The Rational Egoist

The Rational Egoist is back with another instalment in the self-improvement series built around Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand (OPAR).This week, host Michael Liebowitz is joined again by James Valliant to focus on the chapter “Man.” What is man, fundamentally—and what follows from that for how you should live?If you’ve ever felt pulled between what you know you should do and what you feel like doing… if you’ve struggled with consistency, self-trust, or the discipline to pursue your values—this chapter is where the foundations get rebuilt.In this conversation, Michael and James unpack the essentials:Man’s distinctive faculty: why reason matters, and what it means to live by it in practiceVolition and choice: why your character isn’t fate—and why “drift” is still a choiceMind and body: how to integrate thought, emotion, and action without self-contradictionSelf as a project: what it means to become a certain kind of person through chosen habitsSelf-improvement, properly understood: not as guilt-driven self-fixing, but as value-driven growthA practical takeaway: how to translate abstract principles into day-to-day clarity and momentumExpect a direct, grounded discussion aimed at one thing: helping you think more clearly about what you are—and what that makes possible.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on Ayn Rand’s philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #JamesValliant #OPAR #LeonardPeikoff #AynRand #Philosophy #SelfImprovement #Reason #Volition #Individualism #PersonalDevelopment #HumanNature #Virtue #Productiveness

Reason: The Choice That Makes Self-Improvement Possible (OPAR Series)In this episode of The Rational Egoist, James Valliant and Michael Liebowitz continue their OPAR-based series on self-improvement by tackling the chapter on Reason—the faculty that makes every other virtue possible.They explore what it means to treat reason as a practice rather than a slogan: choosing to think when it’s inconvenient, checking emotions against facts, refusing to outsource your judgement, and building a life that actually matches your values. If self-improvement is more than motivation—if it’s about becoming a person you can respect—then this episode is about the root requirement: using your mind.Expect a grounded discussion on clarity vs. rationalisation, why contradictions don’t disappear when ignored, and how a commitment to reality becomes the foundation for confidence, purpose, and genuine progress.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on Ayn Rand’s philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Through her work across business, media, and education, Xenia brings a grounded, reality-focused perspective to discussions of responsibility, productivity, and independent thinking.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #JamesValliant #OPAR #Reason #SelfImprovement #RationalThinking #PersonalDevelopment #IndividualRights #AynRand #Philosophy #Productiveness #Integrity #SelfEsteem #Independence #CapitalismAndCoffee #XeniaIoannou

Political Tribalism with Lauren HallPolitical scientist Lauren Hall joins Michael Liebowitz for a wide-ranging discussion on political tribalism—how identity, loyalty, and moral signalling have displaced judgment, moderation, and principled disagreement in modern politics.Lauren Hall brings a rare combination of scholarly depth and cultural clarity to the conversation. Drawing on the classical liberal tradition and her work on family, moderation, and the moral limits of politics, she examines how tribal thinking corrodes institutions, distorts public debate, and turns politics into a substitute for meaning. The discussion explores why societies fracture when politics becomes a moral identity—and what intellectual resources exist for restoring restraint, pluralism, and seriousness to public life.This episode is a thoughtful examination of ideas over slogans, and persuasion over power—an essential listen for anyone concerned with the health of liberal society.Disclaimer:The views expressed by Lauren Hall are her own, and not necessarily reflective of her employer or anyone with whom she works.About Lauren HallLauren Hall is Professor and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the Rochester Institute of Technology, College of Liberal Arts. She is the author of The Medicalization of Birth and Death (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2019) and Family and the Politics of Moderation (Baylor University Press, 2014), and co-editor of a volume on the political philosophy of Chantal Delsol.Her scholarship engages deeply with the classical liberal tradition, including extensive writing on Edmund Burke, Adam Smith, and Montesquieu.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #LaurenHall #PoliticalTribalism #ClassicalLiberalism #Reason #IndividualRights #FreeThought #IntellectualHonesty #MichaelLiebowitz #XeniaIoannou

