Episodes

  • How Democrats See People / Venezuela - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    How Democrats See People / Venezuela - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Jan 7 2026
    Jack Atherton discusses the contrasting views of Democrats and Republicans regarding individual rights, government power, and societal issues. He highlights the historical context of undeclared wars and the constitutional powers of the president, emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation. Atherton critiques the Democratic approach to education and social welfare, arguing that it fosters dependency rather than empowerment. The discussion culminates in a call to action for individuals to engage in the political process to uphold the principles of individual rights and responsibilities.

    takeaways
    • There is a legitimate dispute among Trump supporters about presidential powers.
    • Undeclared wars have been waged without congressional authorization for decades.
    • Democrats and Republicans have fundamentally different views on individual empowerment.
    • Democrats often prioritize the interests of unions over students in education.
    • The Democratic approach to social issues creates dependency on the state.
    • Historical context shows Democrats have shifted from being the party of slavery to one of dependency.
    • The essence of Democrat politics is to dehumanize individuals.
    • Republicans are not perfect, but they champion individual rights.
    • Engagement in the political process is crucial for preserving freedoms.
    • The need for bipartisan cooperation is essential in governance.
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    21 mins
  • A Classic Christmas Movie - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    A Classic Christmas Movie - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Dec 17 2025
    Jack Atherton delves into the spirit of Christmas through the lens of classic holiday movies. He discusses the commercialization of Christmas, the importance of storytelling in film, and the portrayal of heroes in both history and cinema. The conversation highlights the beloved film 'The Shop Around the Corner', emphasizing their lasting impact and the messages they convey about love, generosity, and the true meaning of the holiday season.

    Takeaways
    • The commercialization of Christmas has been a concern for decades.
    • Classic Christmas movies often carry deeper messages about society.
    • Storytelling in film can reflect historical and cultural values.
    • Everyday heroes are often overlooked in favor of celebrated victims.
    • The importance of teaching history and honoring heroes is crucial.
    • Remakes of classic films show the timelessness of good stories.
    • The significance of love and generosity is central to holiday films.
    • Celebrating the holiday spirit can be done through film and storytelling.
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    13 mins
  • Love and Terror - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Love and Terror - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Dec 10 2025
    13 mins
  • Why we get to play Santa - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Why we get to play Santa - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Dec 3 2025
    Jack Atherton reflects on the meaning of Christmas, discussing generosity, community, and the commercialization of the season. He explores religious teachings about caring for others and contrasts economic systems—capitalism, socialism, and communism—arguing that free-market competition best supports charity and opportunity. The conversation touches on Medicaid, work requirements, and the importance of self-sufficiency, ultimately emphasizing that the prosperity enabling holiday giving stems from a capitalist society, not a socialist one.
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    15 mins
  • Social Mobility and a Great Movie - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Social Mobility and a Great Movie - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Nov 19 2025
    13 mins
  • Democrats and the Power of Pain - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Democrats and the Power of Pain - The Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Nov 12 2025
    14 mins
  • Elections pit cities against the country - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Elections pit cities against the country - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Nov 5 2025
    17 mins
  • Make America Sing Again - Big Picture with Jack Atherton

    Make America Sing Again - Big Picture with Jack Atherton
    Oct 29 2025
    Can music truly shape the moral and cultural fabric of a nation? Join us on an enlightening journey through America's musical heritage as we examine how songs have both reflected and influenced the values of our society over the centuries. Jack Atherton guides us as we traverse the expansive landscape of American music, from the spiritual chants of Native Americans to the profound impact of European immigrants. We delve into the contributions of early pioneers like Stephen Foster, whose melodies captured the spirit of a nation in transition, and celebrate the profound influence of African and Caribbean rhythms that have enriched our musical tapestry. Together, we reflect on how the civil rights movement not only transformed society but also spotlighted the genius of black musicians such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, who brought the vibrant energy of jazz into the mainstream consciousness.

    This episode invites listeners to reconnect with these classic tunes and explore how revisiting them can enrich America's cultural future. Join us as we celebrate and critically engage with the melodies that have not only echoed through the past but continue to inspire our present and future.
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    15 mins