Esteemed listeners, this episode delves into the multifaceted themes surrounding Thanksgiving, particularly reflecting on the historical distortions associated with America’s foundational narratives. We explore the implications of these narratives, contrasting the theocratic origins of early settlements with the more recent evolution towards a constitutionally limited republic. Our discourse extends to significant advancements in human progress, including the elimination of measles and rubella in Cabo Verde, and the transformative potential of innovation in repurposing waste into valuable resources. Furthermore, we critically examine the often misconstrued narrative surrounding capitalism, which, contrary to popular belief, has fostered unprecedented wealth and resource availability over the past two centuries. Join us as we navigate these topics, offering insights that underscore the importance of recognizing historical truths and contemporary achievements in the spirit of Thanksgiving.This episode of the Secular Foxhole podcast offers an incisive analysis of the intersections between philosophy, economics, and contemporary social issues, as articulated by hosts Blair and Martin. Central to the discussion is the concept of human progress, particularly in the context of capitalism's role in fostering innovation and improving living standards. The hosts dissect articles from Human Progress that reveal a world that is, against popular belief, richer and more resource-abundant than ever before, attributing this trend to the principles of capitalism that drive technological advancements. The episode also features a critical examination of the cultural landscape, influenced heavily by philosophical ideas stemming from the Enlightenment. Blair and Martin highlight the necessity of a systemic philosophical approach to combat the prevailing moral narratives that advocate for self-sacrifice at the expense of individual flourishing. In this vein, they reference lectures from the Ayn Rand Institute which delve into the philosophical void that has contributed to our current cultural malaise. Ultimately, the episode serves as both a reminder of the remarkable strides humanity has made and a call to action for listeners to support the podcast and the ideologies that promote progress and enlightenment.Takeaways: In this episode, we explore the historical distortions surrounding America's founding, emphasizing the distinction between the theoc

The principal focus of this podcast episode is the extensive array of news items presented by Blair, who curates a buffet of intellectual nourishment for our listeners. Martin, in a parallel vein, articulates a compelling call to action, urging our audience to engage with the content and support the podcast through various means. We delve into significant contemporary issues, including the celebration of Columbus Day and the implications of current political climates, particularly regarding the Trump administration's actions. Additionally, we highlight recent literary contributions from authors previously featured on the show, emphasizing the importance of understanding rhetoric and political developments. As we navigate these topics, we invite our audience to reflect critically and participate actively in the discourse.A comprehensive exploration of contemporary intellectual discourse unfolds as we delve into a buffet of thought-provoking articles and literary recommendations. The discussion commences with a nod to Columbus Day, as we reflect on the significance of historical figures like Christopher Columbus amidst the current socio-political climate. The conversation seamlessly transitions to the realm of literature, highlighting Robert Begley's 'Voices of Reason', which elucidates the principles of rhetoric through the lens of Aristotle, enabling listeners to better articulate their philosophical positions. Additionally, we examine Robert Tracinski's 'Dictatorship From Day One', which critically analyzes the constitutional implications of recent executive actions, provoking a deeper contemplation of the delicate balance between authority and individual liberty. The dialogue extends to the importance of local political engagement as a catalyst for broader societal change, invoking the necessity of grassroots movements in the pursuit of a truly free society. As we navigate through these themes, we invite our audience to engage with the recommended resources to foster a more profound understanding of the intricate dynamics at play in our world today.Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:T.A.N.S.T.A.A.F.L.Columbus Day

Today’s episode features returning guest, Rob Tracinski, who has a new book, Dictator from Day One: How Donald Trump Is Overthrowing the Constitution and How to Fight Back. Find out what damage he’s doing on ‘Constitution Day,’ here in America. And how to counter his wanton destructiveness.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Dictator from Day One: How Donald Trump Is Overthrowing the Constitution and How to Fight BackConstitution Day and Citizenship Day on September 17The UnPopulist Launches Executive WatchThe Tracinski LetterEpisode 103 (54 minutes) was recorded at 2100 Central European Time, on September, 15, 2025, with Alitu's recording feature. Martin did the editing and post-production with the podcast maker, Alitu. The transcript is generated by Alitu.Easy listen to The Secular Foxhole podcast in your podcast (podcatcher) app of choice, e.g.,

