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Mindful Living

David Horowitz: From Radical Leftist to Conservative Icon – A Tribute with Evan Sayet

The Joy of Living Podcast with Barry Shore

In this powerful and personal episode of The Joy of Living, host Barry Shore welcomes author and political commentator Evan Sayet for a heartfelt tribute to the late David Horowitz — a man whose extraordinary transformation from radical Marxist to conservative icon left a lasting imprint on American culture and politics.

Together, Barry and Evan reflect on Horowitz’s early life in a communist household, his involvement in the radical left during the 1960s, and the profound ideological awakening that led him to become one of conservatism’s fiercest and most influential defenders. From founding the Freedom Center to writing over 30 groundbreaking books, Horowitz dedicated the second half of his life to exposing the threats to Western civilization—and inspiring a generation of thinkers, writers, and warriors.

You’ll hear personal stories, sharp insights, and even some laughter as Barry and Evan explore Horowitz’s role in shaping the conservative movement, the importance of being a “happy warrior,” and why his work remains more relevant than ever in 2025 and beyond.

Topics Covered:
– The ideological war shaping Western civilization
– Horowitz’s transformation and spiritual journey
– The cultural battleground of academia and media
– The intersection of humor, truth, and activism
– A global call to courage, freedom, and hope

This is more than a tribute—it’s a call to action. Share it widely.

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Show Notes:

[10.02] The Legacy of David Horowitz

  • Barry introduces the episode’s theme: honoring David Horowitz, a transformative figure in American conservatism.
  • Emphasis on Horowitz’s unique journey from communist upbringing to conservative icon.
  • Barry shares how Horowitz framed the threat to Western civilization from radical ideologies.
  • Introduction of guest Evan Sayet, a close friend and fellow commentator.
  • Sayet recalls the unexpected conservative hub of Los Angeles in the early 2000s.
  • The pivotal role of Horowitz’s Freedom Center and influential thinkers like Prager and Breitbart.

[20.00] From Radical Left to Conservative Champion

  • Sayet details Horowitz’s deep roots in the radical left, including close ties to the Black Panthers and Weather Underground.
  • Barry and Evan discuss Horowitz’s powerful memoir “Radical Son” and the impact it had.
  • Horowitz’s critique of academia: his exposé on the ideological homogeneity in universities.
  • Exploration of the left’s “long march through the institutions” and its current-day effects.
  • The strategic shift from violent activism to intellectual influence by leftist leaders.
  • How Horowitz’s personal transformation lent weight and authenticity to his message.

[30.00] Hope, Humor, and the Happy Warrior

  • Barry shares anecdotes of Horowitz at synagogue, appreciating his desire to just “be human.”
  • Sayet reflects on Horowitz’s determination and mental resilience.
  • Horowitz’s idea of not extrapolating fear into the future, but instead embracing the present fight.
  • Evan shares the phrase “happy warrior” and how humor and joy are essential tools in ideological battles.
  • The importance of fighting for a fulfilling life, not fighting as life’s purpose.
  • Barry and Evan laugh about shared stories, emphasizing the strength of laughter.

[40.00] Fighting for Western Civilization

  • Discussion of key Horowitz works like “Blitz,” “Big Agenda,” and “The Professors.”
  • Horowitz’s prophetic understanding of threats to American values and freedoms.
  • Emphasis on the Judeo-Christian foundation of Western civilization.
  • Examples of modern-day cultural and ideological battles, from Title IX to woke academia.
  • Shout-outs to other cultural warriors like David Mamet and Tammy Bruce.
  • Sayet highlights Horowitz’s insistence on proactive engagement: not just think tanks, but “battle tanks.”

[50.00] A Global Message for Freedom

  • Barry connects Horowitz’s legacy to global listeners hungry for freedom and meaning.
  • Mention of Horowitz’s books on Israel and Christian Zionism as foundational to understanding modern ideological conflicts.
  • Praise for voices like Bill Maher and an Imam from London who publicly acknowledged Israel’s democratic values.
  • Sayet explores the absurdity and danger of radical ideologies that demonize Jews and Israel.
  • Reflections on Horowitz’s spiritual journey, from militant atheist to religiously grounded freedom fighter.
  • Final tribute: Barry and Evan urge listeners to share the message and carry forward Horowitz’s mission with joy, courage, and hope.

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About Evan Sayet

New York City-born,, stand-up comedian (Letterman) and television writer (Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher) turned political speaker (Heritage Foundation), author, campaign advisor (Ted Cruz for President 2016) and speechwriter for first candidate and then president Trump.