In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Gene Epstein, one of the most articulate and consistent defenders of free markets in modern economic journalism.Gene Epstein served as economics editor of Barron's from 1993 to 2018, where his long-running Economic Beat column became required reading for anyone serious about understanding macroeconomics beyond slogans and political talking points. Throughout his career, Epstein challenged the assumptions behind monetary manipulation, deficit spending, regulation, and state “management” of markets, insisting that economic outcomes must be understood as the result of individual choice, incentives, and real-world constraints—not good intentions or bureaucratic planning.The conversation also explores Epstein’s role as founder and director of The Soho Forum, a debate platform that has become one of the few remaining venues for rigorous, civil, high-level disagreement on economics, liberty, and social policy. Epstein discusses why open debate matters, why bad ideas survive when they are not challenged, and how intellectual honesty—not consensus—is the engine of progress.This episode is a clear-eyed discussion about why markets work, why government intervention repeatedly fails, and why economic freedom is not merely efficient, but necessary for human flourishing.Gene Epstein (born 1944) is an American economist, writer, and public intellectual. He served as economics editor of Barron’s for 25 years and authored the influential Economic Beat column, where he analysed macroeconomic trends and exposed the unintended consequences of government intervention. He is the founder and director of The Soho Forum, a New York–based debate series dedicated to serious discussion of libertarian ideas in economics and social policy.Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two books examining the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom. Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on philosophy and its application to everyday life.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#GeneEpstein #TheRationalEgoist #FreeMarkets #EconomicFreedom #Liberty #SohoForum #Barrons #IndividualRights #Capitalism #IdeasMatter

Francesca Flavia Mormanni Joins the Show — Music, Writing, Finance, and the Creative LifeFF. Mormanni joins The Rational Egoist for a wide-ranging conversation that cuts across art, intellect, and independence. Known professionally as F. F. Mormanni (also Francesca Mormanni), Francesca is a novelist, screenwriter, musician, producer, and actress whose work reflects a serious engagement with creativity as a rational, chosen pursuit—not a mystic impulse or a social performance.In this episode, Michael and Francesca explore what it means to live as a creator in multiple disciplines, how writing and music shape one’s inner world, and why financial independence matters to anyone who wants to think and produce freely. The discussion moves fluidly between the practical realities of making art, the discipline required to sustain it, and the personal responsibility involved in building a life that supports long-term creative work.This is not a romanticised view of art. It is a grounded conversation about choice, effort, and the integration of mind, work, and values—whether you’re writing a novel, composing music, or navigating the economic realities that make creation possible.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on Ayn Rand’s philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #FrancescaMormanni #FFMormanni #CreativeIndependence #WritingAndMusic #ArtistsAndFinance #Individualism #ReasonAndArt #PodcastConversation

In this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz speaks with Dr. Knut M. Wittkowski, a biostatistician and epidemiologist whose career has been grounded in data analysis, population-level disease dynamics, and research design.Dr. Wittkowski approaches the COVID pandemic not from politics or media narratives, but from statistical evidence and historical epidemiology. Drawing on decades of experience analysing infectious disease patterns, he challenges widely accepted assumptions about lockdowns, transmission dynamics, and public-health interventions. His focus throughout is on what the data actually show—rather than what policymakers, institutions, or commentators wished them to show.The discussion explores:How pandemics historically rise and fallThe difference between individual clinical outcomes and population-level effectsWhy certain interventions may have had unintended consequencesThe importance of distinguishing correlation from causation in public health policyHow fear and modelling assumptions can override empirical evidenceThis is a rigorous, analytical conversation that treats public health as a scientific discipline rather than a moral crusade—and asks hard questions about decision-making under uncertainty.About Dr. Knut M. WittkowskiDr. Knut M. Wittkowski holds a PhD in Biostatistics, with formal training in mathematical statistics and epidemiology in Germany. He served for roughly two decades as Head of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Research Design at Rockefeller University in New York.His work has focused on the statistical foundations of biomedical research, the interpretation of complex data sets, and the proper design of epidemiological studies. Throughout his career, Dr. Wittkowski has emphasised methodological rigour, empirical validation, and intellectual independence—particularly when scientific consensus becomes detached from data.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two books examining the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia. Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on philosophy, culture, and independent thinking.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist

Jim Valliant and Michael Liebowitz continue their ongoing series using OPAR as a practical guide to self-improvement.In this episode, they turn to one of the most demanding—and most liberating—virtues: Objectivity.Drawing from OPAR (Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand), Jim and Michael examine what objectivity actually requires in daily life. Not neutrality. Not emotional detachment. But an uncompromising commitment to reality as it is, judged by evidence, logic, and context.They explore why objectivity is not automatic, why it must be chosen, and why so many people evade it—especially when facts threaten comfort, identity, or moral posturing. The discussion moves from epistemology into psychology, showing how habits of subjectivism and social conformity quietly erode self-trust, independence, and long-range thinking.This is not an academic exercise. It is a practical conversation about how objectivity functions as a tool of self-improvement:how it sharpens judgment, stabilises emotions, clarifies values, and anchors self-esteem in reality rather than approval.If self-improvement is about becoming more effective at living, then objectivity is the non-negotiable starting point.About Jim ValliantJim Valliant is an Objectivist philosopher and author best known for his meticulous scholarship and commitment to intellectual honesty. His work is respected for its precision, moral seriousness, and refusal to compromise facts for sentiment or social approval. Jim brings clarity and rigor to philosophical discussions, always grounding abstract principles in reality and logic.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on Ayn Rand’s philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #Objectivity #OPAR #JimValliant #MichaelLiebowitz #Reason #IndependentThinking #SelfImprovement #RealityFirst #IndividualJudgment #XeniaIoannou

Holden Mitrione Interviews Michael — A Wide-Ranging Conversation on Ideas, Economics, and CultureIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Holden Mitrione sits on the other side of the microphone to interview Michael Liebowitz in a free-flowing discussion that moves comfortably across philosophy, economics, culture, and the habits of thinking that shape a person’s life.Holden, an undergraduate majoring in economics, brings a sharp and curious mind to the conversation—asking questions that cut through abstractions and focus on fundamentals: how ideas form, how incentives actually work, and why clarity of thought matters more than fashionable opinion. Rather than sticking to a single theme, the discussion unfolds organically, touching on moral reasoning, personal responsibility, intellectual independence, and the dangers of treating systems as substitutes for judgment.Michael responds not with slogans, but with careful explanations rooted in cause and effect—connecting economic principles to everyday life, and philosophical ideas to real human choices. The result is a conversation that feels less like an interview and more like an honest intellectual exchange between two people who take ideas seriously.This episode is especially valuable for listeners who enjoy hearing principles tested in real time, rather than packaged neatly in talking points. It’s a reminder that thinking well is not about credentials or authority, but about the willingness to follow ideas to their logical conclusions.Michael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #PodcastConversation #EconomicsAndIdeas #IndependentThinking #PhilosophyInPractice #ReasonAndRealityAbout Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational Egoist

Larry Sharpe Joins The Rational Egoist to Discuss His Candidacy for Governor of New YorkIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Larry Sharpe, a prominent libertarian voice and two-time candidate for Governor of New York. Sharpe brings a grounded, reality-based perspective to politics—one that treats individuals as adults capable of managing their own lives rather than subjects to be managed by the state.The conversation explores why New York has become one of the most heavily regulated, expensive, and politically centralised states in the US—and what a fundamentally different approach would look like. Sharpe explains his opposition to top-down control, endless bureaucracy, and political promises that ignore incentives, consequences, and human nature.Drawing on his experience as an entrepreneur, media host, and candidate, Sharpe makes the case for decentralisation, voluntary cooperation, and a politics that respects consent rather than obedience. He also discusses the practical challenges of running against entrenched party machines, the cultural resistance to liberty in large urban states, and why offering voters a real alternative matters—even when winning is not guaranteed.This is a wide-ranging discussion about freedom, responsibility, political courage, and what it means to take ideas seriously in a culture addicted to power.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #LarrySharpe #Libertarianism #IndividualRights #PoliticalPhilosophy #FreedomOverControl #Decentralisation #ReasonAndLiberty #VoluntarySociety #LibertyInPractice

