The Modern Republic

Ep. 032: The Case for Philosophy in School with Dr. Gregory Sadler

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Today I talk with Dr. Sadler about defining philosophy, his work in online education, and concrete ways to bring philosophical practice into secondary schools—not as theory but as a tool for clearer thinking, moral formation, and civic responsibility.

This episode of The Modern Republic digs into education, culture, and politics, and the practical steps we can take.

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Dr. Sadler's Links:
https://gregorybsadler.substack.com
https://www.patreon.com/sadler
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Gregory-B.-Sadler/author/B00C4DK7CW?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=50142408-94ce-4c6d-8d08-31c09b7edf94
https://medium.com/@Gregory_Sadler
https://miad.academia.edu/GregorySadler

Ep. 031: The Lost Art of Etiquette with J.B. Lloyd

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In this conversation, J.B. Lloyd and I explore the concept of gentlemanliness, discussing its historical roots, the resurgence of gentlemanly ideals in modern society, and the importance of manners and etiquette. J.B. emphasizes that being a gentleman is not merely about appearance but about how one treats others and conducts oneself in various situations. He also highlights the significance of self-awareness, being well-read, and the steps one can take to embody the qualities of a true gentleman.

This episode of The Modern Republic digs into education, culture, and politics — and what practical steps we can take.

Read essays on Substack: The Modern Republic — subscribe for extended thoughts and behind-the-episode context.

Follow me on Instagram for episode clips and quick thoughts: @nathanielstryker

Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app to get new episodes when they drop.

J.B.’s Social Links

https://substack.com/@waysofagentleman

https://x.com/Gentleman_Ways?s=20

Buy J.B's Book - https://a.co/d/i9wyafo

Ep. 030: Are Books Having a Moment? Why Reading Will Always be Relevant with Josh Johnson

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In this conversation, Josh Johnson discusses his journey as a content creator in the book community, the rise of his social media presence, and the importance of reading both fiction and non-fiction. He shares insights on audience engagement, the appeal of BookTok, and the impact of reading on personal growth. Josh emphasizes the value of diverse reading habits, active reading techniques, and the significance of classics in literature. He also provides recommendations for must-read books and insights into his podcast, which explores historical narratives.

This episode of The Modern Republic digs into education and culture, and what practical steps we can take.

Read essays on Substack: The Modern Republic — subscribe for extended thoughts and behind-the-scenes context.

Follow me on Instagram for episode clips and quick thoughts: @nathanielstryker

Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app to get new episodes when they drop.

Josh's Social Links

https://substack.com/@joshcjohnson

https://www.instagram.com/_joshreadsbooks/?hl=en

https://www.tiktok.com/@joshreadsbooks

Ep. 029: The Power of Wonder with Dr. Jonathan Gregg

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

In this conversation, I sat down with Dr. Jonathan Gregg to discuss his journey in education and why he believes classical education and a commitment to truth are essential in the classroom. We touch on the Archimedes Standards as a potential alternative to Common Core, and we explore teaching approaches that spark student engagement and a genuine sense of wonder. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Gregg emphasizes the importance of a teacher’s passion for their subject and the value of fostering meaningful relationships with students.

This episode of The Modern Republic delves into education, culture, and politics — and explores the practical steps we can take.

Read essays on Substack: The Modern Republic — subscribe for extended thoughts and behind-the-episode context.

Follow me on Instagram for episode clips and quick thoughts: @nathanielstryker and @the.modern.republic

Subscribe to the podcast on your preferred app to receive new episodes as they become available.

Ep. 028: Leadership, Learning, and the Future of Education with Dr. Young

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In my conversation with Dr. J. Kenneth Young, we explored his journey from Christian ministry to educational leadership. He shared insights into the challenges and transformations within public education, as well as his personal experiences navigating the dissertation process. We also discussed the role of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and the ethical use of emerging technologies. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Young reflected on the systemic issues facing education today and the complex ways in which educational policies impact both teaching and learning.

