On this episode of Our American Stories Thomas Jefferson stood at the center of the American founding writing the Declaration of Independence and later serving as the third president of the United States He believed deeply in liberty and in the promise of the country but his life was marked by contradictions that continue to shape how he is remembered including the fact that he never freed his slaves despite his lofty ideals about freedom In this talk at the Library of Congress acclaimed historian and bestselling author of Thomas Jefferson The Art of Power Jon Meacham explores Jefferson as [... more]

Retirees face a crucial question: how much can they safely withdraw from their savings without depleting their retirement funds too soon. Mark Biller joins the discussion to revisit the widely used 4% rule and explore a more flexible, thoughtful approach to retirement withdrawals. [... more]

Jesus saw a lonely man waiting by a pool for 38 years, and he asked him, 'Would you like to get well?' The man replied, 'I have no one to put me in the pool.' Jesus told him to stand up, pick up his mat, and walk. This story illustrates the importance of making a break with the past and following Jesus. Many people feel lonely and disconnected, but Jesus offers a way to overcome loneliness and find purpose through faith and discipleship. [... more]

Jesse Owens, a black American athlete, and Luz Long, a German long jumper, formed an unlikely friendship during the 1936 Berlin Olympics, despite the racist views of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime. Long's advice and support helped Owens overcome his anxiety and win the gold medal in the long jump. Their friendship was a powerful symbol of human connection and equality, and it continues to inspire people to this day. [... more]

General Lafayette's triumphant return to the United States after 40 years away sparked a grand celebration of the past, national reconciliation, and a reaffirmation of the country's values and rights. The event was a testament to the enduring legacy of the American Revolution and its impact on the nation's history and identity. [... more]

Thomas Jefferson's ownership of slaves in a country built on Christian principles raises questions about the gulf between ideals and practices. His famous line in the Declaration of Independence, 'all men are created equal,' was an aspiration, but not yet a reality on the ground. Jefferson's views on slavery reflect the tension between ideational and sensei cultures, and his inability to reconcile his ideals with the practical concerns of his time. [... more]

Navigating financial decisions in blended families requires intentional effort and a clear plan. Couples can use a Togetherness Agreement to promote peace and unity in their marriage by addressing emotionally charged issues and creating a roadmap for their financial future. This agreement can provide clarity on financial decisions, including how to manage debt, investments, and assets, and can help couples make decisions that align with their values and faith. [... more]

Understanding the three-legged stool of retirement income, Americans rely on Social Security, employer-sponsored plans, and personal savings, with individual retirement accounts playing a crucial role. Mark Biller breaks down the differences between traditional and Roth IRAs, discussing tax implications, contribution limits, and eligibility. He also shares practical advice on setting up business finances, including separating personal and business accounts, choosing a simple accounting system, and treating taxes as a bill to be paid. [... more]

Hegel's philosophy, known as dialectical idealism, views history as the unfolding of the absolute spirit, where God is not distinct from his creation, but rather, history is God in the sense that it is the dynamic of God working himself out in time and space. This approach sees history as a process of development, where God is in process, and the development of God is history. The dialectical method involves a tension between seemingly disparate ideas, which are capable of being resolved through experience and the whole experience of human history. [... more]

Many older adults feel financially locked in their homes, which were never designed for aging bodies. A reverse mortgage can help them move into safer, healthier homes without taking on new monthly payments. Financial experts discuss the importance of prevention and planning for housing decisions later in life, and offer guidance on budgeting, debt management, and building an emergency fund. [... more]

Trusting God for daily bread is a concept that takes us back to Israel's journey through the wilderness, where God fed his people with manna each morning, enough for the day, no more, no less. This idea is not about passivity, but about dependence on God, and it's a rhythm that Jesus taught us to ask for daily bread, not burdening ourselves with the need to control tomorrow. In a world of economic anxiety, where budgets are tight and the future feels uncertain, this concept is more relevant than ever, inviting us to rest in real care, and to rely on God for provision, not just for our financial needs, but for his kingdom. [... more]

A God-centered young man, Joseph, is placed in a position of usefulness by Pharaoh, where he demonstrates wisdom, leadership, and faith, showing that every act of service is notable to God, regardless of its visibility or prominence. [... more]

President Calvin Coolidge's defense of the Declaration of Independence on America's 150th birthday highlights the importance of its principles, including equality, liberty, and popular sovereignty, which are essential to the nation's enduring success. [... more]

The history of facial hair is a centuries-long cycle of changing ideals of masculinity, influenced by cultural and societal norms. From ancient civilizations to modern times, beards have been associated with cleanliness, holiness, strength, and individualism, reflecting the balance between cultural discipline and conformity to authority and the norm. [... more]

The story of America's founding is marked by the Puritans' attempt to establish a utopian society in the wilderness, where they sought to practice their own religion without interference. However, individuals like Ann Hutchinson and Roger Williams challenged the orthodoxy of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, advocating for religious freedom and the separation of church and state. Meanwhile, other colonies like Pennsylvania and Georgia were founded on different principles, such as the Quakers' rejection of formal services and the British humanitarians' goal of creating a colony for debtors. Despite the failure of these utopian experiments, they contributed to the development of the American character, which is characterized by adaptability, idealism, and a commitment to self-rule. [... more]

Choosing contentment is a daily path that comes from a surrendered heart, cultivated through walking with Christ. It's not found in having everything, but in knowing the one who is everything. A biblical approach to financial decisions and stewardship can help individuals navigate their finances and make wise investment choices, especially in retirement. Additionally, seeking help with debt and credit counseling can provide freedom and peace of mind. [... more]

Exploring the intersection of faith and culture, the hosts discuss the changing landscape of sports and faith, the importance of marriage and family, and the challenges facing young men in finding purpose. They also delve into the history of the American Revolution and the ideals that shaped the nation, as well as the impact of feminism on women's understanding of sin and identity. [... more]

John Quincy Adams, the sixth president of the United States, grew up in a family of patriots and was deeply influenced by his father's values of service and courage. He traveled extensively throughout Europe as a young man, learning multiple languages and developing a deep understanding of politics and diplomacy. Adams went on to become a skilled diplomat and politician, serving as Secretary of State and eventually president. However, his presidency was marked by controversy and failure, and he was eventually recalled from office. Undeterred, Adams returned to Congress, where he became a leading voice against slavery, introducing petitions and arguing cases before the Supreme Court. His most notable victory came in the Amistad case, where he successfully argued for the freedom of enslaved Africans on a ship that had been seized by the US Navy. Adams' unwavering commitment to his principles and his willingness to challenge the status quo made him a hero of the anti-slavery movement and a lasting figure in American history. [... more]

Jesse Owens, a United States Olympic legend, faced racism and adversity at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, but found an unlikely friend in Luz Long, a German long jumper who shared his humanity and helped him overcome his struggles. [... more]

The city of Bethlehem holds significant importance in the story of Jesus' birth, being the place where the Virgin Mother gave birth to the infant Son of God. Historically, Bethlehem was prepared for the birth of Christ through the stories of Rachel, David, and Ruth, who all played a crucial role in the lineage of Jesus. Symbolically, the city's name 'Bethlehem' means 'house of bread,' and 'Ephrata' means 'fruitfulness,' foreshadowing the birth of Jesus as the bread of life. The city was also prepared prophetically, with Micah's prophecy in 722 BC predicting the birth of Christ in Bethlehem, a prediction that was fulfilled 600 years later. [... more]

God requires leaders to worship the true God, conduct their lives and affairs with righteousness, justice, wisdom, and honesty, and be humble, protect the weak, and have courage. A good ruler must submit to God's commands and demands, and there is no other way to distinguish a good ruler from a bad one. The ideal king is the Lord Jesus Christ, who will reign righteously and establish His kingdom. [... more]

Alexander Hamilton's likely Jewish birth and upbringing have a profound impact on his defense of equality for Jews in a high-profile trial, highlighting the revolutionary ideals of the American founding fathers and the roots of anti-Semitism in the United States. [... more]

America's evolving vision of its place on the world stage is explored through its history of foreign policy, empire building, and imperialism. The story delves into the complexities of human trafficking and its impact on vulnerable populations, particularly children. The narrative also touches on America's expansion westward, including the acquisition of Alaska and Cuba, and the events leading up to the Spanish-American War. [... more]

Investors are piling into gold and silver as concerns about currency debasement and inflation grow. Central banks have been buying gold aggressively, and individual investors are now joining the trade. Gold has set new all-time highs in both dollar terms and inflation-adjusted terms, while silver is knocking on the door of its 1980 peak. Experts recommend a core position in physical metals, supplemented by ETFs, and caution against over-investing in mining stocks. [... more]

Art Rooney's compassion and kindness are on full display as he attends the funeral of a man he doesn't know, showing the respect and empathy that made him a beloved figure in Pittsburgh. Meanwhile, a national awareness initiative highlights the importance of recognizing and preventing human trafficking, and a med spa offers a solution for uneven skin tone and melasma. [... more]

