Best Intercollegiate Studies Institute Podcasts (2025)

1
John C. Calhoun’s Political Roots | Kevin Gutzman Pt. II 1:11:35

1h ago1:11:35

1:11:35

In our conversation with historian and constitutional scholar Kevin Gutzman, host Tom Sarrouf dives deep into the formative years of John C. Calhoun—one of the most complex and controversial figures in American political history. Gutzman unpacks how Calhoun’s early experiences shaped his views on states’ rights, federalism, and republican governanc…

1
From Atheism to Faith: Jason Hill’s Spiritual Journey 47:55

2d ago47:55

47:55

In this compelling episode of Conservative Conversations, ISI sits down with philosopher and author Jason D. Hill to explore the powerful themes behind his latest book, Letters to God From a Former Atheist. Hill shares his personal journey from staunch atheism to a profound rediscovery of God, diving into questions of morality, meaning, suffering, …

1
A Vision for a Healthier America 50:13

9d ago50:13

50:13

In this insightful discussion, Marlo Slayback, Tom Sarrouf, and Jeff Bilbro delve into the life and work of Wendell Berry, exploring how his writings and philosophy laid the groundwork for the “Make America Healthy Again” movement. They examine Berry’s focus on sustainable agriculture, community-centered living, and the importance of localism in a …

1
The Medieval Mind: Insights with Rachel Fulton Brown 58:08

16d ago58:08

58:08

In this engaging conversation, Tom Sarrouf sits down with Rachel Fulton Brown, professor of Medieval History at the University of Chicago, to explore the rich intellectual world of the Middle Ages and the medieval mind. They dive into how medieval thinkers understood faith, reason, and the cosmos, shedding light on the cultural and spiritual founda…

1
What Does It Mean to Order Our Loves Rightly? 47:40

23d ago47:40

47:40

What does it mean to order our loves rightly? In this insightful conversation, Tom Sarrouf is joined by Dr. Chad Pecknold, a theologian and professor at The Catholic University of America, to explore ordo amoris—the proper ordering of love—and its profound relevance for the Catholic Church today. They dive into the roots of this concept, tracing it…

1
Secularism, Religion, and Violence: Rethinking the Narrative with Tal Howard 36:49

1M ago36:49

36:49

Is religion inherently violent, and is secularism truly a force for peace? In this episode of Conservative Conversations, Tom Sarrouf sits down with historian and author Thomas Albert Howard to discuss the themes of his latest book, Broken Altars: Secularist Violence in Modern History. Together, they examine the complexities of religious and secula…

1
Why Conservatives Should Care About Art with Brian Brown 45:09

1M ago45:09

45:09

In this insightful episode of Conservative Conversations, Tom Sarrouf sits down with Brian Brown, founder of the Anselm Society, to discuss the crucial role of art in shaping culture and society. They explore why conservatives should care about art and how it can be a powerful tool for preserving and promoting traditional values. Brown and Sarrouf …

1
The Gilded Age & Westward Expansion with Miles Smith 57:11

1M ago57:11

57:11

In this engaging episode of Conservative Conversations, Tom Sarrouf sits down with historian and scholar Miles Smith to explore the transformative era of the Gilded Age and Westward Expansion. They discuss the economic growth that characterized the late 19th century, the development of new industries, and the rise of America as an economic power. S…

1
Liberalism, Post-Liberalism, and Self-Governance with Michael Hanby 1:57:18

2M ago1:57:18

1:57:18

In this thought-provoking episode of Conservative Conversations, Tom Sarrouf sits down with philosopher and scholar Michael Hanby to explore the evolving landscape of political thought. Together, they delve into the roots of liberalism, unpack the rise of post-liberalism, and examine the profound role of bioethics in shaping government policies. Ha…

1
The Postmodern Predicament: Bobby Angel on Truth, Faith, and Culture 46:11

2M ago46:11

46:11

In this episode, we sit down with Bobby Angel, Catholic author, speaker, and mentor, to discuss his latest book, The Postmodern Predicament. This conversation unpacks the challenges of faith, truth, and identity in a world shaped by postmodernism. Bobby explores how the erosion of objective reality and the rise of radical individualism have led to …