This episode of The Modern Republic digs into education, culture, and politics — and what practical steps we can take.

Read weekly essays on Substack: The Modern Republic — subscribe for extended thoughts and behind-the-scenes context.

Follow me on Instagram and X for episode clips and quick thoughts: @nathanielstryker & @nathanielstryke

Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app to get new episodes each week.

Ep. 027: The Responsibility of Schools in Shaping Values

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the importance of instilling virtues and values in students, emphasizing the roles of family, schools, and community. I argue that shared values are essential for a cohesive society and that educators have a responsibility to teach both intellect and morality. I propose that schools, particularly public ones, should adopt clear values to guide their educational approach, and I suggest that churches could play a significant role in providing low-cost education to instill these virtues.

This episode of The Modern Republic delves into education, culture, and politics — and explores the practical steps we can take.

Read weekly essays on Substack: The Modern Republic — subscribe for extended thoughts and behind-the-scenes context.

Follow me on Instagram and X for episode clips and quick thoughts: @nathanielstryker & @nathanielstryke

Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app to get new episodes each week.

Ep. 026: What is Classical Education? With Wes Kanawyer

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Wes Kanawyer, Head of Valor Preparatory Academy, explains the core goals of classical education: wisdom, virtue, and the formation of the whole person, and contrasts them with progressive models. Wes traces his own move from public education to classical schooling, emphasizes the role of family and faith, and argues that an education rooted in Christ and character prepares students for life and Godliness.

This episode of The Modern Republic delves into education, culture, and politics — and explores the practical steps we can take.

Read weekly essays on Substack: The Modern Republic — subscribe for extended thoughts and behind-the-scenes context.

Follow me on Instagram and X for episode clips and quick thoughts: @nathanielstryker & @nathanielstryke

Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app to get new episodes each week.

Ep. 025: The Realities of Public School with Jack Dumas

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this conversation with my friend and colleague, Jack Dumas, we delve into the complexities of knowledge, education, and the impact of modern society on young people. We discuss the challenges of feeling inadequate in a world overflowing with information, the flaws within our education system, and the role of literature in shaping young minds. Our conversation also explores the impact of social media, the significance of empathy, and the necessity of a supportive framework for students. Together, we reflect on the value of teaching, the pursuit of success, and the legacy of education in a rapidly changing world.

Jack is a writer. Give his work a look here: https://substack.com/@sophronios?

I am also an aspiring writer. You can check out my work here: https://substack.com/@nathanielstryker
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Ep. 024: Teachers or Babysitters?

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I dive into the importance of giving teachers real autonomy when it comes to curriculum development. I talk about why scripted teaching methods can be so limiting and how a one-size-fits-all approach hurts both teachers and students. I make the case for trusting teachers to shape their own classrooms and explain why raising standards in the teaching profession is essential if we want better outcomes for students.

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Ep. 023: Where Do You Fall on The Political Compass?

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the intersection of education, culture, and politics, emphasizing the importance of forming informed opinions and recognizing the role of education in society. I reflect on my own experience with political quizzes, the necessity of understanding different topics before developing strong opinions, and the contrasts between classical and contemporary education methods. I also highlight the critical role of family support in a child’s educational success.

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Ep. 022: Who’s Really in Charge in Education?

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the critical role education plays in society, the challenges teachers face during professional development, and the importance of educators having more control over curriculum development. I argue that empowering teachers with both knowledge and responsibility can lead to better outcomes for students.

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Ep. 021: What Should Teachers Get Paid?

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about the critical role education plays in our society and why I believe we need to restructure the school calendar to better support student learning. I propose a year-round school model with a four-day week, focusing on the importance of making our teaching hours more effective. I also dive into the complexities of teacher pay, arguing that we need to raise salaries—but with that, we should also raise standards to attract and keep high-quality educators. I conclude by emphasizing the importance of elevating the teaching profession if we are to achieve a better future for education.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings and the podcast.

