The Aaron Renn Show

Latest Episodes:

State Laws and Your Religious Freedom | Mark David Hall Oct 27, 2025

Show notes

Join Aaron Renn as he sits down with Dr. Mark David Hall, Director of the Religious Liberty in the States Project at First Liberty's Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy. In this episode, they dive into the critical role of state-level laws in protecting religious freedom, the surprisingly high ranking of states like Illinois, and why some red states like Indiana and West Virginia lag behind. Learn how you can advocate for stronger religious liberty protections in your state.
CHAPTERS:
(00:00 - Introduction)
(00:58 - Why State-Level Religious Liberty Matters)
(02:47 - The Religious Liberty in the States Index)
(04:37 - Key Protections for Religious Freedom)
(07:34 - Religious Liberty and Parents' Rights)
(08:38 - Surprising State Rankings: Illinois Shines)
(11:22 - Why Red States Like Indiana Rank Low)
(14:13 - Corporate Influence and Religious Liberty)
(17:15 - Red States Making Progress)
(23:31 - How You Can Advocate for Change)
MARK DAVID HALL LINKS:
🌐 Religious Liberty in the States: https://religiouslibertyinthestates.com/
🌐 Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy: https://crcd.net/
🌐 First Liberty: https://firstliberty.org/
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Land, Liberty, and Living Cheap | A. M. Hickman Oct 13, 2025

Show notes

Join us for an incredible conversation with A. M. Hickman, aka "Shagbark Hick," one of the most unique voices on X. From living as a self-described "homeless" hitchhiker to owning a $33,000 home in rural America without a mortgage, Hickman shares his unconventional journey to a life of freedom, frugality, and purpose. Discover how he lives on just $600 a month, rejects the corporate grind, and builds a fulfilling life with his family of three in the northern Adirondacks. This episode is packed with insights on rethinking the American Dream, finding affordable land, and embracing a simpler, more meaningful way of living.

Shortly after we recorded this podcast, Hickman's early life as an anarchist was profiled in the Wall Street Journal, so be sure to check that out too.

CHAPTERS:
(00:00 Introduction to Shagbark Hick)
(01:29 Celebrating New Beginnings: Hickman’s First Child)
(02:22 From Homeless to Property Owner: An 8-Year Transformation)
(03:43 Choosing a Life of Adventure: Hickman’s Hitchhiking Days)
(04:56 Joining the Coast Guard: A New Chapter)
(06:18 Rejecting the Credentialist Path)
(08:22 Life in a Dying Rural Town)
(10:26 Making a Living as a Rural Writer)
(12:43 How to Live on $600 a Month)
(14:38 Escaping the Consumer Treadmill)
(16:34 Debunking the Housing Crisis Myth)
(18:43 Finding Love in an Unconventional Life)
(20:59 The Power of Owning Land)
(24:35 The Magic of $10,000)
(27:41 Managing a Tiny Mortgage)
(28:53 Healthcare Hacks with the Amish)
(31:20 The Mindset Shift America Needs)
(34:34 Homesteading vs. Hickman’s Philosophy)
(36:37 Why Rural America Matters)
(37:46 Wrapping Up with Shagbark Hick)
A. M. HICKMAN LINKS:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/shagbark_hick
🌐 Hickman's Substack: https://shagbark.substack.com/
🌐 Recent profile of Hickman's earlier life in the Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/tech/how-two-young-men-got-pulled-into-internet-darkness-and-how-they-got-out-814d0214
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Why America Can't Have Nice Things | Chris Arnade Oct 06, 2025

