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    <title>The Contrarian with David Bernstein</title>
    <description>Welcome to &quot;The Contrarian.&quot; This podcast is all about diving into the world of liberal values, radical ideologies and engaging in truly open conversations. We will take a close look at what in god’s name is going on in American and Western universities and what, if anything, we can do about it.</description>
    <copyright>2024 - JILV</copyright>
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    <pubDate>Fri, 8 May 2026 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title>The Contrarian with David Bernstein</title>
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    <itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type>
    <itunes:summary>Welcome to &quot;The Contrarian.&quot; This podcast is all about diving into the world of liberal values, radical ideologies and engaging in truly open conversations. We will take a close look at what in god’s name is going on in American and Western universities and what, if anything, we can do about it.</itunes:summary>
    <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
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    <itunes:keywords>antisemitism, cancel culture, culture wars, david bernstein, free speech, heterodox, liberalism, the contrarian, wokeness</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:owner>
      <itunes:name>David Bernstein</itunes:name>
      <itunes:email>podcast@navivalues.org</itunes:email>
    </itunes:owner>
    <itunes:category text="Education"/>
    <itunes:category text="Society &amp; Culture"/>
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      <title>A Sociology of Antizionism w/ Prof Shaul Kelner</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 – Introduction & Framing the Debate </p>
<p>00:58 – Understanding Antizionism Politically </p>
<p>03:34 – Antizionism on the Left and Right </p>
<p>05:06 – Systemic Antizionism Explained </p>
<p>07:01 – Antizionism vs. Antisemitism </p>
<p>09:00 – Why Labels Matter Less Than Actions </p>
<p>13:17 – The Institutional Rise of Antizionism </p>
<p>18:09 – How Extremists Rebrand Narratives </p>
<p>30:47 – Activism, Mobilization & Motivation </p>
<p>35:14 – Hope, Resilience & Community Response</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 8 May 2026 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/a-sociology-of-antizionism-w-prof-shaul-kelner-AKRlcEuI</link>
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      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 – Introduction & Framing the Debate </p>
<p>00:58 – Understanding Antizionism Politically </p>
<p>03:34 – Antizionism on the Left and Right </p>
<p>05:06 – Systemic Antizionism Explained </p>
<p>07:01 – Antizionism vs. Antisemitism </p>
<p>09:00 – Why Labels Matter Less Than Actions </p>
<p>13:17 – The Institutional Rise of Antizionism </p>
<p>18:09 – How Extremists Rebrand Narratives </p>
<p>30:47 – Activism, Mobilization & Motivation </p>
<p>35:14 – Hope, Resilience & Community Response</p>
]]></content:encoded>
      <enclosure length="47967546" type="audio/mpeg" url="https://cdn.simplecast.com/media/audio/transcoded/9adc73c7-9785-4dd9-beed-cbbdc5ede8c8/c068ba1d-53dd-4548-9a58-5b97459f4ad6/episodes/audio/group/cbeff305-a6b8-4021-b1ef-3446fbeeafe9/group-item/d71b9fa4-25ef-4630-a19d-ab1e9de4aa70/128_default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&amp;feed=vpI_wW0G"/>
      <itunes:title>A Sociology of Antizionism w/ Prof Shaul Kelner</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:49:57</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Sociologist and Jewish studies scholar Shaul Kelner joins us for a deep dive into the political and sociological roots of antizionism—and why understanding it as an organized movement rather than simply individual prejudice matters more than ever. We explore how antizionism has become increasingly institutionalized across academia, activism, and political culture, often creating a language and framework that fuels antisemitic narratives and violence. Kelner unpacks the distinctions and overlaps between antisemitism and antizionism, how movements on both the political left and right intersect in unexpected ways, and why reducing these issues to terminology debates misses the larger structural problem. From cultural narratives and activist mobilization to the future risks facing Jewish communities worldwide, this conversation offers a sharp, thought-provoking look at one of the defining ideological battles shaping public discourse today.

About the guest

Shaul Kelner is a Professor of Jewish Studies and Sociology at Vanderbilt University whose work focuses on the sociology of American Jewish life, transnational Jewish identity, and the intersection of culture and politics. A nationally recognized scholar and award-winning author, Kelner is known for his research on Jewish activism, diaspora identity, Birthright Israel, and contemporary antisemitism and antizionism. His work examines how political movements, institutions, and cultural narratives shape Jewish communal life and public discourse. (as.vanderbilt.edu)

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Sociologist and Jewish studies scholar Shaul Kelner joins us for a deep dive into the political and sociological roots of antizionism—and why understanding it as an organized movement rather than simply individual prejudice matters more than ever. We explore how antizionism has become increasingly institutionalized across academia, activism, and political culture, often creating a language and framework that fuels antisemitic narratives and violence. Kelner unpacks the distinctions and overlaps between antisemitism and antizionism, how movements on both the political left and right intersect in unexpected ways, and why reducing these issues to terminology debates misses the larger structural problem. From cultural narratives and activist mobilization to the future risks facing Jewish communities worldwide, this conversation offers a sharp, thought-provoking look at one of the defining ideological battles shaping public discourse today.

About the guest

Shaul Kelner is a Professor of Jewish Studies and Sociology at Vanderbilt University whose work focuses on the sociology of American Jewish life, transnational Jewish identity, and the intersection of culture and politics. A nationally recognized scholar and award-winning author, Kelner is known for his research on Jewish activism, diaspora identity, Birthright Israel, and contemporary antisemitism and antizionism. His work examines how political movements, institutions, and cultural narratives shape Jewish communal life and public discourse. (as.vanderbilt.edu)

</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>#israel, #academicfreedom, #jewishstudies, #shaulkelner, #campusculture, #thecontrarian, #socialmovements, #sociology, #zionism, #middleeast, #publicdiscourse, #jewishcommunity, #antizionism, #antisemitism, #jewishidentity, #davidbernstein, #politicalmovements, #philsiegel, #navivalues, #jewishhistory</itunes:keywords>
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      <itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode>
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      <title>The Antisemitism versus Antizionism debate w/ Prof. David Hirsh</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 – Intro: Anti-Antizionism Explained<br>
 01:27 – Is This Really “New”?<br>
 02:59 – How Antisemitism Evolves<br>
 05:20 – Why the Hyphen Matters<br>
 06:57 – Antizionism’s Constructed Reality<br>
 09:57 – Labeling Jews & Zionists<br>
 11:27 – Conspiracy Thinking Patterns<br>
 13:51 – Separate or Same Debate<br>
 14:39 – Defining Antisemitism Today<br>
 16:59 – Why Antizionism Matters<br>
 19:11 – History vs. Modern Forms<br>
 23:26 – Culture & Jewish Identity Shifts<br>
 28:45 – How Narratives Spread<br>
 35:49 – Why Israel Becomes the Target<br>
 46:32 – Can This Strategy Work?</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/the-antisemitism-versus-antizionism-debate-w-prof-david-hirsh-Q8qYUKpg</link>
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      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 – Intro: Anti-Antizionism Explained<br>
 01:27 – Is This Really “New”?<br>
 02:59 – How Antisemitism Evolves<br>
 05:20 – Why the Hyphen Matters<br>
 06:57 – Antizionism’s Constructed Reality<br>
 09:57 – Labeling Jews & Zionists<br>
 11:27 – Conspiracy Thinking Patterns<br>
 13:51 – Separate or Same Debate<br>
 14:39 – Defining Antisemitism Today<br>
 16:59 – Why Antizionism Matters<br>
 19:11 – History vs. Modern Forms<br>
 23:26 – Culture & Jewish Identity Shifts<br>
 28:45 – How Narratives Spread<br>
 35:49 – Why Israel Becomes the Target<br>
 46:32 – Can This Strategy Work?</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>The Antisemitism versus Antizionism debate w/ Prof. David Hirsh</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>01:07:35</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Prof. David Hirsh examines the rise of “anti-anti-Zionism” and debates whether antizionism should be treated as distinct from antisemitism. Hirsh argues that while antizionism presents itself as legitimate critique, it often constructs a distorted version of Zionism that labels Jews collectively as oppressive, drawing on long-standing antisemitic tropes embedded in cultural consciousness. The discussion explores how antisemitism continually reinvents itself, why antizionism resonates globally, and the dangers of abandoning the antisemitism framework when challenging it. The episode ultimately questions whether redefining antizionism as a separate form of bigotry is strategically effective, emphasizing the limits of power, persuasion, and public discourse in confronting these narratives. 

Guest Bio
Prof. David Hirsh is a leading scholar of contemporary antisemitism and Professor of Sociology at Goldsmiths, University of London. He is the founder of the London Centre for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism and has written extensively on the relationship between antisemitism, antizionism, and political discourse. His work focuses on how antisemitism evolves in modern societies, particularly within progressive movements, and he is widely recognized for his contributions to understanding and confronting antisemitism in academia and public life.

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Prof. David Hirsh examines the rise of “anti-anti-Zionism” and debates whether antizionism should be treated as distinct from antisemitism. Hirsh argues that while antizionism presents itself as legitimate critique, it often constructs a distorted version of Zionism that labels Jews collectively as oppressive, drawing on long-standing antisemitic tropes embedded in cultural consciousness. The discussion explores how antisemitism continually reinvents itself, why antizionism resonates globally, and the dangers of abandoning the antisemitism framework when challenging it. The episode ultimately questions whether redefining antizionism as a separate form of bigotry is strategically effective, emphasizing the limits of power, persuasion, and public discourse in confronting these narratives. 

Guest Bio
Prof. David Hirsh is a leading scholar of contemporary antisemitism and Professor of Sociology at Goldsmiths, University of London. He is the founder of the London Centre for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism and has written extensively on the relationship between antisemitism, antizionism, and political discourse. His work focuses on how antisemitism evolves in modern societies, particularly within progressive movements, and he is widely recognized for his contributions to understanding and confronting antisemitism in academia and public life.

</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>#politicalideology, #thecontrarian, #moderndebate, #zionism, #antizionism, #antisemitism, #podcastclips, #jewishidentity, #davidbernstein, #jewishhistory</itunes:keywords>
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      <itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode>
      <itunes:season>3</itunes:season>
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      <title>Should American Jews Carry Guns? w/ Dr. Adam Fuller</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to The Armed Jew</p>
<p>03:01 The Psychological Shift Post-October 7th</p>
<p>06:14 The Debate on Gun Ownership and Safety</p>
<p>09:08 Cultural Disconnect and Gun Ownership</p>
<p>11:59 The Jewish Condition and Security</p>
<p>15:11 Historical Context of Jewish Gun Ownership</p>
<p>17:57 Gun Control and Legislation Perspectives</p>
<p>20:54 The Role of Anti-Zionism in Contemporary Antisemitism</p>
<p>23:57 Conclusion and Reflections on Jewish Identity</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Find Dr Fuller's book : The Armed Jew: The Case for Jewish Gun Ownership- </p>
<p>https://www.amazon.com/Armed-Jew-Case-Jewish-Ownership/dp/B0FFM4NRMF </p>
<p>Read David’s article - Jews and Guns: Time for a Reckoning</p>
<p> https://jewishjournal.com/commentary/opinion/383491/jews-and-guns-time-for-a-reckoning/ <br>
  </p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 9 Apr 2026 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/should-american-jews-carry-guns-w-dr-adam-fuller-uAQo6klm</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/3330bcd9-326c-418c-8501-3d583e093313/thecontratrianep17fullerv1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to The Armed Jew</p>
<p>03:01 The Psychological Shift Post-October 7th</p>
<p>06:14 The Debate on Gun Ownership and Safety</p>
<p>09:08 Cultural Disconnect and Gun Ownership</p>
<p>11:59 The Jewish Condition and Security</p>
<p>15:11 Historical Context of Jewish Gun Ownership</p>
<p>17:57 Gun Control and Legislation Perspectives</p>
<p>20:54 The Role of Anti-Zionism in Contemporary Antisemitism</p>
<p>23:57 Conclusion and Reflections on Jewish Identity</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Find Dr Fuller's book : The Armed Jew: The Case for Jewish Gun Ownership- </p>
<p>https://www.amazon.com/Armed-Jew-Case-Jewish-Ownership/dp/B0FFM4NRMF </p>
<p>Read David’s article - Jews and Guns: Time for a Reckoning</p>
<p> https://jewishjournal.com/commentary/opinion/383491/jews-and-guns-time-for-a-reckoning/ <br>
  </p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Should American Jews Carry Guns? w/ Dr. Adam Fuller</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:44:12</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Dr. Adam Fuller about the evolving role of guns in Jewish life, the importance of security, and the broader ideological and cultural shifts affecting Jewish communities in America post-October 7. They explore historical perspectives, current security practices, and the psychological mindset necessary for resilience in a changing world.
Dr. Adam Fuller is an Associate Professor of Political Science and Clayman Professor of Jewish Studies at Youngstown State University. He specializes in political theory, international relations, and Israeli politics, and is the author of multiple scholarly books on neoconservatism and Jewish identity. 


</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Dr. Adam Fuller about the evolving role of guns in Jewish life, the importance of security, and the broader ideological and cultural shifts affecting Jewish communities in America post-October 7. They explore historical perspectives, current security practices, and the psychological mindset necessary for resilience in a changing world.
Dr. Adam Fuller is an Associate Professor of Political Science and Clayman Professor of Jewish Studies at Youngstown State University. He specializes in political theory, international relations, and Israeli politics, and is the author of multiple scholarly books on neoconservatism and Jewish identity. 


</itunes:subtitle>
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      <itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode>
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      <title>Antizionism&apos;s Legal Fight w/ Prof. Rona Kaufman</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Antisemitism’s Legal Fight – Episode Intro </p>
<p>01:36 Antizionism Origins in Western Academia </p>
<p>03:01 Ideological Influence in Universities </p>
<p>07:13 Campus Antisemitism and Law Schools </p>
<p>09:35 Rona Kaufman’s Zionist Identity </p>
<p>14:01 Antisemitism in U.S. Civil Rights Law </p>
<p>19:25 MIT Antisemitism Lawsuit Explained </p>
<p>21:51 Center for Jewish Legal Studies </p>
<p>29:49 Antizionism as a Legal Discrimination Issue </p>
<p>33:26 Debrief: Law, Politics, and Culture War</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:36:08 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/antizionisms-legal-fight-w-prof-rona-kaufman-SjJKEYLG</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/f83665b6-7788-4b4b-91ac-397d754a8ab7/thecontratrianep04ronav1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Antisemitism’s Legal Fight – Episode Intro </p>
<p>01:36 Antizionism Origins in Western Academia </p>
<p>03:01 Ideological Influence in Universities </p>
<p>07:13 Campus Antisemitism and Law Schools </p>
<p>09:35 Rona Kaufman’s Zionist Identity </p>
<p>14:01 Antisemitism in U.S. Civil Rights Law </p>
<p>19:25 MIT Antisemitism Lawsuit Explained </p>
<p>21:51 Center for Jewish Legal Studies </p>
<p>29:49 Antizionism as a Legal Discrimination Issue </p>
<p>33:26 Debrief: Law, Politics, and Culture War</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Antizionism&apos;s Legal Fight w/ Prof. Rona Kaufman</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/b4ff79e4-c453-43f6-92d5-1e87b6ba2cb2/3000x3000/thecontratrianep04ronav1sq.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:46:51</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Prof. Rona Kaufman of the Center for Jewish Legal Studies about how anti-Zionism took hold in academia, why the legal system struggles to address modern antisemitism, and what new scholarship is needed to better protect Jewish students and communities. Kaufman explains how these ideas spread through universities into broader institutions, why Jews do not fit neatly into existing anti-discrimination frameworks, and how that affects cases involving coded anti-Jewish hostility. In the debrief, David and Phil reflect on Kaufman’s legal framework, the limits of courtroom solutions alone, and the wider cultural and political fight surrounding anti-Zionism and antisemitism.