Sheldon Richman Joins Michael Liebowitz for a Candid Discussion on Liberty, Justice, and Political PhilosophyIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz sits down with Sheldon Richman for a thoughtful and principled conversation about where their political views converge—and where they part ways.Sheldon Richman is a lifelong advocate of liberty, reason, and justice. A father and grandfather, he brings both moral seriousness and lived experience to political philosophy. In this discussion, Michael and Sheldon explore foundational questions about individual rights, social cooperation, the role of the state, and the moral assumptions that sit beneath modern political movements.Rather than trading slogans, the conversation digs into first principles:What do individuals actually owe one another in a free society?Where does voluntary cooperation end and coercion begin?Can liberty be defended consistently without sacrificing moral clarity?They also examine areas of agreement—such as the rejection of collectivist premises—and areas of tension, particularly around strategy, language, and the practical implications of political theory in a mixed economy.This episode is a rare example of two serious thinkers engaging honestly, without posturing or tribalism, in pursuit of truth rather than consensus.About Sheldon RichmanSheldon Richman is a freelance editor, author, and long-time writer on liberty and political philosophy. He is the author of What Social Animals Owe to Each Other and Coming to Palestine, and a consistent voice for individual rights, peace, and voluntary social order. He is also, by his own description, a lover of liberty, justice, reason—and pipe tobacco.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.

The life and legacy of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt with David BeitoIn this episode, the conversation cuts through the mythology surrounding FDR and examines the man, his ideas, and the political transformation he presided over. Rather than treating Roosevelt as a sacred figure of history, this discussion looks directly at the consequences of his policies, the expansion of executive power, and the long-term effects on American political culture.David Beito brings historical clarity and intellectual precision to a presidency often insulated from serious moral and political scrutiny. The result is a grounded, unsentimental examination of how power is justified, how narratives are constructed, and why understanding Roosevelt matters now more than ever.David T. Beito is a professor emeritus of history at the University of Alabama and a respected scholar of American political and economic history. He is the author of FDR: A New Political Life, a revisionist examination of Franklin Delano Roosevelt that challenges conventional portrayals and situates FDR within the broader context of power, crisis, and political change.Book link:https://a.co/d/36WHp1iAbout Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on Ayn Rand’s philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #FranklinDelanoRoosevelt #FDR #AmericanHistory #PoliticalPower #IndividualRights #HistoricalRevisionism #ReasonOverMyth #LibertyAndHistory

The Role of Concept Formation in Self-ImprovementIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz sits down with philosopher and author James Valliant for a rigorous conversation on one of the most underestimated aspects of personal growth: concept formation.Self-improvement is often treated as a matter of habits, motivation, or mindset. But beneath all of that lies something more fundamental—the way we form, integrate, and use concepts. James explains why clarity at the conceptual level is not academic hair-splitting, but a practical necessity for thinking clearly, choosing rationally, and acting with purpose.The discussion explores how vague or stolen concepts sabotage progress, how emotional confusion often traces back to conceptual errors, and why genuine self-development requires precision in thought before change in action. Rather than offering slogans or techniques, this conversation goes to the root: how the mind organises reality, and why that organisation determines the trajectory of a person’s life.This is an episode for listeners who want more than surface-level advice—who want to understand why some efforts at self-improvement fail, and what it actually takes to build a coherent, reality-based framework for growth.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on Ayn Rand’s philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #JamesValliant #ConceptFormation #ThinkingClearly #SelfImprovement #PhilosophyInPractice #Reason #IndividualGrowth #IntellectualClarity

