Egoist: The Journey of an Entrepreneur with Jason Scalora
The Rational Egoist: The Journey of an Entrepreneur with Jason Scalora
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Jason Scalora, a young entrepreneur who shares the experiences and choices that have shaped his entrepreneurial journey.
Scalora candidly discusses the challenges he has faced, the lessons he has learned, and the ongoing process of growth and discovery in the business world. This episode offers valuable insights into the mindset and strategies of a budding entrepreneur, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and personal development. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the realities of building a business and the continuous pursuit of knowledge and improvement.
Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism.
His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to a prominent voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities highlights the transformative impact of embracing these principles.
Leibowitz actively participates in political debates and produces content aimed at promoting individual rights and freedoms.
He is the co-author of “Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Correction Encourages Crime” and “View from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Liberty,” which explore societal issues and his personal evolution through Rand’s teachings.
Explore his work and journey further through his books:“Down the Rabbit Hole”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064X“View from a Cage”: https://books2read.com/u/4jN6xj
join our Ayn Rand Adelaide Meetups here for some seriously social discussions on Freedom https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/