About the Guest
Prof. Rona Kaufman is a law professor and the co-founder of the Center for Jewish Legal Studies, where she focuses on the intersection of antisemitism, anti-Zionism, and civil rights law. Her scholarship examines how contemporary forms of antisemitism appear in legal and academic settings, particularly on university campuses. Kaufman has written and spoken widely on discrimination law, Jewish identity in legal frameworks, and the challenges courts face in addressing modern anti-Jewish hostility. She is also a leading voice advocating for new legal scholarship to better understand and confront antisemitism in the 21st century.
</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Prof. Rona Kaufman of the Center for Jewish Legal Studies about how anti-Zionism took hold in academia, why the legal system struggles to address modern antisemitism, and what new scholarship is needed to better protect Jewish students and communities. Kaufman explains how these ideas spread through universities into broader institutions, why Jews do not fit neatly into existing anti-discrimination frameworks, and how that affects cases involving coded anti-Jewish hostility. In the debrief, David and Phil reflect on Kaufman’s legal framework, the limits of courtroom solutions alone, and the wider cultural and political fight surrounding anti-Zionism and antisemitism.

About the Guest
Prof. Rona Kaufman is a law professor and the co-founder of the Center for Jewish Legal Studies, where she focuses on the intersection of antisemitism, anti-Zionism, and civil rights law. Her scholarship examines how contemporary forms of antisemitism appear in legal and academic settings, particularly on university campuses. Kaufman has written and spoken widely on discrimination law, Jewish identity in legal frameworks, and the challenges courts face in addressing modern anti-Jewish hostility. She is also a leading voice advocating for new legal scholarship to better understand and confront antisemitism in the 21st century.
</itunes:subtitle>
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      <itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode>
      <itunes:season>3</itunes:season>
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      <title>How Antizionism Evolved into a Separate Ideology w/ Prof Andrew Pessin</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Opening & Series Introduction </p>
<p>01:20 Meet Prof. Andrew Pessin </p>
<p>03:10 What “Anti-Anti-Zionism” Means </p>
<p>06:45 Campus Climate & Academic Pressures </p>
<p>10:30 How Antizionism Enters Intellectual Frameworks </p>
<p>15:05 Progressive Ideology & Jewish Identity Tensions </p>
<p>19:20 The Connecticut College Controversy </p>
<p>23:55 Free Speech, Fear & Faculty Silence </p>
<p>28:40 Moral Clarity vs Academic Conformity </p>
<p>33:15 The Weaponization of Social Justice Language </p>
<p>38:00 Impact on Jewish Students & Campus Life </p>
<p>42:10 How Allies & Institutions Should Respond </p>
<p>46:30 Final Thoughts & Closing Reflections <br>
  </p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/how-antizionism-evolved-into-a-separate-ideology-w-prof-andrew-pessin-iCsOoznw</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Opening & Series Introduction </p>
<p>01:20 Meet Prof. Andrew Pessin </p>
<p>03:10 What “Anti-Anti-Zionism” Means </p>
<p>06:45 Campus Climate & Academic Pressures </p>
<p>10:30 How Antizionism Enters Intellectual Frameworks </p>
<p>15:05 Progressive Ideology & Jewish Identity Tensions </p>
<p>19:20 The Connecticut College Controversy </p>
<p>23:55 Free Speech, Fear & Faculty Silence </p>
<p>28:40 Moral Clarity vs Academic Conformity </p>
<p>33:15 The Weaponization of Social Justice Language </p>
<p>38:00 Impact on Jewish Students & Campus Life </p>
<p>42:10 How Allies & Institutions Should Respond </p>
<p>46:30 Final Thoughts & Closing Reflections <br>
  </p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>How Antizionism Evolved into a Separate Ideology w/ Prof Andrew Pessin</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/90b84d11-9df7-4ea2-a6bf-d6ab1a677d91/3000x3000/thecontratrianep3pessinv1sq.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:52:15</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Professor Andrew Pessin speaks about the rise of antizionism as a distinct ideology on university campuses and within contemporary progressive movements. Pessin argues that modern antizionism grows from frameworks that divide the world into oppressors and oppressed, making Israel an easy target and transforming political criticism into a moral indictment. He distinguishes legitimate critique of Israeli policies from a broader worldview that portrays Israel as inherently evil.The conversation explores why antizionism has gained traction in academic spaces, how it differs from traditional antisemitism while often overlapping with it, and why current strategies to combat Jew-hatred have been ineffective. Pessin also explains his effort to establish an academic institute dedicated to critically studying antizionism and restoring scholarly rigor to the debate. The episode highlights the need for new intellectual approaches to address campus hostility, ideological polarization, and the future of Jewish self-determination.

Prof. Andrew Pessin is a professor of philosophy at Connecticut College. A Yale graduate with a PhD from Columbia University, he writes on Jewish philosophy, Zionism, and campus antisemitism. He has authored popular philosophy books and novels, and co-edited Anti-Zionism on Campus. His work focuses on academic freedom and contemporary ideological conflicts. 
</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Professor Andrew Pessin speaks about the rise of antizionism as a distinct ideology on university campuses and within contemporary progressive movements. Pessin argues that modern antizionism grows from frameworks that divide the world into oppressors and oppressed, making Israel an easy target and transforming political criticism into a moral indictment. He distinguishes legitimate critique of Israeli policies from a broader worldview that portrays Israel as inherently evil.The conversation explores why antizionism has gained traction in academic spaces, how it differs from traditional antisemitism while often overlapping with it, and why current strategies to combat Jew-hatred have been ineffective. Pessin also explains his effort to establish an academic institute dedicated to critically studying antizionism and restoring scholarly rigor to the debate. The episode highlights the need for new intellectual approaches to address campus hostility, ideological polarization, and the future of Jewish self-determination.

Prof. Andrew Pessin is a professor of philosophy at Connecticut College. A Yale graduate with a PhD from Columbia University, he writes on Jewish philosophy, Zionism, and campus antisemitism. He has authored popular philosophy books and novels, and co-edited Anti-Zionism on Campus. His work focuses on academic freedom and contemporary ideological conflicts. 
</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Is Antizionism the New Antisemitism? w/ Dr. Naya Lekht</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Antizionism and Its Importance</p><p>01:56 Naya Lekht's Personal Journey and Insights</p><p>05:25 Distinguishing Antizionism from Antisemitism</p><p>09:10 The Three Eras of Jew Hatred</p><p>12:50 Debating Antizionism: A Strategic Conversation</p><p>17:02 The Role of Free Speech in Discussing Antizionism</p><p>20:17 Understanding Misinformation vs. Disinformation</p><p>23:35 The Nature of Disinformation</p><p>26:54 Shifting the Focus: Accusers and Their Motives</p><p>28:49 Education vs. Ideology: A Paradigm Shift</p><p>32:05 The Role of Empathy in Education</p><p>35:28 Understanding Power Dynamics in Antisemitism</p><p>38:17 Strategies for Change: Grassroots Movements</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/is-antizionism-the-new-antisemitism-w-dr-naya-lekht-2RYZoJIv</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/6161f58f-82f6-49c9-a123-f6d91ee87216/the-contratrian-2-ep2-naya-v1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Antizionism and Its Importance</p><p>01:56 Naya Lekht's Personal Journey and Insights</p><p>05:25 Distinguishing Antizionism from Antisemitism</p><p>09:10 The Three Eras of Jew Hatred</p><p>12:50 Debating Antizionism: A Strategic Conversation</p><p>17:02 The Role of Free Speech in Discussing Antizionism</p><p>20:17 Understanding Misinformation vs. Disinformation</p><p>23:35 The Nature of Disinformation</p><p>26:54 Shifting the Focus: Accusers and Their Motives</p><p>28:49 Education vs. Ideology: A Paradigm Shift</p><p>32:05 The Role of Empathy in Education</p><p>35:28 Understanding Power Dynamics in Antisemitism</p><p>38:17 Strategies for Change: Grassroots Movements</p>
]]></content:encoded>
      <enclosure length="47482714" type="audio/mpeg" url="https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/c068ba1d-53dd-4548-9a58-5b97459f4ad6/episodes/e09ac840-b014-4e67-9d67-0cb81c0251dc/audio/4448a2df-5cfb-48ca-8e7c-47ddbc76246a/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&amp;feed=vpI_wW0G"/>
      <itunes:title>Is Antizionism the New Antisemitism? w/ Dr. Naya Lekht</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/46b93c01-ed31-41f5-bac3-c46c3857fe6f/3000x3000/the-contratrian-ep2-naya-v1-sq.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:49:27</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Dr. Naya Lekht, an expert on antizionism and antisemitism, explores the distinctions between antizionism and antisemitism, the evolution of Jew hatred through three eras, and the implications of ideological capture in education. Naya shares her personal journey and insights on the current state of antizionism, emphasizing the need for ideological literacy and critical thinking within the Jewish community. The conversation also addresses the challenges of misinformation versus disinformation and the strategies necessary to combat antizionism effectively.

Dr. Naya Lekht was born in the former Soviet Union and came to the United States with her family in 1989. She received her PhD in Russian Literature and wrote her dissertation on Holocaust literature in the Soviet Union. Dr. Naya has taught at both the collegiate and high school level courses on Russian literature, the Holocaust, Zionism, and history of Russian Jewry. She is the host of the podcast -Don&apos;t know much about.

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Dr. Naya Lekht, an expert on antizionism and antisemitism, explores the distinctions between antizionism and antisemitism, the evolution of Jew hatred through three eras, and the implications of ideological capture in education. Naya shares her personal journey and insights on the current state of antizionism, emphasizing the need for ideological literacy and critical thinking within the Jewish community. The conversation also addresses the challenges of misinformation versus disinformation and the strategies necessary to combat antizionism effectively.

Dr. Naya Lekht was born in the former Soviet Union and came to the United States with her family in 1989. She received her PhD in Russian Literature and wrote her dissertation on Holocaust literature in the Soviet Union. Dr. Naya has taught at both the collegiate and high school level courses on Russian literature, the Holocaust, Zionism, and history of Russian Jewry. She is the host of the podcast -Don&apos;t know much about.

</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>jewish community, misinformation, anti-zionism, ideology, critical thinking, free speech, anti-semitism, education, jew hatred, disinformation</itunes:keywords>
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      <itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode>
      <itunes:season>3</itunes:season>
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      <title>The New Anti Anti-Zionism w/ Adam Louis-Klein</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Anti-Anti-Zionism</p><p>02:09 Personal Journey and Ideological Shift</p><p>05:55 Understanding Anti-Zionism vs. Anti-Semitism</p><p>09:44 Critique of Indigeneity Discourse</p><p>15:23 The Paradox of Tolerance in Discourse</p><p>21:56 Structure of the Anti-Zionism Movement</p><p>24:28 The Power of Libel and Belief</p><p>27:56 Defining Anti-Zionism and Its Implications</p><p>29:29 The Challenge of Anti-Zionist Jews</p><p>32:54 Understanding Anti-Zionism as Its Own Phenomenon</p><p>36:38 Critiques of the New Anti-Zionism Movement</p><p>41:18 Strategies for Advancing Anti-Anti-Zionism</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/the-new-anti-anti-zionism-w-adam-louis-klein-lvx9tpdh</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/3d3f1ac3-30b3-4024-85ff-fbddb7310e34/the-contratrian-ep17-louis-klein-v2.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Anti-Anti-Zionism</p><p>02:09 Personal Journey and Ideological Shift</p><p>05:55 Understanding Anti-Zionism vs. Anti-Semitism</p><p>09:44 Critique of Indigeneity Discourse</p><p>15:23 The Paradox of Tolerance in Discourse</p><p>21:56 Structure of the Anti-Zionism Movement</p><p>24:28 The Power of Libel and Belief</p><p>27:56 Defining Anti-Zionism and Its Implications</p><p>29:29 The Challenge of Anti-Zionist Jews</p><p>32:54 Understanding Anti-Zionism as Its Own Phenomenon</p><p>36:38 Critiques of the New Anti-Zionism Movement</p><p>41:18 Strategies for Advancing Anti-Anti-Zionism</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>The New Anti Anti-Zionism w/ Adam Louis-Klein</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/ead5d718-1726-48dc-adb5-b9a462cd7ca0/3000x3000/the-contratrian-ep17-sq-v2.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:51:47</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Adam Louis-Klein discusses the emerging concept of &apos;new anti-anti-Zionism.&apos; They explore the intellectual underpinnings of anti-Zionism and its implications for Jewish identity and culture. Adam shares his personal journey from being immersed in radical leftist ideologies to recognizing the dangers of anti-Zionism, which he argues is a form of anti-Jewish hate. The discussion delves into the complexities of defining anti-Zionism versus antisemitism, the historical context of these ideologies, and the need for a robust discourse that addresses the nuances of these terms without conflating them.

About the Guest
Adam Louis-Klein is a writer, anthropologist, and musician completing a PhD in Anthropology at McGill University, whose work examines Jewish peoplehood, sovereignty, and contemporary forms of anti-Jewish hate. A regular contributor to *The Times of Israel*—and a writer for *The Free Press* and *Tablet*—he analyzes the symbolic and media frameworks that shape and legitimize modern anti-Zionist discourse. His doctoral research is based on fieldwork with the Desana people in the Amazon, drawing comparative insights between Indigenous and Jewish forms of peoplehood, sovereignty, and sacred geography. Adam holds degrees from Yale, the New School, and the University of Chicago, is co-director of *Oscillations*, a Postgraduate Fellow at the London Centre for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism, and the founder of the Movement Against Antizionism (MAAZ).


</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Adam Louis-Klein discusses the emerging concept of &apos;new anti-anti-Zionism.&apos; They explore the intellectual underpinnings of anti-Zionism and its implications for Jewish identity and culture. Adam shares his personal journey from being immersed in radical leftist ideologies to recognizing the dangers of anti-Zionism, which he argues is a form of anti-Jewish hate. The discussion delves into the complexities of defining anti-Zionism versus antisemitism, the historical context of these ideologies, and the need for a robust discourse that addresses the nuances of these terms without conflating them.

About the Guest
Adam Louis-Klein is a writer, anthropologist, and musician completing a PhD in Anthropology at McGill University, whose work examines Jewish peoplehood, sovereignty, and contemporary forms of anti-Jewish hate. A regular contributor to *The Times of Israel*—and a writer for *The Free Press* and *Tablet*—he analyzes the symbolic and media frameworks that shape and legitimize modern anti-Zionist discourse. His doctoral research is based on fieldwork with the Desana people in the Amazon, drawing comparative insights between Indigenous and Jewish forms of peoplehood, sovereignty, and sacred geography. Adam holds degrees from Yale, the New School, and the University of Chicago, is co-director of *Oscillations*, a Postgraduate Fellow at the London Centre for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism, and the founder of the Movement Against Antizionism (MAAZ).


