Defending Ideas: All Episodes
Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, equipping listeners to become more effective champions of sound principle and good policy.
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The Upward Mobility Act | Sen. Husted & Rep. Moore
Read More: The Upward Mobility Act | Sen. Husted & Rep. MooreSen. Husted and Rep. Moore join the show to discuss the bipartisan Upward Mobility Act working its way through Congress.
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Putting parents in the driver’s seat of public education | Jude Schwalbach
Read More: Putting parents in the driver’s seat of public education | Jude SchwalbachThis week’s guests examine how open enrollment works, where it falls short, and why transparency and consistent implementation matter.
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The welfare maze no one can navigate | Clarence H. Carter
Read More: The welfare maze no one can navigate | Clarence H. CarterAmerica spends nearly $1.5 trillion each year to fight poverty and support families. So why do so many families remain stuck?
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Can we fix Utah’s literacy crisis? | Andrea Brandley, Carolyn Sharette, and Leland Anderson
Read More: Can we fix Utah’s literacy crisis? | Andrea Brandley, Carolyn Sharette, and Leland AndersonCan education choice help drive the innovation and individualized support students need to read well, early, and with confidence?
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Why centralizing elections could weaken election integrity | Derek Monson
Read More: Why centralizing elections could weaken election integrity | Derek MonsonPres. Donald Trump’s recent call to nationalize elections has reignited debates about election security, federal power, and the proper role of states.
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Utah, Upward Mobility, and the Future of the American Dream | Justin Callais
Read More: Utah, Upward Mobility, and the Future of the American Dream | Justin CallaisA new national report ranks all 50 states on upward mobility — and Utah comes out on top.
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Religious freedom, courts, and federalism in Utah | Bill Duncan
Read More: Religious freedom, courts, and federalism in Utah | Bill DuncanWith Utah’s legislative session underway, lawmakers are weighing major questions about religious freedom, judicial authority, and the proper balance of power between states and the federal government.
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The big education debates facing Utah in 2026 | Christine Cooke Fairbanks
Read More: The big education debates facing Utah in 2026 | Christine Cooke FairbanksUtah’s 2026 legislative session is shaping up to be one of the most consequential for education in recent years.
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Can people still change their minds about religion? | Dee Allsop
Read More: Can people still change their minds about religion? | Dee AllsopNearly one in three Americans now say they have no religious affiliation — but that doesn’t mean they’ve rejected religion outright.


