John Anderson: Conversations

Victor Davis Hanson joins John after President-elect Trump's victory to explore why his direct style resonated with middle America. Hanson examines the economic and social factors driving Trump’s appeal, from rising inflation and border insecurity, to the sense of exclusion felt by many Americans. This interview highlights the stark divide between global elites and everyday citizens, examining how media and institutions underestimated public frustration. Hanson argues that Trump’s policies address real concerns, fostering a lasting loyalty among voters. In addition to domestic dynamics, Hanson assesses Trump’s assertive approach to foreign policy, from NATO to trade relations, and its effect on global alliances.

Historian Niall Ferguson joins John to discuss the challenges facing Western societies, the geopolitical landscape, and cultural issues. He reflects on the shifting nature of Western academic institutions, which he believes have moved away from intellectual diversity and become dominated by progressive orthodoxies, prompting him to support the creation of a new university in Austin dedicated to open debate and the fearless pursuit of truth. Ferguson also addresses U.S. political dynamics, examining the impact of Donald Trump on American foreign policy and his influence on public discourse regarding China and globalism. He further explores the geopolitical threats posed by the rise of authoritarian states like China and Iran, advocating for a renewed focus on national security, fiscal responsibility, and technological innovation in the West.

Shawn Ryan, former Navy SEAL and CIA contractor, joins John to discuss politics, war, and the psychological toll of military service. Shawn reflects on his experiences in conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan, the rise of his podcast "The Shawn Ryan Show," and how it resonated with listeners craving authenticity amidst a media landscape they no longer trust. He shares his personal struggles, including battling alcoholism, and how transparency and vulnerability became central themes on his platform, especially for veterans reintegrating into civilian life. Shawn and John explore the state of the world today, touching on societal unrest in the US, the dangerous rise of extremism, and the challenges posed by foreign adversaries like China. Shawn also highlights the importance of critical thinking, the influence of money in politics, and the vital need for America to "get its house in order" before it can effectively handle global threats.

Patrick Bet-David joins John to reflect on his inspiring journey from immigrant to thriving entrepreneur. He shares personal stories about the challenges and successes that shaped him, from his early life to his rise in the business world. Bet-David highlights how discipline, self-reliance and resilience have been crucial for him in overcoming life’s obstacles. Bet-David wants people to know that they can take charge of their lives despite the unpredictability of today's world. He encourages a focus on growth, personal responsibility, and perseverance as the keys to navigating life’s challenges.

Dale Ahlquist, President of the G.K. Chesterton Society, joins John to discuss the lasting relevance of Chesterton’s works in today's world. Ahlquist highlights how Chesterton’s observations on issues like government power, the virtues of faith, hope, and charity, and the decline of reason in modern society, remain remarkably pertinent. With his trademark wit, Chesterton was able to tackle profound topics while remaining accessible, blending humour with intellectual depth to appeal to both casual listeners and thoughtful readers. Ahlquist emphasises how Chesterton’s wisdom speaks to the challenges of our time, offering timeless insights. Ahlquist also explores Chesterton’s distinctive views on education and localism. As a strong critic of modern educational practices, Chesterton advocated a return to traditional wisdom and decentralised power, arguing for more personal control over local issues. Ahlquist discusses the success of the Chesterton Academy model, which embodies these principles by promoting a classical education focused on truth, beauty, and the interconnectedness of knowledge. Throughout the interview, Ahlquist showcases Chesterton’s ability to critique modern thought with both seriousness and wit, offering a hopeful and lighthearted perspective on life’s biggest questions.

Victor Davis Hanson joins John to explore the 2024 presidential election and the escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Hanson criticises President Joe Biden, suggesting his cognitive decline has left a power vacuum in the American government. He also sees Vice President Harris’ policy shifts as strategic rather than genuine, causing confusion among voters about where she truly stands. Hanson addresses the evolving situation in the Middle East, arguing that Israel must act disproportionately to reestablish deterrence, given Iran’s extensive backing of terror groups like Hezbollah. Hanson warns that Iran’s nuclear ambitions continue to be a destabilising factor, which may lead to a larger global conflict if left unchecked.

Major-General Tim Cross joins John to discuss his experiences in the military amidst global security challenges. Reflecting on his involvement in the 2003 Iraq invasion, he acknowledges the failures of the post-war period, criticising the poor decisions that undermined lasting nation-building efforts. He also examines the growing threats from authoritarian regimes like Russia and China. Cross argues that the West is facing a leadership crisis and must embrace morally courageous decision-making to survive. He advocates for a strategic defence posture that enhances military capabilities to address modern threats, while also defending the core democratic values that are increasingly under pressure in the West.

Join John as he speaks with Oxford Professor John Lennox about the intriguing connections between science, religion, and modern cultural shifts. Lennox reflects on how figures like Jordan Peterson have opened the door for renewed dialogue between Christianity and science. He argues that historical scientific pioneers were driven by their faith in a divine lawgiver, a perspective that has regained traction in modern intellectual discussions. The conversation also touches on the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence and society's growing struggle with truth in the age of deepfakes. Lennox emphasises the unique hope Christianity offers through the resurrection of Jesus, contrasting it with secular movements like transhumanism, which promises immortality but fails to address deeper human questions.