1
Why Literature Still Matters: Jason Baxter on the Power of Great Books 55:41

2M ago55:41

55:41

Why does literature still matter in our modern world? In this episode, ISI’s Conservative Conversations welcomes scholar Jason Baxter to discuss his latest book, Why Literature Still Matters. Baxter explores how great literature shapes our moral imagination, cultivates wisdom, and connects us to timeless truths. From Dante to C.S. Lewis, he reveals…

1
Paul DeHart on Natural Law, Consent, and the Fate of the Social Contract 1:56:40

3M ago1:56:40

1:56:40

Is the social contract broken? In this episode, Paul DeHart joins ISI to discuss his latest book, The Social Contract in the Ruins: Natural Law and Government by Consent. He challenges the idea that consent alone legitimizes government, exploring the role of natural law, classical philosophy, and the American Founding in shaping just governance. Ge…

1
The Legacy of President McKinley with Robert Merry 55:32

3M ago55:32

55:32

What can we learn from President William McKinley’s leadership, and how does his legacy compare to the modern political landscape? In this fascinating conversation, historian and journalist Robert W. Merry joins ISI to discuss his latest book, President McKinley: Architect of the American Century. McKinley, often overshadowed by his more flamboyant…

1
Building a Wholesome Family in a Broken World with Eduard Habsburg 44:13

3M ago44:13

44:13

In a world increasingly marked by isolation, instability, and cultural decay, how can families remain strong, joyful, and rooted in tradition? In this episode, we sit down with Edward Habsburg—Catholic thinker, writer, and Hungary’s ambassador to the Holy See—to discuss his new book, Building a Wholesome Family in a Broken World. Drawing from both …

1
Restoring Balance in Government with Charles Keckler 45:31

3M ago45:31

45:31

In this episode, Charles Keckler joins us to discuss regulatory reform and the growing power of the executive branch. Drawing on his experience in law and public policy, he examines how the administrative state has reshaped the balance of power and what reforms are needed to restore constitutional order. We explore the role of Congress in checking …

1
The Church Against the State with Andrew Willard Jones 1:17:39

3M ago1:17:39

1:17:39

Join host Tom Sarrouf as he sits down with historian and theologian Andrew Willard Jones to discuss his latest book, The Church Against the State: The Birth of Liberty in the Late Middle Ages. In this thought-provoking episode, Jones explores the fascinating historical relationship between the Church and state during the medieval period and how the…

1
The Rise of Satanism in the Public Square and How to Fight It with Frank DeVito 51:50

4M ago51:50

51:50

In this thought-provoking episode, Frank DeVito, counsel at Napa Legal, explores the complexities of defining religion in a pluralistic society and shares his fight against the rise of Satanism and attacks on traditional values. With his unique blend of legal expertise and philosophical insight, Frank unpacks the critical role of faith in preservin…

1
Christian Liberty and Modern Challenges with Brad Littlejohn 1:00:19

4M ago1:00:19

1:00:19

In this episode, host Tom Sarrouf sits down with Brad Littlejohn to discuss his latest book, Called to Freedom: Retrieving Christian Liberty in an Age of License. They explore the concept of Christian liberty, its roots in the Reformation tradition, and its relevance today. Brad addresses misconceptions of freedom as mere autonomy, emphasizing the …

1
Rebuilding America: A Bold Vision for Industrial Policy with Marc Fasteau and Ian Fletcher 1:05:23

4M ago1:05:23

1:05:23

In this special episode of Conservative Conversations with ISI, we sit down with authors Marc Fasteau and Ian Fletcher to discuss their groundbreaking new book, Industrial Policy for the United States: Winning the Competition for Good Jobs and High-Value Industries. Drawing from their wealth of experience in law, economics, and trade policy, Marc a…

