The American Idea: Recent Episodes
Ashbrook Center
The American Idea explores America's Founding principles and their effect on American history and government. Through lively and thoughtful conversations with renowned academics and public figures from across the country, the podcast examines the history and political thought behind our country’s greatest documents and debates, as well as contemporary issues, American popular culture, and political statesmanship. The podcast is a production of the Ashbrook Center and hosted by Jeff Sikkenga.
America is often called a democracy, sometimes a democratic republic, and probably less-often a republic. But to be precise, the American system of constitutional government, first in the original 13 states, then in the general government, and since 1787, consists of a series of republics. Each state is a republic, and the national (or general, or federal) government is, as well.
But what exactly is a republic, and does it matter? What is republican (little R) government, and what did the Founders see in it that was superior to a democracy? What qualities did they see in their fellow Americans, and hope to see in their progeny - us?
Professor of Political Science Jim Stoner, of Louisiana State University, discusses the difference between a republic and a democracy, and how the Founders understood republicanism as both a system and a set of civic values.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
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In Federalist 10, James Madison identified what he saw as one of the greatest dangers to popular government: factions. How did he define and understand them? Does his definition and his argument still stand up today? How can, by understanding the view on this issue at the Founding, better understand our current politics?
Read Federalist 10: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/federalist-no-10-3/
Read Madison’s “Consolidation”: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/consolidation/
Read Madison’s “A Candid State of Parties”: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/a-candid-state-of-parties-2/
Read Joe’s article on political parties: https://www.heritage.org/political-process/report/the-rise-and-fall-political-parties-america
Find American Covenant on Amazon: https://a.co/d/00voBuXV
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
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Click to learn about how we're planning for America's 250th birthday! https://www.ashbrookfreedom250.org/
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The ideals, values, and aspirations in the Declaration of Independence aren’t just the words of an old document - they’re a statement of political and public faith in how we should see one another and how we should conduct ourselves as a political body.
In preparation for America’s 250th birthday, don’t just focus on the years and accomplishments - get in touch with the ideas that underpin them, and consider how you can live out the Declaration of Independence, and encourage others, as well, so that we can bequeath another 250 years of freedom to the generations that follow us.
Read the Declaration of Independence: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/declaration-of-independence/
Read Calvin Coolidge's speech about the DI: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/speech-on-the-occasion-of-the-one-hundred-and-fiftieth-anniversary-of-the-declaration-of-independence/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Our 4th Amendment rights to privacy, in various forms, has its origins before the Declaration of Independence, and is at the foundation of Americans’ understanding of natural rights. In this episode, Dr. Cara Rogers-Stevens discusses the importance and evolution of our privacy rights, and how they set us apart from so many other peoples in the world.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Adam Smith’s “Wealth of Nations” was published in 1776, shortly before America’s Declaration of Independence. Smith famously described an “invisible hand” at work behind markets and exchanges, but what did he really mean, and how have so many people misunderstood his many ideas about trade, markets, and free enterprise?
Professor Brianne Wolf discusses Smith in surprising terms: he was first concerned with human morality and behavior, in the connections and community that individuals built with one another. Trade and economics were downstream of those fundamentals. Beyond that, Smith’s explanation of the advantages of markets over central planning or forced commerce are not well-known today - despite their relevance in the face of arguments in favor of government control of economic behavior.
Would you like to give us some feedback about this episode? Go to this short survey: https://tinyurl.com/ym6zktkk
Read Bri's article on Smith: https://tinyurl.com/5yuwsc9b
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Niccolo Machiavelli, is usually cast as something of a villain for supposedly promoting cut-throat politics. Regarded as the father of modern political theory and science, however, among his many ideas was that when regimes - governments - slip into a state of decline, a return to first principles was necessary to save them. Turning back to the ideas that were most pure at a founding was, he believed, essential to revive a country that had lost its way.
Is America at such a point today? Political theorist, commentator, and author Jay Cost believes we are, and discusses what a “Machiavellian Moment” is, and why America, especially as we approach our 250th birthday, is in need of one.
Read his article: https://tinyurl.com/3ytfx3fb
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Religious liberty is at the foundation of the American Idea - but how was it understood and protected at America’s Founding, and how what does this fundamental right look like today? Jeff and Dr. Vincent Phillip Munoz, of Notre Dame University, discuss the earliest state of religious freedom, and how it has evolved today.
Read the Virginia Declaration of Rights: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/virginia-declaration-of-rights-2/
Read the Virginia Statue for Religious Freedom: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/virginia-statute-for-religious-liberty/
Read Washington’s Letter to the Hebrew Congregation: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/letter-to-the-hebrew-congregation-at-newport/
Read JFK’s Speech to the Houston Ministerial Association: https://www.jfklibrary.org/learn/about-jfk/historic-speeches/address-to-the-greater-houston-ministerial-association
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
The United States Supreme Court handed down its decision on Louisiana v. Callais in early May, and it’s impossible to understand this 6-3 ruling without having some background knowledge of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and how courts between then and now have interpreted it. Don’t get lost in the political rhetoric surrounding this case; learn the background for yourself and make up your own mind.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
School choice has moved to the forefront of national conversations and debates most notably since COVID; however the ‘educational choice’ movement is not new in America at all.
Jeff is joined by Shaka Mitchell, Senior Fellow at the American Federation for Children, to trace the history of school choice and schooling in America, drawing clear policy, political, and cultural connections between what was, what has been, and what is ‘normal’ now, and how that’s changing.
You can follow Shaka on his Substack: https://shakamitchell.substack.com/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
What’s taught in British schools about the American Revolution? How are Americans’ motivations during the Founding understood by our ‘cousins’ on the other side of the Atlantic? Jeff discusses the fascinating history of British history and perspectives on America with Liam Heffernan, host of America: The Story of the USA, a British podcast that seeks to explain American to the British.
You can find Liam's pod at https://tinyurl.com/puysecxp
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
The Abolition and Civil Rights movements are often presented as solutions to the failures of the American Founding, or replacements for its ideas. The relationship between the core ideas of America, as asserted in the Declaration of Independence and those of these two movements is complicated and has evolved over time. As we approach our 250th birthday, let’s take a look at how the Declaration is, in fact, the moral and intellectual foundation of both abolition and civil rights.
Jeff is joined by Dr. Peter Myers, Professor of Political Science and expert in the politics of abolition and civil rights.
Read Peter's book on Douglass: https://a.co/d/0b1TiSI3
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
On Apple Podcasts: https://tr.ee/aTARALr9Gx
On Spotify: https://tr.ee/09Ca21CCp-
On iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-american-idea-119582945/
Abraham Lincoln once asserted that all of his political philosophy was rooted in the Declaration of Independence. Other presidents have spoken positively about our founding document, and some have disparaged the ideas promoted in it. What about Ronald Reagan? Where did he stand on the Declaration’s core ideas of natural rights, limited government, and liberty?
Jeff is joined by Greg McBrayer, who looks back on decades of speeches from Reagan in order to establish a clear connection between the principles of our 40th president and America’s original mission statement.
Read Reagan’s “A Time for Choosing”: https://tinyurl.com/btvr8mu9
Read Reagan’s 1986 Independence Day speech: https://tinyurl.com/ycyfvnka
Read Reagan’s Farewell Address: https://tinyurl.com/mu92b545
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
This episode examines the constitutional principle of separation of powers: what it is, why the American founders considered it essential to liberty, and how it works in practice through checks and balances. The conversation explores the distinct roles of Congress, the presidency, and the courts, and then turns to major controversies that continue to shape American government, including executive removal power, independent agencies, and war powers. The result is a clear discussion of why separation of powers remains one of the most important and contested features of the American constitutional order.
Download the Separation of Powers documents collection for free: https://tinyurl.com/mr3274xx
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Jeff is joined by Palantir Technologies Development Strategist and author Madeline Hart to discuss her book, co-authored with Palantir’s CTO, about what’s wrong with America’s military industrial base, how we got here, and what we can do to fix this vital part of our national defense.
Read about Madeline’s book: https://mobilizebook.com/
Get the book: https://a.co/d/0ikuJ5tb
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
The First Amendment’s free speech clause is meant to protect Americans against government abridgment of free expression. How does this apply to social media companies when they are subjected to both formal and informal pressure from members of a president’s inner circle?
Although a narrow ruling, MO v. Biden makes clear the relevance of free speech, regardless of the state of technology at a given time in our history.
Read NCLA’s press release: https://nclalegal.org/press_release/ncla-reaches-historic-settlement-strikes-major-blow-against-governments-social-media-censorship/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
What are natural rights, and why, without them, are the ideas in the Declaration of Independence empty without them?
Americans talk a lot about rights, but natural rights are the foundation of them all, and all the Declaration’s assertions and ideals flow from them. Jeff discusses what they are, how they relate to government, and why the are at the core of what Jefferson called ‘the American mind.”
Download the 50 Core Documents book mentioned in the episode for free: https://tinyurl.com/yckez9c3
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
What is a financial bubble, and what are its causes? What are the political, as well as economic, impacts of these events? Jeff welcomes investment capital expert Aman Verjee to discuss these events, and the role they’ve played throughout history. You’ll learn not only a great deal more about what really caused the stock market crash of 1929, but how it compares to a tulip sales bubble (yes, tulips) in the Netherlands in the 1600s.
Read Aman’s new book about the topic: https://www.amanverjee.com/the-book
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Historian David Beito joins Jeff this week to discuss the dark side of FDR: a seeming disregard for constitutional process and a lack of respect for the fundamental freedoms protected by the Bill of Rights. Long lauded as a great president, is there more to his story and impact on America?
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
When we think of the American Revolution, we usually consider the ideas and animated the patriots and those leaders who organized and directed the war. Largely forgotten in all of this is a simple question: how was it all financed? And who did it?
Thomas Willing, one of the most prominent merchants of the Middle Colonies, was at the forefront of solving the logistical and financial problems that plagued the American cause from the outset. Why, then, is he overlooked in all mainstream histories?
Jeff meets with author Richard Vague to discuss Willing’s place in American Founding. You can get his book about Willing here: https://a.co/d/05py4B72
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
The Anti-Federalists are often overlooked in the story of America's founding, but their arguments helped shape the Constitution we live under today. In this episode of The American Idea, host Jeff Sikkenga sits down with Professor Adam Carrington of Ashland University to explore what the Anti-Federalists actually stood for, why they opposed ratification of the Constitution, and why their warnings still resonate in American political life. From fears of consolidation and judicial overreach to the "fetus of monarchy" critique of the presidency, the Anti-Federalists raised serious constitutional questions that the Federalists could not simply dismiss.
Together, Jeff and Adam trace the Anti-Federalists' most lasting contribution — the Bill of Rights — and examine how their concerns about government size, the Necessary and Proper Clause, standing armies, and the gap between constitutional text and political reality continue to echo today. Whether you're a student, teacher, or engaged citizen, this conversation offers an essential and often missing perspective on the American founding.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
James Madison was one of the two primary authors of The Federalist. What ideas did he promote through his essays? Where did he disagree with the points he argued? As we consider the American Founding and try to understand how the Founders turned goals into ideas in systems, we examine Madison’s contributions to The Federalist and what they meant over 200 years ago, and what we can learn from them now.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
The Federalist, or more broadly known as the Federalist Papers, is looked on as the definitive defense of the Constitution as written in 1787, and by that, a clear explanation of its contents and rationale. Whether it’s those things or not, how should you study them? Should you at all? If so, what do you need to know before turning to Hamilton’s Federalist 1?
Chris Burkett, Professor of Political Science, joins Jeff to explain the historical and political context around this collection of essays when they were written, and how best we can read and understand them today.
Read Chris's outline of The Federalist - this is a great way to conceptualize how the essays are grouped and what topics they address: https://tinyurl.com/ax3p4h5x
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
George Washington has been referred to as the “indispensable man,” and was looked to during and after the Revolution as the one person who could be trusted to lead the country. Why? What made him such a trusted figure then and for generations after his death? What can we learn from him today?
Read his Farewell Address: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/farewell-address-5/
Read “Washington’s Crossing”: https://a.co/d/16aXe2p
Read: “Washington & Hamilton”: https://a.co/d/cnPC6xb
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Thomas Jefferson: “Author of the Declaration of American Independence [and] of the Statute of Virginia for religious freedom & Father of the University of Virginia.”
So says his tombstone, as he requested. Who was Jefferson, beyond the Declaration’s author? What were his beliefs and hopes? What else did he write and how can we better understand this essential American Founder today?
Join Jeff as he discusses Jefferson with Todd Estes, Professor of History.
Read “A Summary View of the Rights of British America”: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/a-summary-view-of-the-rights-of-british-america-2/
Read the Rockfish Gap Report: https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Jefferson/03-13-02-0197-0006
Read this excerpt from the Notes on the State of Virginia: https://tjrs.monticello.org/letter/2260
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Huey Long of Louisiana casts a long shadow over American populist politics. Often cast as a villain or troublemaker, author Thomas Patterson offers a nuanced look at the politics and impact of this important figure in 20th Century history.