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      <title>How Teachers Unions became Platforms for Political Activists w/ Paul Zimmerman</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Defense of Freedom Institute: Mission & Focus</p><p>02:48 Ideological Capture of Teachers Unions</p><p>06:16 How Teachers Unions Shifted Ideologically</p><p>09:03 Strategic Control of Education Systems</p><p>11:59 Ideology Inside School Districts</p><p>15:08 Unions and the Push for Radical Agendas</p><p>18:34 Democratic Socialists’ Influence in Unions</p><p>22:50 NEA vs. AFT: Comparing Union Radicalism</p><p>26:21 How Union Ideology Continues to Evolve</p><p>27:33 Why Countering Union Power Is So Difficult</p><p>30:36 Paths to Transparency and Accountability</p><p>32:41 Research, Data, and Oversight in Education</p><p>34:39 Teacher Colleges and Ideological Training</p><p>37:09 Political Money and Education Policy</p><p>39:01 Cultural Transformation in Schools</p><p>45:32 Confronting Antisemitism in Education</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 23 Dec 2025 19:24:06 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/how-teachers-unions-became-platforms-for-political-activists-w-paul-zimmerman-4Fn2LMwr</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/42474011-185e-461b-98b7-498a26f200fb/the-contratrian-ep16-zimmerman-v1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Defense of Freedom Institute: Mission & Focus</p><p>02:48 Ideological Capture of Teachers Unions</p><p>06:16 How Teachers Unions Shifted Ideologically</p><p>09:03 Strategic Control of Education Systems</p><p>11:59 Ideology Inside School Districts</p><p>15:08 Unions and the Push for Radical Agendas</p><p>18:34 Democratic Socialists’ Influence in Unions</p><p>22:50 NEA vs. AFT: Comparing Union Radicalism</p><p>26:21 How Union Ideology Continues to Evolve</p><p>27:33 Why Countering Union Power Is So Difficult</p><p>30:36 Paths to Transparency and Accountability</p><p>32:41 Research, Data, and Oversight in Education</p><p>34:39 Teacher Colleges and Ideological Training</p><p>37:09 Political Money and Education Policy</p><p>39:01 Cultural Transformation in Schools</p><p>45:32 Confronting Antisemitism in Education</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>How Teachers Unions became Platforms for Political Activists w/ Paul Zimmerman</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/993ee58e-d2e9-4d74-be70-01be5c6af9a1/3000x3000/the-contratrian-ep16-sq.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:52:09</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Paul Zimmerman of the Defense of Freedom Institute speaks about the growing ideological capture of teachers unions and their outsized influence on education policy. The conversation explores how these unions have moved beyond collective bargaining to advance radical political agendas, including the spread of antisemitic narratives through ethnic studies and related curricula. Bernstein and Zimmerman trace the historical evolution of teachers unions, examine the political forces that sustain their power, and discuss practical strategies for increasing transparency, accountability, and public oversight. The episode ultimately situates the fight against antisemitism in schools within a broader defense of pluralism, civic values, and the core principles of American democracy.

About the Guest
Paul serves as Senior Counsel, Policy &amp; Regulatory, where he leads DFI’s Teacher Union Accountability Project and supports the organization’s federal agency transparency and oversight efforts. From 2019 to 2021, he was Counsel at the U.S. Department of Commerce, coordinating agency responses to oversight inquiries, advising on legal privileges in litigation and Freedom of Information Act matters, and preparing senior officials for congressional testimony. Prior to that, Paul spent more than a decade at the Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies, serving first as Director of Publications—editing the organization’s law review, newsletters, and white papers—and later as Deputy Director of International Affairs, where he advised civil society organizations across Europe, Canada, and Asia on rule of law, separation of powers, and individual liberty, coordinated transatlantic judicial exchanges, and managed a platform tracking the impact of international organizations on domestic law and policy. Paul holds a B.A. in Political Science from Duke University and a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, and he is a member of the Maryland and District of Columbia Bars as well as the Federalist Society’s Civil Rights Practice Group Executive Committee.
</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Paul Zimmerman of the Defense of Freedom Institute speaks about the growing ideological capture of teachers unions and their outsized influence on education policy. The conversation explores how these unions have moved beyond collective bargaining to advance radical political agendas, including the spread of antisemitic narratives through ethnic studies and related curricula. Bernstein and Zimmerman trace the historical evolution of teachers unions, examine the political forces that sustain their power, and discuss practical strategies for increasing transparency, accountability, and public oversight. The episode ultimately situates the fight against antisemitism in schools within a broader defense of pluralism, civic values, and the core principles of American democracy.

About the Guest
Paul serves as Senior Counsel, Policy &amp; Regulatory, where he leads DFI’s Teacher Union Accountability Project and supports the organization’s federal agency transparency and oversight efforts. From 2019 to 2021, he was Counsel at the U.S. Department of Commerce, coordinating agency responses to oversight inquiries, advising on legal privileges in litigation and Freedom of Information Act matters, and preparing senior officials for congressional testimony. Prior to that, Paul spent more than a decade at the Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies, serving first as Director of Publications—editing the organization’s law review, newsletters, and white papers—and later as Deputy Director of International Affairs, where he advised civil society organizations across Europe, Canada, and Asia on rule of law, separation of powers, and individual liberty, coordinated transatlantic judicial exchanges, and managed a platform tracking the impact of international organizations on domestic law and policy. Paul holds a B.A. in Political Science from Duke University and a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, and he is a member of the Maryland and District of Columbia Bars as well as the Federalist Society’s Civil Rights Practice Group Executive Committee.
</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>#curriculumreform, #teachersunions, #educationpolicy, #fightingantisemitism, #independentthinking, #governmenttransparency, #thecontrarianpodcast, #ethnicstudies, #educationreform, #contrarian, #defenseoffreedominstitute, #antisemitism, #opendebate, #publicaccountability, #unionaccountability, #dfi, #challengingorthodoxy, #davidbernstein, #radicalideology, radicalizededucation, k-12education, #ideologicalcapture, #americanvalues, #ruleoflaw, education, #civicpluralism, #freespeech</itunes:keywords>
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      <title>Christian Zionism, Christian Nationalism and the Jews w/ Ty Perry</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 – Welcome & who is Ty Perry?</p><p>01:02 – A Christian Zionist in a shifting Christian world</p><p>03:36 – What is Christian nationalism, really?</p><p>05:22 – Dispensationalism explained (and misunderstood)</p><p>09:20 – Competing stories: Christian Zionism vs Christian nationalism</p><p>12:03 – Law, society, and the limits of imposed Christianity</p><p>14:51 – Rethinking Charlie Kirk</p><p>18:53 – Listening in on the Charlie Kirk memorial</p><p>24:19 – Tucker Carlson, weaponized Christianity, and antisemitism</p><p>26:06 – Groypers, Nick Fuentes, and the ‘Hitler Youth’ analogy</p><p>32:56 – The ‘woke right’ and cancel culture on the right</p><p>35:38 – Liberal values and classical liberalism under strain</p><p>38:28 – Can we rebuild a shared American ‘unum’?</p><p>43:13 – Jewish anxiety and a potential American dystopia</p><p>45:56 – Is there still a philosemitic America? Ty’s view from the churches</p><p>47:55 – Mobilizing the quiet majority & closing thoughts</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/christian-zionism-christian-nationalism-and-the-jews-w-ty-perry-F0M4A2Pc</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/21493edc-bc2b-4f69-9a83-87f123a7055a/the-contratrian-ep15-perry-v1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 – Welcome & who is Ty Perry?</p><p>01:02 – A Christian Zionist in a shifting Christian world</p><p>03:36 – What is Christian nationalism, really?</p><p>05:22 – Dispensationalism explained (and misunderstood)</p><p>09:20 – Competing stories: Christian Zionism vs Christian nationalism</p><p>12:03 – Law, society, and the limits of imposed Christianity</p><p>14:51 – Rethinking Charlie Kirk</p><p>18:53 – Listening in on the Charlie Kirk memorial</p><p>24:19 – Tucker Carlson, weaponized Christianity, and antisemitism</p><p>26:06 – Groypers, Nick Fuentes, and the ‘Hitler Youth’ analogy</p><p>32:56 – The ‘woke right’ and cancel culture on the right</p><p>35:38 – Liberal values and classical liberalism under strain</p><p>38:28 – Can we rebuild a shared American ‘unum’?</p><p>43:13 – Jewish anxiety and a potential American dystopia</p><p>45:56 – Is there still a philosemitic America? Ty’s view from the churches</p><p>47:55 – Mobilizing the quiet majority & closing thoughts</p>
]]></content:encoded>
      <enclosure length="47954172" type="audio/mpeg" url="https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/c068ba1d-53dd-4548-9a58-5b97459f4ad6/episodes/c2d45ccb-388b-4c7f-8c13-474c790e542f/audio/75a28afa-5a6b-4c9d-8460-059b0ae85b3f/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&amp;feed=vpI_wW0G"/>
      <itunes:title>Christian Zionism, Christian Nationalism and the Jews w/ Ty Perry</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/5d0d9422-665f-4733-91ed-c7426f648010/3000x3000/the-contratrian-ep15-sq-perry-v1.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:49:57</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Ty Perry, Director of Field Ministries at Friends of Israel Gospel Ministries, for a candid conversation about Christian Zionism, Christian nationalism, and the increasingly volatile politics around both. Ty explains his unapologetic Christian Zionism and clarifies what dispensationalists actually believe about Israel, prophecy, and the Second Coming—pushing back on the common claim that they just see Jews as instruments of apocalypse. From there, they unpack the fallout after Charlie Kirk’s murder: the mix of compassionate, orthodox Christian voices (like Erica Kirk) and more extreme, “dank” Christian nationalist voices (like Tucker Carlson and groyper-aligned figures) that surfaced at his memorial. Ty and David explore the rise of the “woke right,” the influence of Nick Fuentes and his followers, and the danger of nihilistic, racialized pseudo-Christianity masquerading as faith. They close by asking whether a coalition of moderates and classical-liberal minded conservatives and liberals can still rebuild trust in American institutions and preserve a civic culture that keeps Jews—and minorities more broadly—safe, even as many Jews feel increasingly squeezed between radical extremes on left and right.

About the Guest


Ty Perry serves as Director of Field Ministries for The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, where he leads strategic planning, organizational growth, and outreach efforts within North American ministries. He is deeply committed to building meaningful bridges with the Jewish community - through relationship-building, volunteer service, and educational programs—and to communicating the love of the Messiah in that context. Ty holds a B.A. in Journalism from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and regularly teaches in churches, colleges, and via online platforms.

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Ty Perry, Director of Field Ministries at Friends of Israel Gospel Ministries, for a candid conversation about Christian Zionism, Christian nationalism, and the increasingly volatile politics around both. Ty explains his unapologetic Christian Zionism and clarifies what dispensationalists actually believe about Israel, prophecy, and the Second Coming—pushing back on the common claim that they just see Jews as instruments of apocalypse. From there, they unpack the fallout after Charlie Kirk’s murder: the mix of compassionate, orthodox Christian voices (like Erica Kirk) and more extreme, “dank” Christian nationalist voices (like Tucker Carlson and groyper-aligned figures) that surfaced at his memorial. Ty and David explore the rise of the “woke right,” the influence of Nick Fuentes and his followers, and the danger of nihilistic, racialized pseudo-Christianity masquerading as faith. They close by asking whether a coalition of moderates and classical-liberal minded conservatives and liberals can still rebuild trust in American institutions and preserve a civic culture that keeps Jews—and minorities more broadly—safe, even as many Jews feel increasingly squeezed between radical extremes on left and right.

About the Guest


Ty Perry serves as Director of Field Ministries for The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, where he leads strategic planning, organizational growth, and outreach efforts within North American ministries. He is deeply committed to building meaningful bridges with the Jewish community - through relationship-building, volunteer service, and educational programs—and to communicating the love of the Messiah in that context. Ty holds a B.A. in Journalism from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and regularly teaches in churches, colleges, and via online platforms.

</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
      <itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode>
      <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
    </item>
    <item>
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      <title>Orthodoxy and the Academy w/ Prof Suzanna Sherry - S2 Ep 14</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 The Origins of Critical Race Theory and Antisemitism </p><p>02:58 The Resurgence of Critical Race Theory and DEI </p><p>05:58 The Impact of Social Movements on Racial Discourse </p><p>08:59 The Orthodoxy of DEI and Its Implications </p><p>11:57 The Conflict Between Free Speech and Campus Culture </p><p>14:59 The Role of Political Climate in Academic Freedom </p><p>17:58 The Dangers of Blunt Political Interventions </p><p>20:53 Navigating the Future of University Discourse </p><p>25:32 The Impact of Educational Policies on Racism and History </p><p>28:12 Navigating Free Speech in Universities </p><p>29:08 The Role of Universities in Promoting Free Speech </p><p>31:43 Challenges of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives </p><p>34:34 The Complexity of Teaching Civic Values in K-12 Education </p><p>36:22 Institutional Neutrality and Ideological Bias in Education </p><p>39:09 Balancing Free Expression and Academic Freedom </p><p>42:00 Addressing Academic Malpractice and Orthodoxy </p><p>45:51 The Dangers of Imposing Orthodoxy in Antisemitism Education</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 31 Oct 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/orthodoxy-and-the-academy-w-prof-suzanna-sherry-s2-ep-14-nFWMj0yv</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/5c12de7b-a047-49c0-a0bc-8943718d6770/the-contratrian-ep13-sherry-v1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 The Origins of Critical Race Theory and Antisemitism </p><p>02:58 The Resurgence of Critical Race Theory and DEI </p><p>05:58 The Impact of Social Movements on Racial Discourse </p><p>08:59 The Orthodoxy of DEI and Its Implications </p><p>11:57 The Conflict Between Free Speech and Campus Culture </p><p>14:59 The Role of Political Climate in Academic Freedom </p><p>17:58 The Dangers of Blunt Political Interventions </p><p>20:53 Navigating the Future of University Discourse </p><p>25:32 The Impact of Educational Policies on Racism and History </p><p>28:12 Navigating Free Speech in Universities </p><p>29:08 The Role of Universities in Promoting Free Speech </p><p>31:43 Challenges of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives </p><p>34:34 The Complexity of Teaching Civic Values in K-12 Education </p><p>36:22 Institutional Neutrality and Ideological Bias in Education </p><p>39:09 Balancing Free Expression and Academic Freedom </p><p>42:00 Addressing Academic Malpractice and Orthodoxy </p><p>45:51 The Dangers of Imposing Orthodoxy in Antisemitism Education</p>
]]></content:encoded>
      <enclosure length="46397274" type="audio/mpeg" url="https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/c068ba1d-53dd-4548-9a58-5b97459f4ad6/episodes/87ae854f-b158-4d71-81e1-e4e2b10c719b/audio/5ad01863-35d0-4eaf-a5a4-b34c5898e13c/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&amp;feed=vpI_wW0G"/>
      <itunes:title>Orthodoxy and the Academy w/ Prof Suzanna Sherry - S2 Ep 14</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/a154f4dc-129b-4936-b761-a99af12804d8/3000x3000/the-contratrian-ep13-sq-sherry-v1.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:48:19</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Prof. Suzanna Sherry discusses the evolution of Critical Race Theory and its implications for antisemitism, the resurgence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and the impact of social media on academic discourse. She explores the tension between university policies and campus culture regarding free speech, the influence of political climates on academic freedom, and the challenges of maintaining ideological neutrality in education. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountability in academic practices and the importance of fostering a culture of open dialogue in universities.

About the Guest
Suzanna Sherry is Professor Emerita and former Herman O. Loewenstein Chair in Law at Vanderbilt University Law School. A nationally recognized scholar of constitutional law, federal courts, and judicial decision-making, she has authored over a hundred books, chapters, and articles exploring the role of courts, federalism, and the limits of ideology in the legal system. Before joining Vanderbilt in 2000, she taught at the University of Minnesota Law School and previously practiced law in Washington, D.C., after clerking on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Known for her rigorous teaching and clear-sighted analysis of the Constitution, Professor Sherry retired from Vanderbilt in 2022 after a distinguished four-decade career shaping legal thought and education
</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Prof. Suzanna Sherry discusses the evolution of Critical Race Theory and its implications for antisemitism, the resurgence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and the impact of social media on academic discourse. She explores the tension between university policies and campus culture regarding free speech, the influence of political climates on academic freedom, and the challenges of maintaining ideological neutrality in education. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountability in academic practices and the importance of fostering a culture of open dialogue in universities.

