The Optimistic Curmudgeon
OptimisticCurmudgeon2021The Optimistic Curmudgeon is an interview podcast where Josh Herring interviews expert guests whose credentials and experience help listeners understand truth in a confusing world. We discuss issues under seven areas: economics, politics, education, philosophy, business, virtue, and leadership! May the best ideas win.
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 114 | Founded | 5 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Category | Education | |||
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Latest Episodes
Dr. Matthew Mehan calls his new book, The American Book of Fables, as a "250th birthday present" for America. Releasing today (5/19/26), this volume is filled with rhymes and songs "for Littles," fables "for Middles," and a treasure trove of witty-wi... more
Josh interview Dr. Tracy Gardner about her work in psychometrics, its application to national testing design, and the science of reading. Dr. Gardner has worked for the @ClassicLearningTest , @Pearson , and is now the Vice-President for Workforce A... more
Mandi Gerth draws from her book Thoroughness and Charm: Cultivating the Habits of the Classical Classroom to explain what teaching is, how teachers can draw on the wisdom of Machiavelli to understand their authority and wield it for the good of their... more
Dr. Brad Birzer of Hillsdale College analyzes the Stranger Things series finale. Birzer argues that Stranger Things is a mythology of the 1980s, and he thinks the finale episode wraps up the series well. The younger generations of kids, the older gen... more
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Reviews
- Engaging and intelligent
Came across this podcast and really enjoyed the 3-4 episodes I’ve listened to.
Apple Podcasts5Matthew C. Lucas
United States8 months ago - Helpful
I enjoy the variety on the show.
Apple Podcasts5David B 89United Statesa year ago - Blech.
I have to say, "The Optimistic Curmudgeon" hosted by Josh Herring is one of the worst podcasts I've ever listened to. First off, the guy is totally full of himself. He spends so much time talking about how great he is and all the things he knows, it's like he thinks he's the smartest person in the world. Honestly, it's super annoying and kind of sad to listen to.
The biggest problem with this podcast is how Herring is completely absorbed in his own little world. It's like he lives in a bubble w... more
Apple Podcasts1WhibleyAlder1979United States2 years ago - A gem of a podcast!
Episode after episode of excellence. . . I’m hooked!
Apple Podcasts5RebPettPghUnited States2 years ago - Appreciative of Thinkers
This podcast is a breath of fresh air if you appreciate thinking and realize ideas have consequences. I loved the one with Dr. Jewel and the discussion of Russell Kirk and the Conservative Mind. Take a break from Joe Rogan and check this out.
Apple Podcasts5MisterMattioUnited States4 years ago
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Optimistic Curmudgeon
What is The Optimistic Curmudgeon about and what kind of topics does it cover?
A thoughtful, interview-driven show centered on exploring big ideas through experts across education, philosophy, economics, leadership, and culture. Episodes typically feature in-depth conversations with professors, authors, and practitioners who illuminate classical education, civic virtue, and public policy, often through a conservative or classical-liberal lens. Listeners likely appreciate rigorous, idea-forward discussions that connect timeless literature and philosophy to modern schooling, governance, and personal development. A notable strength is assembling provocative thinkers—from Hillsdale-affiliated scholars to classical education advocates—who unpack complex topics with practical takeaways for educators, administrators, and pol... more
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How many listeners does The Optimistic Curmudgeon get?
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What are the audience demographics for The Optimistic Curmudgeon?
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How many subscribers and views does The Optimistic Curmudgeon have?
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Which podcasts are similar to The Optimistic Curmudgeon?
These podcasts share a similar audience with The Optimistic Curmudgeon:
1. The Theology Pugcast
2. Pints with Jack: The C.S. Lewis Podcast
3. Classical Et Cetera
4. The Symbolic World
5. Mortification of Spin
How many episodes of The Optimistic Curmudgeon are there?
The Optimistic Curmudgeon launched 5 years ago and published 114 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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What guests have appeared on The Optimistic Curmudgeon?
Recent guests on The Optimistic Curmudgeon include:
1. Dr. Matt Mehan
2. Tracy Gardner
3. Mandi Gerth
4. Brad Birzer
5. Ashley Lande
6. Annie Crawford
7. Josh Bowman
8. Chase Spears
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.