The Rational Egoist

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 individ...

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 persi...

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 t...

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...

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 ri...

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 hi...

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 philo...

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. Drawi...

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 deep...

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...

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 indiv...

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...

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, i...

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 Amer...

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 we...

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 reintegr...

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 ...

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-actualizat...

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.

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