John sits down with Professor Steve Tsang, a political scientist and historian of China, to discuss Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party.   Professor Steve Tsang describes Xi Jinping’s leadership style as "Sinocentric Consultative Leninism": absolute control by the Communist Party. This control is maintained through surveillance, ostensible 'anti-corruption' campaigns, nationalism, and the educational 'shaping' of the people. Xi aims to expand China's global influence, using economic leverage and Taiwan to achieve his vision of national rejuvenation.

In this episode, John sits down with Justin Brierley, an English academic, writer, podcaster, and Christian apologist. They explore cultural shifts in the West, particularly the rise and decline of New Atheism, and how recent years have seen a surprising resurgence of interest in Christianity, even among secular intellectuals. Brierley discusses his experiences hosting debates between Christians and atheists during the peak of New Atheism, noting how the movement eventually splintered and lost momentum as it became increasingly dogmatic. He highlights the rise of figures like Jordan Peterson and Tom Holland, who have challenged secular narratives and reintroduced Christian ideas into mainstream discourse. The interview also touches on suffering, the resurrection of Jesus, and Christian sexual ethics.

John Anderson speaks with Lord Mervyn King about the shortcomings of modern economics, including its detachment from practical issues and over-reliance on modelling. They discuss the failures of economic forecasting during the COVID-19 pandemic and on climate change, stressing the importance of humility and honesty from policymakers. The discussion extends to socio-economic challenges like rising national debt and intergenerational inequality in Western democracies. The conversation also touches on modern monetary theory, quantitative easing, and the geopolitical implications of trade policies, especially with China. Lord King offers a critique of central bank digital currencies and cryptocurrencies, advocating against a completely cashless society.

Konstantin Kisin returns to discuss his recent tour in America and analysis of the UK election: the decline of the Conservative Party, the rise of the Reform Party, and the structural challenges in Britain that now face the Labour Party. Reflecting on broader geopolitical issues, Kisin also shares his views on the Ukraine conflict and the need for decisive leadership. Drawing on his experiences touring with Jordan Peterson, Kisin highlights the public's hunger for messages of personal responsibility and the importance of maintaining cultural values, commending Australia's resilience in the broader Western world.

Join John Anderson as he interviews Peter Hitchens after the recent defeat of the Tories and the ascension of Keir Starmer. Hitchens offers a critical perspective on the Conservative Party and their gradual embrace of Tony Blair’s New Labour policies. He and John also explore the impact of public disengagement, the influence of public relations & advertising on politics, and the decline of traditional institutions like education, the family and local government. Hitchens also discusses the complexities of international relations, including Britain's alliance with the US and the situation in Israel. The discussion concludes with Hitchens' reflections on the diminishing role of Christianity in the West and the importance of a return to its moral principles in statecraft.

In this interview, John is joined by classical education advocate Andrew Kern. They explore the transformative potential of classical education, highlighting its respect for humility, heritage, and the importance it places on cultivating wisdom and virtue. Kern addresses the challenges posed by modern technology, and the increasing trend of homeschooling, promoting the integration of Christian values with classical education principles to create coherent and harmonious learning environments.

In this interview, John speaks with Iain McGilchrist about the differences between the left and right hemispheres of the brain and their impact on our perception and interaction with the world. Iain explains that the left hemisphere focuses on details and immediate tasks, while the right hemisphere maintains a broad, vigilant awareness of the environment. He discusses how modern society overemphasizes the left hemisphere's functions, leading to a loss of meaning, beauty, and wisdom.

In this interview, John Anderson speaks with Peter Court and Walter Purio, experts in maritime security, about Australia's vulnerabilities in shipping logistics and maritime defence. They highlight Australia's lack of domestically registered international trading ships, leaving the country heavily reliant on foreign vessels. They also examine the economic and strategic risks posed by this dependency, especially during crises.

In this conversation, John joins Alexander Downer to explore the significant geopolitical challenges of today, drawing comparisons to the dangerous period of the 1930s. Alexander warns of potential large-scale conflicts stemming from entanglements in Ukraine, the Middle East, and the South China Sea, emphasizing the need for a strong, principled approach to foreign policy.

Dennis Prager joins John to explore the deepening divisions in America today. Concerned with the destructive tendencies of left-wing movements, Dennis points to growing difficulties for young men and women who are deprived of the structure and blessings of Western civilisation. He emphasises that while these issues are daunting, despair is not an option, echoing his belief that "despair is a sin.” Confronting the polarising shifts between red and blue states, which give little reasons for hope, Dennis opts to fight for goodness and truth on principle, regardless of the odds for victory.

Professor Hanson joins John to discuss his new book The End of Everything, as well as the considerable unrest across America in the lead up to the 2024 Presidential election. They unpack the recent turmoil in higher education and its aggravation due to the unchecked left-wing ideology of those in leadership. They also discuss the unassailable appeal of Trump among Republican voters due to his outsider status and thick skin. They finish on a discussion of his new book The End of Everything, examining various historical parallels with our time, and the importance of recognising patterns of decline to prevent another civilisational catastrophe.

In this interview, John talks to highly esteemed author, commentator and theologian, Dr Albert Mohler. Dr Mohler and John discuss the political history and landscape of America in the lead up to the 2024 presidential election. Dr Mohler explores Christian perspectives on American politics, including the difficult choice both President Trump and Biden present to voters due to their disqualifying ethical views and character traits. They also address the rise of Christian nationalism, and the misunderstandings and hostilities towards evangelicalism.