<![CDATA[THE 85/15 PODCAST]]>In an era defined by division—where tribalism, outrage, and hostility toward the “other side” often dominate politics, media, and social platforms—the 85/15 Podcast offers something different: thoughtful, civil conversation between people who don’t agree on everything.

We’re two longtime friends—one a seasoned old codger, the other a curious young whippersnapper—who talk about politics, sports, culture, and whatever else captures our attention. On most issues, we find ourselves aligned about 85% of the time. It’s the remaining 15% that makes things interesting.

Each episode captures our effort to explore that 15% with honesty and respect—challenging one another’s assumptions, defending our perspectives, and prioritizing nuance over noise. Rather than trying to “win” arguments, we aim to understand them.

Join us as we test a simple but increasingly radical idea: that every sincerely held belief deserves to be examined thoughtfully—even, and especially, when we strongly disagree.

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 28 May 2026 18:13:32 GMTWed, 18 Feb 2026 22:12:09 GMT60Carl Duckett and Randy Blair<p>In an era defined by division—where tribalism, outrage, and hostility toward the “other side” often dominate politics, media, and social platforms—the <b>85/15 Podcast</b> offers something different: thoughtful, civil conversation between people who don’t agree on everything.</p><p>We’re two longtime friends—one a seasoned old codger, the other a curious young whippersnapper—who talk about politics, sports, culture, and whatever else captures our attention. On most issues, we find ourselves aligned about 85% of the time. It’s the remaining 15% that makes things interesting.</p><p>Each episode captures our effort to explore that 15% with honesty and respect—challenging one another’s assumptions, defending our perspectives, and prioritizing nuance over noise. Rather than trying to “win” arguments, we aim to understand them.</p><p>Join us as we test a simple but increasingly radical idea: that every sincerely held belief deserves to be examined thoughtfully—even, and especially, when we strongly disagree.</p>episodicCarl Duckett and Randy Blairrandy12278@gmail.comno<![CDATA[Losing our voice: Have our individual freedoms been co opted by politicians? - Part 2]]>The conversation delves into the debate between the use of the Electoral College rather than the Popular Vote in electing the President, exploring its historical context, original rationale on the part of the framers of our constitution, and contribution to state sovereignty. It also addresses the potential negative impact of a popular vote system on individual state representation and influence on the makeup of the incoming government. The conversation delves into the differing philosophies of conservatives and progressives and how they shape the perspectives of each regarding the election process, the impact of election integrity on voter confidence and participation, and a comparison with the more simplified voting process utilized in Ecuador. It also explores the importance of ensuring a clear understanding and strong embrace of the power of the individual vote. It considers changes to voter ID requirements, instituting bipartisan management of the voting process, placing limitations on challenging voting results, and enhancing the importance of election day on a national scale. It also explores the often falsely perceived impact of presidents on the daily lives of voters, the possibility that civil protest creates more significant and immediate change than does the ballot box, and the overarching need to return to a true constitutional model of balance of powers within the government. Additionally, it discusses the importance of understanding that the impact of local government on daily life can and should be far stronger and of greater importance than that of the State and Federal governments.

Takeaways

  • Electoral College vs. Popular Vote
  • State Sovereignty and Representation
  • Election integrity is crucial for voter confidence
  • Comparison to the election process in Ecuador