About the Guest
Suzanna Sherry is Professor Emerita and former Herman O. Loewenstein Chair in Law at Vanderbilt University Law School. A nationally recognized scholar of constitutional law, federal courts, and judicial decision-making, she has authored over a hundred books, chapters, and articles exploring the role of courts, federalism, and the limits of ideology in the legal system. Before joining Vanderbilt in 2000, she taught at the University of Minnesota Law School and previously practiced law in Washington, D.C., after clerking on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Known for her rigorous teaching and clear-sighted analysis of the Constitution, Professor Sherry retired from Vanderbilt in 2022 after a distinguished four-decade career shaping legal thought and education
</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>#navi, #dei, #socialmedia, #thocontrarian, #k12education, #thecontrarian, #academia, #antisemitism, #davidbernstein, #institutionalneutrality, #criticalracetheory, #politicalclimate, #universityculture, #freespeech</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
      <itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode>
      <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
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      <title>The Future of Universities: Ideological Balance and New Institutions</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Higher Education Reform</p><p>02:49 The Impact of the Trump Administration on Universities</p><p>05:47 Civil Rights and Funding in Higher Education</p><p>09:13 The Debate on Ideological Balance</p><p>11:47 The Beachhead Strategy in Higher Education</p><p>14:48 The Role of New Universities</p><p>17:56 The Collapse of DEI Bureaucracies</p><p>21:12 The Future of Teacher Education</p><p>24:05 Conclusion and Future Perspectives</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 Oct 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-universities-ideological-balance-and-new-institutions-Um__i4GZ</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/eedc5879-8fee-4d4c-b1e6-fb2662aa655d/the-contratrian-ep13-jay-v1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Higher Education Reform</p><p>02:49 The Impact of the Trump Administration on Universities</p><p>05:47 Civil Rights and Funding in Higher Education</p><p>09:13 The Debate on Ideological Balance</p><p>11:47 The Beachhead Strategy in Higher Education</p><p>14:48 The Role of New Universities</p><p>17:56 The Collapse of DEI Bureaucracies</p><p>21:12 The Future of Teacher Education</p><p>24:05 Conclusion and Future Perspectives</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>The Future of Universities: Ideological Balance and New Institutions</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/3e6b763a-be00-4617-acef-9537eabc9143/3000x3000/the-contratrian-ep13-sq-jay-v1.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:47:08</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Dr Jay Greene discusses the significant changes in higher education, particularly under the Trump administration. They explore the impact of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, the need for ideological balance in universities, and the potential for new educational institutions to emerge. Jay emphasizes the importance of civil rights compliance in funding and critiques the current state of teacher education, advocating for reforms that reconnect schools with their local communities. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities facing higher education today, including the collapse of DEI bureaucracies and the role of wealthy individuals in shaping the future of universities.
</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Dr Jay Greene discusses the significant changes in higher education, particularly under the Trump administration. They explore the impact of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, the need for ideological balance in universities, and the potential for new educational institutions to emerge. Jay emphasizes the importance of civil rights compliance in funding and critiques the current state of teacher education, advocating for reforms that reconnect schools with their local communities. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities facing higher education today, including the collapse of DEI bureaucracies and the role of wealthy individuals in shaping the future of universities.
</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>#teachereducation, #academicfreedom, #dei, #civilrights, #educationreform, #highereducation, #newuniversities, #universityfunding, #trumpadministration, #ideologicalbalance</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
      <itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode>
      <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
    </item>
    <item>
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      <title>How K-12 Schools Politicized COVID--19 w/ Natalya Murakhver</title>
      <description><![CDATA[Natalya Murakhver discusses her documentary '15 Days,' which explores the impact of school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic. She reflects on her personal experiences during the pandemic, the shifting narratives around public health, and the political dynamics that influenced school policies. The conversation delves into the role of teachers unions, the transformation of education, and the implications for childhood development and socialization.

About the guest

Natalya Murakhver is co-founder of Restore Childhood, a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering parents in guiding their children’s upbringing, education, and health. In 2020, as a mother of two public school daughters, she spearheaded efforts against pandemic-era school closures, co-organizing #KeepNYCSchoolsOpen and later filing a lawsuit to reopen New York City schools for in-person learning. She later launched the #MaskLikeAKid campaign in 2021 to highlight the impact of prolonged restrictions on children and, in 2022, collaborated with global experts to establish the Urgency of Normal, advocating for a return to pre-COVID childhood norms. 
Murakhver’s directorial debut, "15 Days" a documentary chronicling the pandemic school closures draws from her personal fight as a mom and her nationwide connections with families who shared similar struggles to reopen America's schools.

Watch the film at https://www.15daysfilm.com/
 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 2 Oct 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/how-k-12-schools-politicized-covid-19-w-natalya-murakhver-iJGco9ZQ</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/c92988a5-acff-4dbd-874e-edfb6e35e432/the-contratrian-ep12-murakhver-v1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <enclosure length="31410929" type="audio/mpeg" url="https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/c068ba1d-53dd-4548-9a58-5b97459f4ad6/episodes/5bca910e-3cf5-49f6-b3ab-312ca27336d2/audio/38e8e349-0e18-4abf-8e28-71d26d72905c/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&amp;feed=vpI_wW0G"/>
      <itunes:title>How K-12 Schools Politicized COVID--19 w/ Natalya Murakhver</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/47b3f8aa-52a9-42ba-9f1d-c31a1e41acde/3000x3000/the-contratrian-ep12-sq-murakhver-v1.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:32:43</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Natalya Murakhver discusses her documentary &apos;15 Days,&apos; which explores the impact of school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic. She reflects on her personal experiences during the pandemic, the shifting narratives around public health, and the political dynamics that influenced school policies. The conversation delves into the role of teachers unions, the transformation of education, and the implications for childhood development and socialization.

About the guest

Natalya Murakhver is co-founder of Restore Childhood, a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering parents in guiding their children’s upbringing, education, and health. In 2020, as a mother of two public school daughters, she spearheaded efforts against pandemic-era school closures, co-organizing #KeepNYCSchoolsOpen and later filing a lawsuit to reopen New York City schools for in-person learning. She later launched the #MaskLikeAKid campaign in 2021 to highlight the impact of prolonged restrictions on children and, in 2022, collaborated with global experts to establish the Urgency of Normal, advocating for a return to pre-COVID childhood norms. 
Murakhver’s directorial debut, &quot;15 Days&quot; a documentary chronicling the pandemic school closures draws from her personal fight as a mom and her nationwide connections with families who shared similar struggles to reopen America&apos;s schools.

Watch the film at https://www.15daysfilm.com/
</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Natalya Murakhver discusses her documentary &apos;15 Days,&apos; which explores the impact of school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic. She reflects on her personal experiences during the pandemic, the shifting narratives around public health, and the political dynamics that influenced school policies. The conversation delves into the role of teachers unions, the transformation of education, and the implications for childhood development and socialization.

About the guest

Natalya Murakhver is co-founder of Restore Childhood, a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering parents in guiding their children’s upbringing, education, and health. In 2020, as a mother of two public school daughters, she spearheaded efforts against pandemic-era school closures, co-organizing #KeepNYCSchoolsOpen and later filing a lawsuit to reopen New York City schools for in-person learning. She later launched the #MaskLikeAKid campaign in 2021 to highlight the impact of prolonged restrictions on children and, in 2022, collaborated with global experts to establish the Urgency of Normal, advocating for a return to pre-COVID childhood norms. 
Murakhver’s directorial debut, &quot;15 Days&quot; a documentary chronicling the pandemic school closures draws from her personal fight as a mom and her nationwide connections with families who shared similar struggles to reopen America&apos;s schools.

Watch the film at https://www.15daysfilm.com/
</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>#teachersunions, #publichealth, #thecontrarians #k12education, #schoolclosures, #educationtransformation, #natalyamurakhver, #covid19, #film, #davidbernstein, #activism, #socialization, #restorechildhood, #pandemicpolitics, #davidlbernstein, #podcast, #childhooddevelopment</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
      <itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode>
      <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
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      <title>A Congressman&apos;s Role in Countering Radical Ideology in Schools w/ Rep Michael Baumgartner</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Congressman Baumgartner</p><p>01:53 Political Landscape of Eastern Washington</p><p>04:06 Ideological Paradigms: 1776 vs. 1619</p><p>08:03 Challenges in Higher Education</p><p>11:45 K-12 Education and Local Control</p><p>15:53 Federal Influence on State Education</p><p>19:56 Foreign Influence in American Education</p><p>23:50 The Role of Qatar in U.S. Politics</p><p>27:55 Conclusion and Future Outlook</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 18 Sep 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/a-congressmans-role-in-countering-radical-ideology-in-schools-w-rep-michael-baumgartner-gYlKF5pC</link>
      <media:thumbnail height="720" url="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/4831d92d-b6ff-4a4b-8286-ecf923363641/the-contratrian-ep11-baumgartner-v1.jpg" width="1280"/>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Congressman Baumgartner</p><p>01:53 Political Landscape of Eastern Washington</p><p>04:06 Ideological Paradigms: 1776 vs. 1619</p><p>08:03 Challenges in Higher Education</p><p>11:45 K-12 Education and Local Control</p><p>15:53 Federal Influence on State Education</p><p>19:56 Foreign Influence in American Education</p><p>23:50 The Role of Qatar in U.S. Politics</p><p>27:55 Conclusion and Future Outlook</p>
]]></content:encoded>
      <enclosure length="31008434" type="audio/mpeg" url="https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/c068ba1d-53dd-4548-9a58-5b97459f4ad6/episodes/316e6ad1-c69e-42ab-a10d-22b6cff5090a/audio/02441041-f848-4e92-99c4-eb70e91bce4f/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&amp;feed=vpI_wW0G"/>
      <itunes:title>A Congressman&apos;s Role in Countering Radical Ideology in Schools w/ Rep Michael Baumgartner</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/854293ca-2eda-4528-8005-3bb91647f33e/12ab865c-d6a3-404c-82da-cd8eea1c6a21/3000x3000/the-contratrian-ep11-sq-baumgartner-v1.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:32:18</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of the Contrarian podcast, host David Bernstein and co-host Cliff Smith engage Congressman Michael Baumgartner in a discussion about the political landscape of Eastern Washington, the ideological divides in America, and the challenges facing higher education and K-12 education. Congressman Baumgartner shares insights on the influence of foreign entities in American education, particularly focusing on Qatar, and emphasizes the importance of celebrating American values and the U.S.-Israel relationship.

Guest Bio

Congressman Michael Baumgartner represents Washington State’s 5th District in the U.S. House, bringing experience as a State Senator, diplomat, and Spokane County Treasurer. A WSU and Harvard graduate, he has served in Iraq and Afghanistan and is known for championing government efficiency and American values. He lives in Spokane with his wife, Eleanor, and their five children.


</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of the Contrarian podcast, host David Bernstein and co-host Cliff Smith engage Congressman Michael Baumgartner in a discussion about the political landscape of Eastern Washington, the ideological divides in America, and the challenges facing higher education and K-12 education. Congressman Baumgartner shares insights on the influence of foreign entities in American education, particularly focusing on Qatar, and emphasizes the importance of celebrating American values and the U.S.-Israel relationship.

Guest Bio

Congressman Michael Baumgartner represents Washington State’s 5th District in the U.S. House, bringing experience as a State Senator, diplomat, and Spokane County Treasurer. A WSU and Harvard graduate, he has served in Iraq and Afghanistan and is known for championing government efficiency and American values. He lives in Spokane with his wife, Eleanor, and their five children.


</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>#uspolitics #davidbernstein, #qatar, #k12education, #ideologicalparadigms, #foreigninfluence, #congressmanbaumgartner, #federalinfluence, #easternwashington, #highereducation, #podcast</itunes:keywords>
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      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
      <itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode>
      <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
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      <title>Teaching Agency in K-12 Schools w/ Ian Rowe</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Agency and Education </p><p>02:53 The Role of Charter Schools in Empowering Communities </p><p>05:53 Navigating Ideology and Competence in Education </p><p>08:46 The Impact of Institutional Politics on Education </p><p>11:50 Cultural Influences on Education and Success </p><p>14:56 The Importance of Family Structure in Education </p><p>18:01 Agency and the Power of Choice in Education </p><p>20:52 Personal Stories of Agency and Parental Influence </p><p>25:39 The Importance of Agency in Education </p><p>26:39 Cultural Influences on Parenting Styles </p><p>28:56 Balancing Parenting Styles for Different Children </p><p>32:25 Navigating Education: Non-Negotiables vs. Intellectual Freedom </p><p>34:39 The Role of AI in Personalized Education </p><p>39:37 School Choice and Educational Entrepreneurship </p><p>41:32 Defending Classical Liberal Values in Education</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 5 Sep 2025 16:37:01 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/teaching-agency-in-k-12-schools-w-ian-rowe-sAV4TpKD</link>
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      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>00:00 Introduction to Agency and Education </p><p>02:53 The Role of Charter Schools in Empowering Communities </p><p>05:53 Navigating Ideology and Competence in Education </p><p>08:46 The Impact of Institutional Politics on Education </p><p>11:50 Cultural Influences on Education and Success </p><p>14:56 The Importance of Family Structure in Education </p><p>18:01 Agency and the Power of Choice in Education </p><p>20:52 Personal Stories of Agency and Parental Influence </p><p>25:39 The Importance of Agency in Education </p><p>26:39 Cultural Influences on Parenting Styles </p><p>28:56 Balancing Parenting Styles for Different Children </p><p>32:25 Navigating Education: Non-Negotiables vs. Intellectual Freedom </p><p>34:39 The Role of AI in Personalized Education </p><p>39:37 School Choice and Educational Entrepreneurship </p><p>41:32 Defending Classical Liberal Values in Education</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Teaching Agency in K-12 Schools w/ Ian Rowe</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:49:52</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Ian Rowe, CEO of Vertex Partnership Academies and author of &apos;Agency&apos;, discusses the importance of agency in education, the impact of ideology and culture on teaching, and the necessity of instilling virtues in students. Rowe emphasizes the role of family structure and cultural influences on children&apos;s success, advocating for a balanced approach to parenting and education. The conversation also touches on the future of education, the potential of AI, and the need to proactively defend classical liberal values in the face of ideological challenges.
About the Guest
Ian Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, focusing on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. He is the co-founder of Vertex Partnership Academies, a virtues-based International Baccalaureate high school network launched in the Bronx in 2022; chairman of the board of Spence-Chapin, a nonprofit adoption services organization; and co-founder of the National Summer School Initiative.

An early member of Teach for America, Rowe has been widely published in outlets such as the New York Post, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Examiner, and is a frequent guest on talk radio. Following the publication of his book Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for All Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power (Templeton Press, 2022), he began leading AEI’s FREE Initiative, which explores how family, religion, education, and entrepreneurship form the moral fabric that shapes children and fosters agency.
@IanVRowe
</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Ian Rowe, CEO of Vertex Partnership Academies and author of &apos;Agency&apos;, discusses the importance of agency in education, the impact of ideology and culture on teaching, and the necessity of instilling virtues in students. Rowe emphasizes the role of family structure and cultural influences on children&apos;s success, advocating for a balanced approach to parenting and education. The conversation also touches on the future of education, the potential of AI, and the need to proactively defend classical liberal values in the face of ideological challenges.
About the Guest
Ian Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, focusing on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. He is the co-founder of Vertex Partnership Academies, a virtues-based International Baccalaureate high school network launched in the Bronx in 2022; chairman of the board of Spence-Chapin, a nonprofit adoption services organization; and co-founder of the National Summer School Initiative.