Ep. 020: Modern Education is Not Effective

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the critical role education plays in our society and emphasize the importance of helping students make wise choices. I share my thoughts on the traditional summer break and argue for a year-round school calendar to prevent learning loss. I also critique modern curricula, suggesting that they often lower expectations and discourage critical thinking. Instead, I advocate for bringing back classical education methods to better prepare students for the future.

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I also have a website where I post my previous writings and a reading list, which has helped shape my current perspective on the world.

Ep. 019: Learning to Persevere

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about the intersection of education, perseverance, and the challenges we face as a society. I emphasize why it’s so important to teach perseverance to young people, and I critique how our current education system often enables students to give up too easily when faced with challenges. I also reflect on the value of higher education today—are we pursuing degrees for true learning, or just for status? I conclude with a brief personal update on my own educational journey.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 018: The Lost Art of Language

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the critical role education plays in our society and why we need to make wise choices when it comes to how we educate our children. I explore the impact of federal funding on local education systems and share my concerns about the current state of professional development for teachers. I also discuss the challenges surrounding after-school programs and emphasize the importance of grammar in helping students develop into independent thinkers and effective communicators. Ultimately, I advocate for a shift toward more local control in education and a renewed focus on teaching students how to think, not just what to think.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 017: What Schools aren’t Doing, But Should!

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:49:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the importance of lifelong learning and self-improvement, extending beyond formal education. I emphasize how writing helps solidify the knowledge we gain from reading, and I share some of the techniques I use for active reading. I also delve into what I believe should be the primary goals of education: moral formation and service to the community, as a means to help develop responsible citizens. Ultimately, I critique the current approach to accountability and standards in our education system, arguing that a return to rigorous expectations is necessary to foster character and resilience in students.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 016: Making Education Equitable

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I explore the intersections of education, culture, and politics, focusing on the importance of equitable education, school choice, and the role of technology in the learning process. I discuss the need for high standards in education, the significance of character development, and how technology can enhance access to knowledge. I emphasize that true education should benefit students and prepare them for real‑world challenges, and I advocate for a more personalized, community‑driven approach to learning.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 015: Civic Responsibility in Education

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the crucial role of subject matter expertise in education and why teachers need to be lifelong learners. I emphasize that professional development should go beyond just teaching strategies—it should focus on helping educators deepen their understanding of the subjects they teach. I then shift the conversation to civic education, arguing that students need to be taught how to engage with their local communities and take responsibility for their civic duties. I advocate for practical community service initiatives as a way to instill a real sense of civic responsibility in young people. I conclude the episode with a call to action for educators to implement these ideas in their own schools.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 014: Creating a Balanced Curriculum for Students

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of The Modern Republic, I talk about why it’s time to re-evaluate the traditional summer break. I emphasize the importance of outdoor socialization, low-stakes academic assignments, and summer jobs as integral components of a student’s development. From there, I dig into the role of technology in education, raising questions about its actual effectiveness and the dependence it can create. I conclude by sharing a more holistic view of curriculum, one that balances physical education, academic rigor, and the arts, with the goal of shaping students who are strong in body, mind, and spirit.

Shoot me an email: podcast@nathanielstryker.com

Interested in more of my thoughts and opinions? I send out a biweekly newsletter where I cover topics similar to the ones discussed on the show. Click here to subscribe!

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 013: Inspiring Virtue and Facing the Future of Technology in Education

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:36:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss Texas Senate Bill 10, which requires the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. While I support Christian education, I raise concerns about how effective this bill will actually be in a public school setting. I also dive into the role of technology in education, especially the potential downsides of AI-driven learning. I emphasize the importance of maintaining high educational standards and encourage independence in learning rather than creating a dependency on technology.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 012: Standardized Tests Are Good for Students (?)