Michaelangelo Casanova Joins The Rational Egoist for a Powerful Conversation on EntrepreneurshipOn this episode, Michael Liebowitz is joined by Michaelangelo Casanova for a rich, energising discussion about what it truly means to build a life—and a business—through deliberate action and uncompromising personal agency.Michaelangelo Casanova is an entrepreneur and life coach who has dedicated his work to helping people break out of passive living and step into purposeful creation. His approach is direct, grounded, and results-focused: the mindset of someone who believes that a fulfilled life is chosen, built, and earned through clarity and disciplined effort.Together, Michael and Michaelangelo explore the psychology behind entrepreneurship:why ambition requires independence, why stagnation often begins in the mind long before it shows up in results, and how a person creates momentum when the world around them rewards excuses over effort. It’s an honest conversation about responsibility, creativity, and the quiet pride that comes from building something real.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. A formerly incarcerated man who transformed a 25-year prison sentence into a life of intellectual purpose, Michael now challenges cultural dogma, exposes moral contradictions, and defends the values that make human flourishing possible.He is the co-author of:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, shaping the presentation, publishing, and strategic promotion of each episode to ensure it reflects a consistent standard of clarity and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, an entrepreneur, and a property manager with two decades of business experience. Xenia serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation’s strategic direction, public engagement, and long-range growth. Her work centres on reason, individual rights, and the defence of human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, a forum for thoughtful discussion on philosophy, culture, independence of mind, and the moral meaning of living by one’s own judgment.Join the meetup:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Read Xenia’s essays on clarity, purpose, and self-ownership:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #Entrepreneurship #IndividualRights #RationalSelfInterest #PhilosophyPodcast #LifeOnPurpose #ARCA #CapitalismAndCoffee #ObjectivistCommunity

In this compelling episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael Liebowitz sits down once again with author, prosecutor, and philosopher James Stevens Valliant to tackle a recurring confusion in libertarian circles: the attempt to merge individual-rights philosophy with anarchism — a fusion often labelled “anarcho-Objectivism.”Michael and James examine why this hybrid collapses on its own premises. They break down the essential role of objective law, the necessity of a single rights-protecting legal framework, and why competing private “justice agencies” cannot uphold rights but inevitably devolve into private warlords.The discussion cuts through romantic rhetoric about “voluntary governance” and focuses instead on the practical requirements of living in a civilised society: clear laws, a monopoly on retaliatory force, and institutions bound by objective standards. Without these, rights aren’t defended — they’re extinguished.James draws on history, legal philosophy, and decades of work studying the moral foundations of liberty. Michael brings his trademark clarity: a deeply lived understanding of what happens when law is arbitrary, when justice fragments into competing factions, and when force is no longer restrained by principle.Together, they demonstrate why any view that rejects government altogether cannot claim to defend freedom. A society without a single, rights-protecting legal structure doesn’t maximise liberty — it destroys the conditions that make liberty possible.This episode is essential listening for anyone who has ever wondered why a rights-based philosophy necessitates government — and why eliminating government doesn’t lead to freedom, but to the rule of the sword.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Because freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.Follow Life on Purpose — Xenia’s thought-provoking essays on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuHashtags#TheRationalEgoist #MichaelLiebowitz #JamesValliant #PhilosophyPodcast #IndividualRights #RuleOfLaw #LibertarianDebate #ClassicalLiberalism #Reason #MoralClarity

