Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, equipping listeners to become more effective champions of sound principle and good policy.
How family policy debates sometimes ignore the family itself
Debates about family policy often focus on an array of programs or interventions like licensed child care, pre-K, or the K-12 education system. But all too often, the family itself as an optimal environment for the healthy development of young children – and a fundamental institution of civil society – gets left out of the discussion.
Agency over equity: Ian Rowe on a better vision for upward mobility
Many public policy debates in recent years have focused on the concept of equity, and what impact race and ethnicity have on opportunity for the next generation. This week's podcast guest believes we need to replace equity with agency, as a more compelling – and more effective – vision to help young people of all races lead successful and fulfilling lives.
Antisemitism in America: Rabbi Chaim Zippel on the aftermath of the Hamas attack in Israel
Rabbi Chaim Zippel was in Israel with his wife and infant son on the day of the Hamas terrorist attack. He recounts his experience.
Should government promote marriage?
Marriage is often viewed as a personal matter that isn't usually included in public policy discussions. But a growing body of evidence shows that strong families, anchored by healthy marriages, are among the biggest drivers of upward mobility and long-term success for the next generation.
Why America needs a new welfare reform movement
A coalition of state-level policy think tanks called the Alliance for Opportunity is working to bring 1 million Americans out of poverty in ten years.
Supreme Court 2024: How to better understand – and defend – the court’s constitutional role
Between now and June 2024, the court will review various cases touching on free speech, separation of powers, property rights, and more that could be added throughout the term.
Defending Enterprise with Beth Akers: How to approach 2024 campaign rhetoric on the economy
Beth joins Nic Dunn to provide listeners with a guide to what candidates for office in 2024 might say about the economy – and how voters can stay focused on policy proposals that support and defend our free enterprise system.
The death of discourse? TV news veteran Glen Mills reflects on the press and public debate
Is there a link between diminishing trust in the press and the dying art of public discourse? On this week's episode, 20-year TV news veteran Glen Mills joins Nic Dunn for a status check on the health of public debate, and the state of one of the most important and impactful institutions of civil society: the news media.
Aimee Winder Newton on elevating families as a crucial part of success
We often hear that the best way to prepare the next generation for a successful life is through a quality education. But what about another institution of civil society that might actually play a bigger role in upward mobility and human flourishing?
Is zoning reform the answer to high housing costs? With Nolan Gray
It’s easy for housing affordability to feel like an intractable issue, but one national expert argues that we can solve this policy challenge by reforming local zoning policies.
Elevating parental engagement in education, with Rich Nye
On this episode Nic Dunn sits down with Dr. Rich Nye, the new senior advisor for education to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, to discuss why the state is committed to elevating the role parental involvement plays in our education system.
Why the 2024 election should move Americans toward more support for federalism
Nic and Tony are joined by Bill Duncan to explore how reducing the size and scope of the federal government – and returning more policy decision-making power to states – can reduce political polarization and yield better policy outcomes.