1
Rediscovering Christmas with Joseph Bottum 45:07

5M ago45:07

45:07

In this special holiday episode, Joseph Bottum joins Tom Sarrouf to discuss his latest book, Frankincense, Gold, and Myrrh: A Christmas Chrestomathy. This collection of essays, short stories, and reflections on Christmas captures Bottum's unique blend of wit, wisdom, and theological insight. Together, they explore the deeper meanings of Christmas t…

1
Living Like It Matters: A Conversation with Anna Moreland and Tom Smith 46:47

5M ago46:47

46:47

In this thought-provoking episode, host Tom Sarrouf sits down with scholars and educators Dr. Anna Moreland and Dr. Tom Smith to discuss their inspiring new book, The Young Adult Playbook: Living Like It Matters. Aimed at guiding young adults through the challenges of contemporary life, the book combines practical advice with timeless wisdom to hel…

1
How to Live an Impactful Life with Randy Barnett 1:10:38

5M ago1:10:38

1:10:38

Join us for an engaging conversation with renowned legal scholar Randy Barnett and host Tom Sarrouf as they dive into Randy's latest book, A Life for Liberty: The Making of an American Originalist. In this episode, Randy reflects on his personal journey from a young philosophy student to one of America’s foremost originalist thinkers. He shares ins…

1
The West and Ukraine with Brandon Weichert 54:03

5M ago54:03

54:03

In this compelling episode, host Tom Sarrouf welcomes geopolitical analyst and author Brandon Weichert to discuss his latest book, "A Disaster of Our Own Making: How the West Lost Ukraine." Together, they examine the West’s critical missteps in its handling of Ukraine, from missed opportunities to the geopolitical consequences that continue to unfo…

1
Behind the 2008 Financial Crisis with Todd Sheets 1:32:16

6M ago1:32:16

1:32:16

In this episode, podcast host Tom Sarrouf sits down with Todd Sheets, former investment banker and author of "2008: What Really Happened". Together, they dive into Todd’s latest book, unraveling the real story behind the 2008 financial crisis. From the root causes of the meltdown to the ripple effects on the global economy, Todd shares insider insi…

1
Retrieving the Forgotten Legacy of Francisco Garcés with Jeremy Beer 42:20

6M ago42:20

42:20

In this thought-provoking episode, Marlo and Tom sit down with Jeremy Beer, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of AmPhil, to explore the life and legacy of Francisco Garcés—a missionary often overlooked in the grand narrative of history. Together, they delve into what set Garcés apart as a “different kind of missionary,” examining his unique approac…

1
Reviving the American Dream with Tim Goeglein 28:07

6M ago28:07

28:07

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Tim Goeglein, Vice President of External and Government Relations at Focus on the Family and a longtime advocate for faith and family in public life. With his latest book, Stumbling Upward Toward Utopia, Goeglein explores how America can reclaim its founding ideals amid today’s cultural and political uphea…

1
Discussing the Upcoming Election with Charles McElwee 50:01

6M ago50:01

50:01

In this insightful episode with the Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI), Charles McElwee, editor and commentator on Pennsylvania politics, joins the discussion to unpack the intricacies of election dynamics in one of the country’s most unique political landscapes. Charles offers polling insights and examines how Pennsylvania’s historical and cu…

1
Transforming Higher Education | Richard Corcoran 41:11

7M ago41:11

41:11

Join us for an insightful episode featuring Richard Corcoran, former Secretary of the Florida Department of Education, as we delve into the transformative journey of New College of Florida. In this engaging conversation, Richard shares his vision for creating a balanced academic environment that fosters both rigorous scholarship and diverse viewpoi…

1
Discussing John Milton with Jeremy Larson 58:43

7M ago58:43

58:43

In this thought-provoking episode, Jeremy Larson, assistant professor of English at Regent University, joins ISI to explore the enduring significance of John Milton and his literary and political contributions. Together, they delve into Paradise Lost and Milton’s engagement with the political and religious upheavals of his time, discussing how thes…

