In this wide-ranging episode, Jon and Denise explore the state of free speech and the deeper psychological roots of authoritarian control. We discuss the unfortunate political violence surrounding Charlie Kirk, and the fallout following Jimmy Kimmel's removal from primetime TV. Drawing parallels to early 20th-century history, they unpack how fear, propaganda, and silencing tactics manifest in modern culture — and what that means for democracy today. Beyond the warnings, they also reflect on practical solutions and pathways toward a society built on resilience, openness, and true freedom of thought.