Kibbe on Liberty: Bonus Episode | Libertarians Need to Have More Fun with Michael Malice

Release Date: June 30, 2025

In this captivating bonus episode of Kibbe on Liberty, host Matt Kibbe engages in a stimulating conversation with renowned author and commentator Michael Malice. The discussion delves deep into themes of libertarianism, anarchism, cultural perceptions, and the role of humor and community within the libertarian movement. Below is a comprehensive summary of their engaging dialogue, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps to highlight key moments.

1. Introduction and Light-hearted Banter

The episode kicks off with Matt Kibbe welcoming Michael Malice to the show. They immediately dive into a playful exchange about Malice's recent interactions with fellow libertarian Tom Woods.

• Kibbe (00:00): Introduces Michael Malice and hints at the episode's topics, including anarchism and Tom Woods.

• Malice (00:55): Defends his playful ribbing of Tom Woods, emphasizing the importance of having fun: “What's the point of having a stature if you're not going to enjoy yourself?” (00:55).

2. Perceptions of Libertarianism

Kibbe and Malice explore how libertarianism is perceived by the broader public and within political circles. They discuss stereotypes and misconceptions that libertarians often face.

• Malice (03:23): Shares a humorous anecdote about Meghan McCain's view on libertarians: “Republicans cosplaying as cool kids who are polyamorous and go to Burning Man. Unserious people in general.” (03:23).

• Kibbe (03:50): Agrees, noting that such stereotypes may contribute to the challenges libertarians face in gaining broader acceptance.

3. Challenges in Promoting Anarchism

The conversation shifts to anarchism, with Kibbe seeking Malice's insights on effectively communicating anarchist principles to skeptics.

• Kibbe (04:20): Requests Malice’s elevator pitch for anarchism, highlighting the difficulty in presenting it to those with opposing views.

• Malice (04:36): Explains the complexity of pitching anarchism, likening it to describing a "20ft tall" friend and emphasizing that there’s no simple elevator pitch: “There is no elevator pitch... It’s not possible to elevate or pitch to even someone as intellectually curious on his journey.” (04:36).

• Kibbe (05:26): Inquires about strategies to spark curiosity about anarchism.

• Malice (05:35): Discusses meaningful dialogues, citing his conversation with Marisa from PragerU, and stresses the importance of challenging existing narratives: “When you present anarchism, they compare anarchism to utopia... I can offer you an improvement. I’m not offering you perfection.” (05:35).

4. Government Power and Corruption

The duo delves into the inherent issues with government power and its tendency toward corruption.

• Malice (07:09): Critiques the notion of limited government enforcement, comparing it to the unrealistic expectations of sovereign citizens: “It’s like the first amendment explicitly says the right for people to peaceably assemble. No one even pretended to invoke that during COVID.” (07:09).

• Kibbe (07:51): Draws parallels to socialist beliefs, questioning the efficacy of relying on elections to curb governmental overreach: “What are you gonna do when AOC has that power?... We have to keep winning.” (07:51).

5. The Role of Humor and Community in Libertarianism

Malice emphasizes the significance of joy, humor, and community in making libertarianism appealing and relatable.

• Malice (12:39): Advocates for rewarding positive behavior and incorporating fun into the movement: “This is one of the reasons I do make fun of Tom Woods all the time... If it’s going to be a bunch of autistic people talking at you about the Fed, you’re leaving.” (12:39).

• Kibbe (13:14): Highlights the importance of humor in engaging a broader audience.

• Malice (13:30): Reinforces the need for a thriving, joyful community: “It's about relishing and reveling in having people around you that you like and respect.” (13:30).

6. Anecdotes on Ayn Rand’s Personality and Influence

The discussion takes a personal turn as Malice shares stories about Ayn Rand, offering insights into her complex personality and lasting impact on libertarian thought.

• Malice (16:42): Recounts a memorable incident where Ayn Rand rejected a surprise party, illustrating her stringent personality: “She does not approve of surprises. She was sitting there fuming...” (16:42).

• Kibbe (17:53): Comments on Rand’s demeanor, agreeing that she seemed grumpy despite her philosophical contributions.

7. Comparing Ayn Rand and Jordan Peterson

Kibbe and Malice compare Ayn Rand's Objectivism with Jordan Peterson's philosophy, exploring similarities and differences in their messages about personal responsibility and societal contribution.

• Kibbe (15:05): Draws parallels between Rand's emphasis on productive work and Peterson's notions of creating order in one's life: “It’s about there’s something beautiful to be made of your work and your life.” (16:12).

• Malice (16:15): Claims responsibility for getting Peterson to acknowledge a voluntary society as preferable: “And I’m the one who got Peterson to admit that a voluntary society is preferable.” (16:15).

8. The Essence of Libertarian Community

Wrapping up, Kibbe and Malice reflect on the importance of community and mutual respect in fostering a libertarian society.

• Kibbe (18:31): Emphasizes community as a core component of anarchism: “When I think of anarchism, I think of community.”

• Malice (18:46): Agrees, underscoring the vision of a cooperative and self-governed society: “Yes. So anarchy in our lifetime. We are living it right now.” (18:46).

Notable Quotes

• Michael Malice (00:55): “What’s the point of having a stature if you’re not going to enjoy yourself?”

• Michael Malice (03:23): “Republicans cosplaying as cool kids who are polyamorous and go to Burning Man. Unserious people in general.”

• Michael Malice (04:36): “There is no elevator pitch... It’s not possible to elevate or pitch to even someone as intellectually curious on his journey.”

• Michael Malice (07:09): “It’s like the first amendment explicitly says the right for people to peaceably assemble. No one even pretended to invoke that during COVID.”

• Michael Malice (12:39): “If it’s going to be a bunch of autistic people talking at you about the Fed, you’re leaving.”

• Michael Malice (15:30): “She said productive work is man’s highest moral purpose.”

• Michael Malice (16:15): “And I’m the one who got Peterson to admit that a voluntary society is preferable.”

Conclusion

This bonus episode of Kibbe on Liberty offers listeners a thought-provoking exploration of libertarianism and anarchism through the incisive lens of Michael Malice. From dissecting public perceptions and internal dynamics of the libertarian movement to celebrating the roles of humor and community, Kibbe and Malice provide valuable insights into fostering a vibrant, free-thinking society. Their dialogue underscores the necessity of enjoying the journey towards societal freedom while steadfastly challenging oppressive structures.

For those intrigued by the intersection of libertarian philosophy, cultural critique, and personal anecdotes, this episode serves as an enriching resource that both informs and entertains.