Today we welcomed returning guest and Professional Speaker Robert Begley who discussed his first book, Voices of Reason: Lessons for Liberty’s Leaders. Tune in to learn about his journey to become a speaker and the special release date of his book.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Les BrownMark BrownMade to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others DieThe King's SpeechBosch Fawstin's print, September 2Atlas Shrugged DayFirst Heat by Bryan Larsen - Quent Cordair Fine ArtVoices of Reason: Lessons for Liberty’s Leaders - Speaking With Purpose LLCVoices Of Reason: Lessons For Liberty’s Leaders (Kindle Edition)Episode 102 (43 minutes) was recorded at 2130 Central European Time, on August 22, 2025, with Alitu's recording feature. Martin did the editing and post-production with the 

Today, we had a lengthy, articulate discussion with Andrew Bernstein about his latest book, Aristotle vs Religion and Other Essays. We covered the title essay, and several others, focusing on the philosophical aspects.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Andrew Bernstein's post, Aristotle Versus Religion (1 of 7), March 1, 2016Aristotle Versus Religion and Other Essays by Andrew Bernstein (Kindle edition)Episode 101 (63 minutes) was recorded at 2200 Central European Time, on August 17, 2025, with Alitu's recording feature. Martin did the editing and post-production with the podcast maker, Alitu. The transcript is generated by Alitu.Easy listen to The Secular Foxhole podcast in your podcast (podcatcher) app of choice, e.g., Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, 

Welcome to our 100th Episode! Today Martin and I echo what is happening at the Objectivist conference in Boston.We discuss Enlightenment values and ideals and the ideas discovered by Ayn Rand in her philosophy of Objectivism.These two things, working together, will provide American's, and whoever adopts them, the groundwork for a Second Renaissance. Come along for the ride!Happy Independence Day, America!Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:OCON in Boston, July 1 - 5Boston Tea Party ShipObjectivist conference in 1998, by Second Renaissance ConferencesJohn LockeAdam SmithJean-Jacques RousseauKant’s Theoretical Philosophy: A Critique of Pure ReasonThomas PaineBenjamin FranklinVoltaire

Today we had the pleasure of talking with Alexander Marriott, history professor and author, about today’s dismal political situation in America. He offers the listener his keen insight. Join us for a great hour!Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Alexander Marriott's post on FacebookBenjamin FranklinUnited States one-hundred-dollar billKite experimentCatilineIranian Nuclear Program: Will Israel Save Us? - Capitalism Magazine, June 4, 2003Republic? Democracy? What's the Difference? - Capitalism, January 4, 2003Tara Smith (philosopher)Alexander Marriott on Twitter (X)Alexander Marriott's websiteEpisode 99 (51 minutes) was recorded at 2200 Central European Time, on June

Did you see a flying Christ on Ascension Day? Blair is going through the news sandwich, and Martin is talking about value 4 value, trader principle, gift giving, etc.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Amy Peikoff's News SandwichMemorial DayTo Stop War, Halt Statism Everywhere - New IdealWhat Are the Roots of War?The Roots of War by Ayn Rand, from Capitalism: The Unknown IdealHuman Progress dot orgWeekly Progress Roundup - Doomslayer newsletterSymbol of atheism: atomic whirl1980 Swedish nuclear power referendumThree Mile Island accident (Harrisburg, 1979)

Once again, Martin and I are graced with the presence of Philosophy Professor, Andrew Bernstein, who is now venturing into detective fiction.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Tony Just dot netRed Meat Village - Voyage MediaBehind The Scenes With Andrew Bernstein (Author of Red Meat Village)Cool Runnings - WikipediaPen nameNight of January 16thHardboiledMr. ADirty Harry (character)Mike Hammer (character)Sherlock Holmes - BritannicaColumbo - Wikipedia

