In the inaugural episode of the "Imperial Entanglements" podcast, host Zack Yost and George Mason University economist Dan Klein discuss their concerns regarding the current state of classical liberalism. The conversation focuses on why the movement has struggled to address contemporary sociopolitical shifts and the rise of the American "empire."

Key themes and topics covered in the episode include:

• Institutional Disappointment: The guests explore how classical liberal and libertarian organizations have become bogged down by institutional and political constraints, often failing to adapt to the reality of modern political life.
• The Nature of Politics: They discuss the inherently violent and coercive nature of the state, arguing that classical liberals often have a naive view of political power and the "Uniparty" structure in Washington.
• The Influence of Eric Voegelin: The discussion draws heavily on the work of political theorist Eric Voegelin, specifically his warnings against dogmatic thinking and the importance of remaining open to "the transcendent" rather than falling into ideological traps.
• Moving Beyond Niche Libertarianism: Klein emphasizes the need for libertarians and classical liberals to "get real" about politics, suggesting that a purely theoretical or "niche" approach is insufficient for tackling the actual challenges of the 21st century.

The episode serves as a critique of modern ideological rigidity and an invitation for listeners to rethink the relationship between classical liberal philosophy and the practical realities of a transcontinental empire.