Forge of Freedom

11/13/2024

🎙️ New Podcast Episode 🎙️

In this episode of "That Weems Guy," Lee Weems is joined by Alex Ooley, a seasoned attorney and fi****ms instructor, to break down the complex realities of self-defense cases. Together, they unpack everything from the nuances of jury instructions and admissibility of evidence to the critical role of bond and the often-overlooked post-incident legal hurdles. ⚖️💼

If you’ve ever wondered what really happens in self-defense trials—or just how costly and challenging these cases can be—this episode is a must-listen. Learn why preparation matters, the importance of self-defense insurance, and some key insights into U.S. self-defense laws that could make all the difference in a real-life situation.

🎧 Tap the link to tune in.

https://youtu.be/5lr_8eD0avw?si=PagK_HjknwsBPzeu

Ale Ooley joins me to discuss legal stuff.https://forgeoffreedom.com/

11/11/2024

Episode 159. Middle of the Road Policy Leads to Socialism

In this episode, Alex Ooley discusses the influential ideas of Ludwig von Mises, particularly focusing on his essay 'Middle of the Road Policy Leads to Socialism.' Ooley reflects on his personal journey influenced by Mises and Ron Paul, emphasizing the importance of understanding economics and history to advocate for freedom. He critiques government interventionism, arguing that it leads to socialism and undermines individual liberty. The conversation also touches on the role of veterans, foreign policy, and the need for a political renaissance that prioritizes freedom over control.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ludwig von Mises and His Influence
09:45 The Importance of Understanding History and Economics
20:04 Middle of the Road Policy: A Path to Socialism
30:07 The Consequences of Interventionism
40:08 The Future of Freedom and the Role of Ideas

Resources
Middle of the Road Policy Leads to Socialism
https://fee.org/articles/middle-of-the-road-policy-leads-to-socialism/?

Planning for Freedom
https://fee.org/ebooks/planning-for-freedom/

Tuttle Twins
https://tuttletwins.com/newsletter/the-best-way-to-honor-our-veterans/?al_pg_id=42363826-c1ea-44ec-b4d8-a3cbaec6aa3b

Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/about/


Takeaways
Ludwig von Mises significantly influenced my worldview.
Interventionism is a path toward socialism.
Understanding history is crucial for advocating peace.
Government intervention often leads to unintended consequences.
The middle-of-the-road policy is not sustainable.
Veterans deserve more than just recognition; we must prevent war.
The government cannot effectively control the economy.
A political renaissance is needed to promote freedom.
Socialism is not an inevitable outcome; it can be resisted.
Ideas of liberty must be shared to combat socialism.

Keywords
Ludwig von Mises, Austrian economics, socialism, capitalism, interventionism, foreign policy, veterans, government intervention, freedom, economic policy


















DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

11/04/2024

Episode 158. Why Vote?

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the complexities surrounding the duty to vote, the perceived importance of individual votes, and how to maintain mental health during election season. He critiques the tribalistic nature of political discourse and emphasizes the need for self-reflection and community engagement over national politics. Ooley also shares insights from two articles: one questioning the impact of individual votes and another offering strategies for navigating the stress of election season.

Resources

Why Vote? | Mises Institute
https://mises.org/mises-daily/why-vote

How to Get Through an Election Without Losing Your Mind - Intellectual Takeout
https://intellectualtakeout.org/2024/09/get-through-an-election-without-losing-your-mind/

Episode 40. Are We Good Enough for Liberty? by Lawrence Reed – The Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-40-are-we-good-enough-for-liberty-by-lawrence-reed/

Why Mandatory Voting Would Make Democracy Worse, Not Better
https://fee.org/articles/why-mandatory-voting-would-make-democracy-worse-not-better/

Voting and Politics | Mises Institute
https://mises.org/podcasts/individual-interview/voting-and-politics

Rothbard on Voting | Mises Institute
https://mises.org/mises-wire/rothbard-voting

On Voting | Mises Institute
https://mises.org/mises-wire/voting

When Ignorance Isn't Bliss: How Political Ignorance Threatens Democracy | Cato Institute
https://www.cato.org/policy-analysis/when-ignorance-isnt-bliss-how-political-ignorance-threatens-democracy #
https://www.cato.org/sites/cato.org/files/pubs/pdf/pa525.pdf

Why (Most) Political Ignorance is Rational and Why it Matters: Reply to Jeffrey Friedman | Cato Unbound
https://www.cato-unbound.org/2013/10/22/ilya-somin/why-most-political-ignorance-rational-why-it-matters-reply-jeffrey-friedman/

When Ignorance Isn't Bliss: How Political Ignorance Threatens Democracy | Libertarianism.org
https://www.libertarianism.org/publications/essays/when-ignorance-isnt-bliss-how-political-ignorance-threatens-democracy

Ilya Somin, Democracy and political ignorance: why smaller government is smarter | Public Choice
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11127-014-0172-4


Takeaways
Voting has become a cult of the state, pushing people into tribalism.
The chance of a single vote affecting an election is extremely low.
Voting can be seen as a moral imperative, but this argument is flawed.
Local elections matter more than national ones in terms of individual influence.
Mental health is crucial during election season; consider unplugging from news.
Focus on personal values and community rather than national politics.
Fear tactics are often used by media and politicians to manipulate voters.
Self-improvement and character development can lead to broader societal change.
Engaging in meaningful conversations about candidates can help clarify views.
Your purpose in life extends beyond the political sphere.

Keywords
voting, election, civic duty, mental health, political discourse, tribalism, local elections, self-improvement, fear tactics, community









DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

11/01/2024

🎙️ Episode 157 of Forge of Freedom "The Grinch of Halloween and Government 'Charity.'" This week, we explore entitlement, voting, and why constitutional fidelity matters. Through stories from Halloween to Davy Crockett, learn how to defend freedom with informed choices and active citizenship. 🍂👻

Catch it here: forgeoffreedom.com/episode-157-the-grinch-of-halloween-and-government-charity/

11/01/2024

🚨 Join us for a crucial event: "A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem: How to Minimize Victims"

📅 Date: Tuesday, December 3, 2024
🕒 Time: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM (EST)
📍 Location: Salem Assembly of God, 1701 State Road 135, Salem, Indiana 47167

This seminar will equip you with essential knowledge and strategies to enhance church safety. Learn from experts about:

Understanding the active shooter threat
Developing effective response plans
Implementing preventive measures

Don't miss this opportunity to make your place of worship safer for all. Register now to secure your spot!

https://www.facebook.com/events/844555460913475

(Registration Link in Comments)



Last Resort Fi****ms Training

10/30/2024

Episode 157. The Grinch of Halloween and Government “Charity”

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses the themes of entitlement and responsibility in voting, drawing parallels between Halloween traditions and civic engagement. He shares insights from Lawrence Reed's article 'Don't Vote Like a Halloweener' and Davy Crockett's essay 'Not Yours to Give', emphasizing the importance of constitutional fidelity and responsible citizenship. The conversation highlights the need for individuals to engage thoughtfully in the political process and to hold elected officials accountable.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Halloween and Voting
05:06 Socialism and Halloween: A Deeper Analysis
05:09 The Grinch of Halloween and Entitlement Mindset
17:07 The Consequences of Misinterpreting the Constitution
25:06 The Spirit of Horatio Buntz and Responsible Citizenship

Takeaways
The entitlement mindset from childhood can carry into adulthood.
Voting should not be seen as a means to get something for nothing.
Davy Crockett's story illustrates the dangers of government charity.
Congress has no right to appropriate public funds for charity.
Responsible citizenship requires informed voting and engagement.
The principles of the Constitution must be upheld by elected officials.
Citizens should demand accountability from their representatives.
Freedom must be actively fought for and renewed each generation.
Engagement in politics is essential for a healthy democracy.
The spirit of Horatio Buntz exemplifies responsible citizenship.

Resources

Don't Vote Like a Halloweener
https://fee.org/articles/dont-vote-like-a-halloweener/

Not Yours to Give - FEE
https://fee.org/resources/not-your-to-give/

A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem & How to Minimize Victims (with Ed Monk) – The Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/activeshooter/

A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem & How to Minimize Victims Tickets, Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-church-focused-study-of-the-active-shooter-problem-how-to-minimize-victims-tickets-926202605927?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem & How to Minimize Victims (with Ed Monk) | Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/events/844555460913475/?ref=newsfeed
















DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

10/28/2024

The right to keep and bear arms is an extension of property rights. If you want to effectively argue for your right to self-defense and the right to keep and bear arms, you should know the philosophical foundations of property rights. Ayn Rand was one of the greatest advocates for property rights.

"Ayn Rand: An iconic defender of property rights" by Brittany Hunter

Pacific Legal Foundation

As the godmother of individualist philosophy, Ayn Rand was a fervent believer in property rights.

10/21/2024

Episode 156. Upcoming Seminar: A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem & How to Minimize Victims with Ed Monk

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses an upcoming seminar focused on the active shooter problem, specifically tailored for church settings. The seminar, led by expert Ed Monk, aims to provide effective strategies to minimize victims during such incidents. Ooley emphasizes the importance of this information for church leaders and community members alike, highlighting the broader applicability of the strategies discussed. He also shares endorsements from notable figures in the fi****ms training community, reinforcing the value of attending the seminar.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Seminar on Active Shooter Response
02:57 Details of the Event and Its Importance
05:54 Endorsements and Expert Insights on Ed Monk's Presentation

Resources

A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem & How to Minimize Victims Tickets, Tue, Dec 3, 2024 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-church-focused-study-of-the-active-shooter-problem-how-to-minimize-victims-tickets-926202605927?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem & How to Minimize Victims (with Ed Monk) – The Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/activeshooter/

A Church-Focused Study of the Active Shooter Problem & How to Minimize Victims (with Ed Monk) | Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/events/844555460913475/?ref=newsfeed

Preparing Our Communities: Ed Monk and Alex Ooley Appear on The Gun Guy with Guy Relford to Discuss Active Shooter Preparedness – The Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/preparing-our-communities-ed-monk-and-alex-ooley-appear-on-the-gun-guy-with-guy-relford-to-discuss-active-shooter-preparedness/

The Gun Guy - Full Show - 10/19/24 - The Gun Guy Podcast - Omny.fm
https://omny.fm/shows/the-gun-guy-podcast/the-gun-guy-full-show-10-19-24

Episode 134. Active Shooter Response with Ed Monk – The Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/episode-134-active-shooter-response-with-ed-monk/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057584853533

****mstraining

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

10/21/2024

Alex Ooley and Ed Monk (Last Resort Fi****ms Training) join The Gun Guy WIBC to discuss active shooter preparedness.

In today’s world, being prepared is more important than ever. Tune in to learn valuable strategies and insights that can help keep our communities safe and to learn about an upcoming event with Ed Monk in Salem, Indiana.

Catch the episode here 🎧

https://forgeoffreedom.com/preparing-our-communities-ed-monk-and-alex-ooley-appear-on-the-gun-guy-with-guy-relford-to-discuss-active-shooter-preparedness/

10/14/2024

Episode 155. Self-Defense and Civil Liability: Lessons from a Detroit Shooting

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley discusses a self-defense incident that occurred at a Detroit Lions football game, exploring the legal implications of self-defense laws in Indiana. He delves into Indiana's self-defense immunity statute, the case of Kystie Phillips, and the importance of gun safety rules. The conversation emphasizes the balance between self-defense rights and civil liability, highlighting the need for personal responsibility among gun owners.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Defense and Legal Implications
02:54 Understanding Indiana's Self-Defense Statute
06:05 The Case of Kisti Phillips and Legislative Changes
10:05 Civil Liability and Self-Defense Immunity
14:03 Gun Safety Rules and Personal Responsibility

Resources

Concealed carrier who killed 2 with 1 shot at Detroit Lions fan tailgate acted in self-defense, won't be charged: Prosecutor | Blaze Media
https://www.theblaze.com/fearless/concealed-carrier-who-killed-2-with-1-shot-at-detroit-lions-fan-tailgate-acted-in-self-defense-wont-be-charged-prosecutor

Use of force to protect person or property, Ind. Code § 35-41-3-2
https://casetext.com/statute/indiana-code/title-35-criminal-law-and-procedure/article-41-substantive-criminal-provisions/chapter-3-defenses-relating-to-culpability/section-35-41-3-2-use-of-force-to-protect-person-or-property

"Forcible felony"; justified use of force; immunity; rebuttable presumption, Ind. Code § 34-30-31-1
https://casetext.com/statute/indiana-code/title-34-civil-law-and-procedure/article-30-immunity-from-civil-liability/chapter-31-immunity-for-justified-use-of-force/section-34-30-31-1-forcible-felony-justified-use-of-force-immunity-rebuttable-presumption

