Refining Rhetoric with Robert Bortins
251 episodes — Page 3 of 6

Get Involved in the Fight Against School Choice
Should conservatives who oppose universal basic income support 'universal basic education'? We continue our School Choice Week series as Robert speaks with grassroots activist Aundrea Gomez about the contradictions in conservative support for school choice. Gomez, a former teacher and engaged citizen from Tennessee, breaks down how government funding of private education expands rather than shrinks bureaucracy, explores the role of out-of-state money in local education politics, and explains why true educational freedom requires independence from government dollars. https://x.com/aundreago Choice is good. A good choice is better. Therefore, choose better. Click here to learn more about Education Independence and join the Education Independence Network. We exist to educate, inspire, and equip members to promote and protect education independence in their local government. https://chooseeducationindependence.com/

Sweden's Alarming Tale on School Choice
Could government-funded "school choice" lead to less educational freedom? We continue our School Choice Week series with journalist and Classical Conversations Senior Fellow Alex Newman for an in-depth discussion on school choice policies. Newman shares insights from his international experience, particularly in Sweden, and examines how government-funded education initiatives have impacted private and homeschool education globally. The conversation explores the historical context of educational funding, the role of UNESCO, and potential implications for American education policy. https://libertysentinel.org/ Choice is good. A good choice is better. Therefore, choose better. Click here to learn more about Education Independence and join the Education Independence Network. We exist to educate, inspire, and equip members to promote and protect education independence in their local government. https://chooseeducationindependence.com/

Woke and Weaponized School Choice
Would you trust Mark Zuckerberg to run your child's school? As we continue our School Choice Week series, Robert interviews author and cultural critic James Lindsay to explore how universal school choice could lead to corporate monopolies in education. Lindsay, founder of New Discourses and author of "The Marxification of Education," breaks down the origins of school choice in 1970s Berkeley, explains why it's neither conservative nor free-market, and warns how government subsidies could transform private education into an industry dominated by massive corporations. https://newdiscourses.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Marxification-Education-Freires-Critical-Marxism-ebook/dp/B0BHXDR544 Choice is good. A good choice is better. Therefore, choose better. Click here to learn more about Education Independence and join the Education Independence Network. We exist to educate, inspire, and equip members to promote and protect education independence in their local government. https://chooseeducationindependence.com/

The Dark Origins of School Choice
Can $7,000 buy your educational freedom? We kick off our School Choice Week series with researcher Lisa Logan about the concerning global agenda behind school choice initiatives. Logan, host of Parents of Patriots and author of Education Manifesto, breaks down UNESCO's involvement in education policy, the role of major foundations pushing school choice, and how government funding could lead to the erosion of true educational freedom. Lisa's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtlIC1oYPBQiVFjJhngZggQ Lisa's Substack: https://lisalogan.substack.com/ Choice is good. A good choice is better. Therefore, choose better. Click here to learn more about Education Independence and join the Education Independence Network. We exist to educate, inspire, and equip members to promote and protect education independence in their local government. https://chooseeducationindependence.com/

S1 Ep 133Why Universities Love Homeschoolers
Looking to navigate the college admissions process as a homeschooler? Robert sits down with Blake and Sophie Sunny from Asbury University to demystify the journey from homeschool to higher education. Sophie, a former Classical Conversations student herself, shares her personal transition to college life, while Blake offers invaluable insights as Asbury's homeschool admissions counselor. With 20% of Asbury's student population coming from homeschool backgrounds, they discuss everything from crafting transcripts and preparing for campus visits to what makes homeschool students stand out in college. https://www.asbury.edu/

S1 Ep 132Making College Affordable with Brian Mueller
How does a struggling Christian college transform into a thriving university while keeping tuition frozen for 16 years? Grand Canyon University President Brian Mueller shares the remarkable story of GCU's innovative approach to affordable education, student-led spiritual growth, and community transformation. From serving immigrant neighborhoods to pioneering industry partnerships, discover how GCU is redefining Christian higher education while staying true to its biblical mission. https://www.gcu.edu/