Catherine Dickerson on the Benevolence of ReasonIn this episode, Michael sits down with Catherine Dickerson for a deeply grounded conversation about what it means to live in a universe where reason is your ally, not your adversary.Drawing from 35 years of experience in education and psychotherapy—and her time as personal assistant to Dr Leonard Peikoff—Catherine brings a rare combination of philosophical depth and practical psychological insight. Together, she and Michael explore the benevolent nature of reality, why clarity is a moral achievement, and how choosing to think transforms your ability to deal with life.This discussion moves beyond abstractions. Catherine explains how rational thinking reshapes your emotional world, why confusion isn’t a permanent state, and how a commitment to understanding can lift people out of stagnation. Michael pushes the conversation to the places where philosophy meets daily struggle—self-doubt, mental habits, emotional fallout, and the quiet moments where your mind either becomes your greatest tool or your biggest obstacle.If you’ve ever felt the pull between the world as it is and the world as you wish it could be, this episode offers a powerful reminder: the world doesn’t have to be hostile, chaotic, or unknowable. A rational mind isn’t at war with existence—it is designed for it.This is one of those episodes where you’ll want to pause, think, and maybe even take notes.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Xenia’s essays at her Substack, Life on Purpose:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuGuest Bio – Catherine DickersonCatherine Dickerson is an Objectivist with 35 years of professional experience in education and psychotherapy. She served as personal assistant to Dr Leonard Peikoff and brings a lifetime of reflection, study, and practical application of philosophical principles to the field of mental health and human development.#TheRationalEgoist #Reason #PhilosophyPodcast #LeonardPeikoff #ObjectivistPsychology #AynRand #RationalMind #Individualism #LifeOnPurpose

Jim Valliant and Michael Continue Their Series on Using Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand as a Guide to Self-Improvement. In This Episode, They Dive Into Chapter Two: “Sense Perception and Volition.”In this new instalment, Michael and Jim explore how the most fundamental aspects of human awareness shape everything from our daily decisions to our long-range ambitions.They take listeners through the core insights of Chapter Two—how we grasp reality through our senses, how automatic perception differs from chosen cognition, and why volition is the root of every meaningful act of self-improvement.This isn’t an academic detour. It’s a conversation about what it means to live with your eyes open—what it means to build your life on facts rather than feelings, and to recognise that the choice to think is the first moral choice you ever make.Whether you’re new to Ayn Rand’s philosophy or using OPAR as a personal roadmap, this episode offers a clear, grounded discussion on the tools you already possess: a reality-oriented consciousness and the ability to direct it.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#TheRationalEgoist #AynRand #OPAR #ObjectivistPhilosophy #Reason #Volition #SelfImprovement #PhilosophyPodcast #Individualism #RationalLiving

Dr. Andrew Bernstein and Dr. Meghann Ribbens Discuss Some Problems with American EducationIn this episode, Michael sits down with two sharp and unapologetically rational voices—Dr. Andrew Bernstein and Dr. Meghann Ribbens—to unpack what has gone wrong in American education and why so many students are emerging less prepared, less confident, and less capable of independent thought.From the erosion of academic standards to the cultural shift away from personal responsibility, Bernstein and Ribbens explore the deeper moral and philosophical causes behind the crisis. They examine the rise of ideological conformity, the abandonment of facts and logic in favour of emotionalism, and the way government-run schools incentivise mediocrity rather than excellence.Both guests bring decades of experience to the table: Bernstein as an author and philosopher who has written extensively on heroic education and the value of great literature; Ribbens as an educator and scholar who has watched the system decline from the inside. Together, they articulate a clear picture of what education should be—an uplifting, rigorous, confidence-building path centred on knowledge, reasoning, and the joy of achievement.This conversation is direct, principled, and free of euphemisms. It cuts through the noise to identify the root problems and the real solutions.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia’s thought-provoking essays on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menu#TheRationalEgoist #AndrewBernstein #MeghannRibbens #EducationReform #AmericanEducation #Reason #IndividualRights #Philosophy #Objectivism #Liberty #MichaelLiebowitz #PodcastSeries

