Real Talk with Riggin

Author and professor of government, philosophy, and civic leadership at the University of Texas at Austin, J. Budziszewski joins us to discuss what he calls “A Pandemic of Lunacy,” examining the moral and cultural confusion he believes has gripped modern society. Drawing from his background in natural law and classical philosophy, Budziszewski explores how reason, conscience, and common sense have been sidelined in today’s public discourse. He argues that many of the social and political upheavals we’re witnessing stem not just from policy disagreements, but from deeper philosophical errors about truth, human nature, and moral responsibility. In this conversation, he challenges listeners to think critically about the cultural moment and consider how enduring principles can offer clarity in chaotic times.

Russia’s icebreaking fleet dwarfs that of the United States: Moscow currently operates dozens of vessels — often cited at around 54 icebreakers, some nuclear-powered — while Washington has only two primary icebreaking ships, one of which intermittently struggles with maintenance and operational issues, underscoring a stark imbalance in Arctic capability and influence, especially around strategic areas like Greenland. In a debate over American presence there was a common ground. Keep America great. 

Polls are now open on the education tax credit advisory question, and voters are weighing in on a measure that could shape the future of school choice and funding in our state. Joining us to break down what the advisory question means, how it could impact families, and what supporters and critics are saying is Dylan Sharkey. He’ll walk us through what’s on the ballot, why it matters, and what voters should know before they cast their vote.

The DSA Runway is set to shine as a celebration of confidence, inclusion, and community, featuring the incredible individuals served by the Gateway Down Syndrome Association’s Southeast Missouri Chapter. Director Maria Marzuco joins us to share how this inspiring event gives participants the opportunity to walk the runway, showcase their personalities, and be celebrated for exactly who they are. More than just a fashion show, DSA Runway highlights the importance of advocacy, support, and empowerment for individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout the region.

Preparing to Survive in the Age of Collapse is more than a dramatic headline—it’s a sober, strategic conversation about resilience in uncertain times. Retired Air Force Colonel Dr. Drew Miller, who served as an Intelligence Officer and is now an author, brings a clear-eyed perspective shaped by years of analyzing global threats and emerging risks. Drawing on his military experience and research, Dr. Miller outlines practical steps families and communities can take to prepare for economic instability, cyber disruptions, supply chain breakdowns, and geopolitical conflict. Rather than fear-driven panic, he emphasizes disciplined planning, situational awareness, and the mindset shift needed to navigate a rapidly changing world with confidence and purpose.

Missouri’s small business community is feeling a renewed sense of momentum, and Brad Jones, State Director of NFIB Missouri, joins us with an Optimism Update and more on what’s driving that outlook. From easing inflation pressures to pro-growth policies at the state level, Jones says many job creators are seeing fresh opportunities to expand, hire, and invest in their communities. But challenges remain, including workforce shortages and regulatory uncertainty that continue to weigh on Main Street. He’ll break down the latest small business optimism trends, what they mean for Missouri’s economy, and what lawmakers can do to keep the positive energy moving forward.

St. Mary Cathedral School is gearing up for its highly anticipated Dinner Auction, an evening that brings together families, alumni, and community supporters for fellowship, fine food, and fundraising — all in support of Catholic education. Co-Chair Erika Westrich says the event is not only a celebration of the school’s strong traditions and academic excellence, but also a vital effort to enhance programs, classrooms, and student opportunities. Guests can expect an exciting lineup of silent and live auction items, great entertainment, and plenty of school spirit, as the St. Mary community gathers to invest in the future of its students.

The European Union is increasingly setting its regulatory sights on major American companies, raising concerns about fairness, innovation, and economic sovereignty. Sal Nuzzo, Executive Director at Consumers’ Defense, argues that the EU’s aggressive antitrust actions, digital market regulations, and sweeping compliance mandates disproportionately impact U.S.-based firms while shielding European competitors. Nuzzo contends that these policies function less as consumer protection measures and more as economic protectionism, creating costly barriers that ultimately hurt American businesses and the consumers who rely on their services. As transatlantic tensions grow, he warns that policymakers in Washington must push back to ensure a level playing field and defend U.S. companies from what he describes as regulatory overreach abroad.

Senior Editor at The Federalist and author John Daniel Davidson is sounding the alarm in his latest work, Pagan America: The Decline of Christianity and the Dark Age to Come. Davidson argues that as the United States moves further away from its Christian foundations, the nation is not becoming more neutral—but more pagan, replacing biblical values with secular ideologies and cultural chaos. He contends that this spiritual shift is reshaping everything from politics and education to family life and public morality. Drawing on history, Davidson warns that civilizations which abandon their religious roots often face cultural decline, and he challenges Christians to recognize the moment and respond with conviction rather than complacency.

Senior Counsel at First Liberty Institute Jeremy Dys says the Trump Administration’s proposed rules on prayer and religious expression in public schools are designed to reinforce longstanding constitutional protections for students and teachers. The guidance aims to clarify that voluntary prayer, religious clubs, and faith-based expression are permitted under the First Amendment, so long as participation is not coerced and schools do not endorse a particular religion. Dys explains the proposal seeks to provide clearer guardrails for administrators, ensuring students are free to express their beliefs just as they would any other personal viewpoint, while maintaining the balance between protecting religious liberty and upholding the Establishment Clause.