Newt talks with Philip K. Howard about his new book, “Saving Can-Do: How to Revive the Spirit of America.” Howard discusses the pervasive issue of bureaucratic red tape that has stifled common sense and effective governance since the 1960s. He argues that the legal system has become overly complex, with 150 million words in federal law and regulation, compared to the 7,500 words of the U.S. Constitution. Howard advocates for a multi-year effort to replace these cumbersome bureaucracies with simpler codes that empower individuals to use their judgment. He highlights the inefficiencies in current systems, such as the lengthy and costly processes for infrastructure projects and healthcare administration and calls for a movement led by American citizens to push for practical regulatory reform.

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Newt talks with award-winning Washington Post reporter Christian Davenport, about his new book, “Rocket Dreams: Musk, Bezos, and the Inside Story of the New, Trillion-Dollar Space Race.” They discuss the new space race, focusing on the competition between countries and private companies to return humans to the moon and explore beyond. Davenport highlights the advancements in space technology, particularly SpaceX's Starship, which represents a significant breakthrough with its fully reusable design and potential to revolutionize space travel. Their conversation also touches on the competitive landscape, with China making significant strides in space exploration and the United States' efforts to maintain its leadership. The potential for the moon to serve as a refueling station for deeper space exploration is also discussed, along with the need for a less bureaucratic and more innovative approach to NASA's operations to ensure the U.S. remains competitive in the new space race.

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Newt talks with former Army Captain Jesse Petrilla, about his new book, “If It Takes a Thousand Years: From Al-Qaeda to Hamas, How the Jihadists Think and How to Defeat Them.” They discuss the mindset and long-term strategies of jihadist groups, emphasizing their generational approach to conflict. Petrilla shares insights from his experiences in Afghanistan, where he facilitated interrogations of Taliban and Al-Qaeda members, and highlights the cultural and ideological differences between the West and jihadist groups. Petrilla stresses the importance of understanding these differences to effectively counter the jihadist threat. Their discussion also touches on the challenges of immigration and assimilation, the influence of tribalism in the Islamic world, and the potential dangers posed by a lack of awareness and education about these issues in the West.

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Newt talks with Congressman Pat Harrigan about his work in the U.S. House representing North Carolina’s tenth district. Harrigan discusses his journey from West Point to Afghanistan to serving in the United States House of Representatives. He shares insights into his first nine months in Congress, highlighting his unexpected influence as a freshman and his work on the House Armed Services Committee. He reflects on the impact of the Afghanistan troop withdrawal on his decision to enter politics. Harrigan criticizes the Biden administration's handling of international affairs, particularly the withdrawal from Afghanistan and its implications for global security. He emphasizes the importance of veteran representation in Congress and the need for fair trade practices to revitalize American manufacturing. Harrigan also discusses his efforts to support small businesses, and his legislative initiatives like the SkyFoundry Act to enhance U.S. drone production. He addresses national security concerns related to Chinese influence and advocates for the use of artificial intelligence to streamline military processes. Their conversation concludes with Harrigan warning against the dangers of political rhetoric and violence, urging a return to civil discourse.

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Newt talks with Mitchell A. Silk, about his new book, “A Seat at the Table: An Inside Account of Trump’s Global Economic Revolution,” which details his perspective on Trump's global economic policies and highlights the strategic approach taken by the administration in reshaping global trade dynamics. Silk shares his journey from a dishwasher in a Chinese restaurant to becoming the first Hasidic Jew confirmed by the Senate for a position in the U.S. federal government. He discusses his role as assistant secretary in the Treasury under the first Trump administration, where he was instrumental in trade negotiations with China and infrastructure initiatives in Latin America. Fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese, Silk offers insights into China's economic strategies and the challenges faced by the U.S. in trade negotiations. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, strategic diplomacy, and the need for the U.S. to assert its economic interests.

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Newt talks with Daniel J. Flynn, senior editor at The American Spectator, about his new book, “The Man Who Invented Conservatism: The Unlikely Life of Frank S. Meyer.” Frank Meyer was a pivotal figure in American conservatism. Initially a fervent communist, Meyer later became a key intellectual force behind the conservative movement, influencing figures like Barry Goldwater and Ronald Reagan. Their discussion explores Meyer's transformation from a communist activist to a conservative thinker. Flynn highlights Meyer's passion, his role in shaping the conservative ideology known as "fusionism," and his influence on Reagan's political philosophy. They also discuss Meyer's personal life, his relationships, and his impact on the conservative movement uncovered through extensive archival research and personal letters. Flynn provides a comprehensive look at Meyer's complex journey and enduring legacy in American politics.

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Newt talks with Salim Furth, Senior Research Fellow and Director of the Urbanity project at the Mercatus Center about America’s housing affordability crisis. Their discussion centers on the pressing issue of housing affordability in the United States. With high home prices and rents, state legislators are increasingly pursuing housing reform, setting records for new laws aimed at unlocking home building. Furth highlights the challenges and potential solutions in housing policy. They discuss the declining optimism among young Americans regarding their standard of living, with home ownership being a significant barrier. They explore the impact of housing costs on the American dream, the role of state legislation in addressing these issues, and the potential for market-driven solutions.

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Newt reflects on the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, a vibrant figure dedicated to fostering dialogue and civility in America.

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