Refining Rhetoric with Robert Bortins

What if the biggest threat to Christian values in America isn't hostile politicians—but Christians who refuse to vote? Bunni Pounds drops a bombshell statistic that will shake you: Christians are registering and voting at exactly the same rates as the general population. That means roughly half of Bible-believing Americans are voluntarily sitting out the very process that determines who governs their communities.

While faithful Christians stay home on election day, secular activists are showing up in droves to elect school board members who push gender ideology, city council members who restrict religious freedom, and county officials who shut down churches. We're literally handing over our nation to people whose worldview is diametrically opposed to Scripture—and then wondering why our culture is falling apart.

Bunni's journey from homeschool mom to political consultant to mobilizing nearly a million Christians reveals the stunning power of engaged believers and the devastating consequences of Christian apathy.

Resources:

https://www.bunnipounds.com/

https://christiansengaged.org/

https://www.americareadsthebible.com/

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by Grand Canyon University and Classical Conversations Plus Undergraduate Program:

Is your homeschooler ready for what's next? At Grand Canyon University, we're Christ-centered and academically focused, just like your family. GCU supports homeschool

students with Classical Conversations scholarships, personalized guidance at every step

and a welcoming student community. See for yourself with our homeschool campus visit programs — where faith, freedom and community meet.

Grow spiritually. Grow academically. Find your purpose at GCU.

Learn more at gcu.edu/homeschool.

Classical Conversations Plus Undergraduate Program

Your Purpose Made Approachable…

Whether that is a degree, a discipline, or a deeper understanding of interests, CC Plus Undergrad can help. Our unique relationship with Southeastern University provides multiple opportunities and options for enrolling as a degree-seeking student at Southeastern University, which allows for a continued pursuit of lifelong learning, making passion and purpose approachable whether you are a CC graduate or CC parent.

To learn more about the CC Plus Undergrad Program or to begin your journey of pursuing your next season of learning, go to www.classicalconversationsplus.com/undergraduate-program

Think homeschoolers are antisocial? Think again. In this special in-studio episode, Robert sits down with his sister-in-law Emma Bortins, a Classical Conversations graduate who went from small-town homeschooling to thriving in the heart of New York City at The King's College.

Emma breaks down the myths about homeschool socialization while sharing how her classical education prepared her not just for college, but for real-world success as a publicist, nonprofit consultant, and now new mom. From networking her way into competitive jobs to working with Classical Conversations founder Leigh Bortins, Emma proves that homeschoolers don't just survive in the professional world—they excel.

Discover how the tools of learning (grammar, dialectic, and rhetoric) translate into workplace success, why authenticity beats aggression in public relations, and what the classical education movement is getting right (and wrong) in the media landscape. Plus, get insider tips on landing your first job out of college and why your network truly is your net worth.

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by 2026 Classical Conversations Family Cruise and Gutenberg College:

Have you heard? The Classical Conversations 2026 CC Family Cruise will set sail on May 16, 2026. This exciting adventure is open to all CC families and alumni. It will include the National Memory Master Competition, National Commencement, and special CC family activities. Interest is booming with over 800 people interested in cruising with us and cabins are selling out fast!

Book your cabin now at www.classicalconversations.com/cruise-2026

Remember, to participate in the CC activities you need to book through the CC group.

Grab your sunscreen, your beach bag, and join us on board!

Over the past 2000 years, the West has developed a successful educational model that guides students toward mature independent thought. Gutenberg College, a Christian, Great Books, undergraduate college in the pacific northwest embraces this time-tested approach. At Gutenberg students are encouraged to boldly pursue truth within a biblical framework. They do so with peers and faculty-mentors in lively small group discussions. To find out more, go to gutenberg.edu.

What if the biggest threat to Christian education isn't coming from the left—but from Christians themselves? In this eye-opening episode of Refining Rhetoric, attorney and author Kevin R. Novak drops a bombshell that will make you rethink everything about school choice, vouchers, and education reform. While most Christians celebrate getting "their tax dollars back" through ESA programs, Novak argues they're actually participating in socialism and expanding the very system they claim to oppose. Drawing from biblical principles of jurisdiction and constitutional law, Novak makes the case that civil government has zero authority over education—period. He reveals how school choice programs are driving up costs, why property taxes for schools are unconstitutional, and how the "Christian establishment" is gatekeeping a true education revival. From dispensationalists to pietists, Novak names the theological movements that got us here and explains why the solution isn't reforming public schools—it's abolishing them entirely.

Resources:

https://deconstructingthecoliseum.com/

https://kevinrnovak.com/

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by the Classical Learning Cohort

The Classical Learning Cohort offers online classes for parents to become more confident and competent Classical teachers. Through small-group lessons with trained Mentors, participants practice implementing classical skills, giving and receiving assessments, while experiencing transformative growth as a classical Christian educator.