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 27 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about the arbitrary length of the school year, the challenges that come with summer break, and the need for a more structured and consistent educational environment. I critique the current standardized testing system and introduce House Bill 4, which proposes replacing long, high-stakes tests with shorter assessments spread throughout the year. I emphasize the importance of empowering teachers to design assessments reflecting student mastery and the need to hold students to high moral and academic standards.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 011: The Role of Liberal Arts in Fostering Moral Reasoning

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 20 May 2025 05:38:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk about the current state of public school funding in Texas, the implications of school voucher programs, and why liberal arts education is so important for developing moral reasoning. I highlight the challenges our public schools are facing because of funding cuts and explain how voucher programs could further undermine the quality of education. I also make the case for a classical education approach that emphasizes critical thinking, empathy, and moral reasoning because I believe education should be about forming well-rounded individuals, not just preparing students for the workforce.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 010: AI, Illiteracy, and the Lost Art of Conversation

Nathaniel Stryker — Tue, 13 May 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I dive into the growing push for AI and computer science education in our high schools and ask some hard questions about what’s really driving it. I talk about the sharp decline in reading habits across the country and how that’s affecting our ability to communicate clearly and effectively. I also make the case for teaching conversation and speech as structured subjects in public schools—skills that are just as important as math or science. I wrap up by sharing why I believe teachers must lead by example when it comes to communication and help students develop these essential abilities.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 009: Trump’s Plan for Education and What Your Students Should Be Learning When

Nathaniel Stryker — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 06:13:00 -0500

In this episode, I explore the role of technology and AI in education, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced approach that prioritizes foundational skills over technological dependence. I critique the current educational structure and lay out my vision for a reimagined school system—one that separates students by age and grade, focuses on delivering age-appropriate content, and builds strong character. I also outline a comprehensive framework from elementary through senior high school, advocating for specialized tracks that better serve diverse student needs and future career paths.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 008: Rethinking Education: The Need for Unique Ideas

Nathaniel Stryker — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 06:23:41 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the pressing need for innovative ideas in education, critique the current system's focus on uniformity, and propose a new structure for schools that emphasizes community involvement and tailored educational standards. I also explore the challenges of reading retention, the toxic relationship many have with work, and the importance of recognizing individual student needs in the pursuit of equity in education.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 007: This is How We Fix American Education

Nathaniel Stryker — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I delve into a bold reimagining of America’s education system, where small, community-rooted schools replace bloated bureaucracies. I champion decentralized governance, showcasing charter schools as dynamic engines of change that blend accountability with innovation. Against a backdrop of rising digital dependency and the erosion of face-to-face learning, I critique modern tech-heavy classrooms and extol the virtues of classical education—reminding us that true learning builds character, critical thinking, and moral clarity. Join me on this journey through a landscape where tradition meets progress and where the revival of time-honored educational values promises to create curious, well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 006: Cultivating Genuine Virtue

Nathaniel Stryker — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 00:01:00 -0500

In this episode I discuss how our behavior is often driven more by the fear of negative consequences than by genuine moral conviction—a dynamic evident in everyday settings like schools, where students attend class to avoid punishment rather than out of a commitment to learning, and in broader societal issues from speeding fines to cancel culture silencing political debates on topics like school choice and gun control; I argue that while laws are essential for deterring misconduct, they should also inspire true virtue by celebrating those who act ethically for its own sake, promoting an environment where personal and objective truths coexist, and where media focus shifts from sensationalizing celebrity missteps to highlighting everyday heroes whose principled actions strengthen communities—a shift that begins in the home and is reinforced in schools and society at large.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 005: Digital Literacy or Critical Thinking and the Many Pitfalls of Democracy

Nathaniel Stryker — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In today's episode, I talked about the tension between traditional subjects like history, literature, science, and mathematics and modern skillsets such as digital literacy and emotional intelligence, emphasizing that a balanced curriculum builds both strong intellects and robust character. Then, I spoke about how nurturing a well-rounded education that values critical thinking, clear writing, and moral integrity can empower students to become thoughtful and responsible citizens. Finally, I discussed the challenge of balancing expert guidance with the democratic ideal of equal participation. I argued that only a robust, thoughtful education can prepare every citizen to lead with wisdom and purpose.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 004: Experts vs. Politicians, The Shocking Blueprint for a Utopian Future and Radical Education!

Nathaniel Stryker — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I explore the idea of replacing career politicians with expert leaders, diving into whether specialized knowledge and expertise could create better governance. I examine the potential benefits of this shift while also considering the risks, such as elitism or disconnect from everyday citizens. The question remains: would a meritocratic leadership model truly improve society, or does democracy offer a more balanced approach?

Next, I draw parallels between Plato’s vision of an ideal city in The Republic and the concepts behind modern smart cities and universal basic income (UBI) experiments. Both aim to create order, equity, and efficiency, but their implementation reveals challenges Plato may not have anticipated. I discuss how technology, economics, and human nature all play a role in shaping the success of these ambitious ideas.

Finally, I focus on the transformative power of education and its ability to develop the kinds of leaders society needs. From instilling critical thinking skills to fostering a sense of civic duty, education is central to preparing individuals who can navigate the complexities of leadership in a rapidly changing world. Together, these themes highlight the pressing need to rethink how we shape our leaders, our cities, and our future.

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I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 003: What Your Kids Should Be Learning in School...

Nathaniel Stryker — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0500

In this episode I dive into some critical political and international issues shaping today’s landscape. I explore Senate Bill 37 and its potential impact on higher education, discussing how this bill could reshape university funding and policies, and examining both the short-term and long-term effects on institutions and students. I also shift focus to the looming threat of a government shutdown, breaking down what a shutdown would mean for the country, touching on its economic consequences, government services, and the political maneuvering that’s driving the conversation. Then, I discuss the ongoing Russia- Ukraine conflict, particularly the rejection of a ceasefire deal, and analyze the implications of this decision, looking at how it affects international relations and global security moving forward.

I wrap up the episode with a deep dive into the critical question of curriculum—what we should be teaching our students from their earliest years and how we can shape the future of education to better prepare them for the challenges ahead.

Sources used to inform this episode:

Tx Senate Bill 37

Russia Ukraine (National Review)

Government Shutdown (Politico)

Government Shutdown (Reuters)

Interested in more of my thoughts and opinions? I send out a biweekly newsletter where I cover topics similar to the ones discussed on the show. Click here to subscribe!

Follow me on Instagram for regular posts and updates on the shows and the state of Texas and American education!

I also have a website where I post previous writings, the podcast, and a reading list, which has helped shape my current view of the world.

Ep. 002: Border Security, Tariffs, and America’s Role in Global Conflicts

Nathaniel Stryker — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I discuss the Trump administration’s border security measures, focusing on Vice President J.D. Vance’s visit to Eagle Pass, Texas. Vance highlighted the significant decline in illegal border crossings, crediting Trump’s leadership rather than new legislation. The focus is on deporting criminals and encouraging legal immigration while addressing the dangers of drug cartels and criminal activity at the border.

I also discuss President Trump’s tariff policies, which aim to protect American industries and jobs. While tariffs may increase prices in the short term, they serve to protect domestic businesses and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Finally, I reflect on the U.S.'s role in global conflicts like the war in Ukraine, arguing that while we oppose Russian aggression, it’s not the U.S.'s responsibility to intervene in every global issue.

Sources used to inform this episode:

J.D. Vance Address at Eagle Pass

Texas Tribune

President Trump State of the Union

National Review

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Ep. 001: America is Doomed, and it’s the Schools’ Fault!

Nathaniel Stryker — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, I take a closer look at Senate Bill 26 in Texas and explore its potential effects on teachers across the state. I also discuss the continuation of federal spending cuts under the Trump administration and what that means for public services, particularly education.

Additionally, I share a brief update on the Pope and reflect on the importance of staying informed and involved in education. I make the case for why it’s crucial for more people to care about the direction education is heading, especially in a time of significant change and political influence.

For more information, visit https://www.nathanielstryker.com/ and sign up for my newsletter at https://nathaniel-stryker.kit.com/825a072b07.