Managing your money can draw you closer to God, and seeing God as your ultimate treasure is key to true financial freedom. However, financial independence can be a subtle danger, leading us to believe we don't need God. The Bible warns against trusting in wealth and careful planning, but rather in dependence on God. A life rich in faith can lead to lasting joy and fulfillment, and aligning our financial goals with biblical principles is crucial. We must ask ourselves if we're placing our faith and trust in money, trying to eliminate work from our lives, or paying off debt just to live for ourselves. If our priorities revolve around us instead of advancing God's kingdom, we've fallen short of His design. [... more]

The Bible teaches that our inadequacies can actually make us useful in ministry, as seen in the life of Apostle Paul. He freely admits his weakness and inability to accomplish tasks on his own, but instead attributes his competence to God's power. This perspective is in contrast to the cultural emphasis on self-esteem and achievement, which can lead to a lack of proper sense of inadequacy. By recognizing our limitations and weaknesses, we can discover the strength and power of God's grace, and find our true identity in Christ. [... more]

Managing money doesn't have to feel overwhelming or disconnected from your faith. By integrating your financial decisions with your values and faith, you can make wise choices that honor God and lead to human flourishing. [... more]

College students need to develop good financial habits early on to set themselves up for financial success. Dr. Kelly Rush shares practical budgeting advice and discusses the importance of understanding the time value of money, avoiding debt, and building credit. She also emphasizes the need for clear communication between parents and students about financial responsibilities and the importance of aligning one's financial goals with their values. [... more]

Christian wives are to display submission to their husbands, godly behavior, and true beauty, which is rooted in a gentle and quiet spirit. This imperishable beauty is internal, not external, and is demonstrated through purity of conduct, respect for their husbands, and trust in God. By following this biblical teaching, wives can create lasting change and transform their homes, workplaces, and society. [... more]

Christians are called to live lives that are distinct from the world, promising fidelity, purity, and resisting cultural norms. The Bible emphasizes the importance of monogamy, condemning polygamy, and outlining the ordinances of baptism and communion as essential practices for believers. [... more]

The church is a community of believers who promise to prioritize the gospel and the call of Christ, pursuing holiness and spiritual growth through disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and worship. Believers promise to practice sexual purity and fidelity in marriage, and to stand out from the world by living according to biblical standards. [... more]

Zoran Momdani's nomination for New York City mayor has sparked controversy due to his radical social and economic policies, as well as his ideologies about Israel and the West. As a proud Muslim, Momdani's campaign promises include establishing government-run grocery stores, providing free services, and shifting the tax burden to richer neighborhoods. His views have been criticized for being anti-Western and pro-Islamist, raising concerns about the unusual alliance between the far left and radical Islam in European politics. [... more]

The loss of American heritage and the importance of classical education in understanding the country's founding principles are discussed. A new book, Finding Our Words, Words That Made America, aims to restore this knowledge by sharing the words of America's founding fathers and mothers, highlighting the need for Americans to take charge of their children's education and restore what they missed. [... more]

Deciding when to take Social Security benefits can be a complex financial decision, impacting tens of thousands of dollars. A financial advisor can help you consider factors such as reduction, cash flow needs, debt, charitable giving, and longevity to make an informed decision. Additionally, establishing a lifestyle finish line can help guide personal spending and long-term planning, while a net worth finish line can provide a maximum limit on total assets. Stewardship and financial wisdom are essential in managing God's money and accomplishing His purposes. [... more]

The history of beards is a rich and complicated one, with varying ideals of masculinity influencing facial hairstyles over the centuries. From ancient civilizations to modern times, beards have been associated with different values and meanings, reflecting changing societal norms and expectations. [... more]

Jim Jones, a Chartered Financial Analyst and Certified Kingdom Advisor, discusses his novel Utopia Reimagined, an allegory of capital and conscience. He explores the intersection of economics, politics, and faith, and how Christians can apply biblical principles to their financial decisions and create a more just and equitable society. [... more]

Walter Isaacson tells the remarkable story of Steve Jobs, the American innovator who transformed the personal computer industry, music industry, and publishing industry with his passion for perfection and beauty. Isaacson describes how Jobs' reality distortion field drove his engineers to do hard and even unimaginable things, and how his passion for simplicity and beauty led to the creation of iconic products like the Macintosh and the iPhone. [... more]

Using a reverse mortgage for an early inheritance can be a strategic financial planning tool, allowing homeowners to give away part of their home value while alive without risking ownership or ability to live in the home. It's essential to consider long-term health care planning, tax implications, and overall financial goals when making this decision. Additionally, protecting credit files and scores is crucial to prevent identity theft and ensure financial stability. [... more]

Combining finances as a married couple requires open and honest communication, trust, and a shared understanding of God's heart for money and marriage. Understanding the benefits of qualified charitable distributions and how to compare retirement plans can also help individuals make informed decisions about their financial futures. [... more]