Show notes

Join us for a compelling conversation with Chris Arnade, author of Dignity, as he shares his journey from Wall Street quant to amateur ethnographer, walking through America’s toughest neighborhoods. From McDonald’s as community hubs to the growing cultural and educational divides in the U.S., Chris offers a unique perspective on the state of America and its challenges. Don’t miss this deep dive into the heart of our cities and the people who call them home.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:33 About Dignity
01:25 Walking America’s Cities
02:08 From Physics to Wall Street to Ethnography
06:18 Navigating Tough Neighborhoods
09:00 Breaking the Ice with Strangers
10:55 The Power of Being an Outsider
13:14 Street Photography and Storytelling
16:24 McDonald’s as Community Centers
22:55 Lessons for the Front Row
27:36 Rediscovering Faith
28:34 Is America Becoming a Third-World Country?
34:28 Dysfunction in U.S. Public Services
39:01 The Decline of the Commons
43:34 Building a High-Trust Society
46:23 Policy Solutions for a Healthier America
50:00 Closing Thoughts
CHRIS ARNADE LINKS:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/Chris_arnade
📖 Buy Dignity: https://www.amazon.com/Dignity-Seeking-Respect-Back-America/dp/0525534733/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20
🌐 Chris Arnade on Walking Michigan City: https://walkingtheworld.substack.com/p/walking-michigan-city-indiana
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

The Collapse of Masculinity | John Seel Sep 29, 2025

Show notes

Join host Aaron Renn and cultural diagnostician Dr. John Seel in this thought-provoking podcast episode as they dive into the crisis of masculinity, the unraveling of modern culture, and the path to aspirational manhood. From the influence of sociologists like James Davison Hunter and Peter Berger to the societal implications of nihilism and technology, this conversation explores headwater issues shaping families, society, and civilization. Dr. Seel also introduces his new book, Aspirational Masculinity, offering a bold vision for men rooted in faith and purpose. Don’t miss this engaging discussion that challenges conventional narratives and calls for a renewed understanding of what it means to be a man today.
CHAPTERS:
(0:00:01 - Introduction and Welcome)
(0:00:49 - Dr. John Seel on Masculinity)
(0:01:31 - Working with James Davison Hunter and Oz Guinness)
(0:08:23 - The Cultural Inflection Point: Nihilism and Modernity)
(0:11:10 - Technology’s Acceleration vs. Cultural Decline)
(0:13:41 - Power, Authority, and Nietzschean Nihilism)
(0:22:03 - The Crisis of Masculinity: A Headwater Issue)
(0:26:51 - Framing the Masculinity Problem)
(0:31:16 - Identity Formation: Postmodern, Modern, and Biblical Views)
(0:39:37 - Aspirational Masculinity and Christ-Centered Identity)
(0:49:01 - Grace, Nature, and Masculinity)
(0:58:14 - The Parable of the Talents and Agency)
(1:03:28 - The Marines: A Secular Model for Identity)
(1:09:50 - Final Thoughts on a Positive Vision for Masculinity)
(1:11:18 - Book Announcement: Aspirational Masculinity)
JOHN SEEL'S LINKS:
📖 Buy Aspirational Masculinity: https://store.standrewsalmanor.org/products/aspirational-masculinity/
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Presbyterians for the Kingdom | David Yancey and Redeemed Zoomer Sep 22, 2025

Show notes

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with David Yancey, president of Presbyterians for the Kingdom, and Generation Z influencer Redeemed Zoomer to discuss their mission to renew the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) and the broader Operation Reconquista movement. They dive into the challenges and opportunities of restoring traditional theology within mainline Protestant denominations, the role of young conservatives in this revival, and their plans for the future. From institutional commitment to the power of historic churches, this episode explores why they’re staying to reform rather than leaving.
CHAPTERS:
(00:00 - Introduction)
(00:33 - What is Presbyterians for the Kingdom?)
(01:07 - Operation Reconquista and Its Inspiration)
(02:48 - Networks within the PCUSA)
(06:21 - Challenges of Mainline Decline)
(08:19 - A Generational Shift Toward Conservatism)
(11:11 - Personal Ties to the PCUSA)
(16:11 - Perceptions of the Movement within PCUSA)
(19:46 - Institutional Commitment in the PCUSA)
(27:01 - Balancing Word and Sacrament in Reformed Theology)
(33:40 - Biblical Case Against Splitting from the Church)
(37:06 - Stewardship of Historic Resources)
(42:30 - Future Plans for Presbyterians for the Kingdom)
GUEST LINKS:
🌐 Presbyterians for the Kingdom Website: https://www.kingdompresbyterians.com/
🐦 Presbyterians for the Kingdom Twitter/X: https://x.com/kingdompresbys