Find his book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0sS3baz
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Who was Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and why is she largely forgotten in popular history? How did she show that the Declaration of Independence promised women’s rights, too? Dr. Natalie Taylor, Professor Political Science at Skidmore College, discusses this fascinating American, who formed much of the intellectual foundation of the Suffrage Movement in the 19th Century.
Read her Declaration of Sentiments and see how it parallels the form and substance of the Declaration of Independence: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/declaration-of-sentiments/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
The Declaration of Independence is not, properly understood, a historical document. It is a statement of beliefs and principles describing the proper relationship between the individual and the state, and how the individual should view others in political matters. As such, it is not tied to a moment in time - 1776 - but should serve as the foundation of the American Idea for all time.
What does that mean, and what can it mean for you? Join Jeff and Dr. Adam Seagrave as they discuss our Declaration, and how “faith, hope, and love” informed the American founding, and can guide us today.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Was the American Revolution just a regional rebellion on the eastern seaboard, or something far larger? Professor Richard Bell, author of The American Revolution and the Fate of the World, argues it was a geopolitical earthquake that reshaped the global order. In this episode, Bell explores how France, Spain, and the Netherlands entered the conflict for their own strategic reasons, why Jamaica mattered more to Britain than Virginia, and how foreign intervention proved decisive at battles like Yorktown. Along the way, he shares remarkable stories: Benjamin Franklin organizing his own privateering fleet from Paris, 50,000 ordinary Americans taking to the seas as state-sponsored pirates, and Harry Washington, a man enslaved at Mount Vernon who escaped to British lines and eventually led his own anti-colonial revolution in Sierra Leone. A fresh perspective on America's founding as a truly global event.
Timestamps
- 00:54 The American Revolution as a Global Conflict
- 04:55 The British Empire and the Value of Jamaica
- 07:27 Expanding the Patriot Coalition Beyond 13 Colonies
- 09:44 Why France Joined the War
- 13:21 Spain's Strategic Goals: Gibraltar and the Caribbean
- 17:16 Dutch Financial Support and the St. Eustatius Arms Trade
- 19:34 How Foreign Intervention Boosted British Morale
- 24:06 From Philadelphia to Yorktown: Foreign Aid on the Battlefield
- 27:11 Patriot Privateers and the War on British Commerce
- 38:28 Harry Washington: From Mount Vernon to Sierra Leone
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
Jeff Sikkenga, Professor of Political Science and Executive Director of the Ashbrook Center, shares a brief message about the reasons behind and goals of The American Idea, as well as Ashbrook’s plans to celebrate 250 years of America’s independence.
Learn more at Ashbrook.org, or about our celebratory plans for 2026 at AshbrookFreedom250.org
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
What does it mean to be American? How does one become an American? Join us for this special episode as Peter Schramm, past Executive Director of the Ashbrook Center and Professor of Political Science, discusses his family's flight from Communist Hungary, move to California, and growing up in his adopted home, learning the answers to those questions and, in his career, teaching native-born Americans about their homeland and the legacy they had been gifted by past generations.
In this season of reflection and the impending start of a new year, take some time to consider what being American means for you, and how you fit into our great story as we approach our 250th birthday.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Homepage: https://ashbrook.org/the-american-idea-podcast/
The Declaration of Independence summarizes and defends the most fundamental ideas about America - about our government, the relationship between it and individuals, and how its proper place in public life. If the Constitution is a set of rules and processes, with a 'mission statement' in the Preamble, the Declaration of Independence presents the ideas that call for those rules and processes, and make sense of that mission statement.
As we prepare for America's 250th birthday, let's understand the connection between these two fundamental documents and how the relate to our ongoing experiment in self-government.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Summer, 1776: the war for independence is over a year old and the leaders of the 13 colonies have finally decided that independence is their goal. How shall they explain America’s aims and reasons to her own people and to the world?
A committee of five was selected to draft the document; the Second Continental Congress debated, revised, and voted on the document; and the world was never the same again.
Read the document: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/declaration-of-independence/
Read the original draft: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/draft-of-the-declaration-of-independence/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
The American Revolution, born in the hearts and minds of Americans in response to British tyranny, is one of the most pivotal moments in human political and national history. But what caused it? It’s a lot deeper than taxes or tea, and as we prepare for America’s 250th birthday, it’s a good time to look back, and look deeply at the roots of the revolution, and what our Founders thought about the relationship between individuals and the state, and the appropriate limits of government - enduring ideas for all times.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What Did Frederick Douglass Really Think of Abraham Lincoln?
Discover the complex relationship between two of America's most influential figures in this revealing conversation about a groundbreaking new book. Historians John White and Lucas Morel unveil previously unknown letters and documents that transform our understanding of how Frederick Douglass viewed Abraham Lincoln—from harsh critic to reluctant admirer.
Featured Guests:
- Dr. John White, Professor of American Studies at Christopher Newport University and co-winner of the 2023 Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize
- Dr. Lucas Morel, Professor of Politics at Washington and Lee University and trustee of the Supreme Court Historical Society
What You'll Learn:
- Why Douglass initially called Lincoln "the South's greatest slave hound" and "abolitionism's worst enemy"
- The surprising letters revealing Douglass believed Andrew Johnson would be a better Reconstruction president than Lincoln
- How three private meetings between Douglass and Lincoln changed the abolitionist's perspective
- Douglass's "rail-splitting" philosophy explaining Lincoln's strategic approach to black voting rights
- Why Douglass spent the rest of his life honoring Lincoln's legacy despite early criticisms
- The newly discovered correspondence with British abolitionists that historians hadn't seen in over 150 years
White and Morel's book "Measuring the Man: The Writings of Frederick Douglass on Abraham Lincoln" compiles every known statement Douglass made about Lincoln, including a dozen previously unknown documents uncovered through digital archives and London newspaper microfilm.
This episode explores themes of emancipation, political strategy, black suffrage, Civil War leadership, and the tension between radical abolitionism and practical statesmanship during America's most defining era.
Get the book: https://a.co/d/1axh4FL
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Justice Sharon Kennedy, Chief Justice of the Ohio State Supreme Court to discuss the Rule of Law - what is it? Why is it so essential to limited, fair government? How is it promoted, protected, and how can we understand it better so as to pass on its value to future generations?
Join us as we look at some of the most foundational, essential ideas, moments, and events in our history as we look forward to America's 250th birthday.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
America is, at its core, a nation founded on ideas, and those ideas have faced criticism, revision, and review over the centuries. Abraham Lincoln, who once said that he didn’t have a political idea that didn’t spring from the Declaration of Independence, not only reframed the meaning of the Civil War, but also pointed back to America’s Founding to assert what America should and could be in the future.
The Gettysburg Address is far more than commentary on the Civil War; it was a critique of how America had, by 1863, let down the promise of the Founding, and how she could rediscover herself for a more glorious future.
What can we learn from Lincoln today?
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What are entitlements? How did they come to be so entrenched in American politics and economics? Why is it that people say that Social Security is going to run out of money? What does this have to do with you? Jeff welcomes analyst Jim Capretta to discuss the origins of America’s entitlement programs, how they have evolved, and why we are reaching a point where something must be done to shore up programs that are no longer fiscally solvent.
Read Jim's book on the subject: https://a.co/d/hn2gsDk
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined this week by Rear Admiral Mike Giorgione (ret.), former commander of Camp David during the Clinton and Bush administrations, to discuss the creation, evolution, and role of the president’s Maryland retreat.
Get the book here: https://a.co/d/aHCzcuS
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Alexander Hamilton didn’t get his due until a Hip-Hip musical brought him to the public eye, over 200 years after his death. But what did he contribute to the American Founding? What did he contribute to the #1 cited source by the Supreme Court, The Federalist? Renowned historian and author Stephen Knott joins Jeff to kick off our series of “Freedom for the Next 250” episodes, leading up to America's 250th birthday.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Think Herbert Hoover was just a failed Great Depression president? Think again. Historian George Nash reveals the shocking truth about one of America's most misunderstood leaders in this eye-opening episode of The American Idea.
What You'll Discover: How Hoover saved more lives than perhaps any person in history through WWI humanitarian efforts Why both Democrats AND Republicans wanted him as president in 1920 (FDR even supported him!) The real story behind his Great Depression response - and the external shocks that derailed recovery How a Quaker orphan from Iowa became a global mining engineer and international hero Why his "American Individualism" philosophy still matters in today's political debates
The Full Story Behind the Myths: Most Americans only know Hoover's 4-year presidency, but George Nash - the world's leading Hoover expert - reveals his incredible 50-year career in public service. From organizing food relief that fed millions across war-torn Europe to pioneering the role of Commerce Secretary, Hoover's progressive Republican vision shaped American policy for decades. Learn how Hoover's post-presidency "crusade against collectivism" influenced the conservative movement, why he founded the Hoover Institution as his "most important contribution," and how his ideas about limited government and voluntary associations remain relevant today. Perfect for: American history enthusiasts, political science students, anyone curious about presidential leadership, and viewers interested in the roots of modern conservative thought.
Taking Manhattan, available on Amazon - https://a.co/d/eQTNGWV https://www.newnetherlandinstitute.org/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
On Apple Podcasts: https://tr.ee/aTARALr9Gx
On Spotify: https://tr.ee/09Ca21CCp-
On iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-american-idea-119582945/
In August 1861, General John C. Fremont—once America's most famous explorer and the Republican Party's first presidential nominee—issued an unauthorized order freeing all slaves in Missouri. President Lincoln swiftly revoked it, fearing the decision would drive crucial border states into Confederate hands. The clash between these two men revealed a fundamental tension: Fremont operated on moral urgency and personal instinct, while Lincoln worked within constitutional constraints and political reality. Fremont's military career never recovered from the confrontation.
Yet sixteen months later, Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation employed the exact legal framework Fremont had pioneered: military necessity as commander-in-chief during wartime. Historian and journalist John Bicknell joins us to explore how this forgotten general's bold gambit forced critical conversations about slavery's role in the war effort and ultimately shaped the constitutional pathway to emancipation. The story reveals why we remember one man as the Great Emancipator while the other faded into historical obscurity—and why both were essential to America's path toward freedom.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What was the original purpose of Congress? What powers did the Founders give it to fulfill that purpose? How does that compare to the institution we see today, in which Americans profess very little trust. Explore the historical and constitutional roots of the “First Branch” and how time and some well-intentioned changes have distorted its powers and role within our government.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Discover how 55 delegates created the U.S. Constitution in just 88 days during the summer of 1787. Constitutional scholar Gordon Lloyd breaks down the Philadelphia Convention using his acclaimed "four-act drama" framework, revealing the behind-the-scenes negotiations, heated debates, and crucial compromises that shaped American government.
What You'll Learn:
✓ How Madison's Virginia Plan clashed with the New Jersey Plan
✓ The Connecticut Compromise that balanced state vs. popular representation
✓ Why slavery debates nearly derailed the entire convention
✓ How the Electoral College and presidency were actually created
✓ The dramatic final moments and Franklin's famous "rising sun" speech
Key Topics Covered:
- Virginia Plan vs New Jersey Plan conflict
- Connecticut Compromise and Great Compromise
- Three-Fifths Compromise and 1808 slave trade agreement
- Creation of the Electoral College system
- Presidential powers and impeachment provisions
- Committee of Detail and Committee of Style
- Bill of Rights controversy and non-signers
Featured Experts:
Gordon Lloyd (Pepperdine University, Ashbrook Center Senior Fellow)
Chris Burkett (Ashland University, Ashbrook Scholar Program Director)
Hosted by Jeff Sikkenga (Ashbrook Center Executive Director)
Related Resources:
The American Founding website: theamericanfounding.org
Ashbrook's 50 Core American Documents: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/product/50-core-american-documents-cdc/
Madison's Constitutional Convention notes (Ashbrook edition): https://teachingamericanhistory.org/product/debates-in-the-federal-convention-of-1787/
This episode explores James Ellman's book "Seeds of Victory: Defeat, Triumph, and the American Way of War" with host Jeff Sikkenga from the Ashbrook Center. This military strategy documentary examines how US war tactics follow a consistent pattern: initial strategic defeats followed by rapid adaptation and ultimate victory. From Washington's military disasters in New York (1776) to early setbacks in Korea, American military history shows eight major strategic defeats between 1776-1951, yet US forces recovered each time through superior industrial mobilization, quick military leadership changes, and technological innovation.
The discussion challenges popular narratives about American military effectiveness, arguing that conflicts like Vietnam were battles within the broader Cold War victory. This military history analysis emphasizes that warfare has shaped America as much as democracy itself, with military service being the most reliable path to the presidency. The conversation covers America's unique ability to promote effective generals rapidly, mobilize industrial capacity for war, and maintain public support through prolonged military conflicts, while raising concerns about future warfare where traditional American military advantages may be threatened by emerging technologies like drone warfare and modern military tactics.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
You hear about them in the news, but how much do you know about capital markets - what they are, why they exist, how they've evolved over time, and what role the play in our economy and politics? Jeff discusses these in plain language with Bob Selvaggio, Head of Analytics at Rutter Associates.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff welcomes Michael Lucchese, Editor of Law & Liberty, to discuss the life, accomplishments, and ideas of John Quincy Adams - a man whose public life was almost his entire life.