Kiyah Willis Discusses Her Journey Out of WokeIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Michael sits down with Kiyah Willis for a thoughtful and compelling discussion about her intellectual transformation—one that took her from the fog of modern “woke” ideology to a life built on clarity, independence, and personal responsibility.Kiyah is a fellow at the Objective Standard Institute, where she focuses on cultural trends and the ideas driving them. With a degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a background as a data analyst, she brings a rare blend of technical discipline and philosophical depth. Today, her work examines how faulty cultural narratives take hold, why they spread, and what it takes to break free from them.In this interview, Kiyah shares her journey out of a worldview rooted in guilt, conformity, and emotional pressure—towards a worldview anchored in reality, reason, and the sovereignty of the individual. She explains how intellectual honesty, personal courage, and a willingness to question the dominant culture became essential steps in reclaiming her confidence and her independence of mind.She also talks about her writing, her love for hiking and spending time with her boxer, Apollo, and the broader mission behind her Substack: helping others untangle themselves from the traps of cultural dogma and rediscover the joy of thinking for themselves.A powerful and clear conversation—one that highlights the cost of surrendering your judgment, and the freedom that comes when you choose to reclaim it.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia’s thought-provoking essays on Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #KiyahWillis #Individualism #Reason #IntellectualFreedom #CulturalTrends #Philosophy #Liberty #IndependentThinking #PodcastEpisode

Applying OPAR to Self-ImprovementIn this episode, Michael sits down with James Valliant to launch a powerful new series exploring how the principles laid out in Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand (OPAR) can be used as a practical roadmap for personal growth.Rather than treating philosophy as something abstract or academic, Michael and James break down how these core principles apply to everyday life—to the choices we make, the standards we hold, the habits we build, and the long-range goals we pursue.They discuss:why metaphysics is the starting point for self-improvementhow epistemology shapes your confidence, clarity, and resiliencethe role of values, virtues, and moral purpose in building a meaningful lifecommon psychological traps people fall into when they evade facts or surrender their judgmenthow a rational approach to living creates internal strength, independence, and long-range directionThis series is designed to help listeners bridge the gap between understanding and action. Each conversation will build a deeper foundation for living deliberately, thinking clearly, and becoming the kind of person you respect.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia’s thought-provoking essays at her Substack, Life on Purpose:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuHashtags#TheRationalEgoist #JamesValliant #MichaelLiebowitz #OPAR #AynRand #SelfImprovement #Rationality #PhilosophyInAction #Individualism #Reason #PersonalGrowth

Nikos Sotirakopoulos Discusses His Journey from Marxism to ObjectivismIn this episode of The Rational Egoist, Dr. Nikos Sotirakopoulos joins Michael Liebowitz to share his intellectual journey from the radical Left to the philosophy of reason and individualism. Once an active Marxist, Nikos reflects on what drew him to collectivist movements in his youth and what ultimately led him to reject them.They discuss the emotional and philosophical appeal of Marxism, the moral void it attempts to fill, and why so many young people are still captivated by its promises today. Nikos explains how his transition to Objectivism reshaped his understanding of freedom, morality, and the role of the individual in society.Now a speaker and writer for the Ayn Rand Institute and an instructor for Ayn Rand University, Dr. Sotirakopoulos teaches about Marx, the communist movement, and the New Left—drawing on both his academic expertise and personal experience to expose the errors of collectivist ideology.Before joining ARI, Nikos spent more than a decade in academia in the UK, teaching at the University of Kent, Loughborough University, and York St John University. He is the author of The Rise of Lifestyle Activism: From New Left to Occupy (Palgrave Macmillan, 2016) and Identity Politics and Tribalism: The New Culture Wars (Societas, 2021), and is a frequent commentator on UK media.Tune in for an insightful conversation about philosophy, moral conviction, and what it truly means to think for yourself.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, overseeing the publishing and promotion of each episode to reflect a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual integrity.As a CEO, property manager, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for capitalism and individual rights, Xenia ensures the podcast stays true to its core values of reason, freedom, and personal responsibility.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, where passionate thinkers gather to discuss Ayn Rand’s ideas and their application to life, politics, and culture.Join us at: https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/(Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup)Follow Life on Purpose – Xenia's thought-provoking essays at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about—and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #NikosSotirakopoulos #Objectivism #AynRandInstitute #Marxism #Individualism #Reason #Philosophy #MichaelLiebowitz #Liberty #Freedom