As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Ron and Ed examine three essays that converge on a single question: What actually sustains a free society?

Drawing on Dan McLaughlin's warning to "Resist the Temptation of Woodrow Wilson" , they explore the perennial allure of concentrated executive power and the dangers of confusing "solidarity" with strongman governance. From there, they turn to Ayaan Hirsi Ali's argument that religious liberty was not an afterthought but the Founders' first freedom, a theological inheritance that constrained power long before modern political theory attempted to. Finally, they consider Yuval Levin's case for America's extraordinary institutional durability, a constitutional system designed to frustrate ambition, balance factions, and outlast the apocalyptic mood of any given generation.

Together, these essays raise an uncomfortable but vital tension: liberty requires limits; power must be restrained; and durability depends less on innovation than on fidelity to first principles.

Ron and Ed ask whether America's strength lies not in bold executive action, nor in nostalgic lament, but in a constitutional architecture sturdy enough to survive our worst instincts — including our periodic desire to abandon it.

We'll get an update on that growth and explore the broader Direct Primary Care (DPC) movement: How fast is it growing? Why are employers and patients embracing it? And is it truly reshaping how healthcare is delivered in America?

We'll also dig into the regulatory hurdles that still stand in the way—HSA eligibility, state-level rules, and what policy changes could accelerate adoption.

If you care about innovation, subscription models, or the future of healthcare, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

Inspired by A.J. Jacobs' appearance on Russ Roberts' EconTalk, Ron and Ed have continued their annual tradition of keeping a "One Thing" journal—capturing a single idea each day that sparked insight, curiosity, or reflection. Often it's a quote; sometimes it's a question, a concept, or a surprising turn of phrase.

In One Thing 2026, they once again open their journals and share a curated collection of the thoughts that shaped their year. The result may feel delightfully eclectic, but as always, it's packed with insight—nuggets of wisdom drawn from their reading, listening, and lived experience. Think of it as a guided tour through the ideas that lingered long enough to be written down—and shared.