Newt's World

Newt talks with Philip K. Howard about his new book, “Saving Can-Do: How to Revive the Spirit of America.” Howard discusses the pervasive issue of bureaucratic red tape that has stifled common sense and effective governance since the 1960s. He argues that the legal system has become overly complex, with 150 million words in federal law and regulation, compared to the 7,500 words of the U.S. Constitution. Howard advocates for a multi-year effort to replace these cumbersome bureaucracies with simpler codes that empower individuals to use their judgment. He highlights the inefficiencies in current systems, such as the lengthy and costly processes for infrastructure projects and healthcare administration and calls for a movement led by American citizens to push for practical regulatory reform.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with award-winning Washington Post reporter Christian Davenport, about his new book, “Rocket Dreams: Musk, Bezos, and the Inside Story of the New, Trillion-Dollar Space Race.” They discuss the new space race, focusing on the competition between countries and private companies to return humans to the moon and explore beyond. Davenport highlights the advancements in space technology, particularly SpaceX's Starship, which represents a significant breakthrough with its fully reusable design and potential to revolutionize space travel. Their conversation also touches on the competitive landscape, with China making significant strides in space exploration and the United States' efforts to maintain its leadership. The potential for the moon to serve as a refueling station for deeper space exploration is also discussed, along with the need for a less bureaucratic and more innovative approach to NASA's operations to ensure the U.S. remains competitive in the new space race.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with former Army Captain Jesse Petrilla, about his new book, “If It Takes a Thousand Years: From Al-Qaeda to Hamas, How the Jihadists Think and How to Defeat Them.” They discuss the mindset and long-term strategies of jihadist groups, emphasizing their generational approach to conflict. Petrilla shares insights from his experiences in Afghanistan, where he facilitated interrogations of Taliban and Al-Qaeda members, and highlights the cultural and ideological differences between the West and jihadist groups. Petrilla stresses the importance of understanding these differences to effectively counter the jihadist threat. Their discussion also touches on the challenges of immigration and assimilation, the influence of tribalism in the Islamic world, and the potential dangers posed by a lack of awareness and education about these issues in the West.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Congressman Pat Harrigan about his work in the U.S. House representing North Carolina’s tenth district. Harrigan discusses his journey from West Point to Afghanistan to serving in the United States House of Representatives. He shares insights into his first nine months in Congress, highlighting his unexpected influence as a freshman and his work on the House Armed Services Committee. He reflects on the impact of the Afghanistan troop withdrawal on his decision to enter politics. Harrigan criticizes the Biden administration's handling of international affairs, particularly the withdrawal from Afghanistan and its implications for global security. He emphasizes the importance of veteran representation in Congress and the need for fair trade practices to revitalize American manufacturing. Harrigan also discusses his efforts to support small businesses, and his legislative initiatives like the SkyFoundry Act to enhance U.S. drone production. He addresses national security concerns related to Chinese influence and advocates for the use of artificial intelligence to streamline military processes. Their conversation concludes with Harrigan warning against the dangers of political rhetoric and violence, urging a return to civil discourse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Mitchell A. Silk, about his new book, “A Seat at the Table: An Inside Account of Trump’s Global Economic Revolution,” which details his perspective on Trump's global economic policies and highlights the strategic approach taken by the administration in reshaping global trade dynamics. Silk shares his journey from a dishwasher in a Chinese restaurant to becoming the first Hasidic Jew confirmed by the Senate for a position in the U.S. federal government. He discusses his role as assistant secretary in the Treasury under the first Trump administration, where he was instrumental in trade negotiations with China and infrastructure initiatives in Latin America. Fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese, Silk offers insights into China's economic strategies and the challenges faced by the U.S. in trade negotiations. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, strategic diplomacy, and the need for the U.S. to assert its economic interests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Daniel J. Flynn, senior editor at The American Spectator, about his new book, “The Man Who Invented Conservatism: The Unlikely Life of Frank S. Meyer.” Frank Meyer was a pivotal figure in American conservatism. Initially a fervent communist, Meyer later became a key intellectual force behind the conservative movement, influencing figures like Barry Goldwater and Ronald Reagan. Their discussion explores Meyer's transformation from a communist activist to a conservative thinker. Flynn highlights Meyer's passion, his role in shaping the conservative ideology known as "fusionism," and his influence on Reagan's political philosophy. They also discuss Meyer's personal life, his relationships, and his impact on the conservative movement uncovered through extensive archival research and personal letters. Flynn provides a comprehensive look at Meyer's complex journey and enduring legacy in American politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Salim Furth, Senior Research Fellow and Director of the Urbanity project at the Mercatus Center about America’s housing affordability crisis. Their discussion centers on the pressing issue of housing affordability in the United States. With high home prices and rents, state legislators are increasingly pursuing housing reform, setting records for new laws aimed at unlocking home building. Furth