Read more about him: https://www.loa.org/writers/672-john-quincy-adams/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff and BYU law professor Bradley Rebeiro discuss Frederick Douglass’s understanding of the Constitution, and how he came to view it as an anti-slavery document, using it to promote abolition.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
14 August 1945: VJ Day, and with the end of fighting in the Pacific and Japan's surrender, World War 2 finally comes to an end. Dr. John Moser is joined today by author and historian Walter Borneman to discuss how and why the war ended when it did, and how that ending shaped the decades to come, and, indeed, our world today in political and strategic terms.
Read Walt's book, The Admirals, and learn more about WW2 in the Pacific - you can find his books on Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/393nme37
ww2 #pacificwar #halsey #nimitz #macarthur
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What is the national debt? To whom or what does the U.S. government owe all this money? What does it mean to you today, your children and grandchildren tomorrow, and for the continued health of American political and economics institutions and norms?
Jeff discusses all these issues and more with Dr. Rob Wyllie, Professor of Political Economy.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Mercy Otis Warren not only wrote one of the first comprehensive histories of the American Revolution, she was also a leading Antifederalist thinker - and yet she is overlooked in most conventional histories of the era today. What makes her important and memorable? What can we learn from her today?
Join Dr. Cara Rogers Stevens this week as she discusses this important American Founder with Brenda Hafera, Senior Fellow at the Heritage Foundation.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
American press freedom has never followed a straight path. The Founding Fathers envisioned newspapers as partisan political weapons, not neutral truth-tellers. This "messy" approach let citizens decide truth for themselves rather than accepting government-approved narratives.
Today's concerns about partisan media miss the point—embracing partisanship may produce healthier discourse than enforcing artificial neutrality. The real danger lies in government attempts to regulate speech through "disinformation boards," which risk transforming oversight into censorship tools.
History reveals a pattern: wartime consistently triggers press restrictions, from the 1798 Sedition Acts that imprisoned journalists to Civil War censorship and World War I prosecutions. The choice remains between messy, chaotic free speech that challenges all perspectives, or organized, controlled information that serves those in power.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the inner workings of the Reagan White House with former AMB Frank Lavin, who had a front-row seat to many of Reagan’s key decisions and actions while president. Get to know Reagan as both a person and a leader; and read Frank’s book on the topic, linked below.
Amazon link: https://a.co/d/fRQPTsh
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by constitutional law scholar Dr. Joshua Dunn to discuss the recently ended 2025 US Supreme Court term and some of the more interesting and potentially important decisions, as well as what seem like some friction between some of the justices.
Get a free copy of Josh’s primary documents reader about the Judiciary: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/product/the-judiciary/
Get a free copy of Jeff’s primary documents reader about the Supreme Court: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/product/the-supreme-court/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
In celebration of the 249th anniversary of America's independence, we look back not so much on the history of the Declaration of Independence, but on its meaning. And not just its meaning then, but its enduring meaning and what we can and should take from it now.
This special episode contains the content of the first of three classes within our free, self-paced online course, "The American Idea." If you enroll, you can listen to thoughtful discussions of the Declaration of Independence, Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, and Martin Luther King jr's "I Have a Dream" speech. You'll also be able to download a free PDF course reader so you can read these documents, and others, and discover their meaning yourself.
Register here: https://courses.ashbrook.org/register/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Presidents are people, too, and fallible, short-sighted, disciplined, daring - and all the other traits we humans share. How have our presidents handled, or mishandled, their own money? What can we learn from them now?
Cara Rogers Stevens welcomes author and wealth management expert Megan Gorman to this show this week to discuss some of the highs and lows of presidential personal finance.
Read Megan's book on the topic: https://a.co/d/faRlCmT
Host: Cara Rogers Stevens
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Who was William Blackstone? What did he contribute to English law, and how did his contributions directly impact the ideas in the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution? How is it that a British noble who opposed the American Revolution ended up serving as a major source of inspiration to the American Founders? Learn the details from this episode of The American Idea.
blackstone #williamblackstone #commonlaw #americanfounding
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Americans have faced, unfortunately, a number of movements and moments in our history where free speech - especially of a political nature - has been challenged and even quashed. Power-wielding opponents of free expression and debate have often sought to prevent debates and discussions from happening, in order to protect their interests. In this week's episode we explore a lesser-known example of this, in how slaveholders before the Civil War deliberately worked to deny free speech to both whites and African-Americans, enslaved and free.
Dr. Cara Rogers Stevens, our host this week, is joined by Dr. Jonathan W. White to discuss his recent article on the topic. You can reach Jonathan and find his books at the links below.
slavery #freespeech #freepress #abolition
Article: https://tinyurl.com/5n6s22b7
Jon's website: http://www.jonathanwhite.org/
Jon's Amazon page: https://tinyurl.com/4zn7kpej
Host: Cara Rogers Stevens
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Paul Nitze served under eight different U.S. presidents, from during World War 2 through the end of the Cold War, and it was his thinking, laid down in NSC-68, that provided some of the most foundational ideas for how America dealt with the Soviet Union, eventually bringing about its collapse.
This week Jeff welcomes State Department historian and author James Graham Wilson to discuss Nitze, and his book about the man.
Read the book: https://a.co/d/eV0zC2O
Read NSC-68: https://tinyurl.com/bdz8zmsm
cold war #ussr #containment
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Technology, especially social media and the near ubiquity of mobile devices, has changed our world, our personal lives, and interpersonal relations. A great many people are waking up to the mountain of evidence suggesting that this change has not been all, or even mostly, for the better.
American Enterprise Institute Senior Fellow and author Christine Rosen joins Jeff this week to discuss the impact of technology and our supposedly "connected" world this week. If you're concerned about human relations between individuals and at the social level - and our political discourse - don't miss this thoughtful discussion.
You can get Christine's book here: https://a.co/d/6TtOsBj
Read her profile: https://www.aei.org/profile/christine-rosen/
socialmedia #mobiledevices #internet #interpersonaldynamics
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What is America’s place in the world, and how have Americans understood where we as a country ought to be when it comes to world affairs and in relations with other countries? Should we be an “empire of liberty,” as Jefferson called the country? Should we avoid “entangling alliances” as Washington warned? Should we eagerly send our troops, promises, and money overseas, as has been the standard since World War 2? How do interest and morality, if there is such a thing in international affairs, play a role in the actions and norms of a republic?
Cara Rogers Stevens discusses the history of American expansion and empire in this episode with Dan Monroe, Professor of History at Millikin University. Together they chart the evolution of our view of our place in the world from the Founding to current times.
Host: Cara Rogers Stevens
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Tariffs, seemingly a relic of the 18th and 19th centuries, are back on the front page as tools of policy, with wide-reaching impacts on America's economy and Americans as individuals. What's the history behind tariffs as tools of policy, and how have American leaders understood and used them differently over time?
Political Economist Rob Wyllie joins Jeff for this timely explanation of the background and history of tariffs, as well as a healthy dose of analysis and even some forecasts related to what's going on now in the Trump administration and what it might mean for you and America now and in the near future.
trade #trump #tariffs #economics
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
8 May 1945: Victory in Europe Day, the day after the armistice between the Allied powers and Nazi Germany goes into effect. Almost 5 years long, World War 2 in Europe destroyed millions of lives, burned ancient cities to cinders, displaced populations, and permanently changed the world order.
How, then, did it come to end? How did the Allies defeat the Nazis, and why did the war end when it did? What issues led the world from war to Cold War in only a few years, turning supposed allies against one another?
Jeff discusses VE Day and its legacy with historian John Moser, answering these questions and helping to set the stage for the rest of the 20th Century in Europe and the rest of the world.
Read Ian Kershaw's book. mentioned in the episode: https://a.co/d/echNXaL
Read the text of the Yalta agreement: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/the-yalta-conference/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What is 'grand strategy' and how does it differ from strategy? What does grand strategy mean to a nation, its leaders and people? How is such a thing developed and revised over time? And why is it so difficult for America to create and settle on such a thing?
Business and military strategy authority Dr. John Hillen discusses these topics with Jeff today, digging into what challenges America faces in the world, and the challenges we face at home as we work to determine our own national grand strategy.
Read John's book on Strategic Management - https://a.co/d/cmBwY5L
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Why have NBA ratings dropped by half over the last decade? How has the game changed in recent years and what does the proliferation of legalized sports betting have to do with it? Jeff takes a break this week from questions of history and politics and looks at a slice of our public life with author and journalist Oliver Lee Bateman and addresses these weighty issues.
Or is there more to it? Is the creep of the HR department mindset to standardize, systematize, and optimize everything having an impact on one of our beloved sports?
Read Oliver's article on the topic, from RealClearBooks: https://tinyurl.com/4umhyujf
nba #sportsbetting
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
On 19 April 1775, the American War for Independence began at the battles of Lexington and Concord. Take a step back in time this week to learn some of the forgotten stories of important and interesting individuals who were part of America’s revolution, of which the war, according to John Adams, was only a part.
Download a free copy of the American Revolution documents reader: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/product/american-revolution/
View the documents reader’s contents online: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/collections/the-american-revolution/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
The 2024 elections left the Democrats in crisis, soul-searching over why they not only lost the White House, but also multiple down-ballot races, as well. Are we entering an era of party realignment? How is the leadership of the DNC grappling with these losses, and what do they see as the reasons behind them? What has their public response been, so far, to Trump’s return to the White House? And what might all this mean for upcoming elections?
Jeff is joined this week by author and columnist JT Young to discuss this important development in American politics.
You can get JT’s book here: https://a.co/d/97HVoQQ
Read JT’s article on this topic: https://thehill.com/opinion/campaign/5123096-democrats-ideological-shift/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What can we learn from those who came before us? What life lessons can be gleaned from the ideas and actions of noteworthy Americans? Dr. Cara Roger Stevens discusses the lives of 10 extraordinary Americans, whose lives offer us wisdom and guidance, with teacher and author Jeremy Adams.
You can find Adams' book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/2GeECFi
lessonsinliberty #americanhistory
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What is statesmanship? What does it take to be a statesman? Is it possible to be such a leader during easy times, or only during the toughest moments in history?
Jeff sits down with Dr. Greg McBrayer to discuss Ronald Reagan's political philosophy and how he applied in understanding and dealing with the Soviet Union - and why Reagan earned the title of 'statesman.'
Learn more about Reagan, and two other 20th Century statesman, in our free online course "Tear Down This Wall..." - register at courses.ashbrook.org
ronaldreagan #regan #coldwar #ussr #gorbachev #berlinwall
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Lindsay Chervinsky, Director of the George Washington Presidential Library, joins Cara Rogers Stevens this week to discuss Abigail Adams and her impact on John's public life.
Learn more about Lindsay: https://www.lindsaychervinsky.com/
Get her book: https://a.co/d/6OOF1ny
Learn about the George Washington Library: https://www.mountvernon.org/library
Listen to Lindsay's podcast: https://www.georgewashingtonpodcast.com/show/conversations/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Daylight Savings Time: nobody seems to enjoy switching their clocks twice a year, and recently there has been another push to eliminate it altogether. But as a policy issue it’s far more complicated than it might seem at first glance. Dr. Cara Rogers Stevens is joined by columnist Rachel Lu, Associate Editor at Law & Liberty, to discuss the many layers of what seems like a simple question.
Read her article here: https://lawliberty.org/sleep-training-the-american-people/
DST #daylightsavings #daylight #springforward
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe:https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Today e ask you to take a moment to look back at an inaugural address that was also given in a time of high political division and partisanship, in fact eclipsing our own. What can we learn from Abraham Lincoln, and from the words of his Second Inaugural Address?
Jeff is joined by Dr. Jason Stevens to discuss this essential American document, exploring its meaning in 1865, as well as what we can learn from it now, almost 160 years later.
lincoln #secondinaugural #malicetowardnone
Read the speech: https://tinyurl.com/mkp25fpp
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
How and why did the short-lived Republic of Texas seek admission into the United States and become the 28th state? Historical Jordan Cash joins Jeff for this episode, wherein they discuss how the state of Texas came about, why it factored so prominently in 19th Century American history, and why it still matters today.
texas #texashistory #alamo #annexation #samhouston #johntyler #american history
Read Jordan’s recent book on this topic - https://a.co/d/hR87Yyq
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Rev. John Rankin is, arguably, America's founding abolitionist, and yet he is virtually forgotten today. A conductor on the Underground Railroad, a writer and preacher, he laid the intellectual, moral, and organizational foundations of what would become the mainstream abolition movement in the mid-19th Century.
Jeff is joined today by author Caleb Franz to cast some needed light on Rankin - his work, his ideas, and his accomplishments.
Read Caleb's book, The Conductor, here: https://a.co/d/hsA2tLb
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What foreign policy challenges does the Trump Administration face as of February 2025? Where are the potential flashpoints of global conflict and strife? What 'bad actors' are out there, and are they working together?
Defense Policy expert Rebeccah Heinrichs discusses these serious issues with Jeff, and offers some ideas for how America can defend itself and work to promote and protect our national interest and citizens.
