This podcast is so informative that I even recommend that my listeners over at The Burnt Church Atheist have a listen.

Thanks for doing the heavy lifting here, He man T.

Played this during school commute, and we ended up pausing a lot to answer my 9 yo’s questions and more. In the beginning, she said “I don’t believe in separation of church and state!” I asked what she thought that meant, after a beat she admitted she didn’t know. Explained briefly. “Oh, then I *DO* believe in it!” She’s very unhappy that the country’s motto was changed. “What about those of us who aren’t Christian?!” We discussed how I don’t say the pledge and don’t usually hand-over-heart, mostly because I stopped having to do it in grade school back in the day, and now it feels like I’m reciting a nursery rhyme. We also discussed how I still stand and don’t make a fuss for social reasons, and how sitting it out does NOT disrespect the military (we are a multi generational and current military family). I also recommended she not sit out unless she can explain why—but she doesn’t have to say it. She’s stood but not recited out of her own accord. (We do agree the ads are a little hokey, if earnest—sorry) When the last ep was done, she demanded more to listen to! So, uh, hop to it, Hemant?

An amazingly narrated and well researched podcast from an secular perspective.

I am so pleased!! I stumbled upon this while looking for a Supreme Court podcast. There were only 4 episodes which were all about the Pledge and I thought, “That will be boring,” but I gave it 5 minutes anyhow… so glad I did!! Very compelling and well researched content delivered in a concise narrative that keeps me wanting MORE!! I almost wish I would have stumbled across this gem in another year so I wouldn’t be out of episodes already!!

Thanks for this secular history of the pledge of allegiance! Hemant really reveals the truth behind this ubiquitous tool of compulsory “patriotism” (really nationalism) and the free speech cases throughout the years. Thanks for the great podcast and keep up the good work!

I’ve been following The Friendly Atheist since at least 2012, and Hemant Mehta never fails to bring light and insight to issues of interest to atheists, secular folks, religious minorities, and anyone else interested in state-church separation. This podcast is stellar—an in-depth look at the history of the Pledge and its controversies, with a dose of Hemant’s signature dry wit. This is a great listen!

Starting ep2 now, this is pretty fascinating

This is a well researched podcast with a bunch of interesting and good information.

This podcast is an excellent deep-dive into the history of the United States’ internal struggle with keeping government out of religion and vice versa. Not only does Hemant address the direct legal challenges regarding the pledge, but he waxes through related incidents and court cases about which you may never have heard. They don’t teach this in school, so download this pod and get schooled by Hemant Mehta of the Friendly Atheist!

Well research and well produced!

Hemant gives a historical look into the pledge and country that everyