Gun: Violence, Rights, and Reform with Mary Bernstein, PhD

Are we inadvertently setting up a generation for failure through overprotection and poor critical thinking? "The Coddling of the American Mind" by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt dives into this pressing question, uncovering the paradox of good intentions breeding bad ideas. Unwrap the layers of safetyism in academia with us, and explore the unprecedented anxiety and depression rates plaguing Gen Z. Offering an unflinching look at the seismic shift in childhood development and education, where pivotal life experiences are delayed, and unsupervised play is becoming a relic of the past.

Dare to confront the outrage culture head-on as we revisit the UC Berkeley incident with Milo Yiannopoulos, revealing a culture of extreme reactions to controversial speakers. We also delve into the fascinating findings from neuroscientist David Eagleman on empathy and in-group bias, challenging the very fabric of our social interactions. This episode isn't just an analysis; it's a call to action for parents, educators, and anyone invested in the resilience of future generations. Join us for a rigorous examination of the ideas that have infiltrated our campuses and are quietly reshaping society.


Recorded: 3/9/24
Outro: Powerful Beat-Oleksandr Stepanov

Are men's issues truly being heard? Join me as I welcome George The Tinmen to dissect how society confronts—and often ignores—the pressing concerns facing men and boys today. We tackle the thorny issue of 'toxic masculinity,' debating its overuse and the potential damage it inflicts on productive discourse. George and I untangle the complexities of advocating for men's wellbeing, arguing for a balanced approach that doesn't eclipse women's struggles but instead seeks to unify the fight for gender equality.

In this heartfelt conversation, we shine a light on the disparities in education and family courts, as well as the sobering topic of male suicide. By critically examining communication styles, we uncover the unique challenges men face in therapy and academia. We don't just stop at identifying the problems; we analyze the systemic causes and propose actionable solutions, like creating therapeutic spaces tailored for men and addressing the gender gap in teaching. This episode is a candid exploration into how societal biases and structural obstacles shape the male experience.

As we wrap up, George and I dive into the often controversial topics of gaming and porn, discussing their complex roles in young men's lives. We confront the broader issues of men's withdrawal from the workforce and the societal need for vision and guidance. The discussion culminates with a passionate rallying cry for a renewed advocacy that boldly confronts the resistance and gatekeeping stifling these vital conversations. Join us for a frank and enlightening journey into the world of men's advocacy—this is an episode that promises to challenge perceptions and inspire action.

0:00 Men's Advocacy in Left-Leaning Perspective

13:56 Toxic Masculinity and Double Standards

20:31 Family Courts and Male Suicide Issues

32:24 The Gender Gap in Education

41:05 Critique of Richard Reeves's Communication Style

46:17 Navigating Views on Gaming and Porn

49:54 Challenges and Solutions for Men

59:07 Exploring Men's Issues and Advocacy

Music: Coma-Media (intro)
                 WinkingFoxMusic (outro)
Recorded: 12/21/23

Embark on a thought-provoking journey through the realm of political leadership with Larry Roberts of the Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership at UVA. Our discussion cuts through the heart of today's partisan divisions, shedding light on the institute's mission to shape leaders who embody trust, respect, and the art of civil dialogue. As we navigate the complex challenges that Virginia's unique political landscape presents, Larry offers invaluable perspectives on fostering consensus and tailoring solutions to meet the distinct needs of diverse communities. His insights remind us that effective governance is not about one-size-fits-all answers but rather about understanding and addressing the nuanced demands of local regions.

In a political era defined by narrow election margins and policy extremes, our talk with Larry Roberts reveals the public's craving for leaders who transcend party lines in pursuit of real-world solutions. Hear how the Sorensen program champions this call by molding a new vanguard of ethical, cooperative policymakers. With anecdotes of Sorensen alumni influencing Virginia's political tapestry, this episode illustrates the profound impact that a foundation built on shared values can have in creating a more harmonious and effective political climate. The conversation also emphasizes the personal commitment to bipartisanship as a catalyst for meaningful discourse and policymaking that truly serves the electorate.

This episode takes us to the convergence of ethics, history, and free speech in the public sphere. Tackling the contentious debates over critical race theory and the ethics of controversial campus speakers, we explore the significance of including a spectrum of historical perspectives in educational settings. By examining partnerships like that between Colonial Williamsburg and a historic African American church, our conversation with Larry underscores the need for a more inclusive American narrative. Wrapping up, we contemplate how one-on-one dialogues, rather than heated public debates, can lead to deeper understanding and respect for the myriad of viewpoints that make up our political landscape. Join us as we uncover the value of fostering these exchanges, even in the face of issues that resist straightforward compromise.

0:00 Navigating Political Division and Leadership

10:36 Building Political Cohesion and Constructive Conversations

19:52 Ethics and Moderation in Politics

27:46 Ethics and Perspectives in Public Life

42:35 Finding Common Ground in Political Conversations

Music: Coma-Media (intro)
                 WinkingFoxMusic (outro)
Recorded: 12/21/23

This episode with Professor Finkelstein cuts through the dense fog surrounding "poisonous speech." We dissect the subtle boundaries of expression within the hallowed grounds of academia. Debating the responsibilities that come with safeguarding both speech and civility, we grapple with the selective enforcement of these ideals, akin to the challenges faced in applying Title IX. This nuanced conversation doesn't just spotlight the problems; it probes the selective application of protections, all while questioning how these measures shape our university communities.

Music: Coma-Media (intro)
                 WinkingFoxMusic (outro)
Recorded: 1/16/23

Join the enlightening conversation with John Cooper, the firebrand host of "The Left Wing," as we navigate the turbulent waters of U.S. immigration policy. Together, we dissect the historical precedents and economic forces that shape today's immigration debates. From the economic repercussions of open borders to the philosophical quandaries of birthright and cultural assimilation, our discussion with Cooper is a no-holds-barred examination of one of the most contentious issues facing modern America.

This episode peels back the layers of cultural exposure, challenging preconceived notions and fostering a dialogue that could reshape how you view the melting pot that is the United States.

Wrapping up with a look at current policies and their real-world implications, we critically assess the rallying cries for stricter controls and the realities of labor demand. With a nod to the potential of respectful, constructive conversations, we aim to inspire our listeners to engage in debates that are as informed as they are impassioned. So tune in, as we and our guest Jon Cooper strive to ignite a conversation that doesn't just scratch the surface, but seeks to uncover innovative solutions for our nation's immigration challenges.


Music: Coma-Media (intro)
                 WinkingFoxMusic (outro)
Recorded: 12/22/23

Think you've got a firm grasp on free speech and what it entails? Prepare to have your perspectives challenged as we sit down with esteemed journalist Glenn Greenwald. Together, we prod the murky depths of the hate speech debate, dismantling the often-used justification for speech restriction. Glenn illuminates the startling subjectivity of defining 'hate speech' and unpacks the power dynamics at play in the act of censoring speech. Delving into current global conflicts, we connect these abstract debates to very real circumstances.

We cast a critical eye on the hypocrisy of free speech advocates, considering the implications of recent controversies on college campuses. Highlighting the inconsistencies of prominent voices on both the left and right, Glenn offers insights that might leave you feeling 'politically homeless'. But fear not, we also spotlight those who've remained steadfast in their support for free speech, such as the organization FIRE. We traverse the battlefield of controversial opinions, censorship in media, and the danger of equating political criticism with hate speech, referencing the landmark Supreme Court case of Brandenburg v. Ohio.

Join us as we take a deep dive into the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict and its reflections on American censorship. We scrutinize the American right's exceptions to their free speech advocacy concerning Israel and discuss the recent censorship of pro-Palestinian voices. Greenwald’s extensive knowledge and firsthand accounts breathe life into the ongoing debates, giving listeners a fresh look at the multifaceted world of free speech. The implications of these discussions reach far beyond our borders, as we reflect on the contrasts between US constitutional protections for free speech and the realities in other countries. Listen in and prepare to have your understanding of free speech both questioned and enriched.

0:00 Debunking Hate Speech 

12:37 The Hypocrisy of Free Speech Advocates

22:24 Free Speech, Censorship, and Controversial Opinions

30:19 Israel Exception and Censorship in America

35:15 Political Criticism and Censorship Complexity

41:53 Free Speech and Censorship in Media

Music: Coma-Media (intro)
                 WinkingFoxMusic (outro)
Recorded: 12/15/23

Get ready to embark on an engaging exploration of the complex issue of free speech, particularly within the context of university campuses. This thought-provoking discussion is sparked by recent developments at the University of Pennsylvania, where faculty member Claire Finkelstein has proposed that speech be restricted on campus to combat antisemitism following the resignation of President Liz Magill. We unravel the intricacies of the First Amendment, calling into question its interpretation and the ambiguity of its protections. Ultimately, we argue for universities to foster a culture of free speech and intellectual debate, rather than attempting to control discourse to suit a particular narrative.

In the second part of the discussion, we delve into the exceptions to the rule - situations where free speech and the First Amendment do not apply, and the types of speech that are unprotected. The conversation takes a turn into the real-life backlash faced by those who expressed opposition to the Black Lives Matter movement, revealing an interesting paradox, as those very individuals are now advocating for restricting speech on campus. We passionately advocate for the importance of maintaining a principled stand for free speech, regardless of personal views or emotions. So, if you hold any opinion that may be perceived as controversial, would you want your ability to express it to be restricted? Tune in and let the debate begin!

We've got quite the treat today, friends. Brad Polumbo, the sharp-witted libertarian conservative journalist and Host of Based Politics and Damage Control podcasts, joins us for a no-holds-barred discussion on free speech. We're peeling back the layers of irony as we tackle the hypocrisy that is often found among free speech warriors. We cast a critical eye on political factions that readily discard principles and values at the altar of immediate gain. The Israel-Palestine conflict serves as a backdrop to this discourse, particularly highlighting the recent clampdown on pro-Palestinian speech. But, this isn't about taking sides—it's about fostering an open battle of ideas over censorship.

As we wade deeper into the episode, we explore the increasingly evident erosion of democratic principles, a casualty of rampant short-term thinking. The enticing lure of instant gratification often leads to crucial democratic institutions being compromised, with long-lasting implications. You'll hear us talk about the Supreme Court packing debate, and the distressing indifference of younger generations towards privacy, exemplifying this perilous tendency. Finally, Brad, with his unique insights, wraps up the episode, advocating for a more nuanced political dialogue. He invites you to join him on his podcasts for richer discussions around these pressing issues. This episode is a wake-up call to reconsider our priorities and actions.

0:00 The Hypocrisy of Free Speech Warriors

15:05 Erosion of Democratic Principles

30:07 Closing Thoughts

Music: Coma-Media (intro)
                 WinkingFoxMusic (outro)
Recorded: 11/24/23

Prepare to step into the controversial world of Osama Bin Laden's 'Letter to America,' a document that is trending among a certain clique on social media platforms, including TikTok and Twitter. Are we silently fostering a culture of self-loathing, self-shaming, and inner hatred? Drawing from Douglas Murray's book 'War on the West,' we aim to unravel this phenomenon that is becoming increasingly popular, especially among the youth. 

Uncovering the war in Gaza as we are joined by national security expert, Javed Ali. With more than two decades of experience in national security and intelligence issues, he navigates us through the complex geopolitical landscape, shedding light on the US's steadfast support for Israel, the sizeable aid package in play, and the pressing need for Israel to curtail civilian casualties. We probe deeply into the stances of other key players in the fray, such as Hezbollah and Erdogan, and ponder over the question: is the US unwittingly spiraling into a larger quagmire by failing to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza?

We tread further down the rabbit hole, exploring the potential aftershocks of a multi-front war between Israel and its adversaries. Javed Ali, with his vast trove of experiences, helps us understand the current turbulence in the West Bank, the strain on Israel's resources due to a two or three-front war, and the probability of escalated US involvement. The conversation harks back to the US' role in Lebanon four decades back, speculating on the possible involvement of US special operations forces in the Gaza hostage recovery and the ensuing implications.

We shift gears towards the possible recoil in Israeli public opinion should the IDF suffer significant casualties. Ali and I draw parallels between the Israeli ground offensive against Hamas and other conflicts while contemplating the Geneva Convention's mandates for minimizing civilian casualties. As we reach the tail end of our discussion, the necessity for an overhaul of Israeli intelligence is considered, along with the geopolitical repercussions of sustained combat. This is an exploration you won't want to miss.

0:00 US Approach to Gaza Conflict

11:44 Israel Conflict and US Involvement

25:02 US Involvement in Israel Conflict

34:56 Israel's Casualties, Public Opinion, Tactics

47:15 Geopolitical Implications and Intelligence Reforms

Music: Coma-Media (intro)
                 WinkingFoxMusic (outro)
Recorded: 11/3/23