Chapters

  • 00:00 Weekend Recap and Introduction
  • 08:54 Debate on the Electoral College
  • 19:10 Implications of Popular Vote
  • 29:11 State Autonomy and Electoral College
  • 35:05 Conservatives and Changing Rules
  • 50:27 Voting Process in Ecuador
  • 59:37 Ensuring Election Integrity
  • 01:05:08 Challenges in Voting Results
  • 01:10:48 Importance of Voting and ID Requirement
  • 01:15:48 Impact of Popular Vote for President
  • 01:22:25 Leaders' Tendencies: War or Women
]]>9933cd85-0cb6-4290-b2e0-75d26863f353Thu, 28 May 2026 14:59:36 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the debate between the use of the Electoral College rather than the Popular Vote in electing the President, exploring its historical context, original rationale on the part of the framers of our constitution, and contribution to state sovereignty. It also addresses the potential negative impact of a popular vote system on individual state representation and influence on the makeup of the incoming government. The conversation delves into the differing philosophies of conservatives and progressives and how they shape the perspectives of each regarding the election process, the impact of election integrity on voter confidence and participation, and a comparison with the more simplified voting process utilized in Ecuador. It also explores the importance of ensuring a clear understanding and strong embrace of the power of the individual vote. It considers changes to voter ID requirements, instituting bipartisan management of the voting process, placing limitations on challenging voting results, and enhancing the importance of election day on a national scale. It also explores the often falsely perceived impact of presidents on the daily lives of voters, the possibility that civil protest creates more significant and immediate change than does the ballot box, and the overarching need to return to a true constitutional model of balance of powers within the government. Additionally, it discusses the importance of understanding that the impact of local government on daily life can and should be far stronger and of greater importance than that of the State and Federal governments.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Electoral College vs. Popular Vote</li><li>State Sovereignty and Representation</li><li>Election integrity is crucial for voter confidence</li><li>Comparison to the election process in Ecuador</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Weekend Recap and Introduction</li><li>08:54 Debate on the Electoral College</li><li>19:10 Implications of Popular Vote</li><li>29:11 State Autonomy and Electoral College</li><li>35:05 Conservatives and Changing Rules</li><li>50:27 Voting Process in Ecuador</li><li>59:37 Ensuring Election Integrity</li><li>01:05:08 Challenges in Voting Results</li><li>01:10:48 Importance of Voting and ID Requirement</li><li>01:15:48 Impact of Popular Vote for President</li><li>01:22:25 Leaders' Tendencies: War or Women</li></ul>no01:25:37112Losing our voice: Have our individual freedoms been co opted by politicians? - Part 2full<![CDATA[Losing our voice: Have individual freedoms been co opted by politicians? Part 1]]>The conversation delves into the historical context and contemporary impact of gerrymandering, highlighting concerns about political power and voting rights. It explores the Virginia redistricting case and its implications, as well as proposed solutions and the potential role of AI-based redistricting. The need for independent redistricting commissions is emphasized as a key takeaway. The conversation delves into the topics of gerrymandering and congressional redistricting, highlighting the impact of population changes on representation. It also explores the nature of the federal government and representation, as well as the issue of voter apathy and political laziness.

Takeaways

  • Gerrymandering: Historical and contemporary issues
  • The need for independent redistricting commissions Gerrymandering and Congressional Redistricting
  • Impact of Population Changes on Representation

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Conference Update
  • 07:09 Impact of Gerrymandering on Representation
  • 18:19 Proposed Solutions and AI-Based Redistricting
  • 30:28 Gerrymandering and Congressional Redistricting
  • 41:08 The Nature of the Federal Government and Representation
  • 53:32 Voter Apathy and Political Laziness
]]>583f8e6e-af84-496b-98f8-25be496b68d9Fri, 22 May 2026 13:23:11 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the historical context and contemporary impact of gerrymandering, highlighting concerns about political power and voting rights. It explores the Virginia redistricting case and its implications, as well as proposed solutions and the potential role of AI-based redistricting. The need for independent redistricting commissions is emphasized as a key takeaway. The conversation delves into the topics of gerrymandering and congressional redistricting, highlighting the impact of population changes on representation. It also explores the nature of the federal government and representation, as well as the issue of voter apathy and political laziness.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Gerrymandering: Historical and contemporary issues</li><li>The need for independent redistricting commissions Gerrymandering and Congressional Redistricting</li><li>Impact of Population Changes on Representation</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Conference Update</li><li>07:09 Impact of Gerrymandering on Representation</li><li>18:19 Proposed Solutions and AI-Based Redistricting</li><li>30:28 Gerrymandering and Congressional Redistricting</li><li>41:08 The Nature of the Federal Government and Representation</li><li>53:32 Voter Apathy and Political Laziness</li></ul>no00:53:50111Losing our voice: Have individual freedoms been co opted by politicians? Part 1full<![CDATA[Readin', Riten', and Rithmatic: Part...or whatever comes after Deux.]]>The conversation delves into the purpose of education, the structure of the educational system, curriculum development, and the role of teachers. It also explores the value of liberal arts in education and the need for a top-down approach in education. The conversation delves into the impact of standardized testing, the value of grades and standardized tests, the interpretation of grades and test scores, the role of cursive writing and technology in education, the use of technology in learning and education, pedagogy vs. andragogy in education, restructuring the educational process, the purpose of education and learning, preparing students for the future, the role of higher education and degrees, and the future of education and its challenges.

