The Chris Spangle Show

Chris Spangle, Harry Price, and Reinhold reunite for a new episode of We Are Libertarians. The hosts reintroduce themselves and reflect on the history of the show before diving into today’s big issues. They discuss the speed of the news cycle, public trust in media, right- and left-wing biases, and why local journalism still matters. The conversation also explores libertarian principles, cultural debates, Christian nationalism, and the role of free speech in a divided society. Tune in for sharp analysis, humor, and spirited discussion as three different libertarian perspectives come together to debate politics and culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1633, Galileo Galilei was condemned by the Roman Inquisition for teaching that the Earth revolves around the Sun. His defiance became a symbol of individual conscience against powerful institutions. On this episode of The Chris Spangle Show, we explore the history of individualism versus collectivism — from Socrates to the Stoics, from Christianity and the Reformation to Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke and John Stuart Mill, and into the American founding. We also explore libertarian principles of ethical individualism, free speech, and personal responsibility, contrasting them with the dangers of conformity, censorship, and control inherent in collectivism. What you’ll learn in this episode: Galileo’s trial and its impact on science and freedom How Christianity and the Reformation shaped individualism The Enlightenment’s role in liberty and natural rights Ethical individualism vs. collectivist control Why libertarians defend conscience, speech, and voluntary cooperation ⁠https://youtu.be/q3Y7zGmoYaA⁠ 00:00 Galileo vs. the Inquisition 01:49 The Rise of Heliocentrism 02:42 Courage, Individualism, & Libertarianism 03:33 What Is Individualism? Key Concepts 06:07 From Tribes to Individuals: History 07:36 Greek, Christian, and Enlightenment Roots 09:39 Individualism in America 10:39 Ethical Individualism Explained 13:39 Modern Challenges: Speech & Responsibility 15:31 Voluntary Association and Libertarianism 17:59 Political Individualism and Freedom 21:12 Collectivism vs. Individualism 24:03 Government Power and Group Identity 27:01 Case Study: Hong Kong’s Freedom Lost 28:59 Pros and Cons of Each Approach 30:06 Christian Critiques of Individualism 33:55 Expressive Individualism vs. Community 37:00 Individualism in Faith and Society 40:46 Voluntary Cooperation vs. Forced Conformity 41:45 The American Founding: A Radical Shift 45:42 Why Conscience and Principles Matter 47:00 Cancellations, Tribalism, and Consistency 51:00 Embracing Courage and Individual Thought 53:11 Be an Individual, Not Just a Follower 54:10 Outro & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Spangle reflects on the week following Charlie Kirk’s assassination, the surprising impact on churches, and his own faith journey since September 11, 2001. He explores how tragedy shakes feelings of security, why people turn to church in uncertain times, and the role of parasocial relationships in amplifying grief. Spangle also shares practical steps for those seeking deeper faith, including church commitment, accountability, and daily spiritual disciplines. The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel Start with the Gospel of John Then read Romans Afterward, read Genesis or continue through the New Testament ESV Study Bible Life Application Study Bible Zondervan Study Bible Tony Evans Bible Commentary The Bible Project (website and YouTube channel) Renewing Your Mind with R.C. Sproul Tim Keller (Gospel in Life) Matt Chandler – The Village Church Podcast Insight for Living with Chuck Swindoll Unashamed with Phil Robertson 00:00 Introduction & Charlie Kirk Incident 02:00 Surge in Church Attendance & Reflections on Security 06:00 Personal Faith Journey Post-9/11 10:00 Struggles with Lukewarm Faith 13:00 Marriage, Divorce, and Spiritual Drift 17:00 Self-Improvement and Facing Personal Struggles 21:00 Reigniting Active Faith & Practical Steps 25:00 Building Strong Church and Community Connections 30:00 Overcoming Stubborn Sins & Accountability 33:00 Fatherhood, Legacy, and Maturity 37:00 Finding Spiritual Role Models & Daily Routines 41:00 Being Open About Faith & Christian Community Today 44:00 Closing Advice: Commit, Connect, and Pursue Wisdom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Spangle sits down with Carmel City Councilor Jeff Worrell to discuss Project Civility and why disagreement is not something to avoid but a path toward stronger communities. They explore how civility is not about silence or politeness but about creating the groundwork for meaningful conversations on politics, religion, and tough issues. Worrell shares the core principles behind managing conflict, finding common ground, and staying in relationship—even when opinions clash. Learn why courage, listening, and respect are essential for building healthier dialogue in a divided time. To learn more or attend the upcoming Project Civility Summit, visit projectcivility.com. ⁠https://youtu.be/_nLEIj-kBPY⁠ 00:00 Introduction & Recent Events 02:16 What is Civility? Setting the Stage 05:20 Guest Introduction: Jeff Worrell 07:07 All About Carmel, Indiana 14:15 Building Community & Connection 17:36 Isolation, Fear, and Neighborly Issues 18:48 The Value of Disagreement 21:20 Courage, Empathy & Covenant Friendships 23:36 Techniques for Difficult Conversations 26:01 Listening, Pivoting, and Respect 29:00 Defining Civility & Handling Critiques 31:32 Civility is Not Weakness 34:08 Why People Retreat From Conversation 37:20 Navigating Disappointment & Speaking Boldly 40:12 Responding to Uncivil Politics 43:03 The Birth of Project Civility 46:39 The Civility Summit & Spreading the Message 48:23 How to Get Involved & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosts Adam Binkerd and Erika Crabtree open season three of Leading Adam with a deeply personal conversation with Chris Spangle—director of digital content at IBJ, former Bob & Tom digital lead, and longtime host of The Chris Spangle Show. Spangle shares his journey from early success in radio and podcasting to a season of loss, depression, and faith that reshaped his life. He talks candidly about therapy, breaking unhealthy cycles, and choosing family over workaholism. A podcast editor, co-host of The Patdown and featured juror on BET’s Ms. Pat Settles It, he shares where he thinks media is heading. This episode sets the tone for a season focused on “leading inward,” exploring grit, resilience, and the quiet work of building an “ordered life” brick by brick. Follow him on YouTube here: @ChrisSpangleShow https://youtu.be/S0LA9jqS7v0 Please support our work now on Patreon or Substack at ⁠Chris-Spangle.com⁠. 00:00 Intro & New Season Kickoff 01:07 New Set, New Energy 02:04 Introducing Chris Spangle 05:56 Why Chris? Production & Connection 08:30 Season 3: Leading Inward 13:01 Chris's Journey: Podcasting & Growth 20:53 The Granular Skills That Built a Career 24:53 Getting Personal: Lessons from Childhood 31:31 Finding Grit in Insecurity 38:56 Faith, Recovery, and Second Chances 44:52 Formulas for Values & the Ordered Life 50:59 Balance, Vocational Choices & Family 01:00:10 Building Community & The Future of Relationships 01:13:02 Parenting, Role Models & Generational Growth 01:18:10 Authenticity, Judgment, and Social Barriers 01:21:31 Lessons Learned & Season Wrap-up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are natural rights, and how do they differ from legal rights? In this episode of Foundations of Liberty on The Chris Spangle Show, Chris breaks down core Libertarian principles on rights, freedom, and government power. Learn about natural rights, legal rights, negative vs. positive rights, property rights, and why Libertarians argue that rights come from our nature—not the state. This deep dive explores thinkers like John Locke, Cicero, and Thomas Aquinas, plus key moments in history that shaped America’s founding ideas of liberty and self-government. https://youtu.be/ZaxSF5tooL8 Please support our work now on Patreon or Substack at ⁠Chris-Spangle.com⁠. 00:00 Penn and Meade: The Trial for Religious Freedom 01:12 Bushel's Case and Jury Independence 01:47 Do Rights Come From Government? 02:52 Foundations of Liberty: Introducing Rights 03:43 Natural Rights vs. Legal Rights Explained 04:45 Brief History of Natural Rights 06:48 Examples of Natural Rights in Daily Life 07:03 What Are Legal Rights? 09:41 How Rights Philosophies Evolved 11:12 Natural Rights in Ancient and Medieval Times 13:24 Magna Carta, the Crown, and Pre-Existing Rights 14:53 Enlightenment Thinkers and the Spread of Natural Rights 15:54 Property, Assembly, and Libertarian Principles 17:12 Natural Rights Aren't Handed Out—They're Inherent 18:03 Positive vs. Negative Rights 19:31 Negative Rights: The Libertarian Standard 21:10 Trade-offs and the Limits of Government Intervention 22:28 Why Libertarians Prioritize Natural & Negative Rights 25:36 Limiting Power: Sphere Sovereignty and Social Checks 27:02 Government, Morality, and Personal Autonomy 28:34 Government Dependency vs. Private Solutions 29:52 Why Rights Matter in a Free Society 31:02 Rights as Fundamentals of U.S. Society 32:22 Learning from History: Rights, Stories, and Systems 32:56 Modern Challenges and Demanding Your Rights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Agustina Vergara Cid, a former immigrant from Argentina and now a U.S. citizen, joins host Chris Spangle to share her powerful story of becoming American. She describes her July 3 naturalization ceremony, the emotional oath of allegiance, and why she has dreamed of America since childhood. Agustina explains how growing up in Argentina shaped her views on freedom, individualism, and government, and why she believes America’s founding values are still worth defending. This conversation offers a unique immigrant perspective on citizenship, immigration policy, and what makes the United States different. https://youtu.be/9aaLDBkw6B0 Please support our work now on Patreon or Substack at ⁠Chris-Spangle.com⁠. Despite anti-immigrant narratives, Americans still embrace immigrants - ⁠https://www.ocregister.com/2025/07/28/despite-anti-immigrant-narratives-americans-still-embrace-immigrants/?share=niagim2rshrngirsieop⁠ The Immorality of the U.S. Immigration System - ⁠https://youtu.be/1VOzKYDDkow⁠ Immigration Enforcement and the Betrayal of Due Process - ⁠https://youtu.be/mkOadbwUP5s⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Spangle launches a new series exploring the foundational ideas behind libertarianism. In this episode, he outlines eight core principles—individualism, individual rights, spontaneous order, limited government, free markets, the virtue of production, the natural harmony of interests, and peace. Chris reflects on how these ideas shape a free society and wrestles with the tensions between liberty, the common good, and his Christian worldview. Please support our work now on Patreon or Substack at ⁠Chris-Spangle.com⁠. ⁠https://youtu.be/K8VX7BW4UvY⁠ 00:00 Welcome & Series Overview 01:00 Chris Spangle's Background & Purpose 03:00 Why Libertarian Philosophy Matters 07:00 Rediscovering the Basics of Libertarianism 09:00 Core Ideas: Individualism Explained 13:00 Individual Rights & Natural Rights 17:00 Spontaneous Order & Hayek's Insight 19:00 Limited Government & Checks on Power 22:00 Free Markets: Voluntary Exchange & Prosperity 23:30 The Virtue of Production & Property Rights 24:30 Harmony of Interests: Cooperation over Conflict 25:30 The Importance of Peace 27:30 The Power and Impact of These Principles 29:00 No Perfect Ideology: Wrestling with Libertarianism 31:00 Conclusion & Call to Engagement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Spangle returns to share why he’s been away and what’s next for the show. He opens up about fatherhood, intellectual shifts since the pandemic, and his desire to rethink libertarianism and faith in public. Chris also introduces two upcoming themes: the Foundations of Liberty series and reflections on personal formation. ⁠https://youtu.be/9OIPaHHnrjU⁠ Please support our work now on Patreon or Substack at Chris-Spangle.com. 00:00 Show Returns & Life Update 02:00 Coping with Change & New Beginnings 04:00 Reflecting on Growth & Regrets 06:30 Speaking Up vs. Staying Quiet 09:00 Political Disillusionment and Evolving Beliefs 11:30 A New Direction for the Show 14:00 Exploring Foundations of Liberty 17:00 Faith, Family, and Personal Growth 19:30 Balancing Ambition and Family 21:00 Two Core Themes: Society & The Individual 22:30 Plans for Future Episodes & Listener Involvement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I was honored to (and surprised) to be asked as a guest on Jacob Winograd's show The LCI Green Room over at the Libertarian Christian Institute to talk about the “Grill Pill”—a mindset that’s all about stepping back from the chaos of national politics to focus on what really matters: faith, family, community, and yes, sometimes literally grilling. He and I unpack the emotional toll of constant political engagement, why many of us are disillusioned with activism, and how to reorder our lives around what God has actually called us to. We talk about libertarianism, Christian cultural engagement, and the dangers of making politics an idol. This one’s honest, raw, and full of hard-won wisdom. Hope it helps you recalibrate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senior policy analyst James Czerniawski of Americans for Prosperity joins The Chris Spangle Show to break down the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2025 and why it’s crucial for America’s digital future. From unlicensed spectrum access for startups to restoring FCC auction authority, Czerniawski explains how wireless innovation impacts everyday life—and why keeping pace with China matters. ⁠https://youtu.be/Kujolbpm9W4⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Chris Spangle and Alejandro Ramos as they discuss why civics education is crucial for America's future. Alejandro outlines his Citizenship Empowerment Framework, emphasizing foundational documents, media literacy, courageous dialogue, and community engagement to combat polarization and misinformation. Ramos, a second-generation immigrant, shares personal insights on immigration, birthright citizenship, and the importance of civics in creating informed, engaged citizens. Why Civic Education Must Be at the Forefront of Reform - https://dcjournal.com/why-civic-education-must-be-at-the-forefront-of-reform/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Spangle is joined by Alex Rosado, professional programs assistant at the Alexander Hamilton Society, to unpack the complexities of U.S.