1
Restoring the Republic | Ned Ryan 44:08

7M ago44:08

44:08

In this insightful episode, Ned Ryun joins us to explore the pressing challenges facing American self-government today. We dive deep into the rise of the administrative state and how it erodes the foundation of our republic. Ryun offers a thought-provoking analysis of the impact of Darwinian thought on modern politics and the ways it has influenced…

1
Religion, Law, and the Common Good | Josh Craddock 43:05

7M ago43:05

43:05

In this episode, Josh Craddock joins Tom Sarrouf for a thought-provoking conversation hosted in collaboration with the Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI). Together, they explore the complex interplay between religion and law, how civic friendship shapes our public life, and the role of the law as a mediator in a pluralistic society. Tune in fo…

1
A quick message to our listeners! 1:45

7M ago1:45

1:45

By Intercollegiate Studies Institute

1
Flannery O’Connor: Faith in Fiction with Alex Taylor 47:07

8M ago47:07

47:07

In this insightful episode, hosts Marlo Slayback and Tom Sarrouf are joined by Dr. Alex Taylor, Assistant Professor of English at Christendom College, for an engaging discussion on one of America's most compelling literary figures—Flannery O'Connor. Together, they explore the profound Catholic themes that run through O'Connor's stories, her unique …

1
The Ghost in the AI Machine | Gene Callahan 42:57

8M ago42:57

42:57

In this episode, we sit down with Eugene Callahan, economist, philosopher, and author, to explore the deep and often overlooked connections between computer science and the humanities. Drawing from his recent article "The Ghost in the AI Machine" in Modern Age Journal, Eugene delves into the profound implications of AI and technology on human life.…

1
Freedom, Tradition, and the Digital Age | Brad Littlejohn 1:01:18

8M ago1:01:18

1:01:18

In this episode, we sit down with Brad Littlejohn, a Fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and a leading voice in the intersection of Christian ethics and public life. Brad dives into the themes of his latest book, Called to Freedom: Retrieving Christian Liberty in an Age of License (Christ in Everything), where he explores the delicate bal…

1
David Hume: Philosophy, Politics, and the Conservative Mind | Aaron Zubia 38:26

8M ago38:26

38:26

This week on the podcast, hosts Marlo Slayback and Tom Sarrouf sit down with Aaron Zubia to delve into the life and philosophy of David Hume. Join them as they explore Hume's background and his pivotal role in the Scottish Enlightenment. They discuss Hume's Epicureanism and skepticism, examining how these ideas shaped his thought and influenced mod…

1
America's Role in a Changing World | Jon Askonas 55:33

9M ago55:33

55:33

In this compelling episode of Conservative Conversations, we welcome back Jon Askonas, a repeat guest known for his deep insights into international relations, national security, and the evolving intersection of war, technology, and public institutions. Jon brings his expertise to a wide-ranging discussion on America's current posture on the global…

1
What Are the Limits to Free Speech? 51:50

9M ago51:50

51:50

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Carson Holloway, a distinguished Professor of Political Science at the University of Nebraska Omaha and a Washington Fellow at the Claremont Institute's Center for the American Way of Life. Holloway, an accomplished author, delves into the complex dynamics of press accountability in modern America…

1
Exploring Montesquieu, David Hume, and the American Founding | Khalil Habib 41:15

9M ago41:15

41:15

In this engaging episode, we are joined by Khalil Habib, Associate Professor of Politics at Hillsdale College, to explore the profound ideas of Montesquieu and David Hume. We delve into how their philosophies illuminate the current political landscape and the foundational principles that anchor political life. Our conversation examines Montesquieu'…

1
Current Legal Issues Shaping Conservatism | Garrett Snedeker 51:29

9M ago51:29

51:29

Join hosts Tom Sarrouf and Marlo Slayback on this week's episode of Conservative Conversations, brought to you by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI). Our special guest, Garrett Snedeker, Deputy Director of the James Wilson Institute, dives deep into the pressing legal and political issues shaping the conservative movement today. In this ep…