🌐 Redeemed Zoomer's Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@redeemedzoomer6053
🐦 Redeemed Zoomer Twitter/X: https://x.com/redeemed_zoomer
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Capitol Hill Baptist: 150 Years of Unchanging Faith | Caleb Morell Sep 15, 2025

Show notes

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with Caleb Morell, author of A Light on the Hill, to explore the rich history of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1878, this evangelical church, located just blocks from the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court, has remained steadfast in its theological convictions while navigating cultural, political, and social changes over 150 years. From its founding by Civil War veterans to its role in the fundamentalist-modernist controversy, urban challenges, and the revitalization under pastor Mark Dever, this episode uncovers what makes this church a unique case study in American Christianity. Learn how Capitol Hill Baptist has maintained its gospel-centered mission amidst D.C.’s evolving landscape, including its response to suburbanization, gentrification, and even a lawsuit against the city during COVID-19.
CHAPTERS:
(00:01 - Introduction)
(00:24 - What Makes Capitol Hill Baptist Unique?)
(03:33 - Founding and Early History (1878))
(05:42 - Capsule Summary of the Church’s History)
(09:24 - The Fundamentalist-Modernist Controversy)
(14:56 - Suburbanization and Desegregation in the Mid-20th Century)
(20:54 - Urban Planning and Parking Lot Disputes)
(22:12 - Racial Integration and Social Engagement)
(27:31 - The Marion Barry Era and Urban Violence)
(32:13 - Mark Dever’s Arrival and Church Revitalization)
(35:50 - Gentrification and Its Impact)
(38:38 - COVID-19 Lawsuit and Church Response)
(41:38 - Commitment to Single-Service Gatherings)
(45:09 - Political Engagement Over Time)
(49:17 - The Importance of Institutions)
(52:11 - Closing Remarks)
CALEB MORELL'S LINKS:
📖 A Light on the Hill: https://www.amazon.com/Light-Hill-Surprising-Influenced-Evangelicalism/dp/1433592894/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20
🌐 Capitol Hill Baptist Church: https://www.capitolhillbaptist.org/
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Is Evangelicalism Afraid of Hard Questions? | Joel Carini Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

In this provocative episode, Aaron sits down with Joel Carini, "The Natural Theologian," to explore the challenges of truth-seeking within evangelicalism. From the insular approach of seminary education to the open inquiry at the University of Chicago, Joel contrasts how these environments shape Christian thought. They dive into presuppositionalism, natural theology, and why evangelicals often shy away from engaging with opposing views. Join us for a candid conversation about faith, doubt, and the pursuit of truth.

CHAPTERS
(0:00:00 - Introduction)
(0:02:06 - Seminary vs. University of Chicago: A Tale of Two Educations)
(0:03:38 - What is Presuppositionalism?)
(0:09:05 - The University of Chicago’s Truth-Seeking Approach)
(0:15:24 - The Limits of Presuppositionalism in Apologetics)
(0:19:32 - Evangelicals and the Fear of Being Wrong)
(0:25:18 - Critiquing Evangelicalism’s Defensive Mindset)
(0:33:25 - Finding Common Ground with Non-Believers)
(0:44:57 - What is Natural Theology?)
(0:54:00 - Learning from Secular Thinkers to Strengthen Faith)
(1:00:20 - Wrapping Up: Building Faith on a Solid Foundation)
JOEL CARINI'S LINKS:
🌐 The Natural Theologian: https://joelcarini.substack.com/
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

The Hidden Truths Behind America's Housing Crisis | Adam Ozimek Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