Takeaways

  • Education needs a top-down approach
  • Value of liberal arts in education Standardized testing has a significant impact on students' lives.
  • The purpose of education needs to be redefined and refocused.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Collaborative Curriculum Development
  • 01:13:22 The Future of Education and Its Challenges
]]>77c8cbfc-c7ff-4a8e-92ab-82df3f159565Fri, 15 May 2026 22:57:36 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the purpose of education, the structure of the educational system, curriculum development, and the role of teachers. It also explores the value of liberal arts in education and the need for a top-down approach in education. The conversation delves into the impact of standardized testing, the value of grades and standardized tests, the interpretation of grades and test scores, the role of cursive writing and technology in education, the use of technology in learning and education, pedagogy vs. andragogy in education, restructuring the educational process, the purpose of education and learning, preparing students for the future, the role of higher education and degrees, and the future of education and its challenges.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Education needs a top-down approach</li><li>Value of liberal arts in education Standardized testing has a significant impact on students' lives.</li><li>The purpose of education needs to be redefined and refocused.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Collaborative Curriculum Development</li><li>01:13:22 The Future of Education and Its Challenges</li></ul>no01:10:31110Readin', Riten', and Rithmatic: Part...or whatever comes after Deux.full<![CDATA[Readin', Ritin', and Rithmatic: Part Deux]]>The conversation delves into the complexities of education funding and outcomes, emphasizing the value of education and the role of funding in achieving educational goals. It also explores the debate surrounding private vs. public school funding and access, highlighting the importance of equal access to quality education for all. The conversation delves into the role of education in society, emphasizing the need for a highly functioning society and the responsibility of parents in advocating for their children's education. It also explores the topic of religion in public schools and the importance of defining the purpose of education to align with the needs of the community.

Takeaways

  • Education funding and outcomes are complex
  • Value of education and the role of funding
  • Private vs. public school funding and access Education is a foundational piece of a highly functioning society.
  • The purpose of education should be defined to align with the needs of the community.

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Purpose of Education and Funding
  • 20:04 Private vs. Public School Funding
  • 39:43 The Role of Education in Society
  • 51:10 Religion in Public Schools
  • 01:09:48 Defining the Purpose of Education
]]>e5c03c14-1222-40c5-89ab-f43889c99cedFri, 08 May 2026 15:37:55 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the complexities of education funding and outcomes, emphasizing the value of education and the role of funding in achieving educational goals. It also explores the debate surrounding private vs. public school funding and access, highlighting the importance of equal access to quality education for all. The conversation delves into the role of education in society, emphasizing the need for a highly functioning society and the responsibility of parents in advocating for their children's education. It also explores the topic of religion in public schools and the importance of defining the purpose of education to align with the needs of the community.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Education funding and outcomes are complex</li><li>Value of education and the role of funding</li><li>Private vs. public school funding and access Education is a foundational piece of a highly functioning society.</li><li>The purpose of education should be defined to align with the needs of the community.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Purpose of Education and Funding</li><li>20:04 Private vs. Public School Funding</li><li>39:43 The Role of Education in Society</li><li>51:10 Religion in Public Schools</li><li>01:09:48 Defining the Purpose of Education</li></ul>no01:10:04Readin', Ritin', and Rithmatic: Part Deuxfull<![CDATA[Readin', Ritin', and Rithmatic...Has Education Failed the United States?]]>The conversation looks at the state of education and the role of conformity and self-censorship in shaping the educational system. It explores the use of education as a tool for indoctrination and the impact of social and political influences on the educational process. It delves into the challenges of censorship on college campuses and the impact of social media on free speech. It also explores the role of parents in education as advocates for the children and raises the question of who should be in charge of education. Additionally, it discusses the influence of corporate America in shaping educational pathways and the need for a reevaluation of the purpose of our education system. The conversation delves into the future of education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in learning and the role of liberal arts in developing critical thinking. It also explores the disconnect between academia and industry, the impact of education on economic development, and the importance of collaboration between industry and education for talent acquisition.

Takeaways

  • Education as a tool for indoctrination
  • Conformity and self-censorship in education Censorship on college campuses
  • Role of parents in education Collaboration in education is crucial
  • The value of a liberal arts education in developing critical thinking and well-rounded individuals

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Role of Conformity and Self-Censorship in Education
  • 31:58 Censorship on College Campuses
  • 40:38 Who Should Be in Charge of Education?
  • 46:36 The Upside-Down Pyramid of Education
  • 59:29 Corporate Influence in Education
  • 01:05:03 The Role of Liberal Arts in Education and Specialization
]]>6cb28dc7-2839-4d6e-a64f-bf3d1b6f512dWed, 29 Apr 2026 16:26:35 GMT<p>The conversation looks at the state of education and the role of conformity and self-censorship in shaping the educational system. It explores the use of education as a tool for indoctrination and the impact of social and political influences on the educational process. It delves into the challenges of censorship on college campuses and the impact of social media on free speech. It also explores the role of parents in education as advocates for the children and raises the question of who should be in charge of education. Additionally, it discusses the influence of corporate America in shaping educational pathways and the need for a reevaluation of the purpose of our education system. The conversation delves into the future of education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in learning and the role of liberal arts in developing critical thinking. It also explores the disconnect between academia and industry, the impact of education on economic development, and the importance of collaboration between industry and education for talent acquisition.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Education as a tool for indoctrination</li><li>Conformity and self-censorship in education Censorship on college campuses</li><li>Role of parents in education Collaboration in education is crucial</li><li>The value of a liberal arts education in developing critical thinking and well-rounded individuals</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Role of Conformity and Self-Censorship in Education</li><li>31:58 Censorship on College Campuses</li><li>40:38 Who Should Be in Charge of Education?</li><li>46:36 The Upside-Down Pyramid of Education</li><li>59:29 Corporate Influence in Education</li><li>01:05:03 The Role of Liberal Arts in Education and Specialization</li></ul>no01:33:10Readin', Ritin', and Rithmatic...Has Education Failed the United States?full<![CDATA[Sharing the Wealth: Equitable Funding of College Sports]]>The challenges in college sports funding and structure are explored, along with the primary revenue streams in college sports. The impact of TV revenue on college sports funding is discussed, followed by proposed solutions for equitable funding and salary caps in college sports. The conversation delves into the concept of equitable funding and revenue sharing in college football, exploring its impact on competitive parity and the overall fan experience. It also discusses the challenges and implications of revenue sharing across a large number of teams, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to ensure fairness and sustainability. The conversation delves into the complexities of antitrust laws and automatic bids in college football, the implications of revenue sharing on player development, the need for sustainable funding, the importance of equitable funding for a better fan experience, and the need for stronger leadership and greater vision not only for college football, but for all intercollegiate sports.

Takeaways

  • Equitable funding of college sports Equitable funding and revenue sharing in college football
  • Impact of revenue sharing on competitive parity Equitable funding is not the same as equal funding
  • The sustainability of college football is a major concern

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Experience
  • 08:24 Primary Revenue Streams in College Sports
  • 13:27 Proposed Solutions for Equitable Funding and Salary Caps in College Sports
  • 30:44 Equitable Funding and Revenue Sharing
  • 36:58 Impact on Competitive Parity
  • 54:15 Antitrust and Automatic Bids
  • 59:35 Leadership and Vision for College Football
]]>83a95977-5a87-4e58-b672-7710f18d2f1cThu, 23 Apr 2026 16:19:42 GMT<p>The challenges in college sports funding and structure are explored, along with the primary revenue streams in college sports. The impact of TV revenue on college sports funding is discussed, followed by proposed solutions for equitable funding and salary caps in college sports. The conversation delves into the concept of equitable funding and revenue sharing in college football, exploring its impact on competitive parity and the overall fan experience. It also discusses the challenges and implications of revenue sharing across a large number of teams, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to ensure fairness and sustainability. The conversation delves into the complexities of antitrust laws and automatic bids in college football, the implications of revenue sharing on player development, the need for sustainable funding, the importance of equitable funding for a better fan experience, and the need for stronger leadership and greater vision not only for college football, but for all intercollegiate sports.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Equitable funding of college sports Equitable funding and revenue sharing in college football</li><li>Impact of revenue sharing on competitive parity Equitable funding is not the same as equal funding</li><li>The sustainability of college football is a major concern</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Experience</li><li>08:24 Primary Revenue Streams in College Sports</li><li>13:27 Proposed Solutions for Equitable Funding and Salary Caps in College Sports</li><li>30:44 Equitable Funding and Revenue Sharing</li><li>36:58 Impact on Competitive Parity</li><li>54:15 Antitrust and Automatic Bids</li><li>59:35 Leadership and Vision for College Football</li></ul>no01:17:4217Sharing the Wealth: Equitable Funding of College Sportsfull<![CDATA[Sacrificing conferences on the altar of the CFP]]>The conversation delves into the challenges of conference realignment and the impact of the College Football Playoff (CFP) on the significance of conference championships. It explores the tension between nostalgia and modernization in college football, as well as the concept of relegation and promotion in the sport. The conversation delves into the restructuring of the college football playoff, proposing a new playoff model, seeding, home stadium advantage, the national championship venue, and the debate around playoff models. It also covers scheduling, season length, and equitable revenue sharing for college sports.

Takeaways

  • Conference Realignment
  • Impact of CFP
  • Nostalgia vs. Modernization
  • Relegation and Promotion Equitable sharing of revenue for college sports
  • The importance of revenue generation and its impact on college sports
  • The need for a model that takes the human element out and settles it on the field

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Challenge of Conference Realignment and CFP Impact
  • 53:08 Equitable Revenue Sharing for College Sports
]]>6c84f28e-2d8d-4868-bfd3-3bb05493e916Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:41:24 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the challenges of conference realignment and the impact of the College Football Playoff (CFP) on the significance of conference championships. It explores the tension between nostalgia and modernization in college football, as well as the concept of relegation and promotion in the sport. The conversation delves into the restructuring of the college football playoff, proposing a new playoff model, seeding, home stadium advantage, the national championship venue, and the debate around playoff models. It also covers scheduling, season length, and equitable revenue sharing for college sports.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Conference Realignment</li><li>Impact of CFP</li><li>Nostalgia vs. Modernization</li><li>Relegation and Promotion Equitable sharing of revenue for college sports</li><li>The importance of revenue generation and its impact on college sports</li><li>The need for a model that takes the human element out and settles it on the field</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Challenge of Conference Realignment and CFP Impact</li><li>53:08 Equitable Revenue Sharing for College Sports</li></ul>no01:14:1316Sacrificing conferences on the altar of the CFPfull<![CDATA[Let's fix college sports...starting with NIL and the Transfer Portal ]]>The conversation delves into the impact of NIL and the transfer portal on college sports, addressing differing opinions, proposed solutions, and the problems associated with the portal. It also explores the role of coaches and contracts, the impact on player development, and the potential shift in high school recruiting dynamics. The conversation delves into the power dynamics of college football conferences, highlighting the influence of money, roster retention, and the impact on parity. It also explores the potential for reform in college football, focusing on high school recruiting, player development, and the influence of NFL talent scouting.

Takeaways

  • Impact of NIL and the transfer portal on college sports
  • Role of coaches and contracts in the context of the transfer portal Money drives the power and influence of college football conferences.
  • Reform in college football should emphasize high school recruiting, player development, and NFL talent scouting.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Setting the Stage
  • 13:30 The Problem with the Portal
  • 22:04 Coaches and Contracts
  • 30:34 The Power of Conferences
  • 01:01:19 Funding and Investment in College Sports
]]>542bd329-22af-4cb2-b8a8-ffa5149b70cfFri, 10 Apr 2026 15:41:29 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the impact of NIL and the transfer portal on college sports, addressing differing opinions, proposed solutions, and the problems associated with the portal. It also explores the role of coaches and contracts, the impact on player development, and the potential shift in high school recruiting dynamics. The conversation delves into the power dynamics of college football conferences, highlighting the influence of money, roster retention, and the impact on parity. It also explores the potential for reform in college football, focusing on high school recruiting, player development, and the influence of NFL talent scouting.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Impact of NIL and the transfer portal on college sports</li><li>Role of coaches and contracts in the context of the transfer portal Money drives the power and influence of college football conferences.</li><li>Reform in college football should emphasize high school recruiting, player development, and NFL talent scouting.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Setting the Stage</li><li>13:30 The Problem with the Portal</li><li>22:04 Coaches and Contracts</li><li>30:34 The Power of Conferences</li><li>01:01:19 Funding and Investment in College Sports</li></ul>no01:19:21Let's fix college sports...starting with NIL and the Transfer Portal full<![CDATA[America's Role in the World: Leader, Protector, or Last Responder?]]>What exactly is America's role in the world? How is it perceived in our own country versus how it is perceived in the rest of the world? What should our role be? Are we world leaders, world protectors, or are we the last responders that the world looks to when there are no other alternatives? Have the roles that we have filled in the past been beneficial or detrimental to the world at large? How about our own country? Have we sacrificed our own well-being in fulfilling a role that no one else wants or is incapable of filling? What (or who) is really driving the roles that America is taking on in the world body politic? Join us as we discuss the roles America has historically played, analyze the roles that we currently find ourselves in, and attempt to define the roles that we should play in the future.

]]>38697afb-1e63-4d70-9f99-551aff2df994Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:23:30 GMT<p>What exactly is America's role in the world? How is it perceived in our own country versus how it is perceived in the rest of the world? What should our role be? Are we world leaders, world protectors, or are we the last responders that the world looks to when there are no other alternatives? Have the roles that we have filled in the past been beneficial or detrimental to the world at large? How about our own country? Have we sacrificed our own well-being in fulfilling a role that no one else wants or is incapable of filling? What (or who) is really driving the roles that America is taking on in the world body politic? Join us as we discuss the roles America has historically played, analyze the roles that we currently find ourselves in, and attempt to define the roles that we should play in the future.</p>no01:10:5514America's Role in the World: Leader, Protector, or Last Responder?full<![CDATA[What the #@!% Happened to !%@# Decorum]]>We discuss what appears to be a total abandonment of decorum within our government institutions, educational systems, media, and its effect on our political and social discourse. Is it possible to pull back from the abyss of vulgarity that pervades every avenue of communication in our society? Are we sacrificing civility in the name of authenticity? Can we return to the days of etiquette, decency, and propriety? Do we want to? Join our discussion of the current state of communication as we look at the pros and cons of what is often excused as honesty in communication.