-China trade relations. They break down the legacy of Trump’s “Phase One” deal, why China fulfilled only 57% of its commitments, and how tactics like invoice manipulation and transshipment undermine global trade norms. The conversation also explores reshoring U.S. manufacturing, the AI and semiconductor arms race, and China’s internal demographic and economic challenges. Together, they examine how America can balance skepticism with strategy in navigating future trade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I was honored to give the commencement address at a homeschool high school graduation. In this speech, I encouraged graduates to resist the pull of shallow success and instead pursue lives rooted in faith, service, and meaningful relationships. Drawing inspiration from Jane Addams and Abraham Kuyper, I highlighted how small, faithful choices—made consistently—can transform communities and leave a lasting legacy. ⁠https://youtu.be/o7rT4hY4s7k⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Chris Spangle Show, Chris welcomes William Dunstan, a Canadian political commentator and Young Voices contributor, for a wide-ranging discussion about U.S.-Canada relations, Canadian politics, and the impact of Donald Trump’s policies on Canada’s upcoming elections. Chris explains the long-running joke about Canadians on the show and reflects on the serious consequences of anti-American sentiment in Canada today. William outlines how tariffs, the "51st state" comments, and Trump’s rhetoric are reshaping Canadian nationalism and boosting the Liberal Party’s chances. They also explore the challenges young Canadians face, including housing affordability, economic stagnation, and why free tuition and rent control policies are missing the mark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris welcomes back Augustina Vergara Cid to discuss the moral and philosophical costs of dehumanization, particularly in the context of immigration. Drawing on her personal experience immigrating to the U.S. and her deep appreciation for American ideals, Augustina offers a compelling defense of dignity, liberty, and due process for all people. "When rhetoric reduces immigrants to invaders, criminals, or cultural threats, it paves the way for policies that strip them of their basic rights and humanity and erode freedom for everyone in America." - Agustina Vergara Cid The hateful rhetoric against immigrants is nothing new - https://www.dailynews.com/2025/03/30/the-hateful-rhetoric-against-immigrants-is-nothing-new/ https://youtu.be/V9i9A7sR8A0 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Silverstein, JD candidate at Villanova University, joins Chris Spangle to explain the unitary executive theory through the case of Gwen Wilcox, former chair of the National Labor Relations Board, who sued after being fired by President Trump. Ryan discusses the legal history, constitutional questions, and implications for executive power in American government. A Gift To The Conservative Legal Movement - https://archive.ph/wCaU0#selection-491.0-627.381 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Independent policy consultant Cruz Garcia joins Chris Spangle to discuss why many Latino voters support former President Donald Trump's immigration policies. Cruz, whose own family experienced the challenges of undocumented immigration, shares personal stories and insights into why public safety and conservative values are increasingly resonating within Latino communities. He explains policies like the Lake and Riley Act and addresses concerns about potential abuses in Trump's immigration approach. While Trump Deports Undocumented Immigrants, Latino Voters Are Optimistic - https://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2025/02/14/while_trump_deports_undocumented_immigrants_latino_voters_optimistic__152354.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michigan expanded its state-funded pre-K program by 20,000 seats—but only 6,000 children enrolled. Why are parents opting out of free preschool programs like Head Start and the Great Start Readiness Program? In this episode, Chris Spangle talks with Susanna Barnes Pettit, a social mobility fellow with Young Voices, about parental choice, preschool funding, and why families still prefer community-based options like parochial or nature-based schools. Chris and Susanna also explore how universal pre-K fits into broader education debates, discuss their own childhood experiences, and reflect on what parents truly want in early childhood education. Petitt: Michigan’s Pre-K promise can do more to reach families - https://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/2025/02/23/petitt-michigans-pre-k-promise-can-do-more-to-reach-families/79433009007/ https://youtu.be/tXSKMSgR0ks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

April 2, 2025—dubbed “Liberation Day” by Donald Trump—new sweeping tariffs were announced, including a 10% baseline on all imports and steep country-specific increases. But is this protectionist move really the start of an American economic revival, or just a massive tax hike on American families? Chris Spangle is joined by Aiden Grogan, a writer and Ph.D. student at Liberty University, to examine the economic consequences of tariffs, the myths of protectionism, and the real reasons manufacturing is returning to the U.S. Tariffs Won't Bring On the "Golden Age of America" - https://www.realclearmarkets.com/articles/2025/02/25/tariffs_wont_create_the_golden_age_of_america_1093222.html#google_vignette https://youtu.be/3W4tjgD-1XI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices