The Controversial Truth

Can we truly become energy independent? Absolutely! Will we become energy independent? Probably not. Dave and Robb discuss some really exciting technology developed and available that currently is not being invested in or explored in America. Why is that? We will discuss possible reasons. In addition, can energy independence usher in a new industrial revolution?

Are we too entertained and distracted to make the choices to learn new skills, dig deep into government policy (which effects all of us) or carve out time to be more healthy and "alive." Are we so awash in entertainment that we just can't break away to accomplish all the things we want to do with our lives? Could we "Fix America" if we spent more time thinking and innovating rather than being "entertained." Also, we will discuss "Chimerica" in the Ascent of Money. We'll also chime in on the presidential debates.

Dave and Robb discuss how the creation of Unions in American private industry and then later within government. Dave will talk about his experiences growing up in the birthplace of the United Auto Workers (UAW) in Flint Michigan and some of the consequences of union policy on that once thriving city and American manufacturing. Also, how do government pensions, many derived from union contracts, loom large in the financial instability of local cities and state governments.

Dave a Robb discuss the country of Estonia that went against the grain of current policy theory and "took their medicine" to then grow and thrive years later. Additionally, we will discuss the creation and role of risk as it relates to insurance and how it applies to our world today

Dave and Robb tackle the specter of student loan debt and ask the challenging questions of whether or not college is worth it. We discuss why college rates keep climbing and how “cheap” student loan money has created a bubble of pricing. We dive into different strategies to pay off college debt as well as parlay how government involved markets ultimately create significant damage. This parlays perfectly into QE3 and how it effects the stock market. Additionaly, we will discuss the genesis of the “Company” and stock market through chapter 3 of The Ascent of Money.

Dave and Robb discuss the history of the automobile and how this little invention helped influence urban design and city planning. With increasing energy costs and no money to pay for infrastructure, is the car on a path of decline? We will also discuss Chapter 2 of The Ascent of Money and learn how the bond market really works.

Dave and Robb will discuss the barn burner, rowdy topic of monetary policy. Diving into the article by peak prosperity and moving onto reviewing topics discussed in “The Ascent of Money” we will examine why it is important to be knowledgeable about how money is created and how to be a good steward of your valuable labor and money your hard work produces. How do we put what we are learning into practical, everyday life?

Dave and Robb, after a "low T" moment on the last podcast, redouble efforts to make The Controversial Truth more awesome and relevant than ever before. We will have actionable items that listeners can implement in their own lives. Today we will talk about the fragile food supply system and how important it is to be prepared in case the supply chain ever gets disrupted. Additionally, we will assign our first Book Club task and end with actionable items to give you better peace of mind and control. We will fix this thing, come hell or high water!

Dave and Robb contemplate the success and purpose of the first 7 episodes of the Controversial Truth and what the future of the Podcast might look like. Instead of debating behind close doors our concerns, fears, questions and likeliness of inspiring success in bringing about positive change in America, we've decided to do it on this Podcast. Let us know what you think! "The Ocho" episode (yes, #8)

Dave and Robb will discuss the current two (2) party political system and contemplate some of the advantages and destructive disadvantages of the current model. We will discuss other political options (3rd parties) and why people are or are not supporting them.

In response to questions from some of our listeners, Dave and Robb will explain the European Debt Crisis and discuss some of the potential effects of that may take a toll on America’s recovery and our personal financial wellbeing. Does Europe provide a crystal ball into potential consequences of our financial and monetary policy? Additionally, we will answer some other questions related to immigration, mortgages and hyperinflation. Dave gets a little emotional and Robb reals him back in. Also, should we start a book club?

Dave and Robb discuss government involvement in food supply and production (subsides and FDA), education and curriculum (public schools and unions), and retirement planning (Social Security). Where would America be if government wasn’t so involved in these segments of our society? What can we do to help “fix” these issues and move forward?

Dave and Robb will discuss the various dynamics of the tragedy in Aurora Colorado and discuss viewpoints of the gun control and access debate. We will dive into the characteristics of the Singapore Healthcare system and how it might help solve many issues in America. Lastly, we wil discuss the comments made by Dan Cathy of Chick-Fil-A and why Dave was freaking out for a while.

Dave and Robb will dive into the definition of a word or phrase that is used quite a bit these days: Fair (fair share, fair shot, fair ruling, etc.) What is fair and how can it apply to a variety of issues in our lives from things we can control to other variables that are simply outside of our control? Does the word "fair" have any roll in our conversation around policy and decisions we make in our individual life? Is "fair" even American?

Dave and Robb discuss the role of DEBT in our private life and government balance sheet. On the heels of celebrating Independence Day, can we truly be "free" if we are beholden to any debt (public or private?) Additionally, we will discuss how the Healthcare decision may effect our freedoms and perhaps our role in calling out bad behavior that may endanger the solvency of America. Also introducing, Dave's Deep Thoughts....

Dave and Robb will outline the plan for the Controversial Truth and dive right into the issues. We will discuss issues related to US manufacturing, getting our health and healthcare under control and "can I opt out of FICA?" That would be awesome. What do you think?