
The Rational Egoist
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
Latest episodes

Dec 18, 2024 • 28min
The Reality of X, and Its Ramifications, with David Polansky
The Reality of X, and Its Ramifications, with David Polansky
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by David Polansky, political theorist and senior fellow at The Institute for Peace and Diplomacy, to explore the reality of X (Twitter) and its broader social and political implications. Polansky delves into the platform’s role in shaping public discourse, its influence on diplomacy and governance, and the challenges it poses to free expression. This thoughtful conversation examines the impact of modern communication platforms on society and what the future holds for public dialogue in the digital age.
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/

Dec 15, 2024 • 35min
Emotional Intelligence, with Dr. Sandra Wartski
Emotional Intelligence, with Dr. Sandra Wartski
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Dr. Sandra Wartski, a licensed psychologist with over three decades of experience at Silber Psychological Services. Dr. Wartski discusses the concept of emotional intelligence, its role in personal and professional success, and how it impacts relationships and decision-making. Drawing from her extensive work in therapy and evaluations, she shares practical strategies for improving emotional awareness, communication, and resilience. This episode provides valuable insights into understanding and managing emotions for a more fulfilling life.
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/

Dec 13, 2024 • 38min
The Cost of Mass Deportations, with David Bier
The Cost of Mass Deportations, with David Bier
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz speaks with David Bier, research fellow for immigration studies at the Cato Institute, about the economic, social, and moral costs of mass deportations. Bier, an expert on border security, interior enforcement, and legal immigration, examines the logistical challenges and unintended consequences of such policies. He provides a data-driven perspective on how mass deportations affect individuals, communities, and the broader economy. This insightful discussion offers a nuanced view of one of the most contentious topics in immigration policy.
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/

Dec 12, 2024 • 49min
Reviewing Jeremiah Johnson with Professor Andrew Bernstein
Reviewing Jeremiah Johnson with Professor Andrew Bernstein
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Professor Andrew Bernstein, a renowned Objectivist philosopher, professor, and prolific author.
Together, they delve into the 1972 classic film Jeremiah Johnson, exploring its themes, characters, and philosophical underpinnings through the lens of Objectivism. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends cinematic analysis with profound philosophical insights.
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/

Dec 9, 2024 • 46min
Skeptical of Doge, with Professor Michael Munger
Skeptical of Doge, with Professor Michael Munger
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Professor Michael Munger, political science professor and director of the PPE Certificate Program at Duke University, to discuss the cultural phenomenon of Dogecoin and other speculative trends. Drawing from his insights on markets, decision-making, and his article Elon Musk, Tigers, and the Nature of Bureaucracy, Munger critiques the hype surrounding Dogecoin and its implications for economic behaviour, market rationality, and societal values. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of the intersection of cryptocurrency, human psychology, and rational investment.
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/

Dec 5, 2024 • 41min
The American Capitalist Party with Mark Pellegrino
The American Capitalist Party with Mark Pellegrino
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz talks with Mark Pellegrino, actor, Objectivist, and co-founder of The American Capitalist Party.
Pellegrino shares the vision and mission of the party, explaining its commitment to individual rights, free markets, and limited government. The conversation delves into how the party aims to influence American politics, the challenges it faces, and why a new political movement rooted in the principles of capitalism is essential. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about the fight for freedom and a rational approach to governance.
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/

Dec 2, 2024 • 54min
What is Objectivism? Who are Objectivists? With James Stevens Valliant
What is Objectivism? Who are Objectivists? With James Stevens Valliant
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by James Stevens Valliant to explore the foundational philosophy of Objectivism. Together, they discuss its core principles, such as reason, individualism, and rational self-interest, and what it means to live as an Objectivist. Valliant, an expert on Ayn Rand's ideas, provides insight into the movement's intellectual roots and its relevance in today’s cultural and political climate. Whether you’re new to Objectivism or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers a clear and engaging introduction to the philosophy and its advocates.
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/

Nov 28, 2024 • 1h 11min
Debating the Nature of Rights with Stephan Kinsella
Debating the Nature of Rights with Stephan Kinsella
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz engages in a stimulating debate with libertarian writer and patent attorney Stephan Kinsella on the nature of rights.
Drawing from his book Legal Foundations of a Free Society and his extensive work on legal and political theory, Kinsella offers his perspective on the origins, scope, and application of individual rights.
Together, they examine differing philosophical interpretations and discuss how rights function in a free society.
This thought-provoking conversation invites listeners to question and refine their understanding of one of the most fundamental concepts in political philosophy.
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/

Nov 25, 2024 • 30min
Why Corporate Taxes Should Be Abolished, with Jeffrey Miron
Why Corporate Taxes Should Be Abolished, with Jeffrey Miron
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz is joined by Jeffrey Miron, vice president for research at the Cato Institute and director of graduate and undergraduate studies in the Department of Economics at Harvard University, to make the case for abolishing corporate taxes. Miron explains how corporate taxes distort economic incentives, hinder growth, and ultimately harm consumers and workers. Drawing on his extensive research, he outlines the economic and moral arguments for a tax policy that promotes free enterprise and individual prosperity. Tune in for a compelling discussion on the intersection of economics, policy, and liberty.
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/

Nov 21, 2024 • 43min
Discussing Progressive Myths with Professor Michael Huemer
Discussing Progressive Myths with Professor Michael Huemer
In this episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz welcomes Professor Michael Huemer, a renowned philosopher from the University of Colorado and the author of Progressive Myths. Together, they unpack some of the most pervasive myths propagated by progressive ideologies, examining their philosophical underpinnings, logical inconsistencies, and practical implications. Huemer, with his sharp analytical style, challenges listeners to question widely held assumptions and consider alternative perspectives rooted in reason and evidence. This thought-provoking discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of philosophy and contemporary politics.
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/
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.