PODCAST · news
The Chris Spangle Show
by We Are Libertarians
The Chris Spangle Show helps you make sense of current events, politics, and culture through the lenses of Christian faith and libertarian principles. With sharp analysis, historical insight, and relatable conversations, Chris offers clarity in chaos - encouraging personal responsibility, civic action, and thoughtful engagement with the world around us. Rejecting tribalism and top-down control, the show challenges you to lead with conviction, serve others, and live out the values that sustain a free and thriving society. Join us to defend liberty, strengthen your community, and renew culture - one conversation at a time. www.chrisspangle.com
Episodes
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The Declaration of Independence at 250: Dan Miller on America's Founding
The Declaration of Independence turns 250 this year, and most Americans have never heard the full story of how it came to exist. Historian Dan Miller joins Chris Spangle to trace the forgotten gestational period of American democracy, from the Continental Association’s economic boycott in 1774 to...
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Trump's Reflecting Pool Fiasco Exposes His Pattern of Leadership Failures
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool became the perfect case study in how the Trump administration operates: rushed decisions, ignored experts, a no-bid contract, a failed blue liner, algae blooms, and then arrests without charges. Chris Spangle, Harry Price, and Rhinehold break down the full...
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WAL: Trump bombs Iran, AI and Social Media: Trust Is Moving Closer to Home
Chris Spangle, Harry and Reinhold talk about when news breaks fast, like the U.S. bombing Iran, forcing them to toss their planned topics and react in real time. From there, they talk about news fatigue and attention whiplash, including how major developments can disappear from the public...
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ICE, State Power and the Imago Dei
Chris steps back from the daily outrage cycle to tackle a bigger question: Is there a difference between caring for someone personally and how the law should be written or enforced? Using a recent ICE shooting story as a case study, he explores how government power shapes human behavior, why...
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WAL: Snowpocalypse and ICE murders again in Minneapolis
Chris, Harry, and Rhinehold discuss the coming snowpocolypse and what motivates people to buy 8 gallons of milk as a response. While shooting the show, news breaks about a second killing by ICE in Minneapolis. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get...
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We Are Libertarians Year-End Roundtable: Festivus Grievances, Indy Politics, PBS Cuts, and the AI Bubble
Chris Spangle is joined by Harry Price and Rhinehold for the final We Are Libertarians roundtable of 2025, recorded on the Saturday between Christmas and New Year’s. They trade Festivus-style grievances, talk life and workload, and debate Indianapolis development, public transit, and downtown...
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Spike Cohen on Faith, “You Are the Power,” and a Georgia Family Cleared in Child Abuse Case
In the final 2025 episode of The Chris Spangle Show, Spike Cohen shares how he became a Christian and what his first Christmas season in the faith has meant to him. Cohen explains the mission of You Are the Power, an advocacy group that pressures local and state officials to back off when…
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History of Modern Politics is Back! An Update from Matt and Chris
Chris Spangle and Matt Wittlief reunite to bring back History of Modern Politics after a long hiatus. In this episode, they explain why the show is returning, how seasons two and three are already underway, and what listeners can expect as they continue tracing political thought from the Roman...
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The promise of a conservative Gen Z, cultural chaos, and the centralization of power in the executive branch
Join Chris Spangle, Harry Price, and Rhinehold for an unfiltered conversation exploring everything from tech “enshittification” and the work-from-home debate to the dangers of centralized government power. The trio examines how political and cultural tension mirror the post-COVID era, why Gen Z’s...
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Who cares about political hypocrisy? Plus, The East Wing, Venezuelan Boats, and No Kings on WJOB
Chris Spangle is interviewed by Chuck Pullen and Bob Starkey on “The Fall of Chuck And Bob” on WJOB 1230 AM for an in-depth discussion about libertarian views on Republicans and Democrats, the White House demolition, and the No Kings rallies. The conversation touches on hypocrisy in American...
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Christian Nationalism, Free Expression, and the Future of Liberty
Chris Spangle, Harry Price, and Reinhold reunite for a new episode of We Are Libertarians. The hosts reintroduce themselves and reflect on the history of the show before diving into today’s big issues. They discuss the speed of the news cycle, public trust in media, right- and left-wing biases…
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Foundations of Liberty Ep. 3 | Individualism vs. Collectivism
In 1633, Galileo Galilei was condemned by the Roman Inquisition for teaching that the Earth revolves around the Sun. His defiance became a symbol of individual conscience against powerful institutions. On this episode of The Chris Spangle Show, we explore the history of individualism versus...