1
King Arthur: Myth or History? | Shawn Phillip Cooper 47:07

10M ago47:07

47:07

This week we spoke with Dr. Shawn Phillip Cooper. Join us as we delve into the rich lore of King Arthur. In this episode, Dr. Cooper unpacks the key characters and plot points that make up the legendary tales of King Arthur and his knights. Discover the historical origins of the Arthurian legend and how it has been interwoven with various European …

1
The Re-Paganization Thesis with N.S Lyons 56:10

10M ago56:10

56:10

In this enlightening episode of the ISI Podcast, we sit down with the insightful N.S. Lyons to discuss his recent article in First Things, "The Re-Paganization Thesis." Lyons delves into the intricate intersections of religion and civilization, examining how modern societal shifts mirror ancient paganism's return. Join us as we explore the core arg…

1
The Philosophy of Philip Rieff | William Batchelder & Michael Harding 58:34

10M ago58:34

58:34

Join us for an enlightening episode of Conservative Conversations as we dive deep into the world of cultural criticism and sociology with authors Michael Harding and William Batchelder. In this special episode, we explore their latest book, "The Philosophy of Philip Rieff: Cultural Conflict, Religion, and the Self." Philip Rieff, a towering figure …

1
The Case for Christian Nationalism | Stephen Wolfe 1:14:05

10M ago1:14:05

1:14:05

Join us for an enlightening episode as we sit down with Dr. Stephen Wolfe, author of the thought-provoking book, "The Case for Christian Nationalism." Hosted by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI), this episode delves into the controversial yet compelling arguments presented in Wolfe's book. Dr. Wolfe discusses the concept of Christian nati…

1
Unveiling the Deep State | Theo Wold 1:11:59

11M ago1:11:59

1:11:59

In this compelling episode of Conservative Conversations, we sit down with Theo Wold, the newly appointed Director of the Administrative State Project at the Claremont Institute. Drawing from his extensive experience in government, including his roles as Solicitor General of Idaho, Acting Assistant Attorney General in the Office of Legal Policy at …

1
The Problem of Cheating in Universities | Phil Magness 48:54

11M ago48:54

48:54

Join us for an enlightening episode with Phil Magness, renowned economic historian and scholar, as he sits down with the Intercollegiate Studies Institute to discuss: - The pervasive problem of academic plagiarism in universities - Root causes and potential solutions - Magness's extensive research and experience in the field - His pivotal role in e…

1
Totalitarianism, COVID-19, and Why Individuals Matter | Dr. Cliff Porter 45:23

11M ago45:23

45:23

In this episode of the Conservative Conversations, Dr. Cliff Porter shares his multifaceted journey and profound insights. Dr. Porter discusses his initial academic focus on history and political philosophy. Explores his fascination with understanding historical events and societal behaviors. - Delves into the question of how an educated nation lik…

1
A Discussion on Faith, Community, and the Middle Ages with Andrew Willard Jones 1:11:30

11M ago1:11:30

1:11:30

Join us for a captivating episode of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute's podcast as we sit down with esteemed historian Andrew Willard Jones. Renowned for his deep expertise in medieval studies and the intricate relationship between the Church and the state, Jones offers listeners a profound exploration of the Middle Ages. In this episode, Jone…

1
What is Christian Nationalism? | Mark Hall 52:55

12M ago52:55

52:55

Join us on this insightful episode of the ISI Podcast as we welcome esteemed scholar Mark David Hall to discuss his latest book, "Christian Nationalism: Myth and Reality." Hall, a leading expert on the American Founding and religion's role in public life, delves into the controversial and often misunderstood concept of Christian Nationalism. In thi…

1
What Is Southern Conservatism? | Alan Harrelson 48:23

12M ago48:23

48:23

Welcome to our latest podcast episode featuring a fascinating discussion with historian and YouTube creator Alan Harrelson. Join us as we delve into "the good life" and explore Alan's unique perspective on living an agrarian lifestyle, his academic work, and his passion project, The Pipe Cottage. Alan Harrelson, a renowned historian specializing in…

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