Reviewing Tombstone – with Andrew Bernstein In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Objectivist philosopher and novelist Andrew Bernstein to review the iconic Western film Tombstone. They explore the movie’s themes of justice, courage, moral clarity, and individualism, examining how the characters reflect—or contradict—philosophical ideals. With Bernstein’s passion for heroism and rational values, this episode offers a fresh perspective on a modern classic and its ...
May 20, 2025•59 min
Talk Radio, Resilience, and Personal Struggle – A Conversation with Todd Feinburg In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by veteran talk show host Todd Feinburg, whose voice has been heard across various markets, most recently on WTIC 1080AM in Connecticut. Together, they discuss the power of resilience in the face of personal struggle, the evolution of talk radio, and the importance of honest, independent thinking in today’s media landscape. With decades of experien...
May 14, 2025•33 min
Embracing Change – with Dr. Patrick McElwaine Description: In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz speaks with Dr. Patrick McElwaine, a licensed clinical psychologist, Beck Institute CBT Certified Clinician, and associate professor at Holy Family University. Together, they explore the psychology of change—why it’s difficult, how to navigate it effectively, and how cognitive-behavioral strategies can help individuals grow through transition. Dr. McElwaine also shares insights fr...
May 12, 2025•45 min
Understanding Marxism – with Phil Magness In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by economic historian Phil Magness for an in-depth look at the origins, evolution, and enduring influence of Marxism. Magness, whose research spans the intersection of history and political economy, explores Karl Marx’s key ideas, their impact on economic thought and political movements, and the misconceptions that persist around them. The conversation also touches on Marxism’s role in s...
May 07, 2025•50 min
Truth, Misinformation, and Conspiracy Theories – with Dr. Joe Pierre In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Dr. Joe Pierre—a psychiatrist, author, speaker, and forensic consultant—for a compelling discussion on the psychology behind misinformation and conspiracy theories. Dr. Pierre explores why people believe in false narratives, how social and cognitive biases influence perception, and what it takes to seek and hold onto the truth in a world saturated with confl...
May 05, 2025•46 min
A Philosophy of Magic – with Owen Christensen In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz speaks with Owen Christensen—an Objectivist, magician, and author of Thinking About The Art of Magic. They explore the philosophical foundations of magic as a performing art, the role of illusion in a reality-based worldview, and how magic can express deep values while captivating the rational mind. Christensen shares insights from his book and his experience as a performer, offering a unique ...
May 01, 2025•36 min
Symbols and Rituals – A Conversation with Jim Valliant In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Jim Valliant for a fascinating discussion on the role of symbols and rituals in human life. They explore how symbols can embody abstract ideas, the psychological function of rituals, and how these practices can either support or undermine rational living. Through a philosophical lens, they examine when rituals serve a meaningful purpose and when they become obstacles to g...
Apr 28, 2025•43 min
Building the Future: Mark Pellegrino on The American Capitalist Party and The Capitalist Corner In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Mark Pellegrino—actor, Objectivist, cofounder and chair of The American Capitalist Party, and cohost of The Capitalist Corner YouTube show. Mark discusses the mission and vision behind The American Capitalist Party, the goals of The Capitalist Corner, and shares his thoughts on the future of the liberty movement in America. This co...
Apr 25, 2025•36 min
Debating Values – James Stevens Valliant and Michael Liebowitz, Moderated by Mark Pellegrino In this special episode of The Rational Egoist, host Michael Liebowitz and returning guest James Stevens Valliant engage in a spirited debate on the nature of values—what they are, how we form them, and their role in guiding human action. Moderated by actor and Objectivist Mark Pellegrino, this conversation delves into foundational philosophical territory, including the objectivity of values, emotional r...
Apr 22, 2025•44 min
Discussing Tariffs – with Phillip W. Magness In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz speaks with Phillip W. Magness, an economic historian whose research spans the United States and the broader Atlantic world. They explore the history, purpose, and consequences of tariffs—both past and present—unpacking how protectionist trade policies have impacted economic growth, individual liberty, and global markets. Drawing on his deep knowledge of political economy and taxation, Magness ...