Read Rebeccah's bio here: https://www.hudson.org/experts/1054-rebeccah-l-heinrichs
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
foreignpolicy #ccp #ukrainewar #freetrade #irondome #nationaldefense
The presidential pardon is the most sweeping and unchallengeable of a president's powers, and it seems that each time someone leaves the White House, pardons generate at least some level of controversy. Why did the Founders include this power? How was its use originally envisioned, and how has it evolved over time? Historian Jonathan White joins Cara Rogers Stevens to discuss the issue, using Abraham Lincoln as a vehicle to better understand this significant, yet poorly-understood presidential power.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jimmy Carter, a one-term Democrat president from Georgia, recently passed away after a long and impactful and sometimes controversial post-presidential life. From governor of Georgia to president to self-appointed ambassador and highly successful proponent of global relief efforts, Carter broke with many presidential traditions, for better and worse, to his advantage and not.
Jeff is joined by noted presidential scholar Dr. Stephen Knott, formerly of the U.S. Naval War College, to discuss Carter's rise to prominence in Democratic circles, his unlikely victory in 1976, his tumultuous single term as president, and his long - sometimes contentious - post-presidential public life.
Get Steve's book, "The Lost Soul of the American Presidency": https://a.co/d/53ufwlD
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
As we mark another peaceful transfer of presidential power in America - and after an ugly, rancorous political campaign season - it's worth looking back at perhaps the greatest story of political and personal reconciliation in our history. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson: allies, then friends, then rivals, then political enemies, and then friends again in the closing days of their lives. Let's take a moment and look at how this lifelong connection grew, went sour, and was rekindled, demonstrating then and now that so long as the "American Mind" is alive, people of different opinions can come together for the common and personal good.
johnadams #thomasjefferson
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
America's national debt stands at over $36 trillion dollars as of early 2025. What does that mean? How did we get here? What should and can be done about it? What are the consequences of inaction? AIER.org policy analyst Dave Hebert joins Jeff this week to discuss this problem, hiding in plain sight, its background, and possibilities for the incoming Trump administration and the future.
debt #nationaldebt #politics #congress #deficits #debtceiling
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by historian H.W. Brands to discuss the public and political battle between #FDR and Charles Lindbergh during the lead-in to #WW2. Were FDR's policies pushing America slowly toward war, as Lindbergh asserted, or would they keep us out, as was FDR's position? Of additional interest is how their disagreement fits into the long-running debate over America's role in the world - which was, in part, on the ballot in 2024.
foreignpolicy #intervention #isolation #americafirst
Read Brands' book here: https://a.co/d/5MZ2KdG
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
John Adams was instrumental in America's efforts for independence, the formation of our early government, and the cementing of norms and systems during the republic's early years. And yet he seems most often remembered for the controversial Alien and Sedition Acts, and his complicated relationship with Thomas Jefferson?
Historian and Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky joins Jeff this week to discuss Adams as a thinker, leader, and man, shedding new light on how much of his work we still follow today, even if we don't realize it.
johnadams #potus #history
Learn more about Lindsay: https://www.lindsaychervinsky.com/
Get her book: https://a.co/d/6OOF1ny
Learn about the George Washington Library: https://www.mountvernon.org/library
Listen to Lindsay's podcast: https://www.georgewashingtonpodcast.com/show/conversations/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Peter Schramm, former Executive Director of the Ashbrook Center and Professor of Political Science, was a student of American thought, culture, institutions, and people. His interest in America began when he was a child, living in Hungary after World War 2, hearing his father talk about a faraway place where they all belonged, and would hopefully one day live.
This is Peter's story, told by him, and through it we can learn not only of his story, but something about this country and its ideals, and why it has served as a beacon of liberty to the world for over 200 years.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe:https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Done every 10 years in response to the census, as required in the Constitution, congressional redistricting is always a politically-charged process, with each state dealing with it differently. Ohio recently completed the process, putting in place districts through 2030. Jeff is joined by Ohio Governor's press secretary Dan Tierney to discuss how Ohio does this vital work, and by extension how he handles the media as a representative of the governor.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
ohio #ohiogovernor #mikedewine #redistricting #congress #census #constitution #media
Jeff is joined by Dr. John Moser, Professor of History, to discuss the pivotal Battle of the Bulge - or Ardennes Offensive - that turned out to be Nazi Germany's last major offensive of World War 2 in northwest Europe. Catching the Allied armies by surprise, Hitler's army pushed deep behind friendly lines, only to be stopped by the weather, lack of supplies, and the stout defensive fighting of American and British forces.
Learn about this great battle in recognition of its 80th anniversary, coming up on 16 December.
ww2 #ardennes #battleofthebulge #militaryhistory
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by historian Tevi Troy to discuss an issue of both historical and current relevance: what happens when the interests of commercial and industrial giants clash with those of the president? Is there anything we can learn from past rifts between the likes of Rockefeller and Roosevelt, of Ford and Wilson, to help us understand the impact of Musk, Zuckerberg, and others on our current government? Why do the interests of government and industry diverge, or converge?
potus #industry #musk #rockefeller
Read Tevi's new book, "The Power and the Money" - https://a.co/d/aVohnM8
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Can we find an honest president, or an honest presidential administration? By what standards do we identify "corruption" when it comes to the White House? Dr. John Robert Greene, author of "Little Helpers: Harry Vaughan, His Cronies, and Corruption in the Truman Administration," joins Jeff to discuss the long and sordid history of presidential scandals and how Americans' views on presidential behavior have changed over time.
Find Prof. Greene's book here: https://a.co/d/j7kG6ao
president #whitehouse #scandal
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
How bad is our military recruiting crisis? Why are our armed services having sustained problems bringing in and retaining members? And what does this say about our strategic readiness, and what that means for our national security? Jeff is joined by Will Thibeau, former Army Ranger and defense policy authority to discuss this troubling, important issue.
Read "The Soldier and the State" - https://a.co/d/afvwsrY
Read Will's article on the topic: https://tinyurl.com/yw6yk2cu
nationalsecurity #recruitment #militaryservice
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by presidential historian Dr. Vincent Cannato, of the University of Massachusetts-Boston to discuss the elections of 2024, with particular focus on the presidential election. What happened? Why? How? What might it all mean?
trump2024 #harris2024 #elections2024results #elections2024
Read Vincent's most recent book: https://a.co/d/dr12bXU
Visit Vin's website: https://www.vincentcannato.com/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
We often look at our divisive, shrill, and angry politics as somehow outside of some vague norm, or worse than at any time in our past. Go back to go forward as we look at the Election of 1800 and how two parties reduced themselves to name-calling and lies, and still agreed to the first peaceful exchange of power between opposing parties in history.
Read Jefferson's First Inaugural: https://tinyurl.com/3ymdeh6d
Read Hamilton's thoughts on Aaron Burr: https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Hamilton/01-25-02-0140
potus #elections #jefferson #adams
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff and legal scholar Jonathan Turley discuss the importance of a free press in America, as well as the decline of legacy media and the simultaneous rise of the “citizen journalist.” What does all this portend for our republic and our efforts to be informed, rational citizens?
Read Jonathan’s recent book, “The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in an Age of Rage,”: https://a.co/d/2mnvYzd
Read a review of Turley’s recent book: https://tinyurl.com/4w53v3df
Visit Jonathan's website: https://jonathanturley.org/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
It's been 80 years since Allied forces under General Douglas MacArthur invaded and, eventually, liberated the Philippines. To discuss the pivotal event in WW2 and world history, Jeff is joined by historian Walter Borneman, author of several books on World War 2, including the excellent "MacArthur at War." Learn about how this invasion came about and how, in many ways, it reflected the complex character of MacArthur himself.
Read MacArthur at War: https://a.co/d/gQiVPr4
Read The Admirals: https://a.co/d/inFEkdR
Check on Walt's recent and current projects: https://www.walterborneman.net/HOME.html
ww2 #history #militaryhistory #philippines #macarthur
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Temu - it offers lots of cheap goods, right? Did you bother reading the Terms of Service and do you realize just now intrusive this app is when it comes to the rest of the data and personal information on your phone? Did you know that the Chinese government requires - by their law - Chinese companies to turn over user data upon request...and to lie about it when questioned? It's not a stretch to say that Temu, Tiktok, and many other Chinese platforms are intelligence and information gathering tools that are being used to vacuum up vast amount of private information about people from around the world. We're joined this week by strategic and infrastructure intelligence expert Brian Cavanaugh, of American Global Strategies, to discuss this "trojan horse" many of you might have in your pocket right now.
malware #ccp #communistchina #tiktok #temu
Read Brian's recent article: https://tinyurl.com/5578ht5b
Check out StateArmor: https://statearmor.org/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What is civics education and why is it so important in America and for Americans? What are the elements of good - not partisan, no slanted - civic education? Jeff is joined by author and historian Dr. Wilfred McClay to discuss what makes civics among the most important topics we can teach our students, children, and fellow Americans - and why it's far more important than it's usually treated in schools today.
wilfredmcclay #landofhope #civics #civiceducation #americansociety
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What is a 'regime,' and what does America's current "anti-discrimination regime" do and portend for individual liberty, limited government, and rule of law? Jeff discusses this thorny topic with scholar Thomas Powers, exploring the background of today's regime, how it functions, and what it might mean for our future.
civilrights #woke #antiracism #antidiscrimination
Read Tom's book: https://a.co/d/44H6GDm
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What do you know about the last massive airborne assault to take place in WW2? Market-Garden, beginning on 17 September 1944, involved more than three Allied airborne divisions in daytime drops in three separate areas, as well as thousands more troops and vehicles of the Allied XXX Corps. Depicted in the movie "A Bridge Too Far," the assault sputtered and failed to achieve its objectives, and yet still played an important role in the development of the war in Western Europe after D-Day and the liberation of France.
ww2 #worldwar2 #market-garden #arnhem #bridgetoofar #screamingeagles #82ndairborne #101stairborne
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What does the Constitution mean to an elected official? Or to the United States Attorney General? Why should we respect, and perhaps even revere, the United States Constitution, and can this 18th Century document still hold together a diverse, often fractious republic in the 21st Century?
constitution #americanhistory
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Drs. Chris Burkett and Rob Wyllie, professors of Political Science and Political Economy, respectively, in this recording of a special live episode of The American Idea. Is there a connection between free enterprise and national prosperity? What is free enterprise, anyway? What kind of economy did the Founders envision for America, and how would that shape Americans and our public life and politics? Consider these questions and others that sit at the foundation of America and our experiment in free association and self-government.
freeenterprise #liberty #jefferson #hamilton #americanfounding
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Henry Olsen, expert polls analysis from the Ethics & Public Policy Center, to discuss the state of the presidential election now that the dust has settled from the RNC and DNC conventions, and the nomination of VP Kamala Harris over President Biden.
Catch Henry's podcast here: https://ricochet.com/series/beyond-the-polls-with-henry-olsen/
2024elections #dnc #rnc #kamalaharris #donaldtrump #polls2024
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Producer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses leadership - the kind of American leadership that requires reasoning, setting of examples, and character - with two legendary football coaches in this special episode of The American Idea. Jim Tressel, longtime football coach of Ohio State University, and Lee Owens, former football coach at Ashland University, share their experiences in motivating players, building teams, and developing character in those around them.
ohiostate #ashlandfootball #ashland #leadership #leadershipdevelopment
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What's the purpose of a party convention? Does anybody watch them, and are any decisions of substance made at them? Why did the Democrats avoid an 'open convention' this year, and what might have happened had they not? Jeff is joined by Professor Eric Sands to discuss the history, role, and evolution of party conventions in America, from attempts to democratize the electoral process to supposed impediments to it - all the way to today's low-ratings PR event.
elections #conventions #politicalparties #democrats #republicans #gop #2024elections
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Are we running out of energy or not? Is the transition to "renewables" going to happen any time soon, and is it the best use of resources, capital, and labor? How do policy decisions impact the price, availability, and reliability of energy - and how does that impact our lives? Jeff discusses these thorny policy questions with Mark Mills, Director of the National Center for Energy Analytics and comes to some surprising, evidence-based answers.
energy #policy #oil #bigoil #fracking #environment
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What happened to quality, non-partisan civics education in America? Why do so many young people either lack essential knowledge about our system of government? Why does socialism seem attractive to so many Americans today? Can we turn the tide and help our fellow citizens adopt an informed, honest, and rational patriotism? Jeff is joined by David Davenport to discuss this crisis and the many downstream effects of it - and what we can do about it.