An early member of Teach for America, Rowe has been widely published in outlets such as the New York Post, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Examiner, and is a frequent guest on talk radio. Following the publication of his book Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for All Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power (Templeton Press, 2022), he began leading AEI’s FREE Initiative, which explores how family, religion, education, and entrepreneurship form the moral fabric that shapes children and fosters agency.
@IanVRowe
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      <title>Ideology or Incompetence? What Ails Education w/ Robert Pondiscio</title>
      <description><![CDATA[Robert Pondisio explores the complex landscape of education in America, focusing on the ideological battles, the role of competence in teaching, and the impact of curriculum on student outcomes. They discuss the politicization of education, the ongoing reading wars between phonics and whole language approaches, and the influence of socioeconomic factors on learning. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a more effective pedagogy that prioritizes foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills, while also addressing the challenges posed by ideological divisions within the education system.
About the Guest

Robert Pondiscio is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), where he focuses on K–12 education, school choice, and civic education. A former public school teacher in the South Bronx, Pondiscio writes extensively on education policy, literacy, and classroom practice, bringing the perspective of both educator and policy thinker. His work has appeared in leading publications including The Atlantic, The Wall Street Journal, and Education Next. He is also the author of How the Other Half Learns: Equality, Excellence, and the Battle Over School Choice, which examines the successes and challenges of charter schools in low-income communities.

X- @rpondiscio
Substack -https://thenext30years.substack.com/

#EducationReform, #K12Education, #PublicSchools, #EducationDebate, #CultureWars, #Indoctrination, #Competence, #Reading, #Phonics, #Curriculum, #CriticalThinking, #Pedagogy, #SocioeconomicFactors, #StudentSuccess, #EducationPolicy, #RobertPondiscio, #DavidBernstein, #TheContrarianPodcast, #podcastshorts

 
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      <pubDate>Thu, 21 Aug 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/ideology-or-incompetence-what-ails-education-w-robert-pondiscio-yf2zMCEI</link>
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      <itunes:title>Ideology or Incompetence? What Ails Education w/ Robert Pondiscio</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:49:56</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Robert Pondisio explores the complex landscape of education in America, focusing on the ideological battles, the role of competence in teaching, and the impact of curriculum on student outcomes. They discuss the politicization of education, the ongoing reading wars between phonics and whole language approaches, and the influence of socioeconomic factors on learning. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a more effective pedagogy that prioritizes foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills, while also addressing the challenges posed by ideological divisions within the education system.
About the Guest

Robert Pondiscio is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), where he focuses on K–12 education, school choice, and civic education. A former public school teacher in the South Bronx, Pondiscio writes extensively on education policy, literacy, and classroom practice, bringing the perspective of both educator and policy thinker. His work has appeared in leading publications including The Atlantic, The Wall Street Journal, and Education Next. He is also the author of How the Other Half Learns: Equality, Excellence, and the Battle Over School Choice, which examines the successes and challenges of charter schools in low-income communities.

X- @rpondiscio
Substack -https://thenext30years.substack.com/

#EducationReform, #K12Education, #PublicSchools, #EducationDebate, #CultureWars, #Indoctrination, #Competence, #Reading, #Phonics, #Curriculum, #CriticalThinking, #Pedagogy, #SocioeconomicFactors, #StudentSuccess, #EducationPolicy, #RobertPondiscio, #DavidBernstein, #TheContrarianPodcast, #podcastshorts

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Robert Pondisio explores the complex landscape of education in America, focusing on the ideological battles, the role of competence in teaching, and the impact of curriculum on student outcomes. They discuss the politicization of education, the ongoing reading wars between phonics and whole language approaches, and the influence of socioeconomic factors on learning. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a more effective pedagogy that prioritizes foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills, while also addressing the challenges posed by ideological divisions within the education system.
About the Guest

Robert Pondiscio is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), where he focuses on K–12 education, school choice, and civic education. A former public school teacher in the South Bronx, Pondiscio writes extensively on education policy, literacy, and classroom practice, bringing the perspective of both educator and policy thinker. His work has appeared in leading publications including The Atlantic, The Wall Street Journal, and Education Next. He is also the author of How the Other Half Learns: Equality, Excellence, and the Battle Over School Choice, which examines the successes and challenges of charter schools in low-income communities.

X- @rpondiscio
Substack -https://thenext30years.substack.com/

#EducationReform, #K12Education, #PublicSchools, #EducationDebate, #CultureWars, #Indoctrination, #Competence, #Reading, #Phonics, #Curriculum, #CriticalThinking, #Pedagogy, #SocioeconomicFactors, #StudentSuccess, #EducationPolicy, #RobertPondiscio, #DavidBernstein, #TheContrarianPodcast, #podcastshorts

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      <title>Enlightened Patriotism &amp; Liberal Education w/ Prof Steven Smith</title>
      <description><![CDATA[Prof Steven Smith explores the concept of 'Enlightenment Patriotism', contrasting it with other forms of nationalism. He discusses the discomfort surrounding patriotism in contemporary society, the bifurcation of American identity into narratives of return and progress, and the challenges of political polarization. The discussion also touches on the idea of 'brokenism' in institutions and the need for humility in political discourse. They explore the complex issues surrounding anti-Semitism in universities, the ideological influences of postmodernism, and the implications of DEI policies, the sources of radicalism on campuses and the importance of enlightened patriotism in fostering a national identity that acknowledges both achievements and faults. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to diversity and inclusion while maintaining the core mission of educational institutions.

About the Guest

Prof. Steven B. Smith is the Alfred Cowles Professor of Political Science at Yale, where he has taught since 1984. He specializes in the history of political philosophy, focusing on the ancients and moderns, religion and politics, and representative government. His major works include Hegel’s Critique of Liberalism, Spinoza’s Book of Life, Reading Leo Strauss, and Modernity and Its Discontents. He co-directs Yale’s Center for the Study of Representative Institutions and has received several honors, including the Lex Hixon Prize for Teaching Excellence. A lifelong Yankees fan, he jokes about joining the team in the next life.

 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 8 Aug 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/enlightened-patriotism-liberal-education-w-prof-steven-smith-fnViGp3V</link>
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      <itunes:title>Enlightened Patriotism &amp; Liberal Education w/ Prof Steven Smith</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:54:41</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Prof Steven Smith explores the concept of &apos;Enlightenment Patriotism&apos;, contrasting it with other forms of nationalism. He discusses the discomfort surrounding patriotism in contemporary society, the bifurcation of American identity into narratives of return and progress, and the challenges of political polarization. The discussion also touches on the idea of &apos;brokenism&apos; in institutions and the need for humility in political discourse. They explore the complex issues surrounding anti-Semitism in universities, the ideological influences of postmodernism, and the implications of DEI policies, the sources of radicalism on campuses and the importance of enlightened patriotism in fostering a national identity that acknowledges both achievements and faults. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to diversity and inclusion while maintaining the core mission of educational institutions.

About the Guest

Prof. Steven B. Smith is the Alfred Cowles Professor of Political Science at Yale, where he has taught since 1984. He specializes in the history of political philosophy, focusing on the ancients and moderns, religion and politics, and representative government. His major works include Hegel’s Critique of Liberalism, Spinoza’s Book of Life, Reading Leo Strauss, and Modernity and Its Discontents. He co-directs Yale’s Center for the Study of Representative Institutions and has received several honors, including the Lex Hixon Prize for Teaching Excellence. A lifelong Yankees fan, he jokes about joining the team in the next life.

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Prof Steven Smith explores the concept of &apos;Enlightenment Patriotism&apos;, contrasting it with other forms of nationalism. He discusses the discomfort surrounding patriotism in contemporary society, the bifurcation of American identity into narratives of return and progress, and the challenges of political polarization. The discussion also touches on the idea of &apos;brokenism&apos; in institutions and the need for humility in political discourse. They explore the complex issues surrounding anti-Semitism in universities, the ideological influences of postmodernism, and the implications of DEI policies, the sources of radicalism on campuses and the importance of enlightened patriotism in fostering a national identity that acknowledges both achievements and faults. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to diversity and inclusion while maintaining the core mission of educational institutions.

About the Guest

Prof. Steven B. Smith is the Alfred Cowles Professor of Political Science at Yale, where he has taught since 1984. He specializes in the history of political philosophy, focusing on the ancients and moderns, religion and politics, and representative government. His major works include Hegel’s Critique of Liberalism, Spinoza’s Book of Life, Reading Leo Strauss, and Modernity and Its Discontents. He co-directs Yale’s Center for the Study of Representative Institutions and has received several honors, including the Lex Hixon Prize for Teaching Excellence. A lifelong Yankees fan, he jokes about joining the team in the next life.

</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Defending Ed: A New Era in Education Advocacy w/ Nicole Neily</title>
      <description><![CDATA[In this episode of the Contrarian Podcast, host David Bernstein speaks with Nicole Neily, founder and CEO of Defending Ed, about the organization's mission to counter radicalism in K-12 education and its recent expansion into higher education. They discuss the challenges facing both educational systems, the interconnectedness of K-12 and higher education, and the importance of parental engagement in advocating for educational reform. Neily shares insights on the political and pedagogical challenges in education, the role of teacher training, and the evolution of parental activism in response to perceived threats to educational integrity. Neily discusses the evolving landscape of education, focusing on the importance of school boards, the influence of teachers unions, and the challenges posed by state and federal policies. She emphasizes the need for parental involvement and activism, the role of Congress in oversight, and the impact of executive orders on educational practices. The discussion highlights the complexities of navigating educational reform amidst political and social pressures.

Guest Bio
Nicole Neily is the President & Founder of Defending Education. She is also the founder of Speech First, a national campus free speech organization, and has worked at the Independent Women’s Forum and the Cato Institute. 

 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/defending-ed-a-new-era-in-education-advocacy-w-nicole-neily-xakk7uSk</link>
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      <itunes:title>Defending Ed: A New Era in Education Advocacy w/ Nicole Neily</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:40:48</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of the Contrarian Podcast, host David Bernstein speaks with Nicole Neily, founder and CEO of Defending Ed, about the organization&apos;s mission to counter radicalism in K-12 education and its recent expansion into higher education. They discuss the challenges facing both educational systems, the interconnectedness of K-12 and higher education, and the importance of parental engagement in advocating for educational reform. Neily shares insights on the political and pedagogical challenges in education, the role of teacher training, and the evolution of parental activism in response to perceived threats to educational integrity. Neily discusses the evolving landscape of education, focusing on the importance of school boards, the influence of teachers unions, and the challenges posed by state and federal policies. She emphasizes the need for parental involvement and activism, the role of Congress in oversight, and the impact of executive orders on educational practices. The discussion highlights the complexities of navigating educational reform amidst political and social pressures.

Guest Bio
Nicole Neily is the President &amp; Founder of Defending Education. She is also the founder of Speech First, a national campus free speech organization, and has worked at the Independent Women’s Forum and the Cato Institute. 

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of the Contrarian Podcast, host David Bernstein speaks with Nicole Neily, founder and CEO of Defending Ed, about the organization&apos;s mission to counter radicalism in K-12 education and its recent expansion into higher education. They discuss the challenges facing both educational systems, the interconnectedness of K-12 and higher education, and the importance of parental engagement in advocating for educational reform. Neily shares insights on the political and pedagogical challenges in education, the role of teacher training, and the evolution of parental activism in response to perceived threats to educational integrity. Neily discusses the evolving landscape of education, focusing on the importance of school boards, the influence of teachers unions, and the challenges posed by state and federal policies. She emphasizes the need for parental involvement and activism, the role of Congress in oversight, and the impact of executive orders on educational practices. The discussion highlights the complexities of navigating educational reform amidst political and social pressures.

Guest Bio
Nicole Neily is the President &amp; Founder of Defending Education. She is also the founder of Speech First, a national campus free speech organization, and has worked at the Independent Women’s Forum and the Cato Institute. 

</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>educational policy, education reform, dei, activism, teachers unions, state challenges, parental rights, k-12 education, oversight, school boards, federal policies, teacher training, parental engagement, political challenges, curriculum, higher education, defending ed, education, equity in education</itunes:keywords>
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      <title>Neutralizing the Political Power of Teachers&apos; Unions w/ Mailee Smith</title>
      <description><![CDATA[In this conversation, David Bernstein and Mailee Smith discuss the alarming rise of radicalism within teachers unions, particularly focusing on the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and its influence on education policy. They explore how a small faction of ideologically driven leaders has taken control of these unions, leading to significant political spending and a shift in educational priorities. The discussion also touches on the implications for public education in Illinois and New York, the role of school boards, and the importance of literacy initiatives. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for reform and the potential for change as public sentiment shifts against the unions' agendas. This episode was recorded on the 15th of May, 2025

Guest Bio
Mailee Smith is the senior director of labor policy and staff attorney at the Illinois Policy Institute, where she specializes in government union labor relations and their impact on taxpayers. Her expertise has been featured on platforms such as Fox News, the Cato Institute, and various national media outlets, with her legal analyses published in the National Review, Chicago Tribune, and Crain’s Chicago Business. A magna cum laude graduate of Valparaiso University Law School, she clerked for Judge Kenneth L. Ryskamp in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida and previously served as primary litigation attorney at a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit. Mailee is admitted to practice in Illinois, the U.S. Supreme Court, and several federal appellate courts, and she also teaches a university course on public policy.

 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 8 Jul 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/neutralizing-the-political-power-of-teachers-unions-w-mailee-smith-IbilAnQg</link>
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      <itunes:title>Neutralizing the Political Power of Teachers&apos; Unions w/ Mailee Smith</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:42:12</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this conversation, David Bernstein and Mailee Smith discuss the alarming rise of radicalism within teachers unions, particularly focusing on the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and its influence on education policy. They explore how a small faction of ideologically driven leaders has taken control of these unions, leading to significant political spending and a shift in educational priorities. The discussion also touches on the implications for public education in Illinois and New York, the role of school boards, and the importance of literacy initiatives. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for reform and the potential for change as public sentiment shifts against the unions&apos; agendas. This episode was recorded on the 15th of May, 2025

Guest Bio
Mailee Smith is the senior director of labor policy and staff attorney at the Illinois Policy Institute, where she specializes in government union labor relations and their impact on taxpayers. Her expertise has been featured on platforms such as Fox News, the Cato Institute, and various national media outlets, with her legal analyses published in the National Review, Chicago Tribune, and Crain’s Chicago Business. A magna cum laude graduate of Valparaiso University Law School, she clerked for Judge Kenneth L. Ryskamp in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida and previously served as primary litigation attorney at a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit. Mailee is admitted to practice in Illinois, the U.S. Supreme Court, and several federal appellate courts, and she also teaches a university course on public policy.

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this conversation, David Bernstein and Mailee Smith discuss the alarming rise of radicalism within teachers unions, particularly focusing on the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and its influence on education policy. They explore how a small faction of ideologically driven leaders has taken control of these unions, leading to significant political spending and a shift in educational priorities. The discussion also touches on the implications for public education in Illinois and New York, the role of school boards, and the importance of literacy initiatives. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for reform and the potential for change as public sentiment shifts against the unions&apos; agendas. This episode was recorded on the 15th of May, 2025

Guest Bio
Mailee Smith is the senior director of labor policy and staff attorney at the Illinois Policy Institute, where she specializes in government union labor relations and their impact on taxpayers. Her expertise has been featured on platforms such as Fox News, the Cato Institute, and various national media outlets, with her legal analyses published in the National Review, Chicago Tribune, and Crain’s Chicago Business. A magna cum laude graduate of Valparaiso University Law School, she clerked for Judge Kenneth L. Ryskamp in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida and previously served as primary litigation attorney at a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit. Mailee is admitted to practice in Illinois, the U.S. Supreme Court, and several federal appellate courts, and she also teaches a university course on public policy.

</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Powerful Insights on Right-wing Politics and Antisemitism w/ Dr Christopher Schorr</title>
      <description><![CDATA[Dr Christopher Schorr, Director of Higher Education at the America First Policy Institute discusses the intersection of antisemitism and woke ideology, the role of higher education in addressing these issues, and the complexities of Christian nationalism in American politics. The conversation highlights the need for a unified front against antisemitism and the implications of free speech on campus. Dr Schorr shares insights from his academic journey and the mission of the America First Policy Institute, emphasizing the importance of American values in combating ideological extremism. He discusses the intersection of free speech, equal protection, and civil rights within the context of higher education and K-12 schooling, exploring the implications of recent political changes, the role of viewpoint diversity in universities, and the challenges posed by divisive concepts in education. The discussion also touches on the influence of education schools on K-12 curricula and the political consequences of blue state policies. Throughout, emphasizing the importance of fostering an environment that encourages debate and critical thinking.

Dr. Christopher Schorr is Director of the Higher Education Reform Initiative at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), where he leads research and policy efforts focused on eliminating divisive DEI and gender theory practices, promoting academic freedom, combating antisemitism, and reforming student loans and accreditation.
A Marine Corps veteran of the Iraq War, Dr. Schorr previously served as a research analyst for the Defense Health Board, a federal advisory committee to the Department of Defense. He is coauthor of the Amazon best seller Black Eye for America: How Critical Race Theory is Burning Down the House.
He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in American Government from Georgetown University and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego. 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/powerful-insights-on-right-wing-politics-and-antisemitism-w-dr-christopher-schorr-rhHq6fp0</link>
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      <itunes:title>Powerful Insights on Right-wing Politics and Antisemitism w/ Dr Christopher Schorr</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:57:25</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Dr Christopher Schorr, Director of Higher Education at the America First Policy Institute discusses the intersection of antisemitism and woke ideology, the role of higher education in addressing these issues, and the complexities of Christian nationalism in American politics. The conversation highlights the need for a unified front against antisemitism and the implications of free speech on campus. Dr Schorr shares insights from his academic journey and the mission of the America First Policy Institute, emphasizing the importance of American values in combating ideological extremism. He discusses the intersection of free speech, equal protection, and civil rights within the context of higher education and K-12 schooling, exploring the implications of recent political changes, the role of viewpoint diversity in universities, and the challenges posed by divisive concepts in education. The discussion also touches on the influence of education schools on K-12 curricula and the political consequences of blue state policies. Throughout, emphasizing the importance of fostering an environment that encourages debate and critical thinking.

Dr. Christopher Schorr is Director of the Higher Education Reform Initiative at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), where he leads research and policy efforts focused on eliminating divisive DEI and gender theory practices, promoting academic freedom, combating antisemitism, and reforming student loans and accreditation.
A Marine Corps veteran of the Iraq War, Dr. Schorr previously served as a research analyst for the Defense Health Board, a federal advisory committee to the Department of Defense. He is coauthor of the Amazon best seller Black Eye for America: How Critical Race Theory is Burning Down the House.
He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in American Government from Georgetown University and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Dr Christopher Schorr, Director of Higher Education at the America First Policy Institute discusses the intersection of antisemitism and woke ideology, the role of higher education in addressing these issues, and the complexities of Christian nationalism in American politics. The conversation highlights the need for a unified front against antisemitism and the implications of free speech on campus. Dr Schorr shares insights from his academic journey and the mission of the America First Policy Institute, emphasizing the importance of American values in combating ideological extremism. He discusses the intersection of free speech, equal protection, and civil rights within the context of higher education and K-12 schooling, exploring the implications of recent political changes, the role of viewpoint diversity in universities, and the challenges posed by divisive concepts in education. The discussion also touches on the influence of education schools on K-12 curricula and the political consequences of blue state policies. Throughout, emphasizing the importance of fostering an environment that encourages debate and critical thinking.

Dr. Christopher Schorr is Director of the Higher Education Reform Initiative at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), where he leads research and policy efforts focused on eliminating divisive DEI and gender theory practices, promoting academic freedom, combating antisemitism, and reforming student loans and accreditation.
A Marine Corps veteran of the Iraq War, Dr. Schorr previously served as a research analyst for the Defense Health Board, a federal advisory committee to the Department of Defense. He is coauthor of the Amazon best seller Black Eye for America: How Critical Race Theory is Burning Down the House.
He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in American Government from Georgetown University and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego.</itunes:subtitle>
      <itunes:keywords>equal protection, divisive concepts, civil rights, christian nationalism, woke ideology, chris schorr, viewpoint diversity, federalism, k-12 education, jewish representation, america first policy institute, political consequences, higher education, american values, free speech, free speech, contrarian podcast, higher education, civic nationalism, antisemitism</itunes:keywords>
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      <title>Did Ed Schools turn Teachers into Political Activists? w/ Prof Lyell Asher - S2 Ep 4</title>
      <description><![CDATA[Professor Lyell Asher joins the podcast to explore the evolution of education schools and their far-reaching impact on both higher education and the K–12 system. He traces the origins of ed schools in the early 20th century, the ideological shifts of the 1960s, and how these changes contributed to a growing disconnect between educational institutions and mainstream societal values.
Professor Asher examines the influence of education schools on college administration and student life—particularly the role of dormitories in shaping student ideology. He also addresses critical challenges in higher education, including grade inflation, administrative leadership gaps, and the politicization of academic standards.
The conversation highlights potential solutions, such as creating civic education centers and prioritizing foundational skills like reading. Asher also reflects on the role of government in education and emphasizes the essential part parents must play in shaping educational content.
About the Guest

Dr Lyell Asher is a professor of English at Lewis & Clark College, where he has taught since 1994. He holds a PhD and MA from the University of Virginia and a BA from Vanderbilt University, specializing in Renaissance English literature and Shakespeare.
His essays and opinion pieces have appeared in Publication of the Modern Language Association (PMLA), The Yale Journal of Criticism, The Wall Street Journal, The American Scholar, Quillette, and The Chronicle of Higher Education, among others. He has also been a guest on podcasts such as The American Party and NPR’s Watching America.

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful discussions!

Follow David:
X: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX
Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1
Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9

Listen to the podcast on:

Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8
Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03
YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3
Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072

We would love to hear from you - podcast@navivalues.org 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 30 May 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/did-ed-schools-turn-teachers-into-political-activists-w-prof-lyell-asher-s2-ep-4-SRAwPTfW</link>
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      <itunes:title>Did Ed Schools turn Teachers into Political Activists? w/ Prof Lyell Asher - S2 Ep 4</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:54:35</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Professor Lyell Asher joins the podcast to explore the evolution of education schools and their far-reaching impact on both higher education and the K–12 system. He traces the origins of ed schools in the early 20th century, the ideological shifts of the 1960s, and how these changes contributed to a growing disconnect between educational institutions and mainstream societal values.
Professor Asher examines the influence of education schools on college administration and student life—particularly the role of dormitories in shaping student ideology. He also addresses critical challenges in higher education, including grade inflation, administrative leadership gaps, and the politicization of academic standards.
The conversation highlights potential solutions, such as creating civic education centers and prioritizing foundational skills like reading. Asher also reflects on the role of government in education and emphasizes the essential part parents must play in shaping educational content.
About the Guest

Dr Lyell Asher is a professor of English at Lewis &amp; Clark College, where he has taught since 1994. He holds a PhD and MA from the University of Virginia and a BA from Vanderbilt University, specializing in Renaissance English literature and Shakespeare.
His essays and opinion pieces have appeared in Publication of the Modern Language Association (PMLA), The Yale Journal of Criticism, The Wall Street Journal, The American Scholar, Quillette, and The Chronicle of Higher Education, among others. He has also been a guest on podcasts such as The American Party and NPR’s Watching America.

🔔 Don&apos;t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful discussions!

Follow David:
X: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX
Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1
Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9

Listen to the podcast on:

Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8
Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03
YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3
Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072

We would love to hear from you - podcast@navivalues.org</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Professor Lyell Asher joins the podcast to explore the evolution of education schools and their far-reaching impact on both higher education and the K–12 system. He traces the origins of ed schools in the early 20th century, the ideological shifts of the 1960s, and how these changes contributed to a growing disconnect between educational institutions and mainstream societal values.
Professor Asher examines the influence of education schools on college administration and student life—particularly the role of dormitories in shaping student ideology. He also addresses critical challenges in higher education, including grade inflation, administrative leadership gaps, and the politicization of academic standards.
The conversation highlights potential solutions, such as creating civic education centers and prioritizing foundational skills like reading. Asher also reflects on the role of government in education and emphasizes the essential part parents must play in shaping educational content.
About the Guest

Dr Lyell Asher is a professor of English at Lewis &amp; Clark College, where he has taught since 1994. He holds a PhD and MA from the University of Virginia and a BA from Vanderbilt University, specializing in Renaissance English literature and Shakespeare.
His essays and opinion pieces have appeared in Publication of the Modern Language Association (PMLA), The Yale Journal of Criticism, The Wall Street Journal, The American Scholar, Quillette, and The Chronicle of Higher Education, among others. He has also been a guest on podcasts such as The American Party and NPR’s Watching America.

🔔 Don&apos;t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful discussions!

Follow David:
X: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX
Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1
Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9

Listen to the podcast on:

Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8
Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03
YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3
Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072

We would love to hear from you - podcast@navivalues.org</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Christianity &amp; Liberalism : A Broken Bargain?</title>
      <description><![CDATA[
Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at Brookings and author of 'Cross-Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy.' discusses the intricate relationship between Christianity and liberal democracy, exploring how both have influenced each other over time. Rauch argues that Christianity has strayed from its foundational role in supporting democratic values. The conversation delves into the concepts of thin and thick Christianity, the impact of identity politics, and the current state of illiberalism in society. Ultimately, they reflect on the future of Christianity and its potential to adapt and thrive in a changing cultural landscape.

Guest Bio
Jonathan Rauch is an American author, journalist, and activist. He is a senior fellow in governance studies at the Brookings Institution and is the author of eight books and many articles on public policy, culture, and government He is  a contributing editor of The Atlantic. His most recent book is Cross Purposes -Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy.

 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 May 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/christianity-liberalism-a-broken-bargain-2c4TibQw</link>
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      <itunes:title>Christianity &amp; Liberalism : A Broken Bargain?</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:45:25</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at Brookings and author of &apos;Cross-Purposes: Christianity&apos;s Broken Bargain with Democracy.&apos; discusses the intricate relationship between Christianity and liberal democracy, exploring how both have influenced each other over time. Rauch argues that Christianity has strayed from its foundational role in supporting democratic values. The conversation delves into the concepts of thin and thick Christianity, the impact of identity politics, and the current state of illiberalism in society. Ultimately, they reflect on the future of Christianity and its potential to adapt and thrive in a changing cultural landscape.

Guest Bio
Jonathan Rauch is an American author, journalist, and activist. He is a senior fellow in governance studies at the Brookings Institution and is the author of eight books and many articles on public policy, culture, and government He is  a contributing editor of The Atlantic. His most recent book is Cross Purposes -Christianity&apos;s Broken Bargain with Democracy.

</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>
Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at Brookings and author of &apos;Cross-Purposes: Christianity&apos;s Broken Bargain with Democracy.&apos; discusses the intricate relationship between Christianity and liberal democracy, exploring how both have influenced each other over time. Rauch argues that Christianity has strayed from its foundational role in supporting democratic values. The conversation delves into the concepts of thin and thick Christianity, the impact of identity politics, and the current state of illiberalism in society. Ultimately, they reflect on the future of Christianity and its potential to adapt and thrive in a changing cultural landscape.

Guest Bio
Jonathan Rauch is an American author, journalist, and activist. He is a senior fellow in governance studies at the Brookings Institution and is the author of eight books and many articles on public policy, culture, and government He is  a contributing editor of The Atlantic. His most recent book is Cross Purposes -Christianity&apos;s Broken Bargain with Democracy.

</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Federal Role in Local Education Policy w/ Ginny Gentles - S2 Ep 2</title>
      <description><![CDATA[Ginny Gentles, discusses the current landscape of education reform, the influence of federal policies, and the implications of executive orders on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs in schools. Gentles emphasizes the importance of local and state-level engagement in education policy and the challenges posed by teachers unions and bureaucratic systems. The conversation highlights the ongoing battle against DEI ideologies in education and the need for strategic local actions to effect change. Gentles discusses the rising concerns of antisemitism and radical ideologies in education, particularly within teachers' unions and colleges. They explore the implications of decolonizing the curriculum, the risks associated with education freedom and school choice, and the importance of focusing on academic instruction over ideological debates. The discussion emphasizes the need for parental advocacy and the challenges posed by achievement gaps and equity policies. They also address the role of the Department of Education in civil rights enforcement and strategies for mobilizing parents against radical ideologies in schools.

Guest Bio

Virginia (Ginny) Gentles is the Director of Education Freedom and Parental Rights at the Defense of Freedom Institute. She is also a contributor to the Independent Women's Network. Gentles is a long-time school choice advocate and former state and federal education policy leader. She is also the host of the podcast Freedom to Learn.

-Twitter -@ginnygentles
-Podcast -https://dfipolicy.org/freedomtolearn/
 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 2 May 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/the-federal-role-in-local-education-policy-w-ginny-gentles-s2-ep-2-nXHgCOWH</link>
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      <itunes:title>The Federal Role in Local Education Policy w/ Ginny Gentles - S2 Ep 2</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:50:44</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Ginny Gentles, discusses the current landscape of education reform, the influence of federal policies, and the implications of executive orders on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs in schools. Gentles emphasizes the importance of local and state-level engagement in education policy and the challenges posed by teachers unions and bureaucratic systems. The conversation highlights the ongoing battle against DEI ideologies in education and the need for strategic local actions to effect change. Gentles discusses the rising concerns of antisemitism and radical ideologies in education, particularly within teachers&apos; unions and colleges. They explore the implications of decolonizing the curriculum, the risks associated with education freedom and school choice, and the importance of focusing on academic instruction over ideological debates. The discussion emphasizes the need for parental advocacy and the challenges posed by achievement gaps and equity policies. They also address the role of the Department of Education in civil rights enforcement and strategies for mobilizing parents against radical ideologies in schools.

Guest Bio

Virginia (Ginny) Gentles is the Director of Education Freedom and Parental Rights at the Defense of Freedom Institute. She is also a contributor to the Independent Women&apos;s Network. Gentles is a long-time school choice advocate and former state and federal education policy leader. She is also the host of the podcast Freedom to Learn.

-Twitter -@ginnygentles
-Podcast -https://dfipolicy.org/freedomtolearn/
</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Ginny Gentles, discusses the current landscape of education reform, the influence of federal policies, and the implications of executive orders on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs in schools. Gentles emphasizes the importance of local and state-level engagement in education policy and the challenges posed by teachers unions and bureaucratic systems. The conversation highlights the ongoing battle against DEI ideologies in education and the need for strategic local actions to effect change. Gentles discusses the rising concerns of antisemitism and radical ideologies in education, particularly within teachers&apos; unions and colleges. They explore the implications of decolonizing the curriculum, the risks associated with education freedom and school choice, and the importance of focusing on academic instruction over ideological debates. The discussion emphasizes the need for parental advocacy and the challenges posed by achievement gaps and equity policies. They also address the role of the Department of Education in civil rights enforcement and strategies for mobilizing parents against radical ideologies in schools.