Apr 17, 2025•39 min
Reviewing All About Eve – with Professor Andrew Bernstein In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Professor Andrew Bernstein, Objectivist philosopher and author of Red Meat Village, to review the classic film All About Eve. Together, they explore the movie’s themes of ambition, envy, integrity, and betrayal through a philosophical lens. Bernstein offers his perspective on how the film reflects deeper moral and psychological truths, and why it remains relevant today...
Apr 15, 2025•49 min
Discussing Ayn Rand, Objectivism, and Self-Help – with Thomas Walker-Werth In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz speaks with Thomas Walker-Werth, a writer, speaker, and instructor focused on philosophy and self-development. As the founder of Reason for Living, managing editor of The Objective Standard, and fellow at both the Objective Standard Institute and the Foundation for Economic Education, Thomas brings a wealth of insight to a discussion on Ayn Rand, Objectivism, and h...
Apr 09, 2025•41 min
Discussing Patrick Henry – A Conversation with Lawrence W. Reed In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz welcomes Lawrence W. Reed, President Emeritus of the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE), to discuss the life, legacy, and enduring significance of American Founding Father Patrick Henry. Best known for his stirring declaration, “Give me liberty or give me death,” Henry was a passionate advocate for individual freedom and limited government. Reed, a longtime champion of e...
Apr 07, 2025•35 min
The Risks of Treating Cartels as Terrorist Organizations – A Conversation with Brandan P. Buck Description: In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz speaks with Brandan P. Buck, Foreign Policy Research Fellow and historian at the Cato Institute, about the growing calls to designate drug cartels as terrorist organizations. Drawing from his extensive background—which includes military service, intelligence analysis, and a Ph.D. in history—Buck outlines the potential unintended con...
Apr 03, 2025•32 min
Breaking Habits – A Conversation with Robert Taibbi In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Robert Taibbi, LCSW—an experienced clinician, supervisor, and clinical director with nearly 50 years of practice. Taibbi shares insights from his extensive career and discusses the psychological mechanisms behind habit formation and how we can break patterns that no longer serve us. Drawing from his books, including The Therapist's Journey, Doing Family Therapy, and Doing Co...
Mar 31, 2025•44 min
American Nationalism – A Conversation with Professor Rogers W. Smith In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz speaks with Professor Rogers W. Smith, Christopher H. Browne Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Political Science. Known for his extensive scholarship in constitutional law, American political thought, and modern political theory, Professor Smith offers a deep and nuanced perspective on the idea of American nationalism. They explore its historical roots, evolving defini...
Mar 27, 2025•37 min
The Spirit of an Objectivist – with James Stevens Valliant and Andrew Bernstein In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by two leading Objectivist intellectuals, James Stevens Valliant and Andrew Bernstein, for a deep dive into what it truly means to embody the spirit of an Objectivist. They discuss the philosophical and psychological mindset required to live by reason, purpose, and self-esteem, as well as the challenges of applying Objectivist principles in today’s w...
Mar 24, 2025•1 hr 6 min
Prison, Parole, and Brent McCall – A Conversation with Carlos Rebollo Michael sits down with Carlos Rebollo, who served 24 years in prison after being incarcerated at just 15 years old. Now a successful entrepreneur with his own hair braiding business and a public speaker, Carlos shares his experiences with the prison system, the challenges of parole, and his perspective on Brent McCall. He also discusses his journey of reintegration into society and his role in the HBO documentary Nature of the...
Mar 20, 2025•44 min
Is Peace Possible Between Israelis and Palestinians? – A Conversation with Phil Saunders Michael sits down with Phil Saunders, a British-Israeli living in Tsur Hadassah, near the Green Line, to discuss the prospects for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. As a co-leader of a decade-long Israeli-Palestinian coexistence project, Saunders shares his firsthand experiences working toward dialogue and understanding in one of the world’s most contentious conflicts. He also discusses the challenges...