If you're interested in reading "A Republic, If We Can Teach It," you can get your copy from Amazon here: https://a.co/d/iFmIWSM
civics #americanpolitics #civiceducation
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Law professor and scholar Jonathan Turley joins Jeff this week to talk about the importance of free speech, and just how threatened it is on college campuses, online, and by our own federal government. Learn more about America's eras of political rage and the challenges to free speech they present - and what each of us can do to protect this most essential right.
freespeech #firstamendment #covid #censorship
Read Jonathan Turley's new book, "The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in An Age of Rage," - https://a.co/d/byMm1Hu
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by legal scholar Josh Dunn to discuss the most recent decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court, including those overturning the Chevron Doctrine, addressing free speech online, separation of powers, and presidential immunity.
ussc #supremecourt #chevrondoctrine #constitution
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Join us for our special episode in response to the attempted assassination of (former) President Donald Trump on Saturday, 13 July 2024. Jeff discusses with Dr. John Moser the existence and impact of violence in American politics from the 19th Century onward, looking into attempted assassinations of Andrew Jackson, Theodore Roosevelt, Gerald Ford, and Ronald Reagan; and the actual murders of Abraham Lincoln, William McKinley, James Garfield, and John F. Kennedy. Where do these attacks come from? What animates the choice of bullets over ballots?
trumpassassination #politicalviolence #july13th #trump #election2024 #election2024news
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the pivotal role Theodore Roosevelt played as a spoiler in the 1912 presidential election, and the legacy he left for Third Parties. Do they tend to be about ideas or personalities? Why don't they seem to last beyond an election cycle or two? How do they fit into our political culture and systems, and what can we learn from our past to help us grapple with today's divided political landscape?
Learn more about Mike, including his books and podcast, at his website: https://www.michaelpatrickcullinane.com/
Read the Progressive Party platform from 1912: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/the-progressive-party-platform-1912/
thirdparty #tr #bullmoose #1912
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Lucas Morel, Professor of Political Science at Washington & Lee University, to commemorate Independence Day this year with commentary from, arguably, America’s greatest Civil Rights and abolition leader. Douglass, born into slavery, became the most powerful voice for emancipation and the destruction of an institution that flew in the face of the more core American values. During his life, his views on America and our government evolved, and in this powerful 1852 speech, he explains to Americans what America can and ought to be.
Read the full speech here: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/what-to-the-slave-is-the-fourth-of-july-2/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Electric vehicles have become more popular in the last decade, and are often promoted as being both good for the environment and the owner's wallet - but is there evidence to back up these claims? You might be surprised by how much an EV really costs to build, how much consumer prices are distorted by subsidies, and how little they do for the environment. Jeff is joined by Brent Bennet, PhD, a former battery engineer who now serves as an energy policy director for the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
https://www.texaspolicy.com/about/staff/brent-bennett/
energy #ev #incentives #economics #teslarealcost
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses drug policy in American with researcher and author Karl Zinsmeister. In addition to background on the drug epidemic and policy responses over the years, they focus on recent moves to relax enforcement of anti-drug laws, even to the extent of legalizing a variety of narcotics, such as what Oregon did only a few years ago. Instead of solving the crime and human degradation these progressive policies sought to address, they instead led to massive increases in overdose deaths, more crime, and other problems.
Read Karl’s book: https://a.co/d/03zBw1Y
Read Karl's RCP article: https://tinyurl.com/bde2p5x9
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
drugpolicy #legalization
Dr. Jordan Cash discusses this question with Jeff this week, looking into the decisions and actions of three "isolated" presidents - John Tyler, Andrew Johnson, and Gerald Ford. These three presidents were, essentially, lone actors for their time in office, abandoned by party and other political supports - what did they get done, good or bad? Building off Jordan's book (link below) they explore the question of just how much fiat power a president has, regardless of political and popular support.
Jordan's book: https://a.co/d/iwMJZvw
americanhistory #americanpresidents #reconstruction #constitution #whitehouse #andrewjohnson #geraldford #johntyler
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff Sikkenga and Dr. David Krugler discussion D-Day - what is was, what happened on that day, and what Operation Overlord accomplished within the context of World War 2.
dday #overlord #ike #eisenhower #ww2
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Dr. John Moser meet with Derek Abbey, President & CEO of Project Recover, a non-profit organization that searches for still-missing American service members around the world. Focused traditionally on the Palau islands and lost airmen from World War 2, Project Recover has expanded operations over the last 30 years to include efforts in Vietnam, elsewhere in the Pacific, and even at sites in the Atlantic.
Over 80,000 Americans are still missing and unaccounted for from our many wars, with about 3/4 of that number from World War 2 alone - and most of that number from among those who fought in the Pacific. Sadly, although America moved on after 1945, the families of so many of those missing did not, and some of them still have not. Project Recover, working closely with State Department and Defense Department efforts, carries the torch, in search of closure for those who never had a body to bury, or a grave at which to mourn a lost loved one.
ww2 #palau #peleliu #projectrecover
Learn more about Project Recover and their good work: https://www.projectrecover.org/
Find out more about their recent documentary, "To What Remains" - https://www.projectrecover.org/film-to-what-remains/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Tevi Troy, author of "Shall We Wake the President?" to discuss the evolution of presidential and federal involvement in emergency situations, natural disasters, and similar crises. Using examples from the early years of the republic through today, they trace the change over time brought by communications technology, changing expectations of the American people, the role of NGOs and the media, and examples of when presidents have done well and come up short in handling crises.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Get Tevi's book: https://a.co/d/dbJdfkQ
Take a look at Tevi's leadership training materials for executives and how they can more effectively handle crises: https://1600lessons.com/
We receive a drumbeat of apocalyptic warnings about climate change, pollution, and dwindling energy supplies - but how much are these claims, and the policy demands that come with them, based on evidence? Jeff is joined by Steven Hayward, resident scholar at the University of California at Berkeley's School of Intergovernmental Studies to discuss the history of these arguments and the policies that have emerged from them.
climatechange #energypolicy #pollution #nuclearpower #renewableenergy
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by John Vecchione, Senior Litigator for the New Civil Liberties Alliance (nclalegal.org) to discuss their work before the Supreme Court, arguing on behalf of individuals and groups that claim that federal officials abused their power and pressured social media companies to censor their speech. Similar to the “memory hole” of 1984, social media giants like Facebook, it is alleged, were pressured to downgrade or outright ban certain posts and even individuals whose opinions they didn’t like.
nclalegal.org
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff sits down with entrepreneur and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to discuss what motivated him to run, what he learned from the experience, and how he views the opportunities America has given him and his family.
vivek #ramaswamy #president #elect ions #campaign #america
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
On April 25th, 1945, the 15th Air Force launched the last mass bombing raid in the war in Europe, on Hitler's self-declared hometown of Linz, Austria. This strategically-important transportation hub was also the location where Hitler dreamed of creating a shrine to himself and Nazism, in the form of museums, monuments, (stolen) art collections, and eventually his grave.
Mike Croissant, author and retired CIA analyst, discusses the raid with John Moser, as the two discuss the closing days of the war, the dangers of American daylight bombing, and the tragic end to the life of Croissant's uncle, who fly in the raid and was the inspiration for the book.
If the courage and stories of the 'Greatest Generation' interest and inspire you, take the time to listen to this episode, and check out Mike's book, out now: https://a.co/d/0Pnycx3
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
World War 1 had a profound and far-reaching impact on American politics, government, law, international standing and, perhaps even more significant, on American culture and society. Many of the most important movements of the 20th Century - Civil Rights, Women's Suffrage, the growth of government power and size - have their roots in how America and Americans understood the war, took part in it, and what they took from the experience with it and the broader world. Dr. Jeff Sikkenga, Executive Director of the Ashbrook Center, discuses these topics with Dr. Jennifer Keene, Professor of History at Chapman University. Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff moderates a panel with mayors of four small towns in Ohio, discussing their work and the importance of good local government and how we can, with our neighbors, play an essential role in America’s civic life. This episode was recorded live at one of the Ashbrook Center’s recent “Major Issues Lecture Series,” held at Ashland University.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Building a winning team - in business, education, sports, or the military - is hard, essential work; sustaining excellence over time is, perhaps, even harder. Kari Pickens, head coach of Ashland University’s Women’s Basketball Team, knows a lot about both, and shares her experiences and insights with Jeff in this episode.
Kari’s reflections are also firmly connected to the American tradition of servant leadership - of a leader who puts their people and mission ahead of themselves, working to get the best out of people while helping them develop as individuals.
For basketball fans there’s a lot to love in this episode. Those interested in organizational culture and personnel development will find equally as much.
Learn more about Coach Pickens and the program here: https://goashlandeagles.com/sports/womens-basketball
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Congressman Jim Jordan (OH-4, R) to discuss some of most essential elements of a leader, as well as some of the most pressing challenges facing American today. They discuss government-sponsored threats to the First Amendment,and the challenges presented internationally by Russia and China.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
With the Senate now having to consider a House bill that would force the sale of TikTok or ban the app in the United States, it's time to get the truth on why this social media platform is not like Facebook or Instagram or others. Jeff is joined by foreign policy expert Michael Sobolik of the American Foreign Policy Council to discuss what TikTok is, how the Chinese Communist Party is able to influence control over it, and by extension gather information about people and spread propaganda favorable to the CCP and its global strategy.
Find Michael's book here: https://a.co/d/c9MmPLx
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
John Moser discusses the origins, evolution, and impact of the Harlem Renaissance with historian David Krugler.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff Sikkenga and Dr. Sarah Burns discuss the long, complicated history of how presidential war powers have been understood, implemented, and expanded, and how these changes have impacted American government and America's place in the world.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the unique history of American civilian-military relations with Miles Smith IV of Hillsdale College in today's episode.Suspicious of standing armies, but cognizant of the need for military power, the Founders were emphatic about civilian supremacy over the military - especially senior officers. From George Washington's handling of the Newburgh Conspiracy to Lincoln's relations with his generals, to the Cold War and Ike's concerns about the "military-industrial complex," we trace the evolution of ideas and norms in government and our culture from the Founding to today in this fascinating and thought-provoking episode.
Subscribe to The American Idea podcast: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Visit the show's homepage: https://ashbrook.org/viewpoints/
Read Miles' article on Law & Liberty: https://lawliberty.org/the-lesson-of-newburgh/
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff discusses the evolution of the U.S. healthcare system since the late 19th Century with Dr. Lauren Hall of the Rochester Institute of Technology. At issue are the surprising, and disheartening, unintended consequences of changes in technology and policy that have yielded the high-cost, low-efficiency and in some ways even lower-effectiveness "system" Americans face today.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the history and sad state of U.S. national energy policy with Peter Grossman, Emeritus Professor of Economics.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff Sikkenga discusses the “Chevron Doctrine” with Mark Chenoweth, Director of the New Civil Liberties Alliance, and how this 1984 Supreme Court decision has led to a runaway federal regulatory regime. They discuss the history of the decision and current challenges to it - including NCLA’s appearance before the Supreme Court to challenge Chevron in January 2024 - as well as its implications for our constitutional system of government.
Host: Dr. Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Philip Hamburger’s “Chevron Bias” article: https://www.gwlr.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/84-Geo.-Wash.-L.-Rev.-1187.pdf
Podcast Subscription: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Dr. Eric Sands of Berry College to discuss the origins, role, evolution, and impact of political parties in America. This is one of those episodes wherein you learn some history, and your understanding of our current situation becomes more clear.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe through your favorite platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
John Moser and Greg Schneider discuss the background to the Iran Hostage Crisis of 1979-1981, and America's broader, longer-term problems with Iran.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the complicated ideas and legacy of Thomas Jefferson as they pertain to race and slavery, with Dr. Cara Rogers Stevens, author of a new book on the subject.
Far more complex than presented in textbooks and conventional histories, Jefferson condemned slavery in some of the harshest language of his times, owned slaves, perhaps fathered children with them, and had a sensibility of race relations that evolved and changed significantly throughout his personal and public life.
Relying on primary source documents - public and private - Rogers Stevens uncovers a Jefferson overlooked by most histories, or lost in contemporary political debates.
Read Cara's book, "Thomas Jefferson and the Fight against Slavery" available on Amazon.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe through your platform of choice: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Dr. Joseph Griffith, Professor of Political Science, to discuss the history, norms, laws, and current and possible future state of parental rights in education in America.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via YouTube or another platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the Electoral College - its origins, the rationale behind it, and controversies surrounding it over the years, with Michael Maibach, a noted authority on the topic. They dig deeply into the origins of the system, as created at the Constitutional Convention of 1787, debunk contemporary claims of its connection to slavery, and analyze the current "National Popular Vote" movement, which seeks an end-run around the Constitution to subvert the republican system created at the Founding. If you want to understand the Electoral College and the major arguments for and against it in order to make up your own mind about the system, take the time to listen to this episode.You can learn more about Save Our States at https://saveourstates.com/ and about the National Popular Vote movement at https://www.nationalpopularvote.com/ Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe through your favorite platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by David Parker - musician and music educator, philanthropist, and investor - to discuss the origins, meaning, and importance of a uniquely American genre of music: jazz.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe through your favorite platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Dan Monroe of Millikin University to discuss John Brown, the man some claim 'lit the fuze' that caused the Civil War. Monroe explains and analyzes Brown's background, his influences, and his firm embrace of violence as a means-of-choice for addressing the scourge of slavery.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe through your favorite platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by historian and author Dr. Jonathan White to discuss "Shipwrecked: A True Civil War Story of Mutinies, Jailbreaks. Blockade-Running, and the Slave Trade." This fascinating tale is of a little-known story of ship captain Appleton Oaksmith and his, to put it lightly, varied and adventurous life experiences, many of which intersected and overlapped one of the greatest events, the Civil War, and one of the greatest problems, slavery, in American history.
