Host Furkhan welcomes Julian, whose journey across continents and his unwavering pursuit of truth are both inspiring and thought-provoking. Julian shares his life story, from his early years in London and Spain, through his struggles with faith, and his eventual move to America. They delve into the complexities of speaking the truth in a world where it can often be manipulated or censored, and how his creative instincts have fueled his resilience. Julian also discusses his legal battles against the Smithsonian Institution, emphasizing the profound impact of embracing truth and the power of faith in transforming his life.
Julian Raven is a British-born, Spanish-raised American artist, author, entrepreneur, and First Amendment activist whose life has unfolded like a modern epic. Born in London, raised under the sun of Marbella, Spain, and later called to the U.S. as a missionary and Bible student, Raven’s journey has taken him from the pulpit to the courtroom, from the studio to the Supreme Court.
Raven made headlines when his Trump portrait was rejected by the Smithsonian in 2016, launching an eight-year legal battle that would reach the Supreme Court and result in his becoming an official Smithsonian reformer. Representing himself through two federal cases, Raven’s unfiltered challenge to government overreach landed him #4 on President Trump’s list of reasons to fire Kim Sajet, then Director of the National Portrait Gallery.
He tells that full story—and everything behind it—in his book Odious and Cerberus: An American Immigrant’s Odyssey and His Free Speech Legal War Against Smithsonian Corruption.
Raven is politically homeless and not a Trump apologist. His journey has led him into a wilderness where he has stripped himself of all influences to seek alignment with the voice of God alone.
Free Speech: www.smithsoninstitution.com
Art: www.julianraven.com
Voice in the Wilderness: www.substack.com/julianraven
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
01:21 Julian's Early Life and Background
02:55 The Importance of Truth
04:28 Anecdotes from Julian's Childhood
07:17 Struggles and Search for Answers
09:58 Spiritual Awakening and Conversion
12:22 Challenges with Organized Religion
20:23 Embracing Free Speech and Activism
26:55 Navigating Misunderstandings and Rejection
27:51 The Cost of Truth and Integrity
29:33 Personal Struggles and Creative Pursuits
31:27 A Journey Through Grief and Resilience
33:06 Legal Battles and Unexpected Outcomes
37:16 Rediscovering Purpose and Faith
41:02 The Role of Creativity and Truth
46:27 Advice for Creative Resilience
53:34 Final Reflections and Gratitude
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