In this episode of Well, That’s a Deep Subject, host James D. Newcomb is joined by Marc Mawhinney, host of the Natural Born Coaches podcast and founder of The Coaching Jungle. Together they reflect on the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, following his tragic assassination at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.

Rather than analyzing the politics and lingering grief surrounding Mr. Kirk, James and Marc take a different path: They explore what made him so persuasive and influential. From his natural likability to his willingness to step into hostile environments, Charlie embodied traits that drew people in, whether they admired him or despised him.

The discussion touches on qualities like authenticity, empathy, confidence, and clarity: elements that made him not just a political figure but a case study in influence.

Marc brings a unique perspective as both a seasoned amateur political enthusiast and a keen observer of human behavior in his long career guiding coaches in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Together, James and Marc consider how Kirk’s style of persuasion created both loyalty and animosity, shaping him into a polarizing yet deeply impactful presence. The conversation also reflects on the broader cultural climate, what Kirk’s influence revealed about the state of debate, the fragility of critical thinking in youth, and the dangers of dehumanization in public discourse.

It’s a thoughtful tribute to a man who left a profound mark, reminding us of the power of presence, conviction, and courage in the war of ideas.

Episode Highlights:

03:00 – Marc shares his early impressions of Kirk and his own experience with campus politics.

06:00 – The power of likability and authenticity in Kirk’s persona.

07:30 – Kirk’s courage to enter hostile environments and speak unapologetically.

09:00 – His respectful approach, even with ideological opponents.

10:15 – How he handled confrontational or unprepared critics with composure.

13:00 – The generational decline in critical thinking and the role of social media.

14:30 – Kirk’s strategic role in shaping U.S. politics and elections.

15:30 – Why audiences saw him as a voice for their unspoken convictions.

17:15 – Stories of persuasion: converting skeptics through clarity and persistence.

18:45 – The polarizing effect of his communication style.

20:00 – Media distortions, misquotes, and the dangers of dehumanization.

23:45 – On vilification, violence, and the blurred line between rhetoric and consequence.

24:30 – Admiration for Kirk’s willingness to face ideological fire head-on.

25:15 – Why his death may strengthen, not silence, his influence.

27:00 – The “Obi-Wan Kenobi” effect: becoming more powerful in death.

29:00 – Final reflections: learning from Kirk’s legacy of persuasion, whether one agreed with him or not.

Charlie Kirk’s life was defined by conviction, clarity, and courage. Whether you viewed him as a champion or an adversary, his ability to persuade and influence was undeniable. As James and Marc reflect, Kirk’s legacy offers a sobering reminder of the responsibility that comes with influence—and the dangers of dehumanizing those with whom we disagree. Ultimately, this conversation is not about politics but about the qualities that make persuasion powerful, and the enduring impact of a man who lived and died by his convictions.

Resources Mentioned

The Coaching Jungle community by Marc Mawhinney thecoachingjungle.com

Charlie Kirk’s book: The Right-Wing Revolution: How to Beat the Woke and Save the West https://amzn.to/42w4xjK

The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt https://amzn.to/46c4hZG

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