Find Jon's book here: https://a.co/d/2rCVhhy
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe through your favorite platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Rebeccah Heinrichs, Senior Fellow and defense policy expert at the Hudson Institute, to discuss current developments in Israel, Ukraine, and China. How do these conflicts impact American politics and policy? Get a thoughtful strategic analysis in this week's episode.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
John Moser and Eric Pullin discuss rapprochement and detente with China during the Nixon administration - how it came about, what resulted from it in the short-term, and what longterm challenges it created for America and the world.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
RSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bve
Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff is joined by Steve Knott to discuss JFK"s assassination on the 60th anniversary of this key event in American history. The two cover the day itself, the investigation by the Warren Commissions, early and more recent conspiracy theories, and the evidence as best we know it, along with the enduring legacy of this event.Take a look at Steve's JFK book on AmazonHost: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Jason Stevens, professor of Political Science at Ashland University, to discuss the meaning and legacy of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, delivered 160 years ago this month. Learn what made it so important then, and what we can draw from it now.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe through your favorite platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
In this week's episode of The American Idea, we look back 80 years to the pivotal Battle of Tarawa, the first in America's 'Island Hopping' campaign during World War 2 in the Pacific. Dr. John Moser is joined by military historian Bruscinocino to discuss why the battle took place, why America suffered such a high casualty rate, and how the battle and its outcome shaped U.S. war policy, strategy, and tactics in the Pacific from late 1943 onward.Suggested Readings:Aleutians, Gilberts, and Marshalls, June 1941-April 1944: History of US Naval Operations in WW2 v7: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1591145538?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_18X1SY0J7SQ4GPBDN8P4Seizure of the Gilberts and Marshalls: https://history.army.mil/html/books/005/5-6-1/index.htmlHost: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe through your favorite platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the historical and intellectual roots of Critical Race Theory with Robert George of Princeton University. What is CRT? Where does it come from? What are its roots as an academic movement? What does it preach, in practice, and how do these things shape the mind of the individual and relations between people?
George suggested a few readings, linked below.
Plato's Dialogue with Gorgias: https://classics.mit.edu/Plato/gorgias.html
Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice: https://gutenberg.org/ebooks/1342
Federalist 10: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/document/federalist-10/
CS Lewis' "The Abolition of Man" : https://www.amazon.com/Abolition-Man-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652942
Repressive Tolerance: https://www.marcuse.org/herbert/publications/1960s/1965-repressive-tolerance-fulltext.html
George’s article on the topic: https://www.deseret.com/2023/8/6/23800937/critical-race-theory-martin-luther-king-jr-dei
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
What is going on in the House of Representatives, and why did the Republicans fire their own Kevin McCarthy as Speaker? Where did this come from, what does it say about Congress, the House, political parties in general and in this point in our history, and in particular the Republican party? Jeff Sikkenga is joined by Joe Postell of Hillsdale College to discuss these issues and more, starting with the background to the GOP revolt against their own leader and what has been going on in the House for the last few weeks. Joe, who offered McCarthy's firing as a possibility when we talked with him in January about the new session of Congress, analyzes the current state of our political parties and what this might mean for the future of the House and Congress. Recorded on 24 OCT 23, this is a timely discussion of important, developing events.
Subscribe to The American Idea podcast from your favorite podcast platform at https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff Sikkenga and John Moser discuss the 'court packing' scandal of FDR's second term, how Democrats and Republicans in Congress revolted against what they saw as an attempt to consolidate power, even akin to how a dictator would behave. They also draw parallels with more recent calls to add Supreme Court justices, or force them to retire at a certain age, analyzing the potential legal and political fallout of such a move.You can download a free copy of John's "The Great Depression and New Deal - A Concise History" from our online bookstore. Other books mentioned include David Kennedy's "Freedom From Fear" and Jeff Shesol's "Supreme Power."Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe to The American Idea through your favorite platform here.
Andy Lang and Jeff discuss the idea of American Exceptionalism - is America a special, distinct place because of its political culture and ideas? - and the Civil War. In particular, they discuss the question the Civil War presented: would America be exceptional because it sought to live up to its founding principles, or would exceptionalism result from the creation of a new country, based on the “science” of a racial hierarchy?
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by David Alvis, of Wofford Colege, to discuss the reasons behind and important of the separation of powers in American government. Sure, we were all taught about the three branches, but why those? And how does the American system of government try to balance among them, even while admitting overlap between them?
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Download David’s book for free: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/product/separation-of-powers/
Subscribe through your favorite platform: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Bill Rivers, author and former speechwriter for James Mattis, for a discussion of Bill's coming of age novel, "Last Summer Boys." Set in the summer of 1968, the story follows the experiences and choices of three boys living through the tumult of the political and cultural issues of the late 1960s. Jeff and Bill discuss the writer's craft, and Bill's work as a speechwriter for James Mattis during his service as Secretary of Defense.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Ohio Attorney General to discuss the role of an attorney general, the rule of law, and the importance of a properly-balanced constitutional order. This podcast was recorded during the AG's visit to the Ashbrook Center on 12 SEP 23 for Ashbrook's "Major Issues Lecture Series" luncheon in recognition of Constitution Day 2023.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
John Moser and Johann Neem, of Western Washington University, discuss the movement by many toward a version of American history that seeks to get beyond what have been understood as America's fundamental meaning, identity, and role in the world. From the traditional view of America as a source of hope and good to a reformed vision of America as a force for evil and oppression, many in academia, journalism, and K-12 schools have moved to a "post-America" vision for understanding our country. In this episode we examine this movement, its impact on Americans, and how an honest analysis of both Left and Right extremes can provide a unified and unifying understanding of what America is, and what it can be.
Read Johann's Article: https://hedgehogreview.com/issues/theological-variations/articles/missed-america
Host: John Moser
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Podcast homepage: https://ashbrook.org/viewpoints/
Jeff discusses two of the most fundamental ideas at the foundation of the American experiment: natural rights and their outgrowth, limited government. Get a firm, documents-based understanding of these fundamental principles, and ideas of what to read to consider them in even greater depth.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanideaGet a free copy of the 50 Core American Documents volume: https://teachingamericanhistory.org/product/50-core-american-documents-cdc/
In this special episode, a former teacher - and Ashbrook MAHG graduate - and former Ashbrook Scholar - and recent law school graduate - discuss their years-long connection and the importance of mentorship, collegial relationships in education, and the place of a classical liberal education.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Ed Achorn, author of "The Summer of Beer and Whiskey," a fascinating story of the 1883 baseball season. Far more than a history of the early years of baseball as a sport and commercial enterprise, it's also a story of America, Americans at leisure, and the individuals who made their mark at the time and, in many ways, on the years since.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
John Moser discusses "Oppenheimer," the movie, with David Krugler, analyzing what's accurate, what's not, and - spoiler alert - why this is a good movie about history. Host: John Moser Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer Producer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Dr. John Moser discusses the use of the atomic bombs in World War 2 with noted author and historian, Richard Frank. Of special interest is the deepy body of declassified documents from within the Japanese military and government, only recently brought to light and use in English-language histories of the war.
Host: John Moser
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gyptonhttps://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff and David Krugler discuss LBJ's policies, actions, and attitudes and how they led to an increased American involvement in Vietnam.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
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Jeff discusses the fascinating and encouraging relationship between African-Americans - some well-known today and many forgotten - and Lincoln, through letters written to the president, providing compelling insight into the views people had of and for Lincoln during the Civil War. Find Jon's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Address-You-My-Friend-Americans-ebook/dp/B0915C56Z7?ref_=ast_author_dp
Read Douglass's "Why Should a Colored Man Enlist?"
Op-Ed here.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the lengthy and consequential public life of James Garfield, ending with his tragic death after being shot shortly after taking office. There's a lot more to this man than a short presidency, however, and we're thankful to have been joined by Todd Arrington of the National Park Service. Todd serves as the director of the Garfield historical site outside of Cleveland, OH - you can find more information here: https://www.nps.gov/jaga/index.htm
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff and Rita Koganzon of the University of Houston discuss the background to the current school "censorship" debate, and where supposed "book bans" came from, and why we're seeing such friction over school readings and library books now.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff discusses the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg with Chris Burkett, marking its 160th anniversary. This video version of the podcast includes maps and images of some of the key individuals from the battle, and puts the battle in the context of Lincoln's war aims.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Subscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Josh Dunn for a discussion and analysis of the major decisions handed down by the Supreme Court in the last week of June, 2023, including those related to affirmative action, religious liberty, free expression, and executive power. Don't miss this thoughtful analysis of these major cases.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonSubscribe via popular podcast apps: https://linktr.ee/theamericanidea
Jeff is joined by Bob Elder, Professor of History at Baylor University, to discuss John C. Calhoun, an "American Heretic" as Elder explains, given his views on the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and the relationship between the Constitution, national government, and the states. A polarizing figure then as now, Calhoun's legacy is still influential today. Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-ideaYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Join John Moser as he and Sean McMeekin discuss the complex and little-understood relationship between FDR and Stalin, and how United States assistance to the USSR during World War 2 inadvertently helped contribute to making Russia a world power.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz RSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bve Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
John Moser discusses the history of 20th Century bank failures in America with Dr. George Selgin. They look deeply at Federal Reserve regulatory policy and deposit insurance and the unintended consequences - good and bad - of federal government entanglement with the banking sector.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-ideaYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff discusses religious liberty, the First Amendment, and the role of the courts in working through this essential element of American political culture, in our history, today, and with forecasts for the future. Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-ideaYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff talks with Ad Achorn, author and journalist, about the nearly miraculous nomination of Abraham Lincoln by the then-new Republican Party. Far from a foregone conclusion, the choice of Lincoln almost didn’t happen. Learn about how Lincoln quickly rose to national prominence in the few years before 1860, and how Republican leaders decided on him over more well-known and seemingly ‘sure thing’ candidates. Read Ed’s latest book. “The Lincoln Miracle: Inside the Republican Convention That Changed History.”
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
RSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bve
Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
John Moser discusses the life, letters, person, and legacy of Ernest Hemingway. A man of his era, and an icon as both an author and personality, Hemingway casts a long shadow in American letters, and both reflected and influenced the culture and events of his time.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
RSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bve
Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff discusses the important and often overlooked Battle of Vicksburg, which came an end on 4 July 1863. Overshadowed by Gettysburg, this battle was arguably of far greater strategic importance than its more famous cousin, which took place at the same time. Learn about the military and political history and details of this event as we mark the 160th anniversary of the commencement of Grant's campaign for the Confederate city. Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
Jeff discusses the life, ideas, and legacy of Alexander Hamilton with Stephen Knott, formerly of the United States Naval War College and a recognized Hamilton scholar. Although Americans have been reminded of Hamilton as a result of the popular musical, what's the truth behind the songs? How did he rise to prominence, living a classically American story of humble beginnings and lofty achievements? What role did he really play in the War for Independence, and the Constitutional Convention? And finally, how are his ideas about foreign policy, economics, and presidential power still relevant today?Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
Jeff and Gordon Lloyd discuss the importance of the Articles of Confederation - not as a failure, or a preface to the Constitution, but as an important set of ideas and, up through 1787, actual, substantive accomplishments. Don't overlook the Articles.Host: Jeff Sikkenga Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer Producer: Jeremy Gypton Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz RSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bve Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-ideaYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff is joined by Rebeccah Heinrichs, Senior Fellow and director of the Keystone Defense Initiative to discuss the war in Ukraine, its strategic importance, how American and NATO policy has played out since the invasion in early 2022, and how it fits into questions of global security. This live episode of The American Idea had questions from attendees, and provides both background and analysis of the war. Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-ideaYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff and Rob McDonald discuss several interesting - and little-known - stories of individuals from the American Revolution, men and women, patriots and loyalists, in this episode marking the anniversary of the battles at Lexington and Concord.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
RSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bve
Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff and Dan Monroe discuss Texas history, independence and annexation, and the Mexican-American War while meeting for Ashbrook's Director's Club Weekend in San Antonio, Texas, in March 2023. Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-ideaYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff Sikkenga and Jason Jividen discuss the animating ideas and issus of the original Progressives, and their views on - and in many ways rejection of - the principles of the American Founding. Tracing the history of the Progressives, they also discuss contemporary examples of this movement, and what they mean to America today.Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-ideaYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff discusses Ronald Reagan’s efforts to peacefully end the Cold War with Will Inboden, Director of the Clements Center for National Security at the University of Texas-Austin. Containment and detente were frameworks that Reagan inherited; however, they both aimed to preserve the status quo with the USSR instead of rolling back Communist gains. Reagan’s view was that the Soviets were taking advantage of this approach, and instead saw the USSR not as a partner to accept and manage, but a cancer to be excised from the world stage. No previous Cold War president considered this possible without war; Reagan did, and his foreign policy was shaped by this belief.