Want to learn more? Attend a free, online, Experience the CLC event at classicalconversations.com/cohort.

What if everything the "experts" told us about globalization, economics, and the future was wrong? Dr. Steve Turley, the "Patriot Professor" and author of over 20 books, joins Robert Bortins to discuss his latest work "America Awakened: The Collapse of Globalism and the Return to Faith, Family, and Freedom." They explore why globalism is collapsing after decades of dominance, how civilizational populism is rising worldwide, and what the new post-secular civilization will look like. The conversation covers the spiritual revival happening globally, the importance of classical education in preserving traditional values, the role of AI and technology in returning us to more human-centered approaches, and how the "people versus the permanent political class" realignment is reshaping politics. Dr. Turley explains why he's optimistic about America's future and how MAGA represents a uniquely American expression of the global return to faith, family, and freedom.

Resources:

https://www.youtube.com/@DrSteveTurleyTV

https://turleytalks.com/

https://www.amazon.com/America-Awakened-Collapse-Globalism-Freedom/dp/B0FFCWKH2R

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by:

Have you heard? National Memory Master and National Commencement are moving to the Classical Conversations family cruise in 2026. This cruise isn't just to celebrate CC graduates and memory masters, it's for all CC families! You can connect with CC leaders and families at all stages of their journey and turn education into a memorable family adventure as you explore the Bahamas aboard Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas. Check out our landing page at www.classicalconversations.com/cruise-2026.

Is your Christian teen prepared for the intellectual assault waiting at university? Dr. Owen Anderson, Professor of Philosophy and Religion at Arizona State University, pulls back the curtain on what's really happening on college campuses. With 70% of Christian students walking away from their faith in university, Dr. Anderson—a rare conservative Christian voice inside the secular academic machine—reveals the specific challenges your children will face and how to prepare them for battle.

You'll discover:

· The philosophical foundations every Christian student needs before stepping foot on campus

· How natural law and natural theology provide unshakeable answers to professors' attacks on faith

· Why the Book of Job is actually the first philosophy textbook—and what it teaches about the problem of evil

· The biggest misconceptions Christians have about the Book of Revelation (and why it's actually about victory, not defeat)

· Practical strategies for documenting and reporting anti-Christian bias in the classroom

· How to find mentors and build support systems that will help your student thrive, not just survive

Universities aren't just liberal—they're actively working to destroy your child's faith. But Dr. Anderson proves it's possible to not only survive but thrive in hostile academic environments when you're properly prepared.

Resources:

https://drowenanderson.substack.com/

https://drowenanderson.com/

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by:

In a world filled with confusion, clarity begins with God's Word. At Boyce College, truth isn't just something we study, it's the foundation of everything we do. Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Boyce College equips students to know the truth and live it with maximum faithfulness.

Learn more and schedule your visit at BoyceCollege.com/Classical-Conversations

What happens when artificial intelligence can write better essays than your students—and they don't even know the difference? In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Bill Davis from Covenant College explores the ethical implications of AI in education and beyond. From the classroom challenges of detecting AI-generated work to the broader questions of human expertise versus machine efficiency, this conversation digs deep into how tools like ChatGPT and Claude are reshaping learning, medicine, and human interaction. Dr. Davis shares practical insights on teaching students to recognize the difference between human creativity and statistically-generated text, while examining the critical question: How do we maintain human agency and wisdom in an increasingly AI-driven world? Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply curious about AI's role in society, this episode offers essential perspectives on navigating the promises and perils of artificial intelligence.

Resources:

https://covenant.edu/

Departing In Peace: Biblical Decision-Making at the End of Life by Dr. Bill Davis on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Departing-Peace-Biblical-Decision-Making-Life/dp/1629952591

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by:

Many Americans across the country that feel stuck with their financial institution simply because the idea of switching feels too overwhelming. The team at America's Christian Credit Union helps make the process easy. Whether it's looking for better business banking or seeking a financial partner that shares your values, ACCU is here to serve you.

If you're ready to align your banking with your beliefs, it's time to make the switch to ACCU.

Visit www.AmericasChristianCU.com/CC to learn more and get started today.

America's Christian Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA.

We're partnering with Dad Tired to give away two free tickets to their upcoming retreat—a weekend designed to equip, refresh, and connect Christian fathers who are serious about living out their calling. Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering our show, this is your chance to invest in your walk with Christ, your leadership at home, and your brotherhood with other men doing the same.

Here's how to enter: head to the Refining Rhetoric Instagram (or follow this link: https://www.instagram.com/p/DLptZ2DO7Z7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), look for the pinned post about the Dad Tired Retreat giveaway and follow the instructions in the caption.