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Why the Charlie Kirk murder drove suburban America to church... And what to do if you're lukewarm
Chris Spangle reflects on the week following Charlie Kirk’s assassination, the surprising impact on churches, and his own faith journey since September 11, 2001. He explores how tragedy shakes feelings of security, why people turn to church in uncertain times, and the role of parasocial...
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Civility Is Not Silence: How to Talk Politics with Courage with Project Civility's Jeff Worrell
Chris Spangle sits down with Carmel City Councilor Jeff Worrell to discuss Project Civility and why disagreement is not something to avoid but a path toward stronger communities. They explore how civility is not about silence or politeness but about creating the groundwork for meaningful...
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"Brick by brick": Building an ordered life through grit with Chris Spangle on Leading Adam
Hosts Adam Binkerd and Erika Crabtree open season three of Leading Adam with a deeply personal conversation with Chris Spangle—director of digital content at IBJ, former Bob & Tom digital lead, and longtime host of The Chris Spangle Show. Spangle shares his journey from early success in radio and...
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Foundations of Liberty 002: Understanding Natural Rights vs. Legal Rights
What are natural rights, and how do they differ from legal rights? In this episode of Foundations of Liberty on The Chris Spangle Show, Chris breaks down core Libertarian principles on rights, freedom, and government power. Learn about natural rights, legal rights, negative vs. positive rights,...
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Why becoming American was “the best day of my life” for Agustina Vergara Cid
Agustina Vergara Cid, a former immigrant from Argentina and now a U.S. citizen, joins host Chris Spangle to share her powerful story of becoming American. She describes her July 3 naturalization ceremony, the emotional oath of allegiance, and why she has dreamed of America since childhood.…
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Foundations of Liberty 001: The 8 Core Principles of Libertarian Thought
Chris Spangle launches a new series exploring the foundational ideas behind libertarianism. In this episode, he outlines eight core principles—individualism, individual rights, spontaneous order, limited government, free markets, the virtue of production, the natural harmony of interests, and...
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Introducing Foundations of Liberty: Where The Show Is Headed
Chris Spangle returns to share why he’s been away and what’s next for the show. He opens up about fatherhood, intellectual shifts since the pandemic, and his desire to rethink libertarianism and faith in public. Chris also introduces two upcoming themes: the Foundations of Liberty series and...
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Grill Pilled: Chris Spangle on Escaping Political Idolatry and Reclaiming Real Life
I was honored to (and surprised) to be asked as a guest on Jacob Winograd's show The LCI Green Room over at the Libertarian Christian Institute to talk about the “Grill Pill”—a mindset that’s all about stepping back from the chaos of national politics to focus on what really matters: faith…
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Why the Spectrum Pipeline Act Matters | James Czerniawski on Wireless Innovation & 5G
Senior policy analyst James Czerniawski of Americans for Prosperity joins The Chris Spangle Show to break down the Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2025 and why it’s crucial for America’s digital future. From unlicensed spectrum access for startups to restoring FCC auction authority, Czerniawski explains...
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America Is an Idea. Here’s Why Civics Teaches Us That with Alejandro Ramos
Join Chris Spangle and Alejandro Ramos as they discuss why civics education is crucial for America's future. Alejandro outlines his Citizenship Empowerment Framework, emphasizing foundational documents, media literacy, courageous dialogue, and community engagement to combat polarization and...
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Tariffs, Trade, and Tensions: Chris Spangle and Alex Rosado on U.S.-China Policy
Chris Spangle is joined by Alex Rosado, professional programs assistant at the Alexander Hamilton Society, to unpack the complexities of U.S.-China trade relations. They break down the legacy of Trump’s “Phase One” deal, why China fulfilled only 57% of its commitments, and how tactics like…
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Serve Your Circle: Answering God's Call to Create Culture In Our Sphere of Influence
I was honored to give the commencement address at a homeschool high school graduation. In this speech, I encouraged graduates to resist the pull of shallow success and instead pursue lives rooted in faith, service, and meaningful relationships. Drawing inspiration from Jane Addams and Abraham...
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Inside Canada's Election: How American Politics Are Shaping Canadian Voters with William Dunstan
In this episode of The Chris Spangle Show, Chris welcomes William Dunstan, a Canadian political commentator and Young Voices contributor, for a wide-ranging discussion about U.S.-Canada relations, Canadian politics, and the impact of Donald Trump’s policies on Canada’s upcoming elections. Chris...