Blair is delivering some news regarding a list of podcasts on secularism, the rise of modern authoritarianism, and books covering the abundance movement. Martin is wondering what is going on with Voice of America, and is planning ahead for episode 100... How do you want to celebrate the milestone with us?Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Ayn Rand Conference in Berlin (March 14-16)Mark MosesRoland HorvathObjectivist Conference (OCON) in Boston, July 1-5Amy Peikoff's News Sandwich25 Best Secularism Podcasts by FeedSpotAnuj Agarwal, Cofounder Feedspot and MillionpodcastsInstitute for the Study of Modern AuthoritarianismThe UnPopulist Launches Executive WatchWhere To Find the New Intellectuals? - episode 95 of The Secular FoxholeVoice of America

This short episode includes a talk with Substack writer, Stewart Margolis, whose topic, "Where To Find the New Intellectuals," was discussed. We talked about various 'currents' in the culture and how to find them. I brag about a certain achievement I'm proud of, and although I've forgot to mention the rise in Homeschooling, listeners should include that in the great advancements happening without publicity, which is a good thing.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Stewart Margolis on SubstackWhere To Find The New Intellectuals?For The New Intellectual by Ayn RandRobert Tracinski's SymposiumHow the Libertarian Party Became the Reactionary Arm of Trump and Trumpism - The UnPopulistTrump among the libertarians - Boston Globe OpinionFaced With Trump, Libertarianism Shrugged - The BulwarkThree lessons from Aristotle on friendship - The Conversation

Today we celebrate Ayn Rand's Birthday. February 2, 1905 will live forever once her ideas gain hold in a culture. Any culture - hopefully America's. The sooner the better.We also discuss other positive cultural trends such as homeschooling, the Progress movement, and other stuff, e.g.,, how to send a RandsDay boostagram (digital telegram wither a donation / super comment with a payment) of 221,905 Satoshis (bits of a Bitcoin).Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Anthem - CliffNotesEgo - WiktionaryMartin's blog, EGOMartin's podcast, EGO NetCastAyn Rand: A Sense of LifeUrkällan (The Fountainhead in Swedish) - WikipediaThe Fountainhead - CliffNotesThe Fountainhead (film) - WikipediaThe Fountainhead - Warner Bros.The Fountainhead - IMDbWe the Livi

Happy New Year everyone! Our first guest of the year is Scott Powell. Homeschooler, historian and self-described, "nomad capitalist."He is the author of three books, most notably, The History of Now, and The History of Tomorrow. We cover these topics and more. Give it a listen!Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Anchor facts of American history - Knowable World dot comJohann Gustav Droysen - BritannicaThe Early Ayn Rand: A Selection from Her Unpublished Fiction - WikipediaIdeas and Revolution Locke and America; Rousseau and France by Scott McConnell, John Ridpath. Presented at: Lyceum, August 9, 1997. - Objectivist Media dot comJohn Ridpath - York University VanDamme Academy4 Benefits of Teaching History Present-CentricallyThe 4-Hour Historian: An Anti-Textbook Volume 1: The World We Live In 1.0 - The Roots of Progress blog

Today it’s just Martin and I going over a great year of shows, some plans for next year, and some statistics. Merry Yuletide everyone! Happy New Year!Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:C. Bradley Thompson, Executive Director, Snow Institute for the Study of Capitalism Professor, Department of Political Science, Clemson University C. Bradley Thompson's websiteRethinking the American Revolution - The Redneck IntellectualLocofocosRedneckBoston Tea Party (December 16, 1773)The Tea Act: The Catalyst of the Boston Tea Party - Boston Tea Party Ship dot comYuleYule logBooks by Scott PowellReturning guest, Robert Begley - episode 70 of The Secular Foxhole podcast

