Explore every episode of the podcast The Firestone Files
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Dream Interpretation | 01 Jun 2026 | 01:06:24 | |
In episode forty-two, Dr. Firestone introduces the practice of dream interpretation from a philosopher's perspective. He discusses the profound ubiquity of dreams in our lives and the paradoxical lack of attention we give them in modern life. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files YouTube: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Turning Point Education Prep Year Commencement Address | 25 May 2026 | 00:41:52 | |
In episode forty-one, Dr. Firestone shares his commencement address for the inaugural year of Turning Point Education's Prep Year program. He discusses the origins of the program, the highs and lows of the year, and what he hopes the students got out of it. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files YouTube: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 32 | An Introvert in an Extended Household: An Interview with Emma Firestone | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:45:41 | |
In episode thirty-two, Dr. Firestone interviews his middle child and daughter, Emma Firestone. They discus growing up homeschooled, living with other families, childhood mishaps, and her experience as a teacher. Check out The Firestone Files Facebook page for weekly livestreams discussing that week's topic! The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files YouTube: @FirestoneFiles Spotify: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 31 | The Superpowers We Forget We Have | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:39:54 | |
In episode thirty-one, Dr. Firestone shares an impromptu presentation he gave to his extended family of nieces and nephews. In it, he describes what he calls, "The Four Human Superpowers." Drawing on the work of Immanuel Kant, he discusses these operative powers which we all have but that we take for granted. He then applies Aristotle's idea of the development of virtue through habit, showing the way we can all cultivate these powers within ourselves to live more complete lives. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 30 | Virtue and Success | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:45:05 | |
In episode thirty, Dr. Firestone discusses virtue as understood by Aristotle. He shares some anecdotes from his own life wherein he succeeded and failed it at, and talks about how you can apply it to your own life. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 29 | Public School, Running, and the Amtrak: Dr. Firestone's Youngest Daughter | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:44:24 | |
In episode twenty-nine, Dr. Firestone interviews Rebekah Firestone, his youngest daughter and second youngest child. They discuss Rebekah's youth, her experience as a Firestone kid, and her plans for the future. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 28 | The Make Heaven Crowded Tour | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:34:19 | |
In episode twenty-eight, Dr. Firestone takes you along on his trip to the Turning Point Faith Make Heaven Crowded event in Murfreesboro, TN. He meets attendees, gets a feel for the tour, and brings his own memory of the church in American to bear in analyzing the event from a philosopher's perspective. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 27 | Teaching Kids to Think Well | 16 Feb 2026 | 01:03:17 | |
In episode twenty-seven, Dr. Firestone shares a talk he gave the Turning Point Education Educators Summit several years ago. He discusses teaching kids to think like philosophers, drawing on the likes of Socrates, Descartes, and Kant, and using his practical experience cultivating a culture of deep thought with his own kids. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 26 | Growing Up the Youngest Firestone | 09 Feb 2026 | 01:14:40 | |
In episode twenty-six, Dr. Firestone interviews Andrew Firestone, his youngest child and second son. They discuss family dynamics, formative experiences, and what it means to be a Firestone. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 25 | Taking Young People Along for the Journey | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:50:38 | |
In episode twenty-five, Dr. Firestone talks about the importance of bringing young people along with you. He discusses the philosophies of Plato and Aristotle as they pertain to educating young people, and talks about why it is important to bring kids alongside you even when they might not be ready to contribute yet. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 24 | Kant and Love | 27 Jan 2026 | 00:46:23 | |
In episode twenty-four, Dr. Firestone shares a paper of his entitled "Rational Religious Love" on the topic of love and the philosophy of Immanuel Kant. This presentation was given to the Evangelical Philosophical Society during their annual conference partnered with the Evangelical Theological Society in Boston in November, 2025. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 23 | The Firestone Files Fitness Episode | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:37:00 | |
In episode twenty-three, Dr. Firestone discusses personal fitness with his daughter Rebekah and his son Matthew. He lays out some personal goals for the new year and documents the beginning of the journey. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Philosophy as De-Mythology | 18 May 2026 | 00:52:44 | |
In episode forty, Dr. Firestone discusses Philosophy as de-myth. He summarizes his Philosophy as Myth episode and explores how good philosophy can be done by de-mythologizing and interpreting the stories we tell. He closes by briefly discussing the work that Jordan Peterson has done in this area. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files YouTube: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 22 | An Interview with Rick Green | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:49:15 | |
In episode twenty-two, Dr. Firestone interviews Rick Green, founder and president of Patriot Academy and former Texas State Representative, lawyer, and entrepreneur. They discuss Rick's life and work, as well as parallels between him and Dr. Firestone. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 21 | AmericaFest 2025: Experiencing the Heart of a Movement | 05 Jan 2026 | 01:32:48 | |
In episode twenty-one, get an inside look at Turning Point USA's AmFest 2025. Join Dr. Firestone on his journey as he meets major figures, listens to keynote speakers, and soaks in the atmosphere at the heart of the conservative movement. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 20 | Rene Descartes Conclusion | 31 Dec 2025 | 00:20:29 | |
Join The Firestone Files this December for Descartes December. Each week Dr. Firestone will release a segment of his lecture series on Rene Descartes for Academia.edu. This week, Dr. Firestone concludes the series with a review of Descartes' meditations. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 19 | Lessons from Dad: Celebrating Dr. Firestone's 60th Birthday | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:41:08 | |
In episode nineteen, Dr. Firestone’s five children celebrate his 60th birthday with a surprise takeover of the podcast. They discuss Dr. Firestone’s character, his quirks, his influence on each of them, and the lessons they learned from him that they hope to pass on to their own children. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 18 | Clear and Distinct Perception of the External World: Descartes Meditations Five and Six | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:24:08 | |
Join The Firestone Files this December for Descartes December. Each week Dr. Firestone will release a segment of his lecture series on Rene Descartes for Academia.edu. This week, Dr. Firestone breaks down meditations five and six, wherein Descartes solidifies his confidence in the existence of the God and the external world. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 17 | The Most Important Sentence in the Western Canon: Descartes Meditations Three and Four | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:24:47 | |
Join The Firestone Files this December for Descartes December. Each week Dr. Firestone will release a segment of his lecture series on Rene Descartes for Academia.edu. This week, Dr. Firestone breaks down meditations three and four, wherein Descartes arrives at what Dr. Firestone describes as arguably "the most important singular sentence in all of Western philosophical tradition." The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 16 | Descartes Meditations One and Two: I Think, Therefore I Am | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:24:55 | |
Join The Firestone Files this December for Descartes December. Each week Dr. Firestone will release a segment of his lecture series on Rene Descartes for Academia.edu. This week, Dr. Firestone dives into meditations one and two, culminating with Descartes watershed incite so often paraphrased, "Cogito, ergo sum" — I think, therefore I am. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 15 | Introduction to Rene Descartes | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:24:54 | |
Join The Firestone Files this December for Descartes December. Each week Dr. Firestone will release a segment of his lecture series on Rene Descartes for Academia.edu. This week, Dr. Firestone introduces Descartes and sets the context for the turn in the Western tradition from metaphysics as first philosophy to epistemology. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 14 | An Interview with Eric Capaci | 24 Nov 2025 | 01:14:52 | |
In episode fourteen, Dr. Firestone interviews Pastor Eric Capaci, senior pastor of Gospel Light Church, president of Champion Christian College, and the owner of several businesses. They discuss Pastor Capaci’s life and work as well as their own friendship and professional relationship. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 13 | Escaping Chicago with Lee Firestone | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:51:28 | |
In episode thirteen, Dr. Firestone interviews his brother, Harold "Lee" Firestone, Jr. They discuss escaping the south side of Chicago, Lee's time in the Marines, and the different paths their lives have taken. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Philosophy as Myth | 11 May 2026 | 00:56:05 | |
In episode thirty-nine, Dr. Firestone discusses what may be the earliest practice of philosophy: myth. He summarizes the What is Philosophy series and dives into the work of Joseph Campbell on the hero's journey. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files YouTube: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 12 | What to Do When Your Circumstances Become Unlivable | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:49:49 | |
In episode twelve, Dr. Firestone explores what to do in life when your circumstances are not livable. He unpacks the idea of "onto-contextology" and divulges stories from his own childhood that demonstrate the power of a change in context. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 11 | Why Do We Take Risks? | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:57:28 | |
In episode eleven, Dr. Firestone asks the question, "Why are we thrilled by risk taking?" Ultimately, this question leads him to the philosophy of Søren Kierkegaard. Join Dr. Firestone as he unpacks some of the ideas of found in Kierkegaard regarding the stages of moral human development. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 10 | A Philosopher's Perspective on the No Kings Protests | 27 Oct 2025 | 00:49:24 | |
In episode ten, Dr. Firestone takes you with him to explore the No Kings protest in Fort Worth, TX, to discover what the marchers want. At first what he finds baffles him, but after being chased by a giant chicken, interviewing a unicorn, and meeting an inflatable Donald Trump, Dr. Firestone gets a bit of a better handle on the protesters, what they want, and the political divide in America. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 9 | The Life of the Body | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:51:46 | |
In episode nine, Dr. Firestone concludes his "Life of the..." series with the third and final installment: the life of the body. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 8 | The Life of the Heart | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:46:59 | |
In episode eight, Dr. Firestone returns to his regular programming, continuing his "Life of the..." series with part two: the life of the heart. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 7 | The Charlie Kirk Memorial: Revival in America | 06 Oct 2025 | 01:12:19 | |
In episode seven, Dr. Firestone takes you along on his journey to and experience at the Charlie Kirk Memorial. Though Charlie's killer wanted to silence his message, his death sparked a movement in America. The memorial service on 21 September, 2025, marked a turning point in the nation and seems to have brought about what Charlie always wanted: revival in America. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 6 | Charlie Kirk the Apologist | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:54:44 | |
In episode six, Dr. Firestone presents a session from his spring, 2025, apologetics class discussing Charlie Kirk and apologetics. This episode includes an interview with Scott Polender, the Director of Turning Point Academy Association. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 5 | Charlie Kirk and Socrates | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:47:15 | |
In episode five, Dr. Firestone continues the hiatus from his standard programing to discuss the relationship between Charlie Kirk and Socrates. From the Socratic method to the Sophists who opposed them, the parallels may surprise you. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 4 | A Tribute to Charlie Kirk | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:36:30 | |
In episode four, Dr. Firestone takes a break from his standard programing to pay tribute to Charlie Kirk, the conservative Christian leader who founded Turning Point USA. He discusses the transformative impact Kirk had on culture in the academy and the answer to prayer that he was for Christian intellectuals like Dr. Firestone. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 3 | The Life of the Mind | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:44:03 | |
In episode three, Dr. Firestone discusses the life of the mind and the power of conscious, intentional thought to provide hidden insights and reveal new ways forward. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 38 | The Achievements of an Oldest Sibling | 04 May 2026 | 00:55:16 | |
In episode thirty-eight, Dr. Firestone interviews his eldest child, Hannah. They discuss growing up as a oldest child, Hannah's early endeavors (such as starting a babysitting business in high school), her time studying at Amherst, and her academic and career work since graduating. Check out her current endeavors by visiting https://www.globalcapitalallocation.com/ Check out The Firestone Files Facebook page for weekly livestreams discussing the week's topic. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files YouTube: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 2 | "Why Be a Philosopher?" | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:41:19 | |
In episode two, Dr. Firestone calls on the philosophy of Plato and takes a look at his own philosophical journey to answer the question, "Why be a philosopher?"The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories.Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years.Facebook: The Firestone FilesInstagram: @TheFirestoneFilesTwitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 1: "The Firestones" | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:52:41 | |
In episode one, Dr. Firestone uses pre-Socratic philosophy to introduce some of the Firestones and give context for the conversation that will be The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles | |||
| Episode 37 | Logic and Ethics: The Foundation of Philosophy | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:27:38 | |
In episode thirty-seven, Dr. Firestone concludes his discussion of the question, "What is philosophy?" He describes "The Tree of Philosophy" and makes the argument that logic and ethics are the two pillars of good philosophy. Check out The Firestone Files Facebook page for weekly livestreams discussing that week's topic. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. YouTube: @FirestoneFiles Spotify: The Firestone Files Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 36 | Philosophy and Faith | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:26:25 | |
In episode thirty-six, Dr. Firestone continues discussing the question, "What is philosophy?" Using the definition he settled on in last week's episode, he focuses now on how philosophy is done and comes to the culminating question, "Does philosophy require faith?" Check out The Firestone Files Facebook page for weekly livestreams discussing that week's topic. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. YouTube: @FirestoneFiles Spotify: The Firestone Files Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 35 | What is Philosophy? | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:24:44 | |
In episode thirty-five, Dr. Firestone discusses the question, "What is philosophy?" He explores many definitions posited throughout the ages (starting with the ancient Greeks: Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle), dispels a number of misnomers, and finally settles on a singular, definitive definition from Immanuel Kant, a definition that you cannot unhear once you have heard it. Check out The Firestone Files Facebook page for weekly livestreams discussing that week's topic. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. YouTube: @FirestoneFiles Spotify: The Firestone Files Facebook: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 34 | The Military Vocation and Social Dancing: An Unexpected Pathway | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:48:56 | |
In episode thirty-four, Dr. Firestone interviews his eldest son, Matthew. They discuss growing up in a large family, fostering an intellectual family atmosphere, Matthew's discover of a vocation in the military, and his recent turn to country swing dancing. Check out The Firestone Files Facebook page for weekly livestreams discussing that week's topic. The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files YouTube: @FirestoneFiles Spotify: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| Episode 33 | Everyone is Wrong about Immanuel Kant | 30 Mar 2026 | 01:21:41 | |
In episode thirty-thee, Dr. Firestone shares an interview of himself by Parker Settecase of the show Parker's Pensées. They discuss Immanuel Kant, his importance to recent history of Western though, and why Dr. Firestone believes he is terribly misunderstood by the majority of modern thinkers. Check out The Firestone Files Facebook page for weekly livestreams discussing that week's topic, and visit Parker's Pensées on Spotify! The Firestone Files: Letters to My Grandchildren is a podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Firestone. In it, Dr. Firestone uses his expertise in philosophy and worldview to bring answers to profound questions to bear on the mundane of life through personal anecdotes and family stories. Dr. Firestone is Vice President of Academic Excellence and Strategic Partnerships as well as Director of The Great Writings Honors Program at Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He is Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus, and former Director of the Humanities Division at Trinity College in Trinity International University, where he taught and conducted research for over twenty-five years. Facebook: The Firestone Files YouTube: @FirestoneFiles Spotify: The Firestone Files Instagram: @TheFirestoneFiles Twitter: @FirestoneFiles TikTok: @thefirestonefiles | |||
| The LIE about Modern Philosophy | 15 Jun 2026 | 01:34:35 | |
Episode forty-three of The Firestone Files is a special crossover episode with the Nathan Jacobs Podcast! In this interview, Dr. Jacobs sits down with his long-time friend, colleague, and frequent co-author, Dr. Chris Firestone. For 27 years, these two have been collaborating, pushing intellectual boundaries, and challenging the status quo in the academic world. In this deep-dive conversation, they unpack a massive misconception: the myth that the Enlightenment was a purely secular movement that successfully killed off theological thinking. Do you like this content? Join Jacobs Premium to get exclusive access to essays, lecture series, monthly Q&A Zoom calls, and our book club. Use code: LEWIS to get a discount: https://www.thenathanjacobspodcast.com/ Support the East West Series: http://theeastwestseries.com/ Referenced content: Episode 5 of The Nathan Jacobs Podcast, titled "The Myth of Enlightenment | Dr. Chris Firestone": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkFzbRVsTWE Dr. Nathan Jacobs & The Nathan Jacobs Podcast: The Theological Letters (Substack): https://nathanajacobs.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenathanjacobspodcast/ X: https://x.com/NathanJacobsPod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nathanandrewjacobs Academia: https://cabasilasinstitute.academia.edu/NathanJacobs Dr. Chris Firestone & The Firestone Files: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FirestoneFiles Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefirestonefiles/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/FirestoneFiles | |||