In this episode of Finding Your Spine, Dr. Chase Spears sits down with David Goodwin, co-author of Battle for the American Mind and a leader in the classical Christian education movement. 

They explore how education shapes the soul and why the West has shifted from a Christian paideia to a modern servile one. David shares his journey from homeschooling and military service to embracing classical Christian education, while Chase unpacks the concept of paideia as deep soul formation rather than mere academics. The conversation covers the historical roots of liberal arts, the progressive replacement of Christian formation with an “American paideia,” and the long-term cultural consequences visible today. 

They discuss how stories, cosmologies, and early formation influence what people love and value, and why rebuilding a liberated paideia rooted in wisdom and virtue is essential for raising courageous generations. A thoughtful discussion on education, culture, faith, and moral courage.

00:00:00 – Introduction

00:01:05 – Goodwin's Background

00:02:55 – Classical Christian Education

00:04:44 – Defining Paideia

00:07:36 – Western Christian Roots

00:11:56 – Progressive Shift

00:16:55 – American Paideia

00:22:03 – Military and Worldview

00:35:18 – Colonization and Courage

00:42:54 – Hope for the Future

You can find "Battle for the American Mind" here on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0abRX2Ge

Read more of David’s work here: https://davidgoodwin.substack.com/

You can follow Chase Spears on X @DrChaseSpears. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your favorite episodes to keep the conversation going.

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