The Forge of Freedom

The Forge of Freedom

Firearms, Personal Responsibility, and All Things Freedom

Episodes

April 8, 2025 11 mins

Show Notes


Episode 174. Live Streaming from the NRA Annual Meeting


In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the upcoming NRA annual meeting in Atlanta, the internal politics and reform efforts within the NRA, and announces an upcoming episode focused on tariffs and economic insights. The conversation highlights the importance of the NRA in the Second Amendment movement and the need for reform...

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Episode 173. Poland's History of Courage and Its Role in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict (with Lawrence Reed)


In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with Lawrence (“Larry”) Reed about Poland's historical resilience and its current role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. They discuss Poland's courageous legacy, particularly the story of Witold Pilecki, who infiltrated Auschwitz ...

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Episode 172. Federal Firearm Rights and Indiana's Hindsight Ruling

 

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses two main topics: the restoration of firearm rights under federal law and a recent Indiana Supreme Court case, Turner v. State, which addresses self-defense laws. Ooley explains the implications of a recent announcement that could revive the process for individuals with federal ...

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Episode 171. Liberty as a Life Philosophy

 

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley shares insights from Lawrence Reed's essay, 'Liberty as a Life Philosophy.' The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-governance, personal responsibility, and the moral imperative of liberty. Ooley explores how individuals can embody liberty in their lives and advocate for it effectively, while al...

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Episode 170. Being Responsibly Armed: Ethics, Training, and Freedom (with Dr. David Yamane)

 

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley engages with Dr. David Yamane, a sociology professor and author of 'Gun Curious.' They explore the complexities of responsible gun ownership, the evolution of gun culture, and the ethical dimensions of self-defense. Dr. Yamane shares his personal journey into...

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Episode 169. The Difference Between the Private and Public Sector

 

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the fundamental principles of government, private property, and the free market. He emphasizes the detrimental effects of government on human prosperity and freedom, advocating for a reduction in government size and influence. Ooley contrasts the private and public sectors, highligh...

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Episode 168. Amanda Suffecool and Theresa Inacker: The Fight for Gun Rights and Voices for Change at the NRA

 

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the current state of the NRA with guests Amanda Suffecool and Theresa Inacker. They delve into the ongoing reform efforts within the NRA, the challenges faced by gun rights advocates, and the importance of grassroots activism. Amanda sh...

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    Episode 167. The Firearm Trainer's Podcast with Rob Beckman

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with Rob Beckman, a dedicated firearms instructor and host of the Firearm Trainer's Podcast. They discuss Rob's journey into firearms training, the importance of mental health awareness in the firearms community, and the need for diversity in perspectives within firearms training. Rob em...

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    Episode 166. NRA at a Crossroads with John Richardson

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with John Richardson about the current state of the NRA, the upcoming board elections, and the ongoing divide between reformers and the old guard. They discuss the impact of the New York Attorney General's lawsuit, the importance of member engagement, and the need for transparency and acco...

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    Episode 165. National Reciprocity:  A Trojan Horse?

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the concept of national reciprocity in relation to firearms legislation, specifically focusing on H.R. 38, the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act. Ooley expresses mixed feelings about the bill, highlighting its potential short-term benefits for gun owners while raising concerns about the long-...

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    January 8, 2025 25 mins

    Episode 164. Embracing Winter

     

    In the latest episode of "The Forge of Freedom," host Alex Ooley celebrates the podcast's second anniversary while discussing the philosophical and cultural significance of winter. He shares insights from Jeffrey Tucker's article, "The Case for Enduring Winter," which argues that winter is not merely a season to escape but one to embrace for its lessons on resilience, community, and the cyclical natu...

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    Episode 163.  The War on Drugs Revisited: A Catastrophic Failure of Policy and Morality

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the war on drugs, emphasizing its moral and practical failures. He argues that the government's approach to drug enforcement is not only ineffective but also counterproductive, leading to increased violence, incarceration, and societal distrust. Ooley highlights the cog...

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    Episode 162. Why Christmas Falls on December 25th - History and Symbolism

     

    In this Christmas-themed episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the significance of December 25th as Christmas Day, exploring its historical roots and the symbolism of light and hope associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of personal charity and compassion, arguing against government intervention ...

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    Episode 161. 10 Libertarian Classics You Need to Read:  Forging a Path to Freedom

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the importance of liberty and self-defense, recaps a recent event focused on active shooter training, and shares his top ten book recommendations that explore the themes of freedom, government, and personal responsibility. Ooley emphasizes the need for individuals to educate ...

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    Episode 160. Wars Don’t Enhance Freedom, They Destroy Liberty

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses two significant articles on foreign policy, focusing on the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel-Palestine. He critiques the military industrial complex's influence on U.S. foreign policy and explores the implications of war on freedom and civil liberties. The conversation emphasizes the need for a m...

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    Episode 159. Middle of the Road Policy Leads to Socialism

     

    In this episode, Alex Ooley discusses the influential ideas of Ludwig von Mises, particularly focusing on his essay 'Middle of the Road Policy Leads to Socialism.' Ooley reflects on his personal journey influenced by Mises and Ron Paul, emphasizing the importance of understanding economics and history to advocate for freedom. He critiques government interventionism, arguin...

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    November 4, 2024 32 mins

    Episode 158. Why Vote?

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the complexities surrounding the duty to vote, the perceived importance of individual votes, and how to maintain mental health during election season. He critiques the tribalistic nature of political discourse and emphasizes the need for self-reflection and community engagement over national politics. Ooley also shares insights from ...

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    Episode 157. The Grinch of Halloween and Government “Charity”

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the themes of entitlement and responsibility in voting, drawing parallels between Halloween traditions and civic engagement. He shares insights from Lawrence Reed's article 'Don't Vote Like a Halloweener' and Davy Crockett's essay 'Not Yours to Give', emphasizing the importance of constitutional...

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    Episode 156. Upcoming Seminar: A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem & How to Minimize Victims with Ed Monk


    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses an upcoming seminar focused on the active shooter problem, specifically tailored for church settings. The seminar, led by expert Ed Monk, aims to provide effective strategies to minimize victims during such incidents. Ooley emphasiz...

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    Show Notes

     

    Episode 155. Self-Defense and Civil Liability: Lessons from a Detroit Shooting 

     

    In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses a self-defense incident that occurred at a Detroit Lions football game, exploring the legal implications of self-defense laws in Indiana. He delves into Indiana's self-defense immunity statute, the case of Kystie Phillips, and the importance of gun safety rules. Th...

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