Mar 17, 2025•35 min
Critical Thinking Therapy – A Conversation with Dr. Linda Elder Michael sits down with Dr. Linda Elder, an educational psychologist and one of the world’s leading authorities on critical thinking. As the president of the Foundation for Critical Thinking and executive director of the Center for Critical Thinking, Dr. Elder discusses how critical thinking can be applied to personal growth, emotional well-being, and self-actualization. They explore key insights from her latest book, Critical Thinki...
Mar 13, 2025•53 min
Fiction, Philosophy, and Heroism – A Conversation with Andrew Bernstein Michael sits down with Andrew Bernstein, Objectivist philosopher, professor, and novelist, to discuss the role of fiction in conveying philosophical ideas. They explore how literature can inspire heroism, individualism, and rational values. Bernstein also shares insights into his latest novel, its themes, and its connection to his philosophical beliefs. 🔗 Purchase Andrew Bernstein’s novel here: https://a.co/d/fNaqPgD Michae...
Mar 10, 2025•38 min
Exploring Market Economics – with Matthew Geiger Michael sits down with Matthew Geiger, a scholar and researcher at the Carl Menger Institute for Market Economics. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Economics at Rey Juan Carlos University under the guidance of Professor Philipp Bagus, Geiger shares his insights on Austrian economics, free markets, and the challenges facing economic policy today. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draw...
Mar 06, 2025•31 min
Debating Various Issues of Interest to Objectivists and Libertarians – with Stephan Kinsella Michael engages in a lively debate with Stephan Kinsella, a libertarian theorist and anarcho-capitalist, as they explore key issues that divide Objectivists and libertarians. They discuss topics such as intellectual property, the role of the state, and foundational philosophical differences between the two schools of thought. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and po...
Mar 04, 2025•1 hr 12 min
he Transformative Power of Objectivism – with James Stevens Valliant Michael speaks with James Stevens Valliant about the profound impact of Objectivism on individuals and society. They discuss how Ayn Rand’s philosophy transforms one’s approach to ethics, reason, and personal growth, as well as its implications for politics and culture. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for...
Feb 28, 2025•59 min
A Conversation with David Friedman – Economics, Law, and Anarchy Michael sits down with David D. Friedman, an economist, physicist, legal scholar, and prominent "anarcho-capitalist" theorist. They explore his unique approach to law and economics, his views on market-based legal systems, and the philosophical underpinnings of a stateless society. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advoca...
Feb 25, 2025•1 hr 7 min
Debating Anarchy – With Dr. Walter Block Michael engages in a thought-provoking debate with Dr. Walter Block, an Austrian School economist and anarcho-capitalist theorist. They discuss the philosophical and practical implications of anarcho-capitalism, the role of the state, and the economic foundations of a truly free society. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, r...
Feb 24, 2025•59 min
Prison to Podcaster – A Discussion with Ian Bick Michael sits down with Ian Bick, an entrepreneur and podcaster who served time in federal prison. They discuss his journey from incarceration to building a new life, the challenges of reintegration, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individuali...
Feb 20, 2025•50 min
Being a Female Cop – with Alison Sullivan Michael speaks with Alison Sullivan, a retired detective with 20 years of service on the police force. They discuss her experiences as a female officer, the challenges of law enforcement, and how policing has evolved over the years. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interest, and individualism. His journey f...
Feb 19, 2025•52 min
Reviewing Spartacus with Professor Andrew Bernstein Michael and Professor Andrew Bernstein, an Objectivist philosopher and radical for capitalism, analyze the classic film Spartacus. They discuss its philosophical themes, historical accuracy, and how it portrays issues of freedom, heroism, and individualism. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration from Ayn Rand’s philosophy, advocating for reason, rational self-interes...
Feb 17, 2025•46 min
Objectivism vs. Libertarianism: Debating with Jack V. Lloyd Michael engages in a lively debate with Jack V. Lloyd, a libertarian thinker, producer, and author of Philosophical Voluntarism. They explore the fundamental differences between Objectivism and libertarianism, challenging each other on issues of philosophy, individual rights, and the role of government in a free society. Michael Leibowitz, host of The Rational Egoist podcast, is a philosopher and political activist who draws inspiration...
Feb 13, 2025•1 hr 17 min
