Episode Details

The battle lines are being drawn, and the clash of ideas is heating up. In a recent live interview on the Financial Survival Network, Kerry Lutz sat down with the legendary Mark Skousen—economist, author, and the mastermind behind FreedomFest—to discuss the state of global liberty, the “World’s Fair of Liberty,” and why the principles of Adam Smith are the only cure for a world teetering on the edge of economic and political chaos.

The Renaissance of Liberty in Las Vegas

As FreedomFest approaches its 20th anniversary, Skousen reflects on why he started what has become the world’s premier liberty conference. While other movements are organized and vocal, the “herd of cats” that makes up the freedom movement often lacks a central gathering point.

“Why not have an annual get-together for three or four days? I chose Las Vegas because it’s the most libertarian city in the U.S. It’s ‘choose your own poison,’ but with top-tier restaurants and intellectual fire.”

This isn’t just a political rally. It’s a Renaissance gathering featuring:

* The Anthem Film Festival: Celebrating liberty through the lens of cinema.

* The Mock Trial: This year’s trial focuses on the controversial role of ICE and immigration, with a jury selected directly from the open-minded attendees.

* The M&M Boys: Mark Skousen and Mark Lichtenfeld providing hard-hitting financial and investment advice.

Celebrating a Double Anniversary: 1776–2026

This year holds a special significance as the world celebrates the 250th anniversary of two pivotal documents:

* Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations: The blueprint for economic freedom.

* The Declaration of Independence: The foundation of political freedom.

Skousen argues that you cannot have one without the other. Without economic freedom, political liberty is a hollow shell; without political liberty, economic growth is stifled by tyranny.

The “Adam Smith Cure” for Global Conflict

The conversation turned toward the rising geopolitical tensions and the inflationary nature of war. Skousen emphasized that Adam Smith’s model of natural liberty—governed by the rule of law and robust competition—is the only sustainable path forward.

“War is inflationary. Wall Street hates inflation. We are seeing oil disruptions reminiscent of the 1970s. The ultimate goal should be: Commerce with all, and war with none.“

High-Octane Speakers

The 2026 lineup is already shaping up to be a powerhouse of diverse perspectives:

* Steve Forbes & John Mackey: Co-ambassadors of FreedomFest.

* Kennedy (Fox Business): The event’s regular Master of Ceremonies.

* Elon Musk (Tentative): Following his game-changing takeover of X (formerly Twitter), the discussion on free speech has never been more relevant.

* Rob Schneider & Adam Carolla: Bringing humor and a fearless defense of free expression.

Don’t Be a “Freedom Loser”

Mark touched on the concept of “Freedom to Choose” vs. “Freedom to Lose.” While liberty allows for the risk of failure or bad habits, it also creates the space for private education and community responsibility to thrive.

FreedomFest is the place to debate these nuances without the name-calling and division found on cable news. It’s about what is right, not who is right.

Ready to join the movement? FreedomFest 2026 takes place July 8–11 at Caesars Forum, Las Vegas.

Killer Deal for Substack Readers: Use the code ADAMSMITH100 at

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