Read Will's book on the topic
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
RSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bve
Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff and Flagg Taylor, of Skidmore College, discuss the thorny topic of censorship and its two main forms, that from the government, and that coming from individuals. Starting with a deep discussion of Soviet Russia’s totalitarian approach to what is acceptable literature and speech, they move through a history of limitations on speech, and what the last century of this can mean for us today, and the “cancel culture” moment we are enduring.Give a listen to Flagg’s podcast, Enduring Interest, where he and guests discuss forgotten books and literature.Host: Jeff SikkengaExecutive Producer: Greg McBrayerProducer: Jeremy GyptonApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73mGoogle Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67aSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtkAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnzRSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bvePodvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-ideaYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff and Chris Burkett discuss the unique place of the Western, as presented in literature and film, in American political culture. There's a lot more to the genre than gunfighters, wagon trains, and Monument Valley, as all enduring storytelling genres reflect, in some way, the cultures from which they originate. In addition to thoughtful and lively discussion, Chris offers suggestions for classic Western films and television shows.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
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YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff and Miles Smith IV discuss the 1619 Project and why it’s poorly-done as a piece of history and that in fact, it’s not history and should not be treated as such. Jeff and Miles discuss the importance of using primary sources - especially documents - in determining what happened in history, instead of starting with a conclusion and then, essentially, cherry-picking only what supports that conclusion; this is where 1619 goes so very wrong.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff sits down with Rebecca Heinrichs, an authority on national security issues, to discuss the challenge - and even threat - that the Chinese Communist Party presents to the United States and the world. Unpacking decades of policy mistakes and wishful thinking of Western countries, along with the longterm view of the CCP and its commitment to Marxist-Leninist ideology, Rebecca helps make sense of why the CCP is such a threat - no longer a competitor, but truly an adversary. She also offers some policy suggestions and implores Americans to delete the TikTok app, which the CCP uses as a global surveillance tool.
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
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YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff and Brian Kilmeade discuss his book, The President and the Freedom Fighter, and the central role Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass played in “saving America’s soul.” Both were self-made men, who never stopped striving to become men of worth, doing things that needed to be done to help America live up to its greatest ideals, as expressed in the Declaration of Independence.
Check out Brian's book here - it's a great read.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Listener Survey Link: https://forms.gle/U62wovf93VXhMK6M8
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
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RSS Feed: https://tinyurl.com/2p9u2bve
Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff talks with Dr. Andy Lang about U.S. Grant - as a soldier, general, and president.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytp6jwnz
Podvine: https://podvine.com/podcast/the-american-idea
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/3wwdre3a
Jeff sits down with Amity Shlaes, Chair of the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, to discuss the ideas and importance of Calvin Coolidge, an overlooked and wildly underrated president.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
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Co-host John Moser is joined by Ben Slomski of Ashland University discuss the origins and original understandings of presidential war powers, and how they’ve evolved over time. What did the Founders think? Did they agree on a single description of what war powers, and when a president could act unilaterally? They explore actions by Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, FDR, and other presidents, and make connections to contemporary issues, as well.
FEB-MAR 2023 Listener Survey: https://forms.gle/KKhN33X3n62aJ8hj9
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
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Jeff is joined by Joe Postell of Hillsdale College discuss the evolution of Congressional rules processes in light of the recent assumption of the majority by Republicans and the contentious votes over a new Speaker of the House. Learn about the fascinating changes in the Speaker’s powers, and how much more limited Speakers are than we often believe. They also discuss the differences between current norms of Democratic and Republican Party leadership and Congressional activity, and how this has played out in leadership behavior and power struggles. Finally, if Congress, in some ways, is “broken” - so far strayed from its original function and powers - can, and how can, it be fixed?
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
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Jeff and Lucas Morel, on this special MLK Day episode, discuss the ideas, actions, and legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King jr. and Malcolm X. What were their core philosophies and beliefs? How did their actions reflect these? How did their ideas impact their followers, opponents, and each other? And how did these two men play off and shape each other?
You can find Lucas's latest book, Lincoln and the American Founding, on Amazon. The other books mentioned are here:
- I Have a Dream: Writings and Speeches that Changed the World
- Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?
- A Testament of Hope: The Essential Writings and Speeches
- Malcolm X Speaks: Selected Speeches and Statements
- Black Power: The Politics of Liberation
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
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Join Jeff as he Bill McClay discuss the state of American civics education, with an eye toward free expression, what's being taught, and how individuals and families can think through the thorny issue of schooling in 2023.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff is joined by Dr. Jason Stevens of Ashland University and the Ashbrook Scholar program to discuss the 160th anniversary of one of the most important documents in American history. Lacking the eloquence and rhetorical flourish we have come to expect from Lincoln, the Final Emancipation Proclamation’s power isn’t in its wording, but in what it accomplishes: utilizing constitutional authority to free millions of slaves and lay the foundation for the abolishment of the institution itself.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
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Jeff sits down with Chris Burkett and Greg McBrayer to discuss Ronald Reagan's famed speech at the Brandenburg Gate on 12 June 1987, in which the president called on Mikhail Gorbachev to "...tear down this wall!" Beyond this, the speech contains numerous examples of Reagan's political philosophy and his respect for individual liberty and human dignity before the state.
Read two of the speeches mentioned to supplement the program: "A Time for Choosing", and his Brandenburg Gate Speech.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
How can liberal society respond to current demands on economics and society? Smith addresses far more than economics and, in fact, wrote extensively on morality and moral judgments in interpersonal and social relations. What did he believe and what can we learn from him, and from his two books The Theory of Moral Sentiments (1759) and The Wealth of Nations (1776)? Smith posits that moral sentiments are a two-way street, and that we can’t help but, as we interact with others, “feel” with others - to put ourselves in others’ shoes. Smith also discusses what he believes makes nations wealthy, and the tension between efficiency and human dignity.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
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Jeff discusses the life, ideas, and legacy of Winston Churchill with Jim Muller of the University of Alaska Anchorage, and renowned Churchill authority,
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff is joined by Dr. John Moser of Ashland University to discuss the concept of turning points in history, particularly war, and some specific examples from the Second World War. Access the maps John used here.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/3jcrp73m
Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9n67a
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysw8xjtk
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Dr. Robert George of Princeton University joins Jeff to discuss the sad shape of the American university as a function of a lack of clarity by many in higher education as to the core purpose of a university education. George asserts that the core mission is, and should be, the pursuit of truth, even though imparting professional skills is an expectation of students, parents, and taxpayers. It is the pursuit of knowledge of the truth, however, that is the core mission and must serve as the primary measuring stick of institutional goals, use of resources, and treatment of those connected to the university. They also discuss the central role of courage and speaking the truth, especially when it stands against some new orthodoxies that have taken root in society and, especially, at the university.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff sat down with Dr. Amity Schlaes to discuss her book, "The Great Society - A New History," and the implications of the welfare state as envisioned by Lyndon Johnson. In addition to some of LBJ's various remarks and addresses while in office, his Great Society speech was highlighted, along with the policies that stemmed from it and their impact on American political economy and public life. Jeff and Amity also explored LBJ and Vietnam, and how this era of American foreign policy paralleled and, to an extent, shared philosophical similarities with the idealism of the Great Society.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff discusses our current political tensions with Dr. Lucas Morel, who proposes that an understanding of Lincoln - his ideas, his words, his actions - can help us navigate difficult political waters now, and in our future as Americans.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff discusses the results, surprises, and immediate fallout of the 2022 Midterm Congressional and several state gubernatorial elections. Of special focus is how badly most pollsters were wrong; how the Democrats avoided the historical trend of a president losing seats during his first term; and the standing - or lack - of Donald Trump in the Republican party moving forward.
Host; Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
In this episode, Jeff sits down to talk with Mike Pompeo, former member of the House of Representatives, CIA Director, and the 70th Secretary of State. The two touch on notions of service to country, the foundation of Sec. Pompeo’s political views, and his reflections on threats to America from abroad and at home, as well as his deep respect for the men and women who serve this country.
Dr. Jeff Sikkenga talks with Congressman Troy Balderson, of Ohio's 12th Congressional District, about public and elected service, as well as the changing demographic trends and political issues that could impact upcoming elections.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff discusses the upcoming 2022 midterm elections with Henry Olsen of the Ethics and Public Policy Center, offering thoughtful analysis and things to look out for as we get closer to these pivotal elections.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
The 22-23 United States Supreme Court term has begun, and there are several cases to be heard that will make headlines - maybe even greater than those that closed out the 21-22 term. Join Jeff and Dr. Adam Carrington as they discuss some of these cases, the background to them, and how the current court might go about considering them.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff and Rob Wyllie, Director of Ashbrook’s Political Economy program at Ashland University, discuss inflation in American and world history, how it comes to be, and why it can be so dangerous to economic, social, and political stability. In particular, they discuss inflation at the American Founding, during the Great Depression, and in the 1970s and 80s. They also discuss current inflationary causes, responses, and trends, and Jeff even gets Rob to offer a forecast about what he thinks could happen over the next year or two in the global and, especially, American economies.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff is joined by Dr. Gordon Lloyd, Dockson Emeritus Professor of Public Policy at Pepperdine University and Senior Fellow at Ashbrook, and Dr. Chris Burkett, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ashland University and Director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, for a lively conversation on the dramatic story and the legacy of the Constitutional Convention of 1787.
The leading expert on the Constitutional Convention, Gordon has spent the past forty years studying and writing on this essential part of the American story. He is the editor of several of Ashbrook’s Core Document volumes for teachers, including the American Founding and the Bill of Rights volumes, and our printing of Madison’s Notes on the Debates in the Federal Convention of 1787. He is also the author of four highly regarded and widely-used online exhibits on the Founding, which are hosted exclusively on Ashbrook’s new website TheAmericanFounding.org.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton, Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff is joined by Peter Myers, Professor of Political Science at University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire and the 2016-17 B. Kenneth Simon Fellow in American Political Thought at the Heritage Foundation, for a conversation on Martin Luther King Jr.'s philosophy "character not color" comes into direct conflict with the ideas of Critical Race Theory.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
Jeff welcomes Dr. Natalie Taylor of Skidmore College to discuss the place of feminism within the American sociopolitical reform tradition, and its connection to the contemporary #MeToo movement. Jeff and Natalie focus, in particular, on Susan B. Anthony, discussing her ideas and place in the arc of women's reform movements in American history and society.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
In this episode The American Idea Jeff is joined by Stephen Knott, Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College and the Thomas and Mabel Guy Professor in American History and Government at Ashland University, for a conversation on John F. Kennedy and his leadership during the Cold War. Their conversation explores Kennedy's anti-Communist policies, his relationship with Nikita Khrushchev, tensions surrounding West Berlin and Cuba, and the great American Space Race. Stephen is a renowned presidential scholar, having recently participated in the C-SPAN Presidential Leadership survey and published a book on the lost soul of the presidency. He is the author of the upcoming book, Coming to Terms with John F. Kennedy from the University of Kansas Press.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff is joined once again by Cara Rogers, Professor of History at Ashland University and Co-Director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, for a conversation on the friendship of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Jeff and Cara explore the development of their friendship during the American Revolution and the Second Continental Congress, the fracturing of the relationship during the Adams Administration and the Election of 1800, and their beautiful reconciliation in the last few years of their lives before their passing on July 4th, 1826 -- the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff and Dr. Chris Burkett of Ashland University discuss the ideas and ideals expressed in America's most fundamental document, the Declaration of Independence.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
In this special episode, Jeff sits down with Dr. Joshua Dunn to discuss the overturning of Roe v. Wade and blockbuster decisions about religious liberty, free speech, and the 2nd Amendment.
You can download a free PDF copy of Josh's Core Documents Collection on the Judiciary.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
Jeff talks with Dr. Lucas Morel about Ralph Ellison, his novel Juneteenth, the role of literature in sociopolitical discourse and thought, and their connection to American history and politics.
Mentioned in this episode are Lucas' book, Ralph Ellison and the Raft of Hope: A Political Companion to Invisible Man, Ellison's Juneteenth, and Ellison's essay, What America Would Be Like Without Blacks (1970).
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
In this episode Jeff discusses two fascinating heroes of the American Civil War with Dr. Jason Stevens of Ashland University, and Pat Maloney of the Ashbrook Center.
Learn more about Ashbrook's programs for students, teachers, and citizens at Ashbrook.org.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Jeremy Gypton
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes back Dr. Jason Stevens, Professor of Political Science at Ashland University and the Co-Director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, to talk about the Great Triumvirate; the greatest American statesmen of the early nineteenth century. Over the course of nearly forty years, Henry Clay of Kentucky, Daniel Webster of Massachusetts, and John C. Calhoun of South Carolina shaped the destiny of the republic and saved it several times from falling into disunion. Jeff and Jason's conversation explores these men, their fame and notoriety during their own times, and their lasting influence on future statesmen like Abraham Lincoln and on the country.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff is joined by David Davenport, Research Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University and Senior Fellow at Ashbrook, for a conversation exploring the crisis in civic education and what we can do about it. The former president of Pepperdine University from 1985-2000, David is a regular columnist for the Washington Examiner and his study, "Commonsense Solutions To Our Civics Crisis," was published by the Orrin G. Hatch Foundation in 2020. He earned a BA with distinction in international relations from Stanford University and a JD from the University of Kansas’s School of Law, where he was elected to Order of the Coif and earned national and international awards in moot court competitions.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes back Dr. Greg McBrayer, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ashland University and Ashbrook's Director of Citizen Programs, for a conversation on Martin Luther King Jr.'s 1963 Letter from a Birmingham Jail.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes back Dr. Chris Burkett, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ashland University and Director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, for a conversation on Benjamin Franklin's famous Autobiography, his dramatic rise from the ninth of twelve children in an impoverished household to the most famous American of his time, and why he is - rightly - remembered as "The First American."
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In the second episode of The American Idea's Presidential Portraits series, we explore the life and controversial presidency of George W. Bush, the two-term Texas Governor who became the unexpected wartime president with the horrific attacks on September 11th, 2001. For this conversation, Jeff is joined by Stephen Knott, Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College and the Thomas and Mabel Guy Professor in American History and Government at Ashland University. Stephen is a renowned presidential scholar, having recently participated in the C-SPAN Presidential Leadership survey and published a book on the lost soul of the presidency. He is the author of Rush to Judgment: George W. Bush, The War on Terror, and His Critics from the University of Kansas Press.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff is joined by Cara Rogers, Professor of History at Ashland University and Co-Director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, for a conversation on Thomas Jefferson and his controversial book, Notes on the State of Virginia. Jeff and Cara discuss Jefferson's long history of anti-slavery sentiments and emancipation proposals, and his disturbing comments regarding the physiological differences between White Americans and Black Americans, and the historical paradox that these two seemingly separate concepts create.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In the first episode of The American Idea's Presidential Portraits series, we explore the life and times of George Washington: "First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." For this conversation, Jeff is joined by Marc Landy, Professor of Political Science at Boston College and visiting faculty in Ashbrook's Master of Arts in American History and Government program at Ashland University. Marc has a B.A. from Oberlin College and a Ph.D. in Government from Harvard University. He was the recipient of the 2009 Teaching Award chosen by the student members of the Boston College Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa. He is the Faculty Chair of the Boston College Irish Institute.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this special episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Sohrab Ahmari, prolific columnist, former Op-Ed Editor for the New York Post, and the author of the recent book, The Unbroken Thread: Discovering the Wisdom of Tradition in the Age of Chaos (2021) for a conversation on his journey from Iran to the United States, his conversion to Catholicism, the threats facing the great traditions of Western Civilization, and the moral condition of the American press.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes back two old friends of the show, Dr. Greg McBrayer, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ashland University and Ashbrook's Director of Citizen Programs, and Dr. John Moser, Professor of History and Chair of the Department of History and Political Science at Ashland University, for an in-depth conversation about the ascension of Ronald Reagan from Hollywood actor to the 40th President of the United States. Greg, John, and Jeff will examine the Reagan Revolution and the Fall of the Soviet Union through two of the Gipper's most important political speeches: "A Time for Choosing" (1964) and Reagan's Speech at Brandenburg Gate -- or more famously known as the "Tear Down This Wall!" speech (1987). Their conversation will examine both the complex historical narrative surrounding American politics and world affairs between 1964 and the fall of the Berlin Wall, Reagan's place in that narrative, and how Reagan's principled defense of freedom and the virtues of capitalism guided America to victory in the Cold War.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
The American Idea is a podcast presented by Ashbrook that explores America’s Founding principles and their effect on American history and government. Through lively and thoughtful conversations with renowned academics and public figures, the podcast will examine the history and political thought behind our country’s greatest documents and debates, as well as American popular culture and political statesmanship.
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review it on your platform of choice, subscribe for more at ashbrook.org/americanideapod, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook at @amideapodcast.
To support Ashbrook and The American Idea, please go to ashbrook.org/support.
In this special episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Ken Starr, Independent Counsel for the Whitewater Controversy, former United States circuit judge, and the 39th solicitor general of the United States of America, for a conversation on religious liberty in the twenty-first century, the collapse of civic education across the country, and the prospects for reviving the ways American history and government are taught.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this special holiday episode of The American Idea, we are privileged to share with you a very special Christmas story.
A story of hope and freedom, of overcoming tyranny and opression, of finding love for a country and its ideas. A story of a boy whose father gave him the gift of America.
This is the story of Peter Schramm.
Peter was born in Hungary in 1946. Fleeing the Soviet invasion of Hungary ten years later, Peter famously asked his father why they were going to America. “Because, son. We were born Americans, but in the wrong place.” He would devote the rest of his life to studying and teaching about what that meant.
He received a B.A. degree from California State University Northridge and went on to earn a Ph.D. from the Claremont Graduate School. With the help of figures like Harry Jaffa, Peter came to understand what his father already knew: why – as Peter’s hero Abraham Lincoln put it – America is “the last best hope of Earth.”
Peter was a co-founder of the Claremont Institute for the Study of Statesmanship and Political Philosophy, and became its founding President. He later left Claremont to work for Bill Bennett in the U.S. Secretary of Education under the Reagan administration.
It was at the end of Reagan's tenure in office that Peter came to Ashbrook. President Reagan famously inaugurated Ashbrook in 1983, but five years in, it was still in its infancy and looking for its purpose. Over time, Peter would give Ashbrook a purpose.
Peter served as the Executive Director of Ashbrook from 1997 to 2013 and a professor of political science at Ashland University until his death in 2015. Under his leadership, Ashbrook grew into a national organization, reaching students, teachers, and citizens in all 50 states.
But his most enduring legacy is the students who he personally challenged and inspired in the classroom to be the best human beings and citizens they can be.
This is Peter’s story, "Born American, but in the Wrong Place," as recounted by him in 2006.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Dr. Peter Myers, Professor of Political Science at University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire and the 2016-17 B. Kenneth Simon Fellow in American Political Thought at the Heritage Foundation, for a revealing conversation on the greatest American speech of the twentieth century: Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream." Peter and Jeff will examine the history of the Civil Rights Movement preceding the historic March on Washington in August of 1963, King's leadership during this vitally important time, and how King wove the greatest of American political and religious traditions to write the defining speech of the era. Listen to the full conversation to learn more about this legendary piece of political and religious rhetoric, its history, and whether or not we could have another speech like it today.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Dr. John Moser, Professor of History and the Chair of the Department of History and Political Science at Ashland University, to talk about the rise of Franklin Roosevelt and the origins of his radical presidency. John and Jeff will examine these topics through a fascinating and engaging conversation on Roosevelt's 1932 campaign speech, the Commonwealth Club Address. Recently ranked the second greatest campaign speech in political history, the speech set the ideological groundwork for Roosevelt's New Deal policies and the role of the federal government in twentieth century America. Listen to the full conversation to learn more about this essential (but understudied) speech in political history.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
Building on our recent conversation with former Vice President Mike Pence, Jeff welcomes Stephen Knott, Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College, to The American Idea for a conversation on the evolution of the vice presidency. Stephen is a renowned presidential scholar, having recently participated in the C-SPAN Presidential Leadership survey and published a book on the lost soul of the presidency. A long-standing friend of Ashbrook, he is also the Thomas and Mabel Guy Professor in American History and Government at Ashland University. Jeff and Stephen talk about the origins and history of the vice presidency, how it's evolved to a position of great power in the late twentieth century, and some of its most famous (and infamous) occupants.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
On this very special episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes former Vice President Mike Pence to the Schramm Library. As many of our listeners know, Mr. Pence was the 48th Vice President of United States, serving alongside President Donald J. Trump from 2017 to 2021. Before that, he was a six-term congressman from the State of Indiana and Governor of the same state from 2013 to 2017. In their conversation, Mr. Pence and Jeff talk about the role of the vice president, his twenty years of experience in both Congress and the White House, and why teaching American history and civics is more important than ever before.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Donald Drakeman, Distinguished Research Professor at the University of Notre Dame and the Founding Chairman of the Advisory Council of the James Madison Program in Ideals and Institutions at Princeton University for a conversation how we should interpret the Constitution. Donald is a renowned constitutional scholar, having been cited by the Supreme Courts of the United States and the Philippines. His books on the Constitution include Church, State, and Original Intent (Cambridge, 2009), a Choice Outstanding Academic Title, and his most recent book The Hollow Core of Constitutional Theory; Why We Need the Framers (Cambridge, 2021). Donald and Jeff talk about the dangers of the living constitution, the real role of judges in our democratic republic, and why interpreting the Constitution should matter to you!
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes back Dr. Jason Stevens, Professor of History and Political Science at Ashland University and the Director of Teacher Programs at the Ashbrook Center, to talk about the conflicting political ideologies at the heart of the Progressive Era, spanning three decades at the end of the nineteenth century and the dawn of the twentieth century. Particularly, their conversation with focus on two speeches that offer drastically different understandings of American government and its future: "The Authors and Signers of the Declaration" (1907) by Woodrow Wilson and "Speech on the 150th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence" (1926) by President Calvin Coolidge.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Natalie Taylor, Associate Professor of Political Science at Skidmore College, to the show for a conversation on Susan B. Anthony's "Is it a Crime for a U.S. Citizen to Vote?" Their conversation explores how to understand the Constitution's relationship to the Declaration of Independence, the history of women's suffrage during the nineteenth century, women's rights (and lack thereof) during the Founding, and Anthony's lasting legacy on road to the passing of the 19th Amendment.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Daniel Gullotta, Doctoral Candidate in Religious Studies at Stanford University and the host of The Age of Jackson podcast, to the show for a conversation on American prophets. Daniel is a scholar on religion in early American history and is a graduate of Yale University’s Divinity School, in the Master of Arts in Religion program. Their conversation will examine the life and times of three influential American religious leaders from the Early Republic: Joseph Smith, Robert Matthews, and Nat Turner.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes back Dr. Lucas Morel, Professor of Politics at Washington and Lee University and a Visiting Graduate Faculty Member in Ashland University's Masters of American History and Government program, to talk about Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address. Lucas is a renowned scholar on American political thought and Abraham Lincoln, having recently published a new book called Lincoln and the American Founding. Their conversation will examine the crucial last twelve months of the American Civil War, Lincoln's evolving sentiments on emancipation and reconstruction, and how Justice Clarence Thomas was right when he claimed that the speech is Lincoln's Sermon on the Mount.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
Building on our recent conversation with Fox News Contributor Mollie Hemingway, Jeff welcomes Joe Fornieri, Professor of Political Science at the Rochester Institute of Technology and the Director of the Center for Statesmanship, Law, and Liberty, to the show for a discussion on the history of free speech and journalism in America. Their conversation stretches from Colonial America and seditious libel all the way through to modern day, where academia and digital media are raising new questions about the role of free speech and the press in our experiment in self-government.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this special episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Fox News contributor and Senior Editor of The Federalist, Mollie Hemingway, for a conversation on media and political society. Their conversation covers what's wrong with contemporary journalism, its relation to politics, and how thoughtful engagement with American Founding principles is good for journalism -- and for the country.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
In this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes friend and colleague Dr. Jason Stevens, Professor of History and Political Science at Ashland University and the Director of Teacher Programs at the Ashbrook Center, to talk about the most famous speech in American history: Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. Their conversation covers the importance of the Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War, Lincoln's devotion to our Founding principles, and a fascinating reading of the speech line-by-line(it's only 272 words, after all!)
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
On this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Dr. Lucas Morel, Professor of Politics at Washington and Lee University and a Visiting Graduate Faculty Member in Ashland University's Masters of American History and Government program, to talk about Frederick Douglass's most well-known and controversial speech, "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" A long-time friend of Ashbrook, Lucas is a renowned scholar on political philosophy and black American politics, having published five books and many articles. Their conversation will examine the life and political thought of Douglass, his escape from slavery in the Antebellum South, and how - as Lucas puts it - Douglass came to love "a country that did not love him back."
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
On this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes Dr. Cara Rogers, Assistant Professor of History at Ashland University and published scholar of Thomas Jefferson, to talk about Jefferson's important (but understudied) Letters to Roger Weightman and Henry Lee. Their conversation will examine the surprising legacy of the Declaration of Independence in the days of the Early Republic, Jefferson's hopes for his country and what we would become as a nation - hope that is needed more than ever today.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
On this episode of The American Idea, Jeff welcomes back Dr. Chris Burkett, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ashland University and Director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, to talk about George Washington's famous 1796 Farewell Address. Their conversation will examine the historical context of the speech and how George Washington's republicanism is on full display in this enduring piece of political history.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
On this episode of The American Idea, Jeff is joined by Dr. Greg McBrayer, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ashland University, Assistant Director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, and Director of Citizen Programs at Ashbrook, to talk about James Madison's contributions to the Federalist Papers. Their conversation will examine the theory and arguments of Federalist No. 10, 39, and 51, their historical context, and how Madison's contributions changed political science forever.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
On the inaugural episode of The American Idea, Jeff is joined by Dr. Chris Burkett, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ashland University and Director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, to talk about the most important American document: the Declaration of Independence. Their wide-ranging conversation will examine the document's historical context, political theory, and the impact of its Founding principles on the entirety of American history and government.
Host: Jeff Sikkenga
Executive Producer: Greg McBrayer
Producer: Tyler MacQueen
Coming to you from the Schramm Library, it's The American Idea! Hosted by Jeff Sikkenga, The American Idea is an exciting new podcast presented by the Ashbrook Center. In this trailer for season one, Jeff talks about the new show, its focus, the power of conversation, and the historical documents that will serve as the topics of conversation this season.