Gap Years and God: Where The Next Generation Finds Their Direction

Broadcast Episode

Tuesday, May 20

The traditional path to higher education is being reimagined as faith-based gap year programs emerge as powerful alternatives to conventional college experiences. This eye-opening conversation reveals how programs like Summit Ministries and Patriot Academy are creating immersive educational models that develop biblical worldview foundations while helping young people discover their vocational calling. Jeff Myers of Summit Ministries shares startling statistics that challenge our assumptions about higher education's value proposition: less than 27% of college graduates find employment in their specific degree field, while accumulating significant debt and often facing worldview challenges. The Summit gap year offers a compelling alternative—a structured program where students develop critical thinking skills, theological foundations, and participate in vocational internships while earning transferable college credit. What makes these programs particularly remarkable is their holistic approach to education. Rather than simply acquiring information, students learn how to evaluate ideas, maintain their conscience amid opposing viewpoints, and discover meaningful vocational pathways. The emphasis on practical experience through internships and mentorship creates opportunities for genuine discernment about future direction. The digital landscape presents unique challenges for today's youth, with social media algorithms deliberately monetizing anger and shaping worldviews. Myers provides practical wisdom for navigating these influences, emphasizing that young people don't need perfect answers to every challenge they encounter. Instead, they can maintain a grounded confidence in truth while continuing to learn. Whether you're a parent exploring educational options for your child, a young person seeking direction without the debt and potential indoctrination of traditional college, or someone interested in cultural trends, this conversation offers fresh perspective on education's purpose and potential. These growing alternatives represent a return to founding principles—preparing young people not just academically, but developing the character and wisdom needed for meaningful contribution to society. Support the show

Loading the player...

About The WallBuilders Show

The WallBuilders Show is a daily journey to examine today's issues from a Biblical, Historical and Constitutional perspective. Featured guests include elected officials, experts, activists, authors, and commentators.

More from The WallBuilders Show

Broadcast Episode

Today

Breaking the Monopoly: Why School Choice Matters for America's Future

The cultural tide in America is turning, and this episode of The WallBuilders Show captures the momentum of traditional values making a powerful comeback across the nation. Texas has claimed a monumental victory with the passage of the largest school choice program in the country. After decades of advocacy, Governor Abbott signed into law a $1 billion educational savings account that will provide approximately $10, 000 per student. Though this breakthrough program currently reaches only about 1. 4% of Texas students, it represents a crucial first step in breaking the public education monopoly and expanding educational freedom for families. A refreshing cultural shift is underway as June transitions from "Pride Month" to "Family Month. " Congresswoman Mary Miller has introduced a resolution in Congress officially recognizing the family as society's foundational building block. This coincides with major corporations quietly dropping their rainbow logos and Americans increasingly celebrating traditional family values. The WallBuilders team encourages listeners to intentionally prioritize family time this month, suggesting shared meals, outdoor activities, and meaningful family experiences. Legal and technological developments further signal this return to traditional values. A Texas DOJ official now faces murder charges for secretly administering abortion medication to his pregnant girlfriend—a landmark case recognizing the humanity of unborn children. Meanwhile, Texas has joined Utah in requiring parental approval for minors downloading apps, with Governor Abbott signing legislation that protects children from online predators despite opposition from tech giants. Perhaps most revealing is Politico's comprehensive study showing young men abandoning the Democratic Party in droves. Only 27% view Democrats favorably compared to 43% for Republicans, with participants describing the left as "weak" and "dismissive of their concerns" while preferring the GOP's embrace of traditional masculinity. What cultural shifts have you noticed in your community? How are you celebrating family values this month? Join the conversation and subscribe for more updates on how traditional values are making a comeback across America. Support the show

Loading the player...

Broadcast Episode

Yesterday

Faith Under Fire: Israel's Struggle for Peace

Stepping into our studio for the first time, Israeli archaeologist, tour guide, and IDF soldier Omer Eshel brings firsthand perspective to the complex realities unfolding in the Middle East. This rare in-person conversation takes us beyond headlines into the heart of Israel's current challenges with Iran, Gaza, and internal politics. Omer draws a striking biblical parallel when assessing Prime Minister Netanyahu's leadership, comparing him to King Solomon—"someone who started really well but became corrupt." This candid evaluation reveals nuances in Israeli politics often missing from international coverage, where Israelis themselves are debating their leadership during crucial times. The discussion turns sobering as Omer frames the current standoff with Iran as a dangerous dispute between nuclear powers. He reminds us of Israel's 2007 bombing of Syria's nuclear reactor—heavily condemned internationally but potentially preventing catastrophe when ISIS later swept through the region. "What would happen if ISIS would have held that nuclear reactor?" he asks, highlighting Israel's existential calculations when facing threats. Perhaps most revealing is Omer's compassionate perspective on Gaza's civilians. While leading tours that connect biblical sites with archaeological evidence, he regularly prays not just for Israel's safety but for Gaza's children. "Ninety percent of Israelis want this war to be over," he explains, echoing Golda Meir's wisdom that peace will come "when Palestinians love their children more than they hate us." For those seeking deeper understanding of both ancient biblical history and today's Middle East complexities, this conversation connects the dots between archaeology, faith, and current events. How does your perspective on Israel's situation change when hearing directly from someone living these realities daily?

Loading the player...

