Did you know that homeschooling wasn’t always legal? Robert interviews Jim Mason, President of HSLDA. They discuss Jim’s journey into homeschooling advocacy, the importance of legal support for homeschoolers, and the ongoing challenges to homeschooling freedom in the U.S. Jim shares advice for homeschool parents and emphasizes the need for vigilanc…

Does God still perform miracles? In this episode of “Refining Rhetoric,” Robert interviews author Daniel Fazzina about his incredible journey of faith and healing. Daniel shares his experiences of miraculous recoveries and discusses his book series which documents other miraculous stories. Tune in to hear Daniel's inspiring testimony and his though…

In this back-to-school episode, Robert and Chris explore how classical education helps children think critically, reach their full potential, and develop leadership skills. The episode also highlights two standout Classical Conversations students. Will ends the episode with a crypto update. https://classicalconversations.com/blog/the-core-chapters-…

Is your smartphone separating you from your family? Robert welcomes Joey Odom, co-founder of Aro, a company dedicated to helping families manage screen time and build healthier relationships with their smartphones. Joey shares personal stories, including a powerful moment when he missed his son’s first soccer goal because he was distracted by his p…

Is Kamala Harris a Marxist? In this episode, Robert and Chris return from a brief hiatus to discuss recent major events, including a presidential race shake-up, controversial Olympic moments, and the implications of a famous Kamala Harris quote. Will closes the episode with a crypto update. https://www.carolinajournal.com/opinion/what-can-be-unburd…

Are Christians too combative when they’re countercultural? Pastor Doug Wilson has much to say on the topic. He shares his journey of over 40 years in ministry and his influence on classical Christian education. Pastor Wilson also discusses the importance of stepping outside of culturally accepted discourse to bring about change. https://dougwils.co…

Is public school properly educating our children? Robert chats with Classical Conversations Senior Fellow, Alex Newman, CEO of Liberty Sentinel Media, discussing his new book, “Indoctrinating Our Children to Death.” They talk about the issues in public education, its impact on homeschool families, and the need to protect children from a corrupt sys…

Can social media be used for good? In this episode, Robert chats with Dino, known as The Art of Purpose on X. Learn how he leveraged his skills to build an influential online presence, monetize his content, and help others do the same. Dino also discusses the importance of having a mission statement and how Christians can use social media to positi…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

Will a stock exchange in Texas turn the state blue? Robert and Chris discuss BlackRock and Citadel Securities backing a new Texas Stock Exchange as an alternative to New York’s regulations. Plus, we revisit the GameStop saga and its market impact. Will closes the episode with a Classical Crypto segment. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

How does classical education affect higher education? In this episode, we welcome Dr. Margarita Mooney Clayton, founder of the Scala Foundation and associate professor at Princeton Theological Seminary. Dr. Clayton discusses the importance of beauty, liberal arts education, and worship in restoring American culture. https://margaritamooneyclayton.c…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

What does Trump’s conviction mean for the election? Robert and Chris discuss the impact of Trump's guilty verdict on the election and the controversy over Illinois's hands-off approach to homeschooling. Will closes out the episode with exciting news about crypto. ProPublica article: https://www.propublica.org/article/illinois-homeschool-education-r…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

Foster care needs the Church’s help. Tune in to hear from Joe Knittig about the innovative Care Portal platform, which connects local churches with families in need, offering practical support like mattresses and refrigerators to prevent children from entering the system. Robert and Joe also talk about the upcoming movie “Sound of Hope: The Story o…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

Discover the intersection of classical education and cutting-edge technology. Join Robert as he talks with Lex Avellino, a Classical Conversations graduate, about his journey from homeschooling to creating 3D virtual worlds for Disney and Warner Brothers. Lex shares how his classical education fueled his passion for learning and innovation in digit…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

Celebrate with us as we hit a major milestone! Join Robert Bortins in the 100th episode of “Refining Rhetoric”! This special episode highlights ten impactful moments from our journey, offering inspiration and insights on faith, business, politics, and classical education. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey! Learn more about Classic…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

Should the Ten Commandments be displayed in schools? Robert Bortins tackles three pressing headlines in today’s episode: the growing crisis of confidence in higher education amid widespread student protests, the geopolitical impact of the sudden death of Iran’s president, and the controversial bill in Louisiana requiring schools to display the Ten …

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

Have the major news outlets become obsolete? Robert interviews Dr. Steve Turley, founder of “Turley Talks.” Known as the Patriot Professor, Dr. Turley discusses the rise of a new conservative age and the importance of creating a parallel economy to support freedoms. They explore challenges in mainstream media, the network society, and the need for …

Are homeschoolers properly socialized? In this episode of Refining Rhetoric, host Robert Bortins examines the latest homeschooling news, including Michigan’s proposed registry and Alaska’s ruling on school choice dollars. Chris and Robert also discuss Waco hosting their largest homeschool prom ever, and whether homeschool kids are as anti-social as…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

How should Christian parents protect their children in a hostile culture? In this episode, Robert Bortins hosts Jason Jimenez, founder of Stand Strong Ministries, to discuss parenting Gen Z in a challenging culture and the rise of Progressive Christianity. Jimenez shares insights on proactive conversations with children and explains how Progressive…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

How did bad media coverage of Donald Trump turn Robert from a “never Trumper” to a Trump supporter? Listen in as he and Chris navigate the case against the former U.S. President. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion on justice, media bias, and the future of American politics. MSN Article Politico Article Vox Article CNN Article Sasha Stone …

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

Discover the transformative journey of exploring math with Leigh Bortins, founder of Classical Conversations. From aerospace engineer to educator, Leigh shares insights into the innovative Math Map curriculum, fostering a love for math through language and curiosity. Join Robert and Leigh as they discuss the importance of finding God in math. thema…

In this bonus episode, Robert unpacks the latest homeschooling current events and more. Thanks for listening! For more information, check out https://sauga960am.ca/team/richard-syrett/.

Is Richard Dawkins a Christian nationalist? Robert and Chris discuss the prominent atheist’s surprising identification as a “cultural Christian” and author J. K. Rowling’s clash with the “woke” left over Scottish hate laws. The hosts explore whether Christian principles benefit society at large and why it’s vital for Christians to engage in politic…

Discover how Stoa empowers students through classical education principles, fostering confidence and resilience. Join Robert Bortins in this episode of “Refining Rhetoric” as he explores the world of speech and debate with guests Angela Childress and Beth Nieva from Stoa, a National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate League. Learn about startin…

Is the American college education system failing? In this episode of “Refining Rhetoric,” CEO Robert explores the pitfalls of government involvement in education funding, focusing on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Highlighting bureaucratic inefficiency and overreach, the discussion emphasizes the need for self-reliance, commu…

Drawing on his own experience with homeschooling his seven children, New Hampshire’s Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut discusses his approach to home education and reforming the state’s education system. He advocates for individualized learning over traditional models, and his initiatives are to innovate and humanize education in his role as co…

In this “Refining Rhetoric” episode, host Robert Bortins evaluates President Biden’s performance on issues like the economy, climate, and more, using Politico’s report card. Will discusses cryptocurrency trends, particularly Bitcoin, offering his insights and criticisms. Politico's Report Card Gender Transition Lawsuit Learn more about the Copper L…

In this “Refining Rhetoric” episode, Robert Bortins and guest Lynne Taylor discuss the misconceptions around education as a basic human right and the dangers of school choice. Taylor critiques the Common Core standards and emphasizes the importance of individualized education over government-controlled standardization. Lynne’s Website: https://www.…

In this episode of “Refining Rhetoric,” CEO Robert Bortins explores the intricate world of Bitcoin, emphasizing its relevance amidst rising inflation and the depreciating value of fiat currencies. Whether you're new to cryptocurrency or seeking to expand your understanding, this episode offers valuable insights into Bitcoin’s role as digital gold a…

In this episode of “Refining Rhetoric,” CEO Robert Bortins interviews Kathy Gibbens, a dedicated homeschool mom, business owner, and host of the “Filter It through a Brain Cell” podcast. They dive deep into the realms of critical thinking, logical fallacies, and the importance of discerning truth in an era dominated by relativism and emotional appe…

In this episode of Refining Rhetoric, Robert Bortins and Chris Blackburn discuss the “He Gets Us” campaign, exploring whether it accurately represents Jesus’s teachings and its impact on society’s view of faith. They delve into the challenges of depicting religious figures in modern media and what that means for viewers. Listen in for a compelling …

What if you sold your house and homeschooled in an RV? In this “Refining Rhetoric” episode, host Robert Bortins chats with Adam Powers, a veteran turned homeschooling dad living in an RV with his family. He offers advice to dads on getting involved in their children's education and discusses the benefits and challenges of their unique lifestyle. Th…

In this episode of “Refining Rhetoric,” Robert Bortins and Chris Blackburn explore the consequences of U.S. payments to Iran, linking them to Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, rising oil prices, and inflation. Through a classical education perspective, they discuss the importance of informed citizenship and community engagement in tackling these issue…

Do you want to know to be more organized, confident, and influential? In this “Refining Rhetoric” episode, Robert Bortins hosts Mark Ramsay of Hip Socket, discussing the fusion of classical education with modern business strategies. The conversation also touches on the importance of early work experiences for students and previews Mark’s upcoming b…

In this episode of “Refining Rhetoric,” Robert focuses on the United States’ declining birth rates and its societal implications. The discussion centers on the need to revive traditional family values and Christian principles to counteract this trend. Additionally, for Classical Crypto, Will touches on the SEC’s approval of Bitcoin ETFs and its pot…

In this episode of “Refining Rhetoric,” host Robert Bortins is joined by historian and author Jane Hampton Cook. They discuss the importance of original source documents in understanding the Founding Fathers, the role of integrity in leadership, and the challenges of modern media and freedom of speech. CC parents, tutors, and Directors—sign up for …

Robert discusses the recent controversy surrounding Harvard University and its former president, Claudine Gay. The episode delves into the issues of plagiarism, diversity, and critical race theory at Harvard, highlighting how Claudine’s hiring was influenced more by her race and gender than her academic excellence. Robert also explores the broader …

Does a college degree guarantee a job? In this episode, Robert talks with Dr. Benjamin Merkle, president of New Saint Andrews College, a classical Christian college in Idaho. In their conversation, Ben speaks to why NSA and other colleges are looking for students with a classical education background, how NSA is able to keep their tuition costs aff…

What is truth? Our world is overrun with subjective truth, postmodernism, and emotionalism, where everyone’s “truth” is equally valid and there’s no such thing as objective truth. But this is a lie. As Refining Rhetoric is all about seeking the capital-T Truth in every arena of life, throughout the course of 2023 Robert asked his guests to weigh in…

Are video games good for your child? Some can be! In this episode of Refining Rhetoric, Robert talks with Brent Dusin, founder and CEO of TruPlay Games, a media company creating video games, comics, and video content centered on stories with a Christian worldview. With high-quality Christian content and no in-app purchases, no chatrooms, and no ads…