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Why Parents Are Skipping Michigan’s Free Preschool Program with Susannah Barnes Petitt
Michigan expanded its state-funded pre-K program by 20,000 seats—but only 6,000 children enrolled. Why are parents opting out of free preschool programs like Head Start and the Great Start Readiness Program? In this episode, Chris Spangle talks with Susanna Barnes Pettit, a social mobility fellow...
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An Immigrant’s Moral Case for American Ideals with Augustina Vergara Cid
Chris welcomes back Augustina Vergara Cid to discuss the moral and philosophical costs of dehumanization, particularly in the context of immigration. Drawing on her personal experience immigrating to the U.S. and her deep appreciation for American ideals, Augustina offers a compelling defense of...
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What is the Unitary Executive Theory? – Ryan Silverstein Explains
Ryan Silverstein, JD candidate at Villanova University, joins Chris Spangle to explain the unitary executive theory through the case of Gwen Wilcox, former chair of the National Labor Relations Board, who sued after being fired by President Trump. Ryan discusses the legal history, constitutional...
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Why Latino Voters Support Trump's Immigration Policies – Cruz Garcia Explains
Independent policy consultant Cruz Garcia joins Chris Spangle to discuss why many Latino voters support former President Donald Trump's immigration policies. Cruz, whose own family experienced the challenges of undocumented immigration, shares personal stories and insights into why public safety...
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Liberation Day or Tax Hike? Trump Imposes Massive Tariffs
April 2, 2025—dubbed “Liberation Day” by Donald Trump—new sweeping tariffs were announced, including a 10% baseline on all imports and steep country-specific increases. But is this protectionist move really the start of an American economic revival, or just a massive tax hike on American…
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The Truth About Life in Cuba Under Communism with Gaby Blanco
Gaby Blanco, a speaker for the Dissident Project and Gideons International, joins Chris Spangle to discuss the reality of life in Cuba today. Contrary to popular belief following Obama-era policy changes, Cuba remains under intense oppression. Gaby shares her personal journey growing up in Cuba,...
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Tariffs Explained: Why Congress Should Reclaim Its Constitutional Powers with Matt Cookson
Are tariffs taxes in disguise? Matt Cookson, a policy fellow at Young Voices and contributor at the Mises Institute, explains the complicated truth behind tariffs. Learn why the U.S. Constitution originally placed tariff-setting power in the hands of Congress and how it ended up under…
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Introducing A New Podcast I Host: Big Hearted Indy
If you've been a longtime listener to this show, you know there are several things that we've emphasized over the years like the importance of friendship, healthy masculinity, and growing civil society within our local communities. For the last year, I have been hosting a podcast for Citizen 7, a...
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Birthright Citizenship and Trump’s Executive Order with Agustina Vergara Cid
In this episode, I talk with Agustina Vergara Cid, an immigration policy expert, to break down the complex issue of birthright citizenship and President Trump's day-one executive order attempting to alter it. We discuss the history and legal foundation of birthright citizenship, tracing its roots...
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Super Bowl Halftime Culture Wars & Presidential Pardon Controversy
Chris Spangle kicks off the episode with a deep dive into why Super Bowl halftime shows always spark controversy, tracing the evolution of performances from marching bands to modern artists like Kendrick Lamar and Rihanna. He highlights how reactions often reveal deeper cultural and generational...
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The Rule of Law and the TikTok Ban: What’s Really Happening?
This week we dive into the TikTok ban, explaining how Congress passed a law requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok, only for both Biden and Trump to refuse enforcement. Spangle is joined by Ed Tarnowski to break down the implications for the rule of law, executive power, and the growing tension…
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What Causes Wildfires And How Do We Prevent Them?
From Nov 28, 2018: Chris Spangle examines what causes wildfires and how we can prevent them. Was Donald Trump right when he said the government makes wildland fires worse? What libertarian principles would significantly reduce both the frequency and damage of wildfires? Show Notes:...
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What is the future of Libertarianism in a Populist World?
We start out the show with a couple of personal announcements about my family and career, and then Harry Price, Rhinehold and I deal with the fact that it's hard to be a principled libertarian. First, there are some good things the government does at a local level. Secondly, the libertarian...
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Lessons For Our Polarized Age From Abolitionist John Rankin with Caleb Franz
Caleb Franz, the author of "The Conductor: The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism's Essential Founding Father," joins me to share his incredible story and how it applies to our own day. The Conductor: The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism's Essential Founding Father -...