Broadcast Episode

Wednesday, June 11

Reclaiming America: How Federal Land Control Threatens State Sovereignty

The federal government controls a staggering one-third of all American land, including half of everything west of the Rocky Mountains. But does this massive federal land ownership align with our founders' vision for America? Ken Ivory, a longtime advocate for constitutional land management, takes us deep into this overlooked but critical issue. Drawing from constitutional text and founding history, he explains how Article 1, Section 8, Clause 17 specifically limits federal land ownership within states to land purchased with state legislature consent for military installations and other specific purposes. During constitutional debates, Elbridge Gerry warned that allowing broader federal land powers would enable government to exercise "undue awe" within states – precisely what we're witnessing today. The conversation unveils what Ivory calls "the first great compromise" that preceded the more famous Connecticut Compromise. Land-poor states like Maryland refused to join the Articles of Confederation for five years over fears that land-rich Virginia would sell western territories, forcing Maryland to raise taxes. The resolution came through establishing a constitutional trust whereby federal lands would be transferred to create "distinct republican states with the same rights of sovereignty" as existing states – a promise ultimately broken for Western territories. Beyond constitutional concerns, the podcast explores practical impacts of federal mismanagement: catastrophic wildfires from poor forest maintenance, economic opportunities squandered, and state tax bases artificially constrained. While hunters and outdoor enthusiasts often fear losing access under state control, Ivory makes a compelling case that states have every incentive to maintain recreational opportunities while implementing better management practices responsive to local needs. Ready to understand a constitutional issue that affects millions of acres of American land? Listen to discover how returning to our founders' vision of state sovereignty could create an "economic, constitutional, environmental renaissance" benefiting all Americans. Follow Ken Ivory's work at nationalfederalisminitiative.organd join the movement to restore proper constitutional governance. Support the show

Loading the player...

Broadcast Episode

Tuesday, June 10

Oklahoma's Bold Move to Reclaim Republican Government

Senator David Bullard of Oklahoma delivers a masterclass in constitutional governance with his groundbreaking reform of the state's initiative petition process. Having identified how progressive groups exploit ballot initiatives to liberalize conservative states, Bullard crafted Senate Bill 1027 to restore republican principles and strengthen pro-life protections. The ballot initiative system, a Progressive Era remnant that creates direct democracy within states, has become the preferred weapon for liberal organizations seeking to bypass conservative legislatures. As Bullard explains, outside money and professional signature gatherers have previously succeeded in Oklahoma with measures for medical marijuana and Medicaid expansion. Now, they're targeting abortion rights. Bullard's reform requires remarkable transparency and genuine grassroots support for any initiative. Petitions must use Oklahoma volunteers and Oklahoma money only. Critically, signatures must come from at least 20 counties rather than just Oklahoma City and Tulsa, preventing the 2. 5% of counties from dictating policy to the other 97. 5%. The bill ensures that truly statewide issues have statewide support. Drawing from his background as an AP history teacher, Bullard articulates why this matters fundamentally to our system of government. Citing Article 4, Section 4 of the Constitution, he reminds us that America guarantees each state a republican form of government—not a democracy. The Founding Fathers "despised democracy, " preferring representative government where elected officials make laws on citizens' behalf. What makes this reform particularly impactful is the progressive reaction. Their fierce opposition to gathering signatures beyond urban centers reveals their strategy: using coastal money and urban voters to force policy changes on conservative states. As Bullard notes, "If they really want to know the truth, I would completely remove the initiative petition process. " This legislation presents a model for conservative states nationwide facing similar progressive tactics. By requiring initiatives to demonstrate broader geographic support and relying on in-state resources, states can better preserve their values against well-funded outside influences determined to reshape state policy through direct democracy—a concept our founders rejected. How will you help preserve republican government in your state? Consider supporting candidates who understand these constitutional distinctions and recognize the progressive playbook targeting conservative strongholds. Support the show

Loading the player...

Broadcast Episode

Monday, June 9

D-Day's Legacy Lives On As Modern Political Battles Unfold

When titans clash, nations tremble. The recent public dispute between Elon Musk and Donald Trump represents more than just a personality conflict—it embodies a fundamental tension between principled idealism and political pragmatism that could reshape American politics for generations. Against the backdrop of D-Day's anniversary, we explore how this modern conflict mirrors historic challenges that required both strategic compromise and unwavering purpose. David Barton shares fascinating insights about how D-Day's success hinged on elaborate deception, with General Patton serving as a crucial decoy that drew German forces away from the actual landing sites. Just as those coordinated tactics changed the course of World War II, today's political battles demand similar strategic thinking and unity of purpose. The heart of the Musk-Trump disagreement centers on America's fiscal future and how to achieve meaningful reform. Musk, the world's richest man and a brilliant business innovator, approaches government spending from a principled stance rooted in fiscal responsibility. His frustration with Washington's inability to address the national debt resonates deeply with many Americans. Trump, having grown through his first term, now navigates the practical realities of a narrowly divided Congress where the recent spending bill passed by just one vote (215-214). Most concerningly, history warns us about the devastating potential of this rift. John Graves of Million Voices draws powerful parallels to Ross Perot's third-party campaign, which split the center-right vote and delivered the presidency to Bill Clinton—twice. Yet there's hope in that painful lesson: following Perot's failed presidential bid, his supporters helped Republicans gain 54 House seats in 1994, delivering many of Perot's policy goals including a balanced budget. Rather than choosing sides in this conflict between powerful allies who have both made extraordinary sacrifices, we explore how their complementary strengths could unite for greater impact. The wisest path forward may be channeling reform energy toward competitive congressional races, creating the legislative majority needed for meaningful fiscal discipline while maintaining executive leadership committed to conservative principles. Join us for this timely conversation about principles, pragmatism, and the prayer-centered leadership that has carried America through its greatest challenges. Support the show

Loading the player...

The WallBuilders Show

Christian talk radio with David Barton

Broadcast Episode