Years after man killed in IN, bill protecting those who use justifiable force becomes law
https://www.fox19.com/2019/05/09/years-after-man-was-killed-bill-protecting-those-who-use-justifiable-force-becomes-law/

Woman Who Saved Officer's Life Makes Tearful Plea For Immunity Legislation - Eagle Country 99.3
https://www.eaglecountryonline.com/news/local-news/woman-who-saved-officers-life-makes-tearful-plea-for-immunity-legislation/

Plaintiffs Drop Lawsuit Against Woman Who Shot Man Attacking Conservation Officer - Eagle Country 99.3
https://www.eaglecountryonline.com/news/local-news/plaintiffs-drop-lawsuit-against-woman-who-shot-man-attacking-conservation-officer/

The 4 Universal Gun Safety Rules, Plus 13 More You Should Follow
https://gunpros.com/gun-safety-rules/

Wayne Dobbs – The 4th Rule (2017 Shooter’s Summit) – Fi****ms Nation
https://fi****msnation.com/wayne-dobbs-the-4th-rule-2017-shooters-summit/
****msNation
****ms_Nation

Episode 90. Gun Safety 101: Mastering Safe Gun Handling – The Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/2024/01/10/episode-90-gun-safety-101-mastering-safe-gun-handling/

Episode 98. Handgun Training Terms You Should Know – The Forge of Freedom
https://forgeoffreedom.com/2024/02/05/episode-98-handgun-training-terms-you-should-know/


Keywords
self-defense, Indiana law, gun safety, civil liability, immunity statute, personal responsibility, legal implications, fi****ms training, self-defense laws



DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.

10/07/2024

Episode 154. The Future of Education: Exploring Innovation and Choice with Kerry McDonald

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with education expert Kerry McDonald about innovative education models that are reshaping K-12 learning. They discuss the rise of alternative education choices, particularly post-pandemic, and how these models offer more personalized, joyful, and empowering learning experiences for children. Carrie highlights the growth of homeschooling, microschools, and other non-traditional education options, emphasizing the importance of meeting individual student needs and preferences. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by traditional education systems and the potential for a more decentralized, choice-driven educational landscape.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Innovative Education Models
02:28 The Rise of Alternative Education Choices
11:48 Post-Pandemic Trends in Education
18:49 Defining Good Schools and Practical Benefits
24:09 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Resources

Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom: McDonald, Kerry
https://www.amazon.com/Unschooled-Well-Educated-Children-Conventional-Classroom/dp/1641600632

What Do ‘Good Schools’ Look Like? It Depends on What Parents Want - FEE
https://fee.org/articles/what-do-good-schools-look-like-it-depends-on-what-parents-want/

PODCAST | LiberatED Podcast
https://www.liberatedpodcast.com/podcast/episode/21ab94be/indianas-massive-microschool-growth

X ()
https://x.com/Kerry_edu

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/kerry.mcdonald.18
Kerry McDonald


Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/imkerrymcdonald/

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXi4R65qHSouEh0CT_oKJTA

Kerry McDonald - How to Unschool - Episode 18 - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGdjiDJrlsk

#43. The Toxic Consequences of Attending a High Achieving School
https://petergray.substack.com/p/43-the-toxic-consequences-of-attending?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&triedRedirect=true

No, We Don’t Need Federal Homeschooling Standards - FEE
https://fee.org/articles/no-we-dont-need-federal-homeschooling-standards/

'Unschooling' Is the Ultimate Laissez-Faire Version of School Choice. But Can Your Kids Teach Themselves How To Read and Do Math?
https://reason.com/podcast/2019/07/03/unschooling-is-the-ultimate-laissez-faire-version-of-school-choice-but-can-your-kids-teach-themselves-how-to-read-and-do-math/

Unschooling with Kerry McDonald | Sage Family
https://sagefamily.com/podcast47/

Kerry McDonald | The Unschooling Movement & The Many Pitfalls Of Conventional Education - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KddLa_AZrk

Educated and Unschooled - Kerry McDonald - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpogFIF6hns

The flawed attacks on homeschooling | LIVE with Kerry McDonald - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GBNvEwwGI0

Kerry McDonald - How to Unschool - Episode 18 - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGdjiDJrlsk

Keywords
innovative education, alternative education, homeschooling, microschools, education models, school choice, pandemic impact, personalized learning, education entrepreneurs, education policy

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.