What if the key to saving America isn't found in Washington D.C., but in the hands that rock the cradle? Join host Robert as he sits down with Kimberly Fletcher, founder of Moms for America, who transformed from a patriotic mom into a patriot after 9/11 when her Air Force husband narrowly escaped the Pentagon attack. With over 20 years of grassroots activism experience, Kimberly shares how God called her to start a national organization despite feeling completely unqualified—and how that humility became her greatest strength. Discover why Kimberly believes America's identity crisis can only be solved by empowering mothers, how the left wins through storytelling while conservatives fight with statistics, and why building relationships with legislators through birthday cards and thank-you notes is more effective than angry phone calls. From the power of the America 250 celebration to mobilize patriotism, to practical strategies for getting involved in the political process, this episode reveals how ordinary moms are becoming the extraordinary force reshaping American culture. Whether you're a seasoned activist or just waking up to the need for involvement, Kimberly's journey from homeschool mom to national leader will inspire you to step into your calling and discover the immeasurable influence you have simply by being who you are.

Resources:

https://momsforamerica.us/

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by:

Have you heard? National Memory Master and National Commencement are moving to the Classical Conversations family cruise in 2026. This cruise isn't just to celebrate CC graduates and memory masters, it's for all CC families! You can connect with CC leaders and families at all stages of their journey and turn education into a memorable family adventure as you explore the Bahamas aboard Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas. Check out our landing page at www.classicalconversations.com/cruise-2026.

We're partnering with Dad Tired to give away two free tickets to their upcoming retreat—a weekend designed to equip, refresh, and connect Christian fathers who are serious about living out their calling. Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering our show, this is your chance to invest in your walk with Christ, your leadership at home, and your brotherhood with other men doing the same.

Here's how to enter: head to the Refining Rhetoric Instagram (or follow this link: https://www.instagram.com/p/DLptZ2DO7Z7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), look for the pinned post about the Dad Tired Retreat giveaway and follow the instructions in the caption.

What if the secret to raising spiritually mature kids isn't found in the latest parenting book, but in letting Scripture do the heavy lifting? Robert interviews Josh Niemi, founder of Expository Parenting Ministries, about his unique approach to Christian parenting that mirrors expository preaching—teaching children the Bible verse by verse in systematic discipleship. Josh shares how to start with storybook Bibles for younger children before transitioning to verse-by-verse study, the importance of partnering with expositional churches, and how this method builds solid theological foundations without common evangelical misconceptions. He offers practical insights from teaching his own three children through the entire Old Testament and discusses children's surprising capacity for understanding deep theology. The conversation also covers his book "Greater Than Aaron," exploring how Christ fulfills the Old Testament priesthood.

Resources:

https://www.expositoryparenting.org/

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by the Classical Learning Cohort

The Classical Learning Cohort offers online classes for parents to become more confident and competent Classical teachers. Through small-group lessons with trained Mentors, participants practice implementing classical skills, giving and receiving assessments, while experiencing transformative growth as a classical Christian educator.

Want to learn more? Attend a free, online, Experience the CLC event at classicalconversations.com/cohort.

What if your teenager knows all the "right" Christian answers but can't defend a single one? Join Robert Bortins as he sits down with Steve Noble, former Christian talk radio host turned educator, who's taught over 1,400 high school homeschoolers since 2011. After 17 years on the airwaves, Steve made the bold decision to leave radio behind and focus entirely on equipping the next generation through his classes in civics, U.S. history, world history, and Christian ethics. Discover why civic ignorance is rampant even among conservative Christian kids, how to balance truth and grace in our polarized culture, and why teaching students how to think biblically is more crucial than ever. Steve shares hard-won wisdom about moving from cultural warrior to grace-filled educator, plus practical insights for parents wanting to raise kids who can defend their faith with both conviction and love.

Resources:

https://www.nobleuschool.com/

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by:

Have you heard? National Memory Master and National Commencement are moving to the Classical Conversations family cruise in 2026. This cruise isn't just to celebrate CC graduates and memory masters, it's for all CC families! You can connect with CC leaders and families at all stages of their journey and turn education into a memorable family adventure as you explore the Bahamas aboard Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas. Check out our landing page at www.classicalconversations.com/cruise-2026.

Could competitive debate actually strengthen your child's faith while building their confidence? Most parents never imagine their quiet kid becoming a national-level debater, but that's exactly what happened in this family. In this inspiring mother-son interview, Alyssa and Thaddeus share their remarkable journey through Stoa (Speech & Debate) and Classical Conversations. Discover how Thaddeus transformed into a persuasive communicator now thriving on Patrick Henry College's varsity mock trial team. Learn how Stoa's Christian approach to speech and debate not only builds communication skills but strengthens biblical worldview, creates lifelong friendships, and prepares students to "speak boldly and change the world for Christ." Whether you're a homeschooling parent wondering if your child could handle public speaking or curious about integrating rigorous academics with character development, this episode reveals the powerful combination of Classical Conversations and competitive speech and debate.

This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by Stoa Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate League

https://www.stoausa.org/