highlights the challenges and potential solutions in housing policy. They discuss the declining optimism among young Americans regarding their standard of living, with home ownership being a significant barrier. They explore the impact of housing costs on the American dream, the role of state legislation in addressing these issues, and the potential for market-driven solutions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt reflects on the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, a vibrant figure dedicated to fostering dialogue and civility in America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Patrick McLaughlin, a research fellow at the Hoover Institution, where he leads the QuantGov analytics project focusing on regulations. McLaughlin discusses the growth of regulatory requirements from 400,000 restrictive terms in 1970 to 1.1 million today, highlighting the economic friction and opportunity costs associated with regulatory accumulation. He estimates that if regulations had been held constant since 1980, the U.S. economy could have been 25% larger by 2012, equating to a $4 trillion increase. They also discuss the impact of the Supreme Court's decision to end Chevron deference, which previously allowed agencies to interpret statutes with significant discretion. Their conversation concludes with an examination of Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin's successful regulatory reforms, which include a 25% reduction in regulatory inventory and the use of AI for cost-benefit analysis, setting a new standard for regulatory management.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Michael Knowles about his new four-part docuseries, “The Pope and the Führer: The Secret Vatican Files of World War II,” which explores the controversial legacy of Pope Pius XII during Hitler's reign. Utilizing declassified Vatican archives made public in 2020, the series offers unprecedented insights into the Pope's actions and correspondence during World War II. Historically accused of silence or complicity with the Nazis, the series aims to correct the narrative by presenting evidence of Pius XII's opposition to Hitler and his efforts to protect Jews. The docuseries, available on DailyWire+, features contributions from leading historians and Vatican scholars, highlighting the complex political and spiritual challenges faced by the Pope. Their discussion also touches on the broader implications for the Catholic Church's role in history and its ongoing influence in contemporary society.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Yaakov Katz about his new book, " While Israel Slept” which delves into the surprise attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023. Katz examines the intelligence and strategic failures that allowed this attack, highlighting years of complacency and mistaken policies. Their conversation also covers the geopolitical implications of several countries recognizing Palestine, Israel's diplomatic isolation, and the ongoing war in Gaza. Katz emphasizes the need for Israel to learn from these events to ensure future security. Their discussion touches on the complexities of the conflict, including the role of hostages, the challenges of deradicalization, and the necessity of military vigilance. Katz remains optimistic about Israel's future, citing the country's military strength and potential diplomatic opportunities in the region. Katz concludes with a call for strong political leadership to navigate these challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Fox45 Baltimore investigative reporter Chris Papst about the alarming shift in public education priorities, as highlighted in his new book, "Failure Factory." Their conversation focuses on how academic outcomes are being manipulated in Baltimore City Public Schools, where students are promoted without receiving an adequate education. Papst reveals that failing grades are often changed to passing, and dangerous school environments are downplayed to maintain funding. Despite significant financial investment, student performance remains poor, with only 10% of students proficient in math. Papst argues that the system prioritizes employing adults over educating students, leading to dire consequences for local communities. They also discuss the lack of accountability from public officials and the challenges faced by parents in holding the school system accountable. Papst highlights the need for systemic change in urban school systems across the country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Senator Eric Schmitt, a sixth-generation Missourian and current U.S. Senator, about his new book, ""The Last Line of Defense: How to Beat the Left in Court.” They discuss Schmitt's legal battles against the Biden administration's policies. As Missouri's Attorney General, Schmitt led significant court cases against mask mandates, student debt forgiveness, Second Amendment restrictions, and more. Their discussion highlights Schmitt's recent announcement of a historic FBI investment to combat violent crime in St. Louis, emphasizing the need for a strong law enforcement presence. Schmitt shares his personal journey into politics, inspired by his son's medical challenges, and his commitment to defending the rule of law. Their conversation also touches on Schmitt's early endorsement of Donald Trump for the presidency, reflecting his belief in Trump's leadership and impact on American politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Erik Bork, the Emmy award-winning writer and director of the new film "The Elephant in the Room." The film is a romantic comedy that explores the challenges of political polarization through the story of a progressive woman who discovers her seemingly perfect partner voted for President Trump. Bork shares insights into his career, starting with his break from Tom Hanks, and discusses the creative process behind the film, including the challenges of portraying political differences authentically. He also delves into the complexities of independent filmmaking, from fundraising through platforms like Wefunder, to navigating distribution in a crowded media landscape. Bork emphasizes the importance of marketing and word-of-mouth in promoting independent films and highlights the potential for community screenings to foster discussion on political polarization. The film is available on major streaming platforms, and interested groups can host screenings to engage in dialogue about the film's themes. https://elephantintheroomfilm.