]]>a70acd34-7447-4a55-bf8d-fa49fd34d762Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:39:49 GMT<p>We discuss what appears to be a total abandonment of decorum within our government institutions, educational systems, media, and its effect on our political and social discourse. Is it possible to pull back from the abyss of vulgarity that pervades every avenue of communication in our society? Are we sacrificing civility in the name of authenticity? Can we return to the days of etiquette, decency, and propriety? Do we want to? Join our discussion of the current state of communication as we look at the pros and cons of what is often excused as honesty in communication.</p>no01:05:0113What the #@!% Happened to !%@# Decorumfull<![CDATA[Iran: Deterrence, Regime Change, or another Forever War?]]>This episode explores the complex and nuanced issues surrounding Iran, nuclear deterrence, regime change, and U.S. foreign policy. Hosts Carl and Randy engage in a deep, respectful debate on the motivations, implications, and strategic considerations of recent actions in the Middle East and beyond.

]]>120b14ff-36f7-473e-a828-e251f02a8349Fri, 13 Mar 2026 20:07:21 GMT<p>This episode explores the complex and nuanced issues surrounding Iran, nuclear deterrence, regime change, and U.S. foreign policy. Hosts Carl and Randy engage in a deep, respectful debate on the motivations, implications, and strategic considerations of recent actions in the Middle East and beyond.</p>no01:19:3312Iran: Deterrence, Regime Change, or another Forever War?full<![CDATA[Why would I care what you think?]]>The 8515 Podcast is a platform for respectful and civil discourse on a wide range of topics, emphasizing the importance of open-mindedness and rational disagreement. The hosts, Randy and Carl, explore the challenges of disagreement, the impact of tribalism, and the need for respectful discourse in today's society. The conversation delves into the concept of open-mindedness, the dangers of being intellectually lazy, the importance of foundational beliefs, and the impact of love and respect in disagreements. It also emphasizes the need for critical thinking and the pursuit of objective truth.

Takeaways

  • Respectful discourse and rational disagreement are essential for fostering critical thinking and understanding different perspectives.
  • Tribalism, intentional division, and the desire to be right contribute to the breakdown of civil discourse and open-mindedness. Open-mindedness can become a rigid box of conformity
  • Foundational beliefs are essential for personal identity and decision-making
  • Love and respect are crucial in navigating disagreements and discussions
  • Critical thinking and the pursuit of objective truth are necessary for intellectual growth

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to the 8515 Podcast
  • 07:35 Historical Context of Political Discourse
  • 13:52 The Desire to Be Right and the Impact of Tribalism
  • 27:20 The Definition of Open-Mindedness
  • 34:35 The Importance of Foundational Beliefs
  • 46:55 Maintaining a Berean Mindset
]]>7876ebbe-07d2-48df-aa12-7dd817367a16Fri, 13 Mar 2026 19:50:32 GMT<p>The 8515 Podcast is a platform for respectful and civil discourse on a wide range of topics, emphasizing the importance of open-mindedness and rational disagreement. The hosts, Randy and Carl, explore the challenges of disagreement, the impact of tribalism, and the need for respectful discourse in today's society. The conversation delves into the concept of open-mindedness, the dangers of being intellectually lazy, the importance of foundational beliefs, and the impact of love and respect in disagreements. It also emphasizes the need for critical thinking and the pursuit of objective truth.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Respectful discourse and rational disagreement are essential for fostering critical thinking and understanding different perspectives.</li><li>Tribalism, intentional division, and the desire to be right contribute to the breakdown of civil discourse and open-mindedness. Open-mindedness can become a rigid box of conformity</li><li>Foundational beliefs are essential for personal identity and decision-making</li><li>Love and respect are crucial in navigating disagreements and discussions</li><li>Critical thinking and the pursuit of objective truth are necessary for intellectual growth</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to the 8515 Podcast</li><li>07:35 Historical Context of Political Discourse</li><li>13:52 The Desire to Be Right and the Impact of Tribalism</li><li>27:20 The Definition of Open-Mindedness</li><li>34:35 The Importance of Foundational Beliefs</li><li>46:55 Maintaining a Berean Mindset</li></ul>no00:45:1711Why would I care what you think?full