Guest Bio

Virginia (Ginny) Gentles is the Director of Education Freedom and Parental Rights at the Defense of Freedom Institute. She is also a contributor to the Independent Women&apos;s Network. Gentles is a long-time school choice advocate and former state and federal education policy leader. She is also the host of the podcast Freedom to Learn.

-Twitter -@ginnygentles
-Podcast -https://dfipolicy.org/freedomtolearn/
</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Democracy and Political Ignorance with Prof Ilya Somin</title>
      <description><![CDATA[Prof Ilya Somin discusses the current state of antisemitism, exploring its salience in both left-wing and right-wing ideologies. He analyzes the historical roots of anti-Zionism, the influence of foreign money on campus protests, and the ideological underpinnings of antisemitism across the political spectrum. The discussion also touches on the role of government in academia and the implications of political interventions in educational institutions.

Prof Ilya Somin is an American legal scholar and professor of law at George Mason University. He holds the B. Kenneth Simon Chair in Constitutional Studies at the Cato Institute and is a blogger for the Volokh Conspiracy. From 2006 to 2013, he served as co-editor of the Supreme Court Economic Review. His research explores constitutional law, property law, migration rights, and the role of popular political participation in constitutional democracy.

Prof Somin is the author of several books, including Democracy and Political Ignorance: Why Smaller Government Is Smarter (2013, 2nd ed. 2016), The Grasping Hand: Kelo v. City of New London and the Limits of Eminent Domain (2015), Free to Move: Foot Voting, Migration, and Political Freedom (2020), and Lawless: The Obama Administration’s Unlawful Executive Actions and the Supreme Court (2024). 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 2025 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/democracy-and-political-ignorance-w-prof-ilya-somin-s2-ep1-3hJrHqhb</link>
      <enclosure length="49118606" type="audio/mpeg" url="https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/c068ba1d-53dd-4548-9a58-5b97459f4ad6/episodes/08761fb6-fd8c-4391-a66f-52a05f9a5201/audio/7082eaf9-7f0f-4c7e-9695-19f677432435/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&amp;feed=vpI_wW0G"/>
      <itunes:title>Democracy and Political Ignorance with Prof Ilya Somin</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:51:09</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Prof Ilya Somin discusses the current state of antisemitism, exploring its salience in both left-wing and right-wing ideologies. He analyzes the historical roots of anti-Zionism, the influence of foreign money on campus protests, and the ideological underpinnings of antisemitism across the political spectrum. The discussion also touches on the role of government in academia and the implications of political interventions in educational institutions.

Prof Ilya Somin is an American legal scholar and professor of law at George Mason University. He holds the B. Kenneth Simon Chair in Constitutional Studies at the Cato Institute and is a blogger for the Volokh Conspiracy. From 2006 to 2013, he served as co-editor of the Supreme Court Economic Review. His research explores constitutional law, property law, migration rights, and the role of popular political participation in constitutional democracy.

Prof Somin is the author of several books, including Democracy and Political Ignorance: Why Smaller Government Is Smarter (2013, 2nd ed. 2016), The Grasping Hand: Kelo v. City of New London and the Limits of Eminent Domain (2015), Free to Move: Foot Voting, Migration, and Political Freedom (2020), and Lawless: The Obama Administration’s Unlawful Executive Actions and the Supreme Court (2024).</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Prof Ilya Somin discusses the current state of antisemitism, exploring its salience in both left-wing and right-wing ideologies. He analyzes the historical roots of anti-Zionism, the influence of foreign money on campus protests, and the ideological underpinnings of antisemitism across the political spectrum. The discussion also touches on the role of government in academia and the implications of political interventions in educational institutions.

Prof Ilya Somin is an American legal scholar and professor of law at George Mason University. He holds the B. Kenneth Simon Chair in Constitutional Studies at the Cato Institute and is a blogger for the Volokh Conspiracy. From 2006 to 2013, he served as co-editor of the Supreme Court Economic Review. His research explores constitutional law, property law, migration rights, and the role of popular political participation in constitutional democracy.

Prof Somin is the author of several books, including Democracy and Political Ignorance: Why Smaller Government Is Smarter (2013, 2nd ed. 2016), The Grasping Hand: Kelo v. City of New London and the Limits of Eminent Domain (2015), Free to Move: Foot Voting, Migration, and Political Freedom (2020), and Lawless: The Obama Administration’s Unlawful Executive Actions and the Supreme Court (2024).</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Unmasking Campus Censorship with Eugene Volokh</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 4 Jul 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/unmasking-campus-censorship-with-eugene-volokh-Bz0s0qBe</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
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      <itunes:title>Unmasking Campus Censorship with Eugene Volokh</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>In this thought-provoking episode, David Bernstein interviews legal scholar Eugene Volokh on the complexities of free speech, academic freedom, and university administration. They delve into the contentious debates surrounding hate speech codes, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and the role of state legislatures in shaping university policies. Volokh shares his insights on the potential dangers of increasing speech restrictions, the challenges of fostering a culture of free inquiry on campus, and the nuanced balance between protecting freedom and maintaining order in academic settings. This episode offers a deep dive into the intricacies of maintaining free speech while navigating the evolving landscape of higher education.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this thought-provoking episode, David Bernstein interviews legal scholar Eugene Volokh on the complexities of free speech, academic freedom, and university administration. They delve into the contentious debates surrounding hate speech codes, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and the role of state legislatures in shaping university policies. Volokh shares his insights on the potential dangers of increasing speech restrictions, the challenges of fostering a culture of free inquiry on campus, and the nuanced balance between protecting freedom and maintaining order in academic settings. This episode offers a deep dive into the intricacies of maintaining free speech while navigating the evolving landscape of higher education.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Protecting Intellectual Diversity in Academia with Yuval Levin</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Follow David on:</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p>Listen to the podcast on:</p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora:<a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 27 Jun 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein, Yuval Levin, JILV)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/protecting-intellectual-diversity-in-academia-with-yuval-levin-TD_YTc7W</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Follow David on:</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p>Listen to the podcast on:</p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora:<a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
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      <itunes:title>Protecting Intellectual Diversity in Academia with Yuval Levin</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>Join us for an insightful conversation with Yuval Levin, renowned conservative thinker and editor of *National Affairs*. In this episode of The Contrarian, David Bernstein engages Levin in a thoughtful discussion about the current crisis on college campuses, including the rise of anti-Semitism and the pervasive influence of ideological bias. Levin shares his perspectives on:

- The role of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) statements in public and private universities
- The impact of recent global events on campus ideologies
- Promising strategies for fostering open academic inquiry and combating radicalism
- The potential of new academic initiatives and alternative centers of learning
- The influence of foreign funding on university agendas

Yuval Levin&apos;s clear and articulate analysis provides valuable insights into how conservatives can respond constructively to these challenges. Whether you&apos;re a student, educator, or concerned citizen, this discussion offers important perspectives on preserving the integrity of higher education and promoting genuine intellectual diversity.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Join us for an insightful conversation with Yuval Levin, renowned conservative thinker and editor of *National Affairs*. In this episode of The Contrarian, David Bernstein engages Levin in a thoughtful discussion about the current crisis on college campuses, including the rise of anti-Semitism and the pervasive influence of ideological bias. Levin shares his perspectives on:

- The role of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) statements in public and private universities
- The impact of recent global events on campus ideologies
- Promising strategies for fostering open academic inquiry and combating radicalism
- The potential of new academic initiatives and alternative centers of learning
- The influence of foreign funding on university agendas

Yuval Levin&apos;s clear and articulate analysis provides valuable insights into how conservatives can respond constructively to these challenges. Whether you&apos;re a student, educator, or concerned citizen, this discussion offers important perspectives on preserving the integrity of higher education and promoting genuine intellectual diversity.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Reforming Higher Education for Free Inquiry with John D. Sailer</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora: <a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 20 Jun 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/reforming-higher-education-for-free-inquiry-with-john-d-sailer-Ufz3Ft2j</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora: <a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
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      <itunes:title>Reforming Higher Education for Free Inquiry with John D. Sailer</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this insightful episode, David Bernstein sits down with John D. Sailer to delve into the complexities and challenges facing higher education today, particularly focusing on the impact and controversies surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. They explore the potential legal implications of DEI loyalty oaths and the recent Supreme Court decision on affirmative action, which could provide new avenues to challenge discriminatory practices.

The conversation highlights innovative institutional reforms, such as the establishment of centers for civic thought at universities like UNC and Yale Law School, aimed at promoting free and open inquiry. Sailer discusses the problematic political imbalance in academia and debates the merits and pitfalls of viewpoint affirmative action. He emphasizes the importance of hiring practices that prioritize commitment to academic principles over political ideologies.

Bernstein and Sailer tackle the thorny issue of balancing faculty governance with the need for external interventions when academic institutions stray from their core educational missions. They propose long-term solutions, including building a pipeline of scholars dedicated to classical liberal education and creating supportive structures within and outside universities.

The episode concludes with a pragmatic discussion on the necessity of political tactics and interventions to achieve meaningful reform in higher education, even when such measures might be blunt or controversial. Sailer and Bernstein agree that while risks are involved, the pursuit of positive outcomes for the future of universities is paramount.

Join us for a thought-provoking dialogue on the current state and future direction of higher education, offering valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and anyone passionate about academic freedom and the pursuit of truth.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this insightful episode, David Bernstein sits down with John D. Sailer to delve into the complexities and challenges facing higher education today, particularly focusing on the impact and controversies surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. They explore the potential legal implications of DEI loyalty oaths and the recent Supreme Court decision on affirmative action, which could provide new avenues to challenge discriminatory practices.

The conversation highlights innovative institutional reforms, such as the establishment of centers for civic thought at universities like UNC and Yale Law School, aimed at promoting free and open inquiry. Sailer discusses the problematic political imbalance in academia and debates the merits and pitfalls of viewpoint affirmative action. He emphasizes the importance of hiring practices that prioritize commitment to academic principles over political ideologies.

Bernstein and Sailer tackle the thorny issue of balancing faculty governance with the need for external interventions when academic institutions stray from their core educational missions. They propose long-term solutions, including building a pipeline of scholars dedicated to classical liberal education and creating supportive structures within and outside universities.

The episode concludes with a pragmatic discussion on the necessity of political tactics and interventions to achieve meaningful reform in higher education, even when such measures might be blunt or controversial. Sailer and Bernstein agree that while risks are involved, the pursuit of positive outcomes for the future of universities is paramount.

Join us for a thought-provoking dialogue on the current state and future direction of higher education, offering valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and anyone passionate about academic freedom and the pursuit of truth.</itunes:subtitle>
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]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Jun 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/navigating-ideological-landscapes-in-academia-with-heather-mac-donald-MEldY7_w</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, they discuss: The application of Enlightenment principles to politics and governance. The rise of identity-based critiques of classical liberalism and the Enlightenment. The current cultural landscape and its impact on free speech and academic freedom. Strategies for defending the marketplace of ideas against increasingly powerful ideological forces. Heather Mac Donald provides her insights into how these trends are reshaping our society and what can be done to preserve the core values of a free and open society. Don't miss this engaging and timely discussion!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Navigating Ideological Landscapes in Academia with Heather Mac Donald</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>Join David Bernstein as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Heather Mac Donald, renowned author and commentator, about the state of classical liberalism, the importance of the Enlightenment, and the challenges posed by modern ideologies.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Join David Bernstein as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Heather Mac Donald, renowned author and commentator, about the state of classical liberalism, the importance of the Enlightenment, and the challenges posed by modern ideologies.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <description><![CDATA[<p>Follow David on:</p><p> </p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p> </p><p>Listen to the podcast on:</p><p> </p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 6 Jun 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/free-speech-diversity-and-anti-semitism-on-campus-with-kenneth-marcus-YoIdsAYa</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Follow David on:</p><p> </p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p> </p><p>Listen to the podcast on:</p><p> </p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Free Speech, Diversity, and Anti-Semitism on Campus with Kenneth Marcus</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this compelling episode, David Bernstein, founder of the Jewish Institute for Liberal Values, engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Kenneth Marcus, founder and chairman of the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law. Together, they explore the alarming rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses and the challenges Jewish students and faculty face in these environments. Marcus shares specific examples of harassment, the inadequacies of incremental reforms, and the legal actions his center is pursuing to protect Jewish rights. They discuss the tension between free speech and equal protection, the impact of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, and the broader ideological trends fueling campus hostility. Marcus emphasizes the need for comprehensive solutions and the role of universities in fostering inclusive environments. This episode is a crucial listen for anyone concerned about free speech, campus culture, and the fight against anti-Semitism.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this compelling episode, David Bernstein, founder of the Jewish Institute for Liberal Values, engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Kenneth Marcus, founder and chairman of the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law. Together, they explore the alarming rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses and the challenges Jewish students and faculty face in these environments. Marcus shares specific examples of harassment, the inadequacies of incremental reforms, and the legal actions his center is pursuing to protect Jewish rights. They discuss the tension between free speech and equal protection, the impact of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, and the broader ideological trends fueling campus hostility. Marcus emphasizes the need for comprehensive solutions and the role of universities in fostering inclusive environments. This episode is a crucial listen for anyone concerned about free speech, campus culture, and the fight against anti-Semitism.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <description><![CDATA[Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Contrarian Podcast as David Bernstein sits down with Michael Poliakoff, a leading advocate for educational reform and the preservation of liberal values. In this deep dive, they discuss the challenges facing higher education today, the importance of fostering diverse viewpoints on campus, and the urgent need for informed patriotism. Poliakoff shares his insights on the decline of free speech in universities, the role of core curricula, and the critical measures necessary to uphold academic integrity and liberty.

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful discussions!

Follow David:

Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX
Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1
Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9

Listen to the podcast on:

Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8
Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03
YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3
Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072 
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 30 May 2024 20:07:01 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/promoting-free-thought-and-patriotism-in-universities-with-dr-michael-poliakoff-s01e11-iPnPj8Cv</link>
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      <itunes:title>Promoting Free Thought and Patriotism in Universities with Dr Michael Poliakoff S01E11</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:duration>00:55:15</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Contrarian Podcast as David Bernstein sits down with Michael Poliakoff, a leading advocate for educational reform and the preservation of liberal values. In this deep dive, they discuss the challenges facing higher education today, the importance of fostering diverse viewpoints on campus, and the urgent need for informed patriotism. Poliakoff shares his insights on the decline of free speech in universities, the role of core curricula, and the critical measures necessary to uphold academic integrity and liberty.

🔔 Don&apos;t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful discussions!

Follow David:

Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX
Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1
Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9

Listen to the podcast on:

Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8
Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03
YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3
Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Contrarian Podcast as David Bernstein sits down with Michael Poliakoff, a leading advocate for educational reform and the preservation of liberal values. In this deep dive, they discuss the challenges facing higher education today, the importance of fostering diverse viewpoints on campus, and the urgent need for informed patriotism. Poliakoff shares his insights on the decline of free speech in universities, the role of core curricula, and the critical measures necessary to uphold academic integrity and liberty.

🔔 Don&apos;t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful discussions!