Today, our returning and distinguished guest, Andrew Bernstein, will prevail upon us his forthright defense of Western Civilization. Listen to this talk while clicking the link to his essay concerning the same.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:The Case for Western Civilization by Andrew Bernstein - The Objective StandardDr. Eric DanielsSusan SontagClark WisslerRaphael LemkinLeopold II of Belgium Genghis KhanTimurThe Great Big Book of Horrible Things: The Definitive Chronicle of History's 100 Worst AtrocitiesWill DurantMuslim conquests in the Indian subcontinent

In episode 90 we talk with Neil Erian, a former math teacher who has discovered perhaps the true cause of school shootings; the schools themselves - specifically their curriculum. Don't miss this hard-hitting exposé on the massive failure of our government schools ("indoctrination centers")!Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Neil Erian's article, Product Safety Alert: Progressive Education - Capitalism MagazinePeter Langman's site, School Shooters dot infoJohn DeweyHorace MannHoward ZinnEric Harris and Dylan KleboldColumbine High School massacreDealing with Troubled Writers: A Literacy Teacher's Dilemma by John SimmonsCharles WhitmanThe Third Wave (experiment)

Presentation of the Thomas Paines Institute by Alex Bleier and Kevin Osborne.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Presentation of The Thomas Paine Institute live with slidesThe Thomas Paine Institute website1776: Paine, Common Sense (Pamphlet)Atlas Shrugged by Ayn RandThe Prometheus ConnectionThe Prometheus FrontierTo Begin the World Over AgainTrueFans.fmSatoshi (unit)Munn versus IllinoisMorris Waite (7th Chief Justice of the United States)Prometheus

Today we talk with Mike Berliner and Anu Seppala about their book, Russia to America: A Guide to Ayn Rand Homes and Sites. We cover Miss Rand's journey from Czarist Russia to the United States and the homes and business offices she lived in/used during her remarkable life.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Russia to America: A Guide to Ayn Rand Homes and Sites100 Voices: An Oral History of Ayn RandNight of January 16thSeptember 2 (Change Your Life. Read Atlas Shrugged)Bosch Fawstin's drawing (print), September 2GreenhornRichard NeutraHollywood Studio ClubCecil B. DeMille

Martin and Blair cover a variety of topics today. From the Olympics to Objectivism, not to mention Human Progress and the overall bleak outlook. We also talk about a review of our podcast, the Podcasting 2.0 initiative, and statistics for The Secular Foxhole podcast.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Amy Peikoff's news sandwichThe Secular Moral Alternative to Dawkins and Ayaan Hirsi AliWhy We Need More Objectivists and Objectivist IntellectualsAyn Rand Bot on Twitter (X)Ayn Rand Bot - Prometheus FoundationAristotle - Delphi.aiThomas AquinasAquinas’s Arguments for GodThe Aristotle Adventure: A Guide to the Greek, Arabic, & Latin Scholars Who Transmitted Aristotle's Logic to the Renaissance

Today we talk about an odd piece of news about the Olympics, plus some good news concerning both Progress and Objectivism. Then Martin covers our show stats and other items of interest.Call-to-Action: After you have listened to this episode, add your $0.02 (two cents) to the conversation, by joining (for free) The Secular Foxhole Town Hall. Feel free to introduce yourself to the other members, discuss the different episodes, give us constructive feedback, or check out the virtual room, Speakers' Corner, and step up on the digital soapbox. Welcome to our new place in cyberspace!Show notes with links to articles, blog posts, products and services:Roots of Progress Institute“Atlas Shrugged:” America’s Second Declaration of IndependenceProject 2025Chevron OverturnedRobert TracinskiChainsaw-Wielding Javier Milei Rises to the Top in Argentine PoliticsThe 10 Bn Euro Paris Olympics DisasterCaptivate analyticsIn Britain the Conservative Party Moves Left and Gets Crushed in the ElectionSam SethiPocket Casts