Mike Williams’ Capital Idea

Revisiting Mike's chat with Chris Wright

While Defenders of Capitalism are generally skeptical about President-elect Trump’s 2nd term cabinet nominations so far, we are excited about his choice for Energy Secretary: Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy. Wright has a broad understanding of the need for cheap, safe, reliable energy and innovation, as well as the function that free markets play.

Mike sat down with Chris in a wide ranging conversation in July of 2023 and we’re re-releasing that episode for our listeners after Chris' recent nomination for Energy Secretary.

 

Original Episode: Energy, Liberty, & the Outdoor Industry with Chris Wright

Bonus: Bringing Ayn Rand's "We the Living" Back to Life with Duncan Scott & Robert Begley

This special episode is a conversation with Emmy-award winning filmmaker Duncan Scott and long-time objectivist & producer Robert Begley on Individualism vs Tyranny and the film our culture desperately needs to see. Duncan and Robert tell the astounding story of the recovery and restoration of the Italian film of Ayn Rand's "We the Living." The film was made in Italy during World War II and the 80th Anniversary Restoration this year is the first-ever full restoration of this film classic.

Brad Polumbo on The Effect of Media on Young Ideologies

In this episode, we wanted to bring in a unique lens on pro-liberty and capitalism in the media with journalist and economic analyst Brad Polumbo. Mike & Brad cover a lot of ground and explore how young people often identify with their understanding of a freedom ideology, but are frustrated and not wanting to associate with political parties. They discuss the evolving media and mostly biased coverage, policy makers not being held accountable for horrific COVID policies, public schools and colleges nurturing an anti-individual, anti-capitalist approach.  While understanding the alienation young citizens are experiencing, Brad provides a positive, often humorous and entertaining message.

 

Brad Polumbo Media:

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The Two Faces of Tim Walz

Now that the Democratic National Convention is over, we thought it would only be appropriate to talk about Kamala Harris’ VP pick – Tim Walz, current Governor of Minnesota. After our episode about JD Vance, we thought there’s no way Harris was going to choose someone worse than Vance, for anyone who understands and supports capitalism, but she may very well have... 

The Better Olympians of Our Nature

In this episode, we dive into the Paris Olympic Games with a thought-provoking discussion, acknowledging all the wokeness, Nationalism and culture war BS, but focusing on the pursuit of excellence. 

 

We explore how the spirit of competition, innovation, and determination showcased in the Olympics parallels the principles of capitalism. Join us as we celebrate the athletes' achievements, examine the economic impact of the Games, and discuss how the best of human endeavor and entrepreneurial spirit.

If You Like Statism, You'll Love JD Vance!

Mike and Mitch discuss Trump's recent VP pick and his anti-capitalist, anti-American Founders views, as well as what it means to be a classical liberal. Voters must again decide between power hungry collectivists and the lessor of evils. Meanwhile, here's what pro-freedom supporters must do....

Is Elon Musk a Capitalist? with Drew Esquivel

Drew Esquivel is the 2022 Defenders of Capitalism Runner Up and Vice President of First Bank in Greeley, CO. Mike interviews Drew on his experience with the Defenders of Capitalism Project as well as the question of if Elon Musk is truly a capitalist. Elon Musk is a successful entrepreneur and investor, but does he truly believe in the principles of capitalism and free markets, especially when his companies are subsidized by federal loans.

Wealth Without Wisdom: The Capitalist Paradox of Celebrities & Economics

We see celebrities, athletes, and very successful entertainers in pop culture who seemingly benefit from capitalism and free markets but are advocates for socialism and other anti-capitalism ideas. Mike and Mitch dive into this paradox and how it impacts society.

What do Ukraine & Israel have to do with Defending Capitalism?

After the recent Iran attack on Israel, Mitch and Mike cover the deep connection between the current wars in Ukraine and Israel and the role of defending capitalism.

Bernie Sanders' 32-Hour Workweek

Bernie Sanders recently proposed a new bill, the "32-Hour Workweek Act". In this proposal, the act would include a reduction to a 32-hour workweek without a decrease in pay or benefits. Although this sounds appealing, Mike and Mitch discuss the possible implications and potential repercussions with a mandated 32-hour workweek. Instead, defenders of capitalism should advocate for freedom in the workplace when it comes to how people want to spend their time, rather than more government force.