Follow David:

Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX
Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1
Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9

Listen to the podcast on:

Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8
Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03
YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3
Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Challenging Campus Indoctrination in America with Jason D. Hill S01E10</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow David on: </strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX </p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1 </p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9 </p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on: </strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8 </p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03 </p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3 </p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2024 20:22:45 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (david bernstein, jason d hill)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/challenging-campus-indoctrination-in-america-with-jason-d-hill-s01e10-B70WRcsF</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow David on: </strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX </p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1 </p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9 </p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on: </strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8 </p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03 </p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3 </p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
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      <itunes:title>Challenging Campus Indoctrination in America with Jason D. Hill S01E10</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>In this thought-provoking episode, host David Bernstein sits down with Jason D. Hill, author and professor, to discuss the current state of higher education and the cultural conflicts shaping our universities. Hill passionately argues that universities have become indoctrination centers controlled by the far left since the 1960s, stifling open inquiry and intellectual diversity. Together, they explore radical solutions, including the creation of centers for open inquiry and the defunding of universities to rebuild them from the ground up. We also delve into the controversial topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, debating whether a reformed version focused on equality of opportunity could work. Finally, they discuss the importance of rebranding American identity to foster a new form of patriotic pluralism. Join us for a deep dive into the cultural and intellectual battles being fought on college campuses today, and what can be done to preserve the integrity of higher education and American society.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this thought-provoking episode, host David Bernstein sits down with Jason D. Hill, author and professor, to discuss the current state of higher education and the cultural conflicts shaping our universities. Hill passionately argues that universities have become indoctrination centers controlled by the far left since the 1960s, stifling open inquiry and intellectual diversity. Together, they explore radical solutions, including the creation of centers for open inquiry and the defunding of universities to rebuild them from the ground up. We also delve into the controversial topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, debating whether a reformed version focused on equality of opportunity could work. Finally, they discuss the importance of rebranding American identity to foster a new form of patriotic pluralism. Join us for a deep dive into the cultural and intellectual battles being fought on college campuses today, and what can be done to preserve the integrity of higher education and American society.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Viewpoint Diversity and the Role of Politics in Higher Education with Nadine Strossen</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Follow David on:</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p>Listen to the podcast on:</p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora:<a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (david bernstein, nadine strossen)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/viewpoint-diversity-and-the-role-of-politics-in-higher-education-with-nadine-strossen-dQqmFaOK</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Follow David on:</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p>Listen to the podcast on:</p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora:<a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
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      <itunes:title>Viewpoint Diversity and the Role of Politics in Higher Education with Nadine Strossen</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>david bernstein, nadine strossen</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this insightful episode of the podcast, David Bernstein engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Nadine Strossen, a distinguished advocate for free speech and academic freedom. Together, they explore the multifaceted concept of academic freedom, extending it beyond professors to include the rights of students. Strossen argues for the importance of students&apos; rights to hear diverse perspectives and express dissenting opinions in the classroom, emphasizing the contractual and constitutional promises made by universities.

The conversation delves into the complexities of teaching quality and the potential for indoctrination under the guise of academic freedom. Bernstein and Strossen discuss the need for a Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities, highlighting the significance of open-minded listening and respectful discourse.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this insightful episode of the podcast, David Bernstein engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Nadine Strossen, a distinguished advocate for free speech and academic freedom. Together, they explore the multifaceted concept of academic freedom, extending it beyond professors to include the rights of students. Strossen argues for the importance of students&apos; rights to hear diverse perspectives and express dissenting opinions in the classroom, emphasizing the contractual and constitutional promises made by universities.

The conversation delves into the complexities of teaching quality and the potential for indoctrination under the guise of academic freedom. Bernstein and Strossen discuss the need for a Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities, highlighting the significance of open-minded listening and respectful discourse.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>In Pursuit of Ideological Balance with Eric Kaufmann</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Join David Bernstein and Eric Kaufmann in an enlightening conversation about political bias in academia. Kaufmann shares data revealing a left-leaning bias in various fields, prompting discussions on its impact on academic freedom. Bernstein raises concerns about self-censorship among conservative academics, highlighting the challenges they encounter.</p><p>Later, the duo explores the influence of social pressure on free speech in countries such as the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. They delve into the difficulties faced by academics expressing dissenting opinions, particularly regarding gender and sexuality.</p><p>The conversation also addresses the current state of free speech in British universities, with both speakers noting positive developments alongside concerns about political discrimination and self-censorship. Additionally, they discuss the rise of extreme ideologies in higher education and advocate for reforms to safeguard free speech and academic freedom. Tune in for valuable insights into these critical issues.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p> </p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p> </p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p> </p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 9 May 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (david bernstein, eric kaufmann)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/in-pursuit-of-ideological-balance-with-eric-kaufmann-WUCB1rVb</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join David Bernstein and Eric Kaufmann in an enlightening conversation about political bias in academia. Kaufmann shares data revealing a left-leaning bias in various fields, prompting discussions on its impact on academic freedom. Bernstein raises concerns about self-censorship among conservative academics, highlighting the challenges they encounter.</p><p>Later, the duo explores the influence of social pressure on free speech in countries such as the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. They delve into the difficulties faced by academics expressing dissenting opinions, particularly regarding gender and sexuality.</p><p>The conversation also addresses the current state of free speech in British universities, with both speakers noting positive developments alongside concerns about political discrimination and self-censorship. Additionally, they discuss the rise of extreme ideologies in higher education and advocate for reforms to safeguard free speech and academic freedom. Tune in for valuable insights into these critical issues.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p> </p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p> </p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p> </p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
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      <itunes:title>In Pursuit of Ideological Balance with Eric Kaufmann</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>Join David Bernstein and Eric Kaufmann in an enlightening conversation about political bias in academia. Kaufmann shares data revealing a left-leaning bias in various fields, prompting discussions on its impact on academic freedom. Bernstein raises concerns about self-censorship among conservative academics, highlighting the challenges they encounter.

Later, the duo explores the influence of social pressure on free speech in countries such as the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. They delve into the difficulties faced by academics expressing dissenting opinions, particularly regarding gender and sexuality.

The conversation also addresses the current state of free speech in British universities, with both speakers noting positive developments alongside concerns about political discrimination and self-censorship. Additionally, they discuss the rise of extreme ideologies in higher education and advocate for reforms to safeguard free speech and academic freedom. Tune in for valuable insights into these critical issues.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Join David Bernstein and Eric Kaufmann in an enlightening conversation about political bias in academia. Kaufmann shares data revealing a left-leaning bias in various fields, prompting discussions on its impact on academic freedom. Bernstein raises concerns about self-censorship among conservative academics, highlighting the challenges they encounter.

Later, the duo explores the influence of social pressure on free speech in countries such as the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. They delve into the difficulties faced by academics expressing dissenting opinions, particularly regarding gender and sexuality.

The conversation also addresses the current state of free speech in British universities, with both speakers noting positive developments alongside concerns about political discrimination and self-censorship. Additionally, they discuss the rise of extreme ideologies in higher education and advocate for reforms to safeguard free speech and academic freedom. Tune in for valuable insights into these critical issues.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Intersection of Higher Education, Politics, and Jewish Identity with Gil Troy</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow Gil Troy on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/giltroy?lang=en</p><p>Website: https://giltroy.com/</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 3 May 2024 00:55:28 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David Bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/the-intersection-of-higher-education-politics-and-jewish-identity-with-gil-troy-_kcLNxGJ</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow Gil Troy on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/giltroy?lang=en</p><p>Website: https://giltroy.com/</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
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      <itunes:title>The Intersection of Higher Education, Politics, and Jewish Identity with Gil Troy</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>David Bernstein</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>00:50:24</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode, Prof. Gil Troy and David Bernstein delve into the complex dynamics shaping intellectual discourse on university campuses and within the American Jewish community. With a keen eye for nuance, they explore the ideological undercurrents fueling debates around topics like postmodernism, extreme ideologies, and the struggle for academic freedom. From dissecting the rise of identity politics to dissecting the challenges facing progressive Jews, their conversation offers a thought-provoking analysis of the current cultural landscape. Touching on themes of liberal values, strategic dilemmas, and the power of narratives, this episode provides valuable insights into the ongoing battle for intellectual sovereignty and the quest for authentic discourse in a polarized world.</itunes:summary>
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      <title>The deep roots of campus extremism with Yascha Mounk - S01E06</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Follow Yascha on:</p><p> </p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/yascha_mounk?lang=en  </p><p> </p><p>Follow David on:</p><p> </p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p> </p><p>Listen to the podcast on:</p><p> </p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 25 Apr 2024 20:10:33 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (yascha mounk, david bernstein)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/the-deep-roots-of-campus-extremism-with-yascha-mounk-s01e06-6OAPSh6s</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Follow Yascha on:</p><p> </p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/yascha_mounk?lang=en  </p><p> </p><p>Follow David on:</p><p> </p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p> </p><p>Listen to the podcast on:</p><p> </p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
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      <itunes:title>The deep roots of campus extremism with Yascha Mounk - S01E06</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of The Contrarian we speak Yascha Mounk. Yascha Mounk is a German-American political scientist, author, and journalist known for his work on populism, democracy, and the rise of authoritarianism. In this episode we delve into the subject of the censorship of conservative voices in academia and what we can do counter it.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of The Contrarian we speak Yascha Mounk. Yascha Mounk is a German-American political scientist, author, and journalist known for his work on populism, democracy, and the rise of authoritarianism. In this episode we delve into the subject of the censorship of conservative voices in academia and what we can do counter it.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Confronting Woke Culture on College Campuses with Jay Schalin - S01E05</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow Jay Schalin on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/AcademicRenewal</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora:<a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 18 Apr 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (david bernstein, jay schalin)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/confronting-woke-culture-on-college-campuses-with-jay-schalin-s01e05-0VSBbr3X</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Follow Jay Schalin on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/AcademicRenewal</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora:<a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Confronting Woke Culture on College Campuses with Jay Schalin - S01E05</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>david bernstein, jay schalin</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this thought-provoking episode, join host David Bernstein and guest Jay Schalin as they delve into the complex landscape of higher education. From the challenges posed by ideological shifts to the search for practical solutions, they explore the evolving role of universities in today&apos;s society.</itunes:summary>
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      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this gripping episode of The Contrarian, renowned legal scholar Randy Barnett joins host David Bernstein to unravel the complexities of free speech, academic reform, and the battle against radical social justice ideology on college campuses. Barnett shares insights from his upcoming book, "A Life for Liberty: The Making of an American Originalist," detailing his journey from a conservative Goldwater Republican to a leading figure in the originalism movement. From his early days challenging the status quo to his pivotal role in landmark constitutional cases, Barnett offers a compelling narrative of perseverance and intellectual courage. Join us as we delve into the pressing issues of our time and explore Barnett's visionary approach to preserving intellectual diversity in academia.</p><p><strong>Follow Randy Barnett on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: t.ly/pti6s</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p07</p>
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      <pubDate>Thu, 11 Apr 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (david bernstein, randy barnett, This Is 42)</author>
      <link>https://the-contrarian-with-david-bernstein.simplecast.com/episodes/defeating-the-illiberal-juggernaut-with-randy-barnett-the-contrarian-s01e04-1OaZSpBH</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this gripping episode of The Contrarian, renowned legal scholar Randy Barnett joins host David Bernstein to unravel the complexities of free speech, academic reform, and the battle against radical social justice ideology on college campuses. Barnett shares insights from his upcoming book, "A Life for Liberty: The Making of an American Originalist," detailing his journey from a conservative Goldwater Republican to a leading figure in the originalism movement. From his early days challenging the status quo to his pivotal role in landmark constitutional cases, Barnett offers a compelling narrative of perseverance and intellectual courage. Join us as we delve into the pressing issues of our time and explore Barnett's visionary approach to preserving intellectual diversity in academia.</p><p><strong>Follow Randy Barnett on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: t.ly/pti6s</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook:https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram:https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify:https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music:https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora:https://rb.gy/o4p07</p>
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      <itunes:title>Defeating the Illiberal Juggernaut with Randy Barnett - The Contrarian S01E04</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:subtitle>In this gripping episode of The Contrarian, renowned legal scholar Randy Barnett joins host David Bernstein to unravel the complexities of free speech, academic reform, and the battle against radical social justice ideology on college campuses. Barnett shares insights from his upcoming book, &quot;A Life for Liberty: The Making of an American Originalist,&quot; detailing his journey from a conservative Goldwater Republican to a leading figure in the originalism movement. From his early days challenging the status quo to his pivotal role in landmark constitutional cases, Barnett offers a compelling narrative of perseverance and intellectual courage. Join us as we delve into the pressing issues of our time and explore Barnett&apos;s visionary approach to preserving intellectual diversity in academia.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <pubDate>Thu, 4 Apr 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (David bernstein, Greg Lukianoff)</author>
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      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this compelling episode of The Contrarian, host David Bernstein engages in a deep dive with legal expert Ilya Shapiro to unravel the complexities of academic freedom and the crisis facing higher education. With insights from his upcoming book, "Lawless: The Miseducation of America's Future Leaders," Shapiro sheds light on the erosion of intellectual diversity and the pervasive influence of cancel culture on college campuses. From chilling effects on free speech to the indoctrination of students, Shapiro presents a compelling case for reform in academia. Don't miss this insightful conversation as we confront the pressing issues of our time and explore Shapiro's bold vision for restoring open inquiry and free expression in our universities.</p><p><strong>Follow Ilya Shapiro on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/ishapiro?lang=en</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora:<a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
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      <pubDate>Thu, 28 Mar 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (david bernstein, ilya shapiro)</author>
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      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this compelling episode of The Contrarian, host David Bernstein engages in a deep dive with legal expert Ilya Shapiro to unravel the complexities of academic freedom and the crisis facing higher education. With insights from his upcoming book, "Lawless: The Miseducation of America's Future Leaders," Shapiro sheds light on the erosion of intellectual diversity and the pervasive influence of cancel culture on college campuses. From chilling effects on free speech to the indoctrination of students, Shapiro presents a compelling case for reform in academia. Don't miss this insightful conversation as we confront the pressing issues of our time and explore Shapiro's bold vision for restoring open inquiry and free expression in our universities.</p><p><strong>Follow Ilya Shapiro on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/ishapiro?lang=en</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/lqDJX">https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</a></p><p>Facebook:<a href="https://shorturl.at/yNSY1">https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</a></p><p>Instagram:<a href="https://shorturl.at/lJTX9">https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</a></p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: <a href="https://shorturl.at/gouW8">https://shorturl.at/gouW8</a></p><p>Spotify:<a href="https://shorturl.at/ouY03">https://shorturl.at/ouY03</a></p><p>YouTube Music:<a href="https://rb.gy/u4xfd3">https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</a></p><p>Pandora:<a href="https://rb.gy/o4p072">https://rb.gy/o4p072</a></p>
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      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this riveting episode of The Contrarian, host David Bernstein sits down with acclaimed psychologist and advocate for intellectual freedom, Steven Pinker. Together, they delve into the pressing issues facing academia today, from the stifling of dissenting voices to the need for greater intellectual diversity. Pinker shares his insights on the challenges of navigating ideological echo chambers and offers bold solutions for revitalizing academic discourse. Drawing from his extensive research and personal experiences, Pinker provides a compelling vision for a more open, inclusive, and intellectually vibrant academic environment. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on The Contrarian.</p><p><strong>Follow Prof. Steven Pinker on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://rb.gy/g4apbi</p><p><strong>Follow David on:</strong></p><p>Twitter: https://shorturl.at/lqDJX</p><p>Facebook: https://shorturl.at/yNSY1</p><p>Instagram: https://shorturl.at/lJTX9</p><p>Substack: https://rb.gy/n9oudc</p><p><strong>Listen to the podcast on:</strong></p><p>Apple: https://shorturl.at/gouW8</p><p>Spotify: https://shorturl.at/ouY03</p><p>YouTube Music: https://rb.gy/u4xfd3</p><p>Pandora: https://rb.gy/o4p072</p>
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      <pubDate>Thu, 21 Mar 2024 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>podcast@navivalues.org (david bernstein, steven pinker)</author>
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      <pubDate>Tue, 5 Mar 2024 18:07:54 +0000</pubDate>
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