Best Aaron Renn Podcasts (2026)

1
Why the Left Went Child-Free | Daniel Hess 52:49

17h ago52:49

52:49

Aaron Renn welcomes back Daniel Hess, one of the sharpest analysts of global fertility trends, for a deep dive into why birth rates are collapsing—and why the divide is increasingly political.They discuss: - The growing fertility gap between red states (near replacement) and blue states (deeply sub-replacement) - How marriage is becoming even more …

1
Episode 38: Some New World - A Conversation with Peter Harrison 58:19

7d ago58:19

58:19

Peter Leithart and James Wood have a conversation with Peter Harrison, the author of Some New World: Myths of Supernatural Belief in a Secular Age. Peter Harrison is a former Andreas Idreos Professor of Science and Religion at the University of Oxford and is Professor Emeritus of History and Philosophy at the University of Queensland. He presently …

1
Chase Replgole — My Favorite Books from 2025 20:49

8d ago20:49

20:49

Every year at this time, I go back through my Amazon orders, my Audible subscription, and my bookshelf to reflect on everything I’ve read. It is a fantastic exercise to see what has occupied your mind over the past twelve months. Reviewing also helps me form a loose plan for what I want to dive into in the coming year—focusing more on the topics I’…

1
Why Men Dress Like Slobs | O. W. Root 45:45

15d ago45:45

45:45

In this episode, Aaron welcomes men’s style influencer O.W. Root for a deep dive into the dramatic decline of men's dress over the past 30 years. From the universal suit-wearing era of the 1990s to today's pajama pants in public, they explore how tech culture, Silicon Valley, and the shift to digital life contributed to the rise of "slob culture." …

1
Why Families Are Fleeing Cities | Bobby Fijan 47:14

22d ago47:14

47:14

In this episode, Aaron welcomes real estate developer Bobby Fijan to discuss one of the most overlooked crises in American urban life: the dramatic decline of children in major cities. Once filled with kids playing in the streets, neighborhoods in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and beyond are now increasingly childless. Bobby and Aaron explore t…

1
Doug Basler — Finding Novels for the New Year 44:43

26d ago44:43

44:43

Doug Basler is married to his wife, Katie, and is the father of Addie, Jackson, and Isaac. He currently serves as pastor of Union Park Presbyterian Church in Des Moines and First Presbyterian Church of Grimes. His pastoral ministry has also taken him to congregations in Aberdeen, Washington, and Cooke City, Montana. Doug recently completed a Doctor…

1
A Special Christmastime Podcast: Reflections and Supporting the Mission 11:24

29d ago11:24

11:24

A special Christmastime podcast reflecting on some of the guests I've hosted this year, along with a special fundraising appeal during my limited time only discount window. Through December 12, you can support the podcast and get great benefits by becoming a Member at a special rate of 30-40% off. You'll not only help me work, but also get paid sub…

1
Episode 37: Paul and the Resurrection of Israel - A Conversation with Dr. Jason Staples 1:13:43

1M ago1:13:43

1:13:43

Peter Leithart and James Wood have a conversation with Dr. Jason Staples, the author of Paul and the Resurrection of Israel: Jews, Former Gentiles, Israelites. Jason A. Staples (Ph.D., UNC-Chapel Hill) is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at NC State University, where he teaches courses on biblica…

1
How the Gospels Pass the Historical Test | Tim and Lydia McGrew 47:07

1M ago47:07

47:07

Are the Gospels historically reliable, or just late legends? Philosophers and top apologists Dr. Tim McGrew and Dr. Lydia McGrew join me to dismantle the biggest myths about Gospel authorship, dating, and accuracy. From undesigned coincidences that criss-cross all four Gospels, to Luke’s stunning geographical and political precision in Acts, to the…

1
Why You Have to Believe! | Doug DeVos 34:48

1M ago34:48

34:48

Doug DeVos, former President and current co-chair of Amway, joins Aaron Renn to discuss the 50th-anniversary re-release of his father Rich DeVos’ 1975 classic book Believe! In an era of cynicism and drift, Rich’s unapologetic optimism, faith in people, love of America, and defense of free enterprise feel more urgent than ever. From sinking boats of…

1
How Society Forgot About Fertility | Darel Paul 28:16

2M ago28:16

28:16

In this eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Darel Paul, Professor of Political Science at Williams College and author of From Tolerance to Equality: How Elites Brought America to Same-Sex Marriage, to discuss his provocative First Things article "Feminism Against Fertility." We explore a stunning reversal in gender dynamics that challenges ev…

1
Every Choice Kills a Universe | Joseph Holmes 35:00

2M ago35:00

35:00

Joseph Holmes—film critic, culture writer, and contributing film critic on my newsletter—joins the show to talk about his debut feature film Jim vs. the Future, releasing November 11, 2025 on digital and DVD. An ordinary guy, a Christmas Eve breakup, and time-traveling kidnappers from competing futures all fighting to force one decision that will s…

1
The Dignity of Dependence | Leah Libresco Sargeant 33:30

2M ago33:30

33:30

Join Aaron Renn as he interviews Leah Libresco Sargeant, author of The Dignity of Dependence: A Feminist Manifesto. In this thought-provoking episode, Leah explores a bold vision of feminism rooted not in independence, but in the inherent dignity of human dependence. From kitchen counter heights to breast pumps, investment banking hours to factory …

1
Episode 36: Surveying Modern Political Theology, with Peter Leithart and James Wood 59:28

2M ago59:28

59:28

Peter Leithart and James Wood discuss James' recent course on Christian Nationalism and his recent conversation on the legacy of Tim Keller. To Give to Theopolis, click HERE. Get the Theopolis App, HERE. Use Code "theopolitan" to get your first month free! Sign up for In Medias Res, HERE.By Theopolis Institute

1
Tommy Brown — Why the Bible Calls us to a Quiet Life 58:55

2M ago58:55

58:55

Author Tommy Brown joins me to talk about his new book, The Speed of Soul: Four Rhythms for a Quiet Life. We explore what it means to love deeply, live quietly, mind our own affairs, and work with our hands. We all feel like the speed of life is accelerating, but how does the Bible call us to a different way of living?Learn more about your ad choic…

1
State Laws and Your Religious Freedom | Mark David Hall 25:13

2M ago25:13

25:13

Join Aaron Renn as he sits down with Dr. Mark David Hall, Director of the Religious Liberty in the States Project at First Liberty's Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy. In this episode, they dive into the critical role of state-level laws in protecting religious freedom, the surprisingly high ranking of states like Illinois, and why some r…

1
Land, Liberty, and Living Cheap | A. M. Hickman 38:03

3M ago38:03

38:03

Join us for an incredible conversation with A. M. Hickman, aka "Shagbark Hick," one of the most unique voices on X. From living as a self-described "homeless" hitchhiker to owning a $33,000 home in rural America without a mortgage, Hickman shares his unconventional journey to a life of freedom, frugality, and purpose. Discover how he lives on just …

1
Why America Can't Have Nice Things | Chris Arnade 50:09

3M ago50:09

50:09

By Aaron Renn

1
Episode 35: The Collapse of Global Liberalism - A Conversation with Philip Pilkington 1:12:06

3M ago1:12:06

1:12:06

Peter Leithart and James Wood have a conversation with Philip Pilkington, the author of The Collapse of Global Liberalism: And the Emergence of the Post Liberal World Order Philip Pilkington is a macroeconomist and former investment professional. He is the author of The Reformation in Economics and the forthcoming The Collapse of Global Liberalism.…

1
The Collapse of Masculinity | John Seel 1:12:16

3M ago1:12:16

1:12:16

Join host Aaron Renn and cultural diagnostician Dr. John Seel in this thought-provoking podcast episode as they dive into the crisis of masculinity, the unraveling of modern culture, and the path to aspirational manhood. From the influence of sociologists like James Davison Hunter and Peter Berger to the societal implications of nihilism and techno…

1
Presbyterians for the Kingdom | David Yancey and Redeemed Zoomer 46:47

4M ago46:47

46:47

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with David Yancey, president of Presbyterians for the Kingdom, and Generation Z influencer Redeemed Zoomer to discuss their mission to renew the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) and the broader Operation Reconquista movement. They dive into the challenges and opportunities of restoring traditional theology within mai…

1
Capitol Hill Baptist: 150 Years of Unchanging Faith | Caleb Morell 52:26

4M ago52:26

52:26

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with Caleb Morell, author of A Light on the Hill, to explore the rich history of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1878, this evangelical church, located just blocks from the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court, has remained steadfast in its theological convictions while navigating cultural, …

1
Is Evangelicalism Afraid of Hard Questions? | Joel Carini 1:00:33

4M ago1:00:33

1:00:33

In this provocative episode, Aaron sits down with Joel Carini, "The Natural Theologian," to explore the challenges of truth-seeking within evangelicalism. From the insular approach of seminary education to the open inquiry at the University of Chicago, Joel contrasts how these environments shape Christian thought. They dive into presuppositionalism…

1
One Big Beautiful Episode: Health, Healthcare, and Health Insurance 16:46

4M ago16:46

16:46

This week we tackle three connected themes: your health, how you get care, and how you pay for it. Highlights: Health first: Sleep, Diet, and Exercise, in that order Healthcare in practice: Great for acute care – not great chronic illness! Paying for care: Traditional insurance, high-deductible plans with HSAs, or Christian healthcare sharing minis…

1
Episode 34: Sacred Foundations - A Conversation with Anna Grzymala-Busse 1:01:05

5M ago1:01:05

1:01:05

Peter Leithart and James Wood have a conversation with Anna Grzymala-Busse, the author of Sacred Foundations: The Religious and Medieval Roots of the European State. Anna Grzymala-Busse is the Michelle and Kevin Douglas Professor of International Studies in the Department of Political Science, the Director of the Europe Center, and Senior Fellow at…

1
The Hidden Truths Behind America's Housing Crisis | Adam Ozimek 1:19:19

4M ago1:19:19

1:19:19

Dive into the housing crisis with Aaron Renn and Adam Ozemeck, Chief Economist at the Economic Innovation Group, as they unpack why buying a home can feel impossible in 2025. From skyrocketing construction costs to zoning roadblocks and institutional investors, this episode explores the real reasons behind soaring home prices. Discover potential so…

1
Mail Routes to Manuscripts – Career Reinvention in the Hollers of Appalachia 1:01:55

5M ago1:01:55

1:01:55

Author of "Mailman" Stephen Starring Grant joins WPF to talk about career reinvention in the Blue Ridge. Key take-aways: Curiosity is Your Compass: Follow your genuine interests, even when they don't align with a traditional career path. Curiosity led Steve from early web development to brand strategy to delivering mail—and ultimately to publishing…

1
The State of Missions | Ted Esler 33:12

5M ago33:12

33:12

Ted Esler, President of Missio Nexus, joins me to dive deep into the current state of Christian missions. He explores the history, challenges, and future of global missions, from the legacy of William Carey to the impact of globalization and cultural shifts. Ted discusses the role of unreached people groups, the influence of American imperialism, a…

1
The Vibe Shift Explained | Michael Foster 1:08:24

5M ago1:08:24

1:08:24

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with Michael Foster, pastor of East River Church in Batavia, Ohio, for a raw and unfiltered conversation about the wild cultural ride of the past five years. From the rise of the Manosphere to the pushback against woke culture, the impact of the pandemic on churches, and the shifting dynamics of masculinity and …

1
Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business | Ed Latimore 53:49

5M ago53:49

53:49

Professional boxer Ed Latimore talks about his inspiring journey from growing up in Pittsburgh’s housing projects during the crack epidemic to earning a physics degree and overcoming addiction. In this episode, Ed shares raw insights from his book, Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: Boxing and the Art of Life, diving into the challenges of povert…

1
Episode 33: The Age of Hitler and How We Will Survive It, with Alec Ryrie 1:12:22

5M ago1:12:22

1:12:22

Peter Leithart and James Wood have a conversation with Alec Ryrie, the author of The Age of Hitler and How We Will Survive It. Alec Ryrie is professor of the history of Christianity at Durham University and a fellow of the British Academy. His previous books include Unbelievers: An Emotional History of Doubt. He lives in rural County Durham. ______…

1
The Battle for Florida's Colleges | Jason Jewell 48:23

5M ago48:23

48:23

Join me for an insightful conversation with Dr. Jason Jewell, Chief Academic Officer of the State University System of Florida, as we dive into the bold reforms transforming higher education in the Sunshine State. From Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to eliminate ideological influences to the creation of a new accrediting agency, we explore how Flor…

1
What Will We Do With 100,000 Empty Churches? | Richard Reinhard 41:50

6M ago41:50

41:50

Join Aaron in this eye-opening podcast episode with Rick Reinhardt, an expert on the intersection of urbanism and religion, as they dive into the growing crisis of America's emptying churches. With up to 100,000 churches facing closure, what happens to these historic buildings and their land? From affordable housing to community spaces, discover th…

1
A Pastor’s Battle to Save Historic Churches | Rev. Jake Dell 50:09

6M ago50:09

50:09

An inspiring conversation with Reverend Jake Dell, pastor of the First Congregational Church of Woodbury, Connecticut, founded in 1659. Rev. Dell shares his journey to become an Episcopal priest, then to taking on leadership of a dying historic church in an attempt to revive a congregation with 355 year legacy. Also discover his bold vision for a d…

1
Janet Kobobel Grant — Your Book Needs a Better Hook 51:11

6M ago51:11

51:11

Janet Kobobel Grant is the President and Founder of Books & Such Literary management. She is also an experienced writer and has experience within top publishing positions.Janet and I have had the privilege of working together on several publishing projects. She joins me on the podcast to talk about developing a great book proposal and why the hook …

1
10 Types of Men Every Man Needs in His Life | Doug Reed 27:29

6M ago27:29

27:29

Join Aaron Renn as he sits down with Doug Reed, president of Partnership International and author of Ten Men: The Rich Connections Every Man Needs. In this insightful podcast, Doug explores the powerful relationships in King David’s life from the Bible, revealing the ten types of men every man needs to thrive—mighty mentors, covenant friends, spiri…

1
Faith, Family, and Steel: Understanding America’s Working-Class Heart | Robert Ordway 1:00:10

6M ago1:00:10

1:00:10

Join Aaron Renn as he sits down with policy wonk Robert Ordway to explore the vibrant and complex world of America's multiracial working class. Growing up in the steel town of Lake Station, Indiana, Ordway shares his journey from a blue-collar upbringing to working in the halls of power, offering unique insights into the values, challenges, and pol…

1
Episode 32: Get Married and Save Civilization, with Brad Wilcox 55:15

7M ago55:15

55:15

Peter Leithart and James Wood have a conversation with Brad Wilcox, the author of Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization. BRAD WILCOX is a professor of sociology and the director of the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia, the Future of Freedom Fellow at the Institute for Fa…

1
More Births or Bust | Daniel Hess 1:07:04

7M ago1:07:04

1:07:04

Join Aaron Renn as he dives into the alarming global fertility crisis with Daniel Hess, the voice behind the More Births X account and Substack. In this eye-opening podcast, they uncover the shocking decline in birth rates worldwide, its devastating implications for economies and societies, and what we can do to reverse this trend. From South Korea…

1
Why Religion Went Obsolete | Christian Smith 53:29

7M ago53:29

53:29

Why did religion become obsolete? Dr. Christian Smith, a renowned sociologist from the University of Notre Dame and author of the new book Why Religion Went Obsolete, joins us to explore the cultural shifts that have led to the decline of traditional religion in America since the 1990s. From the impact of neoliberal capitalism and postmodernism to …

1
Why Industrial Policy Matters | Ian Fletcher 55:55

7M ago55:55

55:55

A fascinating discussion with Ian Fletcher, co-author of the comprehensive new book Industrial Policy for the United States (Cambridge University Press). In this episode, Ian unpacks the critical role of industrial policy in shaping America’s economic future, challenging the myths of free trade, and exploring how the U.S. can protect and grow its a…

1
Why America Can't Build Anymore | Philip Howard 38:03

7M ago38:03

38:03

Join Aaron Renn as he sits down with Philip Howard, founder of Common Good, to discuss the crippling bureaucratic red tape stifling America’s ability to build and innovate. In this eye-opening episode, Howard delves into his Manhattan Institute paper, Escape from Quicksand: A New Framework for Modernizing America, revealing how a compliance-driven …

1
Episode 31: Origins of the Modern State, with Peter Leithart and James Wood 1:01:16

7M ago1:01:16

1:01:16

Peter Leithart and James Wood discuss a handful of the books being studied by the Civitas Group on the topic of the formation of states and Christian Nationalism. To Give to Theopolis, click HERE. Get the Theopolis App, HERE. Use Code "theopolitan" to get your first month free! Sign up for In Medias Res, HERE.…

1
Why Christians Must Rediscover Civics | Elizabeth Landis 33:27

8M ago33:27

33:27

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with Elizabeth Landis, author of The Forgotten Realm: Civics for American Christians, to explore why Christians need to engage more deeply in the civil realm. From local government to federalism, Elizabeth shares her journey from a concerned citizen to a passionate advocate for civic involvement, offering practi…

1
How Nietzsche Shaped American Thought | Sheluyang Peng 31:55

8M ago31:55

31:55

This fascinating conversation with writer Sheluyang Peng explores the profound influence of Friedrich Nietzsche on American thought. From Emerson’s impact on him to the way his philosophy found similarities with American pragmatism to his role in shaping modern political and cultural landscapes, this episode uncovers Nietzsche’s surprising connecti…

1
Why America Needs Moderate Republicans Again | Geoffrey Kabaservice 1:06:01

8M ago1:06:01

1:06:01

Join Aaron Renn as he sits down with Geoffrey Kabaservice, Vice President of Political Studies at the Niskanen Center and author of Rule and Ruin: The Downfall of Moderation and the Destruction of the Republican Party, From Eisenhower to the Tea Party. In this compelling episode, they dive into the decline of moderate Republicanism, tracing the tra…

1
Episode 30: A Conversation with David P. Goldman 57:00

8M ago57:00

57:00

Peter Leithart and James Wood have a conversation with David P Goldman. David P. Goldman is a Washington Fellow at The Claremont Institute’s Center for the American Way of Life. His research focuses on China, American manufacturing, and trade policy. Goldman is Deputy Editor of Asia Times, where he has written the "Spengler" column since 2001. He i…

1
How Sports Betting Apps Hook You and Destroy Lives | Saagar Enjeti 39:08

9M ago39:08

39:08

In this eye-opening episode, Aaron Renn sits down with Saagar Enjeti, co-host of Breaking Points and The Realignment, to dive deep into the explosive rise of sports betting in America. Following the 2018 Supreme Court decision that opened the floodgates, sports gambling has become a predatory industry, hooking millions with sophisticated algorithms…

1
VP Mike Pence on Faith, Marriage, and Life in the Public Square 29:46

9M ago29:46

29:46

Join me for this exclusive conversation with former Vice President Mike Pence, as we dive deep into faith, marriage, and navigating life in the public square. In this heartfelt episode, Pence shares his journey to Christianity, the secrets behind his 40-year marriage to Karen Pence, and the truth about the controversial "Mike Pence Rule." He also o…

1
What Killed America’s Can-Do Culture? | Tanner Greer 1:18:24

9M ago1:18:24

1:18:24

Why can't America build like it used to? What happened to our mojo? In this eye-opening episode, special guest Tanner Greer dives deep into the cultural and institutional decline that’s left America struggling to get things done. From building the Empire State Building in a year to endless delays today, we explore what’s gone wrong—comparing the de…

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