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Robert Kennedy Jr.’s Priorities for Making America Healthy Again With Dr. Eric Larson
Dr. Eric Larson of the Paradocs podcast joins me to discuss what we think RFK Jr. wants to do if confirmed as head of the Health and Human Services division, what he might get done, and some priorities he ought to do to make America healthy again. q Video - https://youtube.com/live/wt69j-XebVg…
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Trump Storms Back To Power With Big Majorities
It is finally over! Donald Trump won the presidency in one of the greatest political comebacks in American history. Why did Trump win, and why did Kamala Harris lose? We look at 2024's fear-based political messaging from both sides and the mental health crisis it caused, the economic frustrations...
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Election Eve Breakdown: Poll Insights and Predictions
In this special election eve edition of CSS, Rhinehold and discuss the latest polls, the impact of voter demographics, and make predictions for the upcoming election. We examine Ann Selzer's polling accuracy, trends in key battleground states, and potential election outcomes for both Trump and...
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The Fundamental Choice of the 2024 Election
Every election is billed as the most important election of our lifetime. Choosing Kamala Harris or Donald Trump will not end America, but it does present two fundamentally different paths of political ideology for voters. Harry Price, Rhinehold, Brian Wholgemuth, and I discuss the future...
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The Ideological Evolution of the Republican Party with Leslie Corbly
Leslie Corbly and I talk through a brief history of the Christian worldview's influence on the Republican Party, and how that has changed under the last decade with Donald Trump as its head. How does morality factor into the platform of a party that once touted itself as the bulwark of...
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Faith, Politics, and Worldview: Changing Perspectives with Leslie Corbly
Leslie Corbly and I explore our evolving perspectives on faith, libertarianism, and worldview. We share our thoughts on the current state of the libertarian movement and their growing inclination toward a more faith-based understanding of the world and how our Christian worldviews shape our...
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Three Ways To Stay Sane From Information Overload
Maintaining sanity amidst information overload in the AI-driven social media universe is getting harder. I touch on the nature of conspiracy theories on the rise in the aftermath of major news stories like Helene and FEMA, foreign disinformation campaigns, the role of local journalism, and the…
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Why Does Everything Feel So Absurd?
In this episode, I discuss the debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, including why he lost and how she didn't do well either. I also get into my thoughts on my conversation with LP Presidential candidate Chase Oliver after the debate and end with the story out of Springfield, OH, and the...
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Listen: LP Presidential Candidate Chase Oliver's Response to the Trump and Harris Debate
Following the Trump and Harris debate, the leading third-party candidate, Chase Oliver of the Libertarian Party, joined me live and in person from Circle City Studios to answer the questions asked of the Republican and Democratic candidates. Video - https://youtube.com/live/urMUq5358pI Do you…
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Why Can't Third Parties Win? With Rob Kendall on WIBC
Rob Kendall invited me on his radio show 'Kendall & Casey' on WIBC in Indianapolis to discuss Robert Kennedy Jr. leaving the race while asking "Why can't third parties win." Check out his show here: https://wibc.com/kendall-and-casey/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with...
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Trump Picks Democrats to Fill Out His Administration? And What Does Harris Actually Believe?
Donald Trump has selected two Democrats to run his transition team. What does that mean for his potential administration? And Kamala Harris keeps changing her mind on big issues between 2020 and now without explanation. Plus, what is the actual solution to all of this? This is a public episode.…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Chris Spangle Show helps you make sense of current events, politics, and culture through the lenses of Christian faith and libertarian principles. With sharp analysis, historical insight, and relatable conversations, Chris offers clarity in chaos - encouraging personal responsibility, civic action, and thoughtful engagement with the world around us. Rejecting tribalism and top-down control, the show challenges you to lead with conviction, serve others, and live out the values that sustain a free and thriving society. Join us to defend liberty, strengthen your community, and renew culture - one conversation at a time.
www.chrisspangle.com
HOSTED BY
We Are Libertarians
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Chris Spangle Show have?
The Chris Spangle Show currently has 253 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Chris Spangle Show about?
The Chris Spangle Show helps you make sense of current events, politics, and culture through the lenses of Christian faith and libertarian principles. With sharp analysis, historical insight, and relatable conversations, Chris offers clarity in chaos - encouraging personal responsibility, civic...
How often does The Chris Spangle Show release new episodes?
The Chris Spangle Show publishes regularly with 253 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to The Chris Spangle Show?
You can listen to The Chris Spangle Show on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Chris Spangle Show?
The Chris Spangle Show is created and hosted by We Are Libertarians.
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