

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

Aug 5, 2024 • 48min
The Rational Egoist: The Hard Problem of Consciousness and an Integrated Theory of Psychology with Gregg Henriques
The Rational Egoist: The Hard Problem of Consciousness and an Integrated Theory of Psychology with Gregg Henriques
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Gregg Henriques, a psychologist and professor for the Combined-Integrated Doctoral Program at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA.
Henriques delves into the "hard problem" of consciousness, exploring the complexities of understanding subjective experience. He also discusses his vision for moving toward an integrated theory of psychology, aiming to bridge gaps between various psychological disciplines.
This episode promises to offer profound insights into the nature of consciousness and the future of psychological science. Tune in for an intellectually stimulating conversation that tackles some of the most challenging questions in psychology.
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/

Jul 29, 2024 • 56min
The Rational Egoist: Trump, the Assassination Attempt, and the Power of Images with Crispin Sartwell
The Rational Egoist: Trump, the Assassination Attempt, and the Power of Images with Crispin Sartwell
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Crispin Sartwell, former philosophy professor at Dickinson College and author of "Beauty: A Quick Immersion." Sartwell delves into the multifaceted topics of Donald Trump, the assassination attempt, and the profound influence of images in politics and society. Join them as they explore how visual media shapes public perception and political narratives, and the implications of these dynamics in contemporary discourse. This episode offers a deep dive into the intersection of philosophy, politics, and visual culture, providing listeners with insightful analysis and thought-provoking perspectives. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that challenges conventional views and highlights the power of imagery in our world.
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/

Jul 26, 2024 • 56min
The Rational Egoist: Talking Politics with James Stevens Valliant
The Rational Egoist: Talking Politics with James Stevens Valliant
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined once again by James Stevens Valliant for an engaging discussion on politics. Valliant, known for his sharp and insightful commentary, delves into current political events, underlying philosophical principles, and their broader implications. E
xplore the complexities of today's political landscape through a rational and objective lens as Valliant and Liebowitz tackle key issues and debates. This episode promises to offer thought-provoking perspectives and in-depth analysis for anyone interested in understanding the political dynamics shaping our world. Tune in for a compelling conversation that cuts through the rhetoric and gets to the heart of political discourse.
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/

Jul 23, 2024 • 59min
The Rational Egoist: Yvonne Castaneda Interviews Michael Liebowitz
The Rational Egoist: Yvonne Castaneda Interviews Michael Liebowitz
In this special episode of The Rational Egoist, the roles are reversed as host Michael Liebowitz is interviewed by Yvonne Castaneda, a clinical social worker and part-time faculty member at the Boston College School of Social Work. Castaneda, also the author of "Pork Belly Tacos with a Side of Anxiety: My Journey Through Depression, Bulimia, and Addiction," delves into Michael's personal journey, his philosophies, and the inspirations behind The Rational Egoist.
Discover the man behind the microphone as Michael shares his insights on objectivism, his experiences, and his vision for the podcast. Tune in for a candid and revealing conversation that offers listeners a deeper understanding of the show's host and the principles that drive his work.
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/

Jul 20, 2024 • 46min
The Rational Egoist: Expediting Naturalization for Immigrants in the U.S. Military with Margaret Stock
The Rational Egoist: Expediting Naturalization for Immigrants in the U.S. Military with Margaret Stock
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Margaret Stock, a nationally known expert on immigration and national security laws.
Stock discusses the U.S. military's policy of expediting the naturalization of immigrants who serve, shedding light on the legal, ethical, and practical aspects of this policy. Learn about the benefits and challenges faced by immigrant service members, and how their contributions impact both the military and broader society.
This episode provides a comprehensive look at the intersection of immigration and national security, offering valuable insights for anyone interested in the policies that shape the lives of those who serve.
Tune in for an informative and thought-provoking conversation on a crucial topic.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/

Jul 15, 2024 • 56min
The Rational Egoist: Examining Socialism with Professor Jonathan Zatlin
The Rational Egoist: Examining Socialism with Professor Jonathan Zatlin
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Professor Jonathan Zatlin, Associate Professor in the History Department at Boston University and author of "The Currency of Socialism: Money and Political Culture in East Germany." Together, they dive into a thorough examination of socialism, its historical impact, and its relevance in contemporary political discourse.
Zatlin brings his expertise to the conversation, exploring the economic, cultural, and political dimensions of socialism, particularly through the lens of East German history. This episode promises to provide a nuanced and insightful analysis for anyone interested in understanding the complexities and implications of socialist ideologies.
Tune in for an engaging discussion that challenges prevailing narratives and offers a deeper perspective on socialism.
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/

Jul 12, 2024 • 48min
The Rational Egoist: Understanding and Overcoming Indecisiveness with Yvonne Castaneda
The Rational Egoist: Understanding and Overcoming Indecisiveness with Yvonne Castaneda
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Yvonne Castaneda, a clinical social worker and part-time faculty member at the Boston College School of Social Work. Castaneda, also the author of "Pork Belly Tacos with a Side of Anxiety: My Journey Through Depression, Bulimia, and Addiction," shares her expertise on indecisiveness.
Together, they explore the root causes of indecisiveness, its impact on daily life, and practical strategies to overcome it. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone struggling with making decisions and seeking to build confidence in their choices.
Tune in for a candid and empowering conversation that delves into the psychological aspects of decisiveness and personal growth.
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/

Jul 9, 2024 • 50min
The Rational Egoist: Subconscious Influence on Our Morals with James Stevens Valliant
The Rational Egoist: Subconscious Influences on Our Morals with James Stevens Valliant
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes back James Stevens Valliant for a compelling discussion on the subconscious influences that shape our morals. Valliant, known for his incisive analysis of philosophical and historical subjects, delves into how various cultural and societal factors subtly influence our ethical frameworks, often without our conscious awareness. Explore the deep-seated implications of these influences on contemporary moral standards.
This episode offers a thought-provoking examination of the hidden forces that guide our moral compass, providing listeners with profound insights into the complexities of ethical development. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that challenges conventional notions of morality and belief.
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/

Jul 7, 2024 • 41min
The Rational Egoist: Why Relationships Fail with Antonieta Contreras
The Rational Egoist: Why Relationships Fail with Antonieta Contreras
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Antonieta Contreras, a trauma psychotherapist with specializations in Trauma Studies from the Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapies and Human Sexuality from NYU School of Medicine.
Join them as they explore the complex factors that contribute to the failure of relationships. Contreras brings her expertise to the table, discussing the impact of trauma, communication breakdowns, and other psychological dynamics that can undermine partnerships.
This episode provides valuable insights for anyone seeking to understand the deeper issues that can challenge relationships and how to address them.
Tune in for a candid and informative conversation that delves into the heart of human connections.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/

Jul 2, 2024 • 49min
The Rational Egoist: Constitutional Interpretation and the Presumption of Liberty with Professor Randy Barnett
The Rational Egoist: Constitutional Interpretation and the Presumption of Liberty with Professor Randy Barnett
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Professor Randy Barnett, the Patrick Hotung Professor of Constitutional Law at Georgetown University Law Center and Faculty Director of the Georgetown Center for the Constitution.
Together, they delve into the intricacies of constitutional interpretation and construction, exploring how these principles uphold the presumption of liberty.
Barnett also shares insights from his new memoir, offering a personal perspective on his influential career and the evolution of his thoughts on constitutional law.
This episode promises to provide a deep and engaging look into the foundations of American legal principles and their relevance today. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that bridges academic theory and practical application in the realm of constitutional law.
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/