Dive into the housing crisis with Aaron Renn and Adam Ozemeck, Chief Economist at the Economic Innovation Group, as they unpack why buying a home can feel impossible in 2025. From skyrocketing construction costs to zoning roadblocks and institutional investors, this episode explores the real reasons behind soaring home prices. Discover potential solutions like YIMBYism, density zones, and more to make housing affordable again.
CHAPTERS:
(00:00 - Introduction: The Housing Crisis Explained)
(01:32 - State of the Housing Market: Why Are Prices So High?)
(05:58 - Indianapolis Case Study: A 40% Price-to-Income Surge)
(07:33 - Construction Costs: Why Building Homes Is So Expensive)
(15:33 - Zoning: The Hidden Barrier to Affordable Housing)
(23:26 - Monopoly in Home Building: Is Competition the Issue?)
(28:48 - Institutional Investors: Are They Driving Up Prices?)
(44:23 - Immigration and Labor: Impact on Housing Costs)
(49:50 - Solutions: YIMBYism and the Abundance Agenda)
(55:42 - Single Stair Reform: A Key to Cheaper Housing)
(59:22 - State Preemption: Rewriting Zoning Rules)
(1:02:13 - Density Zones: A Balanced Approach to Local Control)
(1:06:43 - Tackling Construction Costs: Tariffs and R&D)
(1:09:09 - Place-Based Policy: Spreading Opportunity Beyond Big Cities)
(1:15:08 - Fiscal Stimulus: Did It Fuel the Housing Crisis?)
(1:16:23 - Final Thoughts: Building a Dynamic Future)
ADAM OZIMEK'S LINKS:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/ModeledBehavior
🌐 Economic Innovation Group: https://eig.org/
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

The State of Missions | Ted Esler Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

Ted Esler, President of Missio Nexus, joins me to dive deep into the current state of Christian missions. He explores the history, challenges, and future of global missions, from the legacy of William Carey to the impact of globalization and cultural shifts. Ted discusses the role of unreached people groups, the influence of American imperialism, and the evolving dynamics of missionary work, including the significant contributions of women. Discover how missions are adapting in a rapidly changing world and what it means for the global church.
Note: There are 134,000 US missionaries, not 340,000 as stated in the podcast. Esler accidentally gave the global rather than US total.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction
00:29 Defining Missions: Evangelism, Discipleship, and Church Planting
01:30 The History of the Modern Missions Movement
03:07 The Origins of Missio Nexus
04:00 Missionary Funding and Global Perspectives
06:49 Paradigms Shaping Modern Missions
08:22 The Tension Between Evangelism and Development Work
11:24 The Decline of Mainline Denominations in Missions
12:36 Missions and the Question of Imperialism
17:35 Missions in the Age of Globalization
23:24 The Impact of DEI and Christian Nationalism on Missions
26:22 Women in Missions: A Historical Constant
28:31 The Future of Missions: Trends and Predictions
33:01 Closing Thoughts
TED ESLER LINKS:
🌐 Missio Nexus: https://missionexus.org/
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

The Vibe Shift Explained | Michael Foster Aug 11, 2025

Show notes

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with Michael Foster, pastor of East River Church in Batavia, Ohio, for a raw and unfiltered conversation about the wild cultural ride of the past five years. From the rise of the Manosphere to the pushback against woke culture, the impact of the pandemic on churches, and the shifting dynamics of masculinity and dating, this episode dives deep into what’s shaping our world in 2025. Michael shares his journey from starting It’s Good to Be a Man to planting a church during the pandemic, offering insights on faith, culture, and the new vibe shift. Expect candid reflections, bold takes, and a look at where we’re headed next.
CHAPTERS:
(00:00 - Introduction)
(01:04 - Michael Foster’s Journey: Starting East River Church)
(03:58 - The Manosphere’s Rise and Cultural Impact)
(11:23 - Dating Dynamics and the Internet’s Influence)
(19:55 - The Pandemic’s Effect on Churches and Culture)
(28:49 - The Post-Pandemic Vibe Shift)
(36:30 - Christianity, Institutions, and Missed Opportunities)
(50:04 - Choosing Stability Over Controversy)
(58:13 - The New Cultural Stasis and What’s Next)
(1:08:09 - Closing Thoughts and Farewell)
MICHAEL FOSTER-S LINKS:
📖 It's Good to Be a Man - https://www.amazon.com/Its-Good-Be-Man-Masculinity/dp/1954887396/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/thisisfoster
🌐 This Is Foster - https://www.thisisfoster.com/
CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

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