S1 Ep 131How To Be A Better Listener with Charley Dewberry
Can a college focused on ancient texts prepare students for modern challenges better than traditional universities? Dr. Charles Dewberry, Academic Dean of Gutenberg College, joins Robert to discuss their unique great books approach to higher education. Learn how this small liberal arts college uses tutoring and primary texts to teach students the art of living wisely and discover why their graduates are uniquely prepared to tackle complex problems in today's world. https://gutenberg.edu/

S1 Ep 130Family Revision: Healing The Modern Family with Jeremy Pryor
Is our modern view of the family broken? Robert interviews Jeremy Pryor, founder of Family Teams Ministry. Jeremy shares his journey from being uninterested in fatherhood to becoming a passionate advocate for multigenerational family teams after being inspired by Jewish and Arab family cultures during his time in Jerusalem. They discuss how modern Western family structures differ from biblical models, the importance of building family assets and businesses together, and practical ways to cultivate stronger family teams. https://familyteams.com/ Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/

S1 Ep 129Tips For Making Classical Thinking A Lifestyle
Today we explore five essential tips for making classical thinking a lifestyle from some of our past episodes. From restoring liberal arts to their biblical roots, to cultivating natural curiosity and demonstrating real understanding, join us for practical insights on bringing classical education into everyday life. Will wraps up the episode with a crypto segment. Classical Learning Cohorts help CC Directors, Tutors, and Parent-Teachers grow in confidence and competence with the classical tools of learning and as classical educators. Curious about our cohorts or ready to apply for a seat? Register at classicalconversations.com/cohort

S1 Ep 128What Jesus Really Said About Economics
Was Jesus a Marxist? Robert interviews Jerry Bowyer, president of Bowyer Research and author of "The Maker Versus the Taker: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics." They explore the biblical perspective on economics, discussing how Jesus's teachings relate to free markets, the difference between wealth creation and wealth extraction, and practical guidance for Christians navigating today's economic landscape. Bowyer shares insights on responsible investing, proxy voting, and how Christians can be effective stewards of their resources while maintaining their values in an increasingly complex financial world. https://www.meetingofmindspodcast.com/ https://x.com/jerryleebowyer https://www.bowyerresearch.com/ Life is busy! Download audio versions of the articles from the Catalog and listen while you're in the car, working out, or forward an episode to a friend. To listen to articles that will equip and encourage you no matter where you are in your homeschooling journey go to ClassicalConversations.com/Catalog-Articles

S1 Ep 127Our Classical Education Roundup
In this special compilation episode, guest host Chris Blackburn presents the top five classical educational conversations from the year. Featured guests include Classical Conversations founder Leigh Bortins discussing the theological significance of mathematics, Douglas Wilson on Christian education as a moral imperative, Kathy Gibbens exploring the importance of formal logic in the AI age, Lynne Taylor offering a controversial perspective on education rights, and Adam Powers sharing his family's RV living and homeschooling journey. Tune in to relive some of our most thought-provoking guests from 2024! Kick off the Christmas season with a heartwarming story that captures the true joy and meaning of Christmas. Filled with laughter, unforgettable moments, and a message of love and grace, this movie will remind you that no one is beyond the reach of hope. Bring the whole family and don't miss out—see The Best Christmas Pageant Ever on the big screen now in theatres! Buy Tickets Here

S1 Ep 126Diversifying Your Classical Experience with Dr. Anika Prather
How can classical education bridge divides and create hope? Dr. Anika Prather—scholar, educator, and founder of the Living Water School—shares her inspiring journey into classical education and her vision for its future. As a lecturer at Howard University and passionate advocate for making classical education accessible to all communities, Dr. Prather offers unique insights into how ancient wisdom can unite rather than divide. https://drprather.com/ https://x.com/AnikaFreeindeed Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/

S1 Ep 125Thank YOU!
What are you thankful for? In this heartwarming Thanksgiving special, Robert opens his heart to share the blessings he's most grateful for this season. He shares a heartfelt reflection on gratitude, expressing thanks for his family, community leaders, and you, our faithful listeners. Classical Learning Cohorts help CC Directors, Tutors, and Parent-Teachers grow in confidence and competence with the classical tools of learning and as classical educators. Curious about our cohorts or ready to apply for a seat? Register at classicalconversations.com/cohort

S1 Ep 124Gender Lies and the Anti-Christian Age with Rosaria Butterfield
How does someone go from writing pro-LGBT legislation to defending biblical truth? Join us for a powerful conversation with Rosaria Butterfield, author of "Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age." A former tenured professor of English and Women's Studies at Syracuse University, Butterfield shares her journey from lesbian activist to Christian author and speaker. She offers profound insights on current cultural challenges facing Christians while emphasizing the importance of both truth and loving engagement with neighbors. Now a pastor's wife, homeschool mom, and classical educator, Butterfield discusses cultural deceptions around identity, gender, and faith expression, while sharing practical wisdom about community involvement. https://rosariabutterfield.com/ Life is busy! Download audio versions of the articles from the Catalog and listen while you're in the car, working out, or forward an episode to a friend. To listen to articles that will equip and encourage you no matter where you are in your homeschooling journey go to ClassicalConversations.com/Catalog-Articles

S1 Ep 123Trump, Bitcoin, and the Future of America
Could the Department of Education be on the chopping block? Robert Bortins explores the seismic shifts that could reshape America's educational landscape. From radical changes in federal employment to surging cryptocurrency markets, Robert breaks down what these transformations could mean for educators, investors, and families. https://www.redballoon.work/cc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4xuRZYLpgk&t=17s https://www.forbes.com/sites/maryroeloffs/2024/11/11/will-trump-eliminate-the-department-of-education-what-we-know-as-elon-musk-applauds-good-idea/ https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2024/11/09/democrats-working-class-exodus-sets-off-reckoning-within-party/76117107007/ Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/

S1 Ep 122Changing the World Through Radio
Can traditional radio reach a TikTok generation with timeless truth? Join Robert as he sits down with Stu Epperson Jr., founder and president of Truth Network. With 45 radio signals nationwide, Epperson shares his journey in Christian broadcasting and discusses defending truth in today's media landscape. Listen in as they explore how to engage culture while staying true to biblical principles. https://www.truthnetwork.com/ Celebrating together! Has your student or community done something noteworthy? We are collecting these stories, accomplishments, and events to celebrate and share the excitement of homeschooling. Please provide as much information as possible to completely tell the story. Share your story at http://www.classicalconversations.com/celebrate-together.

S1 Ep 121Can Homeschool Moms Be Government Officials?
Can a homeschool mom shape state policy on educational freedom? In this episode, host Robert Bortins interviews Michigan State Representative Jamie Green, a homeschool mom and former Classical Conversations representative. They discuss proposed Michigan legislation that could track homeschool, private, and parochial students, raising concerns about parental rights. As Vice Chair of the House Education Committee, Jamie emphasizes the need for civic involvement to defend educational liberty and offers practical ways for parents to engage locally. https://voteforgreene.com/ Celebrating together! Has your student or community done something noteworthy? We are collecting these stories, accomplishments, and events to celebrate and share the excitement of homeschooling. Please provide as much information as possible to completely tell the story. Share your story at http://www.classicalconversations.com/celebrate-together.

S1 Ep 120Should Christians Support The Amendment?
Will Kentucky's new amendment lead to less freedoms for homeschoolers? In today's episode, Robert interviews Dr. Albert Mohler, President of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. They discuss the new amendment that is being pushed in Kentucky, and while Dr. Mohler is for the amendment, Robert is more skeptical. Tune in to hear a thought-provoking conversation! Resources: https://albertmohler.com/ Curious about homeschooling? Want to see Classical Conversations in action? Visit an Open House, where you'll interact with parents, students, Tutors, and Directors in a local setting and discover the joy of our community-based approach. Don't miss this opportunity to experience homeschooling in action! Find an Open House near you at https://classicalconversations.com/events/

S1 Ep 119How Should Christians Vote?
Should Christians vote red or blue? In this episode, Robert dives into the timely topic of Christian voting. He breaks down key issues like life, religious freedom, and immigration, offering guidance on aligning your vote with a biblical worldview. Plus, Robert answers listener questions on navigating political differences and choosing candidates who may not fully reflect your values. Voting Guide: https://mfv.sfo2.digitaloceanspaces.com/PDF/2024-Party-Platform-Comparison-My-Faith-Votes.pdf Robert's X Post: https://x.com/TheRobertBshow/status/1846220232563507650 Curious about homeschooling? Want to see Classical Conversations in action? Visit an Open House, where you'll interact with parents, students, Tutors, and Directors in a local setting and discover the joy of our community-based approach. Don't miss this opportunity to experience homeschooling in action! Find an Open House near you at https://classicalconversations.com/events/

S1 Ep 118Exploring The Great Unknown
What happened to UFOs? Robert Bortins welcomes Dr. Josh Pierson, a military professional with 24 years of service and a doctorate in strategic security. Together, they dive into Dr. Pierson's recent dissertation on the detectable signatures of Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena (UAPs). They discuss the intersection of national security, UAP research, and how the classical model of education helped shape Dr. Pierson's methodology. Discover the clarity you need to make the best decision for your family's educational needs at one of our Information Meetings. Connect with experienced CC parents, learn about our unique classical, Christian programs, and find out if attending an Open House is your next step. Take control of your homeschooling journey by attending an Information Meeting. Find an Info Meeting near you at https://classicalconversations.com/events/

S1 Ep 117Can Public School Be A Training Ground For Faith?
Can public school help your child's faith grow? Robert and Chris critique an article from "Christianity Today" that suggests sending Christian children to public schools to build their faith. They argue public schools promote secular values that can harm a child's faith. Will also briefly discusses Bitcoin's rise in value and the controversy surrounding SEC chair Gary Ginsler's handling of crypto regulations. https://www.christianitytoday.com/2024/09/public-school-can-be-a-training-ground-for-faith/ The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com.

S1 Ep 116Can AI Help Homeschoolers?
Could AI be a game changer in your child's education? Robert and Chris discuss back-to-school insights for parents and explore the role of AI in education, examining its potential benefits and drawbacks for both homeschoolers and traditional classrooms. Will closes out the episode with a crypto update. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/decade-of-childhood/202408/make-back-to-school-better-with-what-homeschoolers-do https://www.govtech.com/education/how-education-technology-companies-pitch-ai-to-teachers Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.

S1 Ep 115Seeing the Future in 3D with Arel Avellino
How can Christians make a meaningful impact in the digital space? Arel Avellino, a serial entrepreneur and storyteller, explores how homeschooling and unconventional paths shaped his career in tech and media. Learn about his innovative accelerator program aimed at empowering young Christians in 3D design and animation. https://www.threedivision.com/ New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight", and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/

S1 Ep 114Ask Me Anything
Robert Bortins dives into a special "Ask Me Anything" session, answering a variety of questions from listeners. Topics range from the future of Classical Conversations events like summer and winter camps, to ways alumni can stay involved in the CC community. Robert also discusses the importance of engaging in politics from a Christian perspective, the challenges of homeschooling, and CC's stance on government funding for education. The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com.

S1 Ep 113Keep Homeschooling Legal
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 vigilance in protecting educational liberties, especially with the rise of government regulations. https://hslda.org/ Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.

S1 Ep 112Does God Still Do Miracles?
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 thoughts on the power of faith and healing. Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Divine-Intervention-Stories-Miracles-Today/dp/1621365549 New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/

S1 Ep 111Challenge Students Who Shine
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-1-3-back-to-school-exploring-the-classical-model/ https://www.pmg-ky1.com/sentinel_news/vanovers-bright-colors-result-in-winning-poster-design/article_f19e294f-66c4-5f44-8bdc-866781ce15d0.html https://www.tulsapeople.com/city-desk/next-stop-broadway-pair-of-tulsans-win-discovery-awards/article_10b38336-4ab0-11ef-824d-0fca29c9f953.html Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.

S1 Ep 110Aro – Easing The Technology Tension With Joey Odom
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 phone. He discusses the negative impact of smartphone addiction on family life and how Aro provides a practical solution through its technology, which encourages intentional phone-free time. https://refiningrhetoric.com/aro The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com.

S1 Ep 109We're Back! And So Is Kamala Harris.
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-unburdened-by-what-has-been/ Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.

S1 Ep 108Is Christian Education A Biblical Commandment?
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.com/ https://canonpress.com/ Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.

S1 Ep 107Indoctrinating Our Children To Death
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 system. https://libertysentinel.org/ The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com.

S1 Ep 106The Art Of Purpose
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 positively impact culture. https://x.com/creation247 https://creation247.gumroad.com/l/masterclass247 Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.
BONUS EPISODE: Should Homeschoolers Use AI?
bonusIn 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/.
S1 Ep 105Turning Texas Blue
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/2024-06-05/blackrock-citadel-back-upstart-texas-challenge-to-nyse-nasdaq https://www.cnbc.com/2024/06/04/how-roaring-kittys-wealth-went-from-53000-to-nearly-300-million-and-could-one-day-top-1-billion.html Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/.
BONUS EPISODE: Regulating The Homeschool Revolution
bonusIn 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/.
S1 Ep 104Beauty, Wisdom, and Liberal Arts in the Bible with Dr. Margarita Mooney Clayton
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.com/ https://scalafoundation.org/ The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having "conversations" with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com.
BONUS EPISODE - The Pros And Cons Of Homeschooling
bonusIn 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/.
S1 Ep 103Children At Risk In Illinois, Donald Trump Guilty - Hurting The Election?
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-regulations PBS Article: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/guilty-or-not-guilty-trump-verdict-wont-sway-most-voters-poll-shows New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/
BONUS EPISODE - Part Two: 10 Reasons To Opt Out Of Public School
bonusIn 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/.
S1 Ep 102Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
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 of Possum Trot". https://www.careportal.org/ https://www.angel.com/movies/sound-of-hope-the-story-of-possum-trot New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/
BONUS EPISODE - Part One: 10 Reasons To Opt Out Of Public School
bonusIn 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/.
S1 Ep 101How To Be A Christian In The Digital Space
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 digital design. https://www.threedivision.com/cc https://www.passage.io/ https://x.com/lexavellino At Classical Conversations®, we believe that parents can provide quality education for their children. Grow as the Lead Learner in your homeschool at classicalconversations.com/cohort.
BONUS EPISODE - How To Keep Children Motivated
bonusIn 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/.
S1 Ep 100Reflections on the Past 100 Episodes
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 Classical Conversations at the Museum of the Bible. Go to: http://museumofthebible.org/classical-conversations-at-museum-of-the-bible.
BONUS EPISODE - Why You Don't Have To Know It All
bonusIn 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/.
S1 Ep 99Louisiana and the Ten Commandments, Education Crisis, Future of Iran
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 Commandments. Will also closes out the episode with a Classical Crypto segment. The crisis of confidence in higher education will not end with the student protests Iran's President Raisi is dead. What does the leadership void mean for the country and the world? BREAKING: Louisiana Senate has passed a bill 30-8 that requires the display of the Ten Commandments at all schools that receive public funding, including colleges and universities. More information about Great Wolf Lodge and Exclusive CC Discount Code found in the CC Connected Learning Center > Member Benefits and Additional Resources Document. https://www.greatwolf.com/
BONUS EPISODE: Dispelling Homeschool Myths
bonusIn 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/.
S1 Ep 98Dr. Steve Turley's Take on Constructive Resistance
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 alternative structures to live authentically. https://www.youtube.com/@DrSteveTurleyTV https://turleytalks.com/ More information about Great Wolf Lodge and Exclusive CC Discount Code found in the CC Connected Learning Center > Member Benefits and Additional Resources Document. https://www.greatwolf.com/
S1 Ep 97But What About Socialization?
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 some make them out to be. A must-listen for insights on education, faith, and freedom, and Will closes the episode out with some crypto updates. Michigan Homeschool Registry Article Alaska School Choice Article Waco's Largest Prom Article Do you wish to become a better everyday educator? Visit https://ccpracticum.com/ to see when your local Practicum meets. Crypto Videos: YouTube: 3T Warrior Academy – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uv6hwtgOQKQ YouTube: CNBC Television – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se1bcqMYg8g
BONUS EPISODE - Roadschool - Homeschooling on the Go
bonusIn 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/.