Refining Rhetoric with Robert Bortins
237 episodes — Page 3 of 5

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/.
S1 Ep 96Raising Gen Z with Jason Jimenez
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 Christianity redefines Jesus. https://www.standstrongministries.org/ Do you wish to become a better everyday educator? Visit https://ccpracticum.com/ to see when your local Practicum meets.
BONUS EPISODE - Turning the Tides
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 95The Case for Trump
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 Substack Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at copperlodgelibrary.com.
BONUS EPISODE - Thoughts on Forest 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 94Learning to Love the Language of Math with Leigh Bortins
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. themathmap.com Make April 26 a Family Day at theater! #UnsungHeroMovie opens everywhere beginning April 26. From the creators of Jesus Revolution comes Unsung Hero. Tickets on sale now. Visit https://tickets.unsunghero.movie/.
"BONUS EPS Homeschool Special - The Richard Syrett Show"
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 93Unlikely Allies
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 politics. Richard Dawkins Article J. K. Rowling Article Learn more about Classical Conversations at the Museum of the Bible. Go to: http://museumofthebible.org/classical-conversations-at-museum-of-the-bible.
S1 Ep 92Fostering Confidence and Resilience with Stoa
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 starting a club, participating in tournaments, and integrating speech and debate with classical education. https://stoausa.org/ You're invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/.
S1 Ep 91FAFSA Track to Demise
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, community building, and adherence to ethical principles rooted in faith. CNBC Article You're invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/.
S1 Ep 90Defining the Goal of Education with Frank Edelblut
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 commissioner. www.education.nh.gov Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at http://copperlodgelibrary.com/.
S1 Ep 89The Real SOTU
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 Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/
S1 Ep 88You Don't Have A Right To Education
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.commoncorediva.com/ Join other homeschool parents in your area at a 2024 Practicum event! https://ccpracticum.com/
S1 Ep 87Is Bitcoin Replacing the Housing Market?
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 and its potential as a hedge against inflation. Refining Rhetoric YouTube Benjamin Cowen YouTube DAN YouTube CC parents, Tutors, and Directors––are you looking to level up your skills in guiding and assessing your student's learning at home or in community? Join this spring semester's Classical Learning Cohort! https://classicalconversations.com/cohort/
S1 Ep 86How to Think More Logically with Kathy Gibbens
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 appeals. Join them as they explore how classical education tools can empower individuals to seek truth and make informed decisions in all areas of life. http://kathygibbens.com/ Filter It Through a Brain Cell Podcast Blessings and Motherhood Everyday Educator