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Ivan Eland Senior Fellow and Director of the Center on Peace and Liberty at the Independent Institute about his new book, “Domestic Causes of American Wars: Economic and Political Triggers” Eland presents a critical analysis of the underlying domestic economic and political factors that have influenced America's involvement in wars, challenging the traditional narrative that focuses on foreign threats. He argues that many wars were unnecessary for national security and had detrimental effects on civil liberties and constitutional checks and balances, contributing to the rise of an imperial presidency. Their discussion also touches on historical and contemporary geopolitical issues, including the impact of American election cycles on war decisions, the influence of economic motives, and the potential for alternative strategic visions in international relations. Eland's insights encourage a reevaluation of historical events and propose a more nuanced understanding of the causes and consequences of American wars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Kevin Malone, a former Major League Baseball executive, about his journey from a successful sports career to becoming a dedicated advocate against child sex trafficking. Malone, who worked with teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and Montreal Expos, transitioned to a role as a commentator for Fox Sports and ESPN after retiring from baseball. His life took a significant turn when he and his wife moved to Las Vegas in 2018 to combat human trafficking through various nonprofit organizations. Appointed by President Trump in 2025 as a senior advisor on human trafficking for HHS, Malone leverages his experience to fight for the eradication of child sex slavery. Their discussion highlights his baseball career, his theological studies, and his commitment to protecting children from exploitation. Malone emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships, the role of technology in combating trafficking, and the need for stronger legal actions against perpetrators. He also sheds light on the prevalence of trafficking in the U.S., the involvement of familial connections, and the urgent need for moral leadership to address this crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Kam Ghaffarian, Executive Chairman of Axiom Space about the future of commercial space travel. Kam is a visionary space and energy entrepreneur, and the driving force behind several companies’ advancing human civilization, including Axiom Space, Intuitive Machines, X Energy, and IBX. As the Executive Chairman of Axiom Space, Kam is leading the development of the first private commercial space station to replace the International Space Station. His journey began in Iran, inspired by the moon landing, and led him to the U.S., where he founded Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, a major NASA contractor. Kam's ventures focus on space commercialization and nuclear power solutions, with X Energy pioneering small modular reactors crucial for AI and energy needs. Axiom Space's missions have united astronauts from diverse countries, fostering international collaboration. Kam's partnerships with companies like Oakley and Prada highlight the commercial potential of space. He advocates for a shift from government-led to commercial-led space activities, emphasizing the urgency of maintaining U.S. space dominance amid global competition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Governor Greg Abbott of Texas about the special session to vote on redistricting the state. On Tuesday, the state's top three elected officials, Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dustin Burrows said the Legislature will adjourn its current overtime session this Friday, and the Governor will immediately call another special session. The ongoing political standoff continues, with Democrat lawmakers who have left the state refusing to return to prevent the passage of a new congressional map favoring Republicans. Abbott vows to continue calling special sessions until Democrats return, emphasizing the need for a quorum to conduct legislative business. He highlights the penalties Democrats face for their absence and criticizes their actions as contrary to Texas values. Abbott also addresses the broader political implications, including the impact on future elections and the importance of maintaining Republican control in Congress to support President Trump's agenda.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Senator Tim Scott about his new book, “One Nation Always Under God: Profiles in Christian Courage,” which highlights the influence of Christian values on America's foundational institutions and the courage of historical figures who persevered through faith. Their conversation touches on Scott's personal journey from poverty to becoming a United States Senator, emphasizing the power of dreams, imagination, and hard work. Scott shares insights on the importance of family, faith, and the American spirit, while also addressing contemporary issues such as federal spending and economic policies. They conclude by discussing Scott's recent marriage and the role of humility in public service.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with David Bahnsen, founder and chief investment officer of The Bahnsen Group, about the importance of balancing the federal budget and addressing the national debt, which is nearly $37 trillion. He reflects on his past success in balancing the budget as Speaker of the House in the 1990s and emphasizes the need for fiscal responsibility. Bahnsen shares his nuanced views on the Federal Reserve's role in setting interest rates, arguing against the need for a Central Bank to set the price of money. Bahnsen critiques the current monetary policy and the impact of tariffs on the economy, expressing concerns about the effects on small businesses and advocating for pro-growth policies. Their conversation also touches on the challenges of entitlement reform, the impact of foreign investment, and the need for effective communication in political discourse. Bahnsen's Dividend Café newsletter offers insights into market trends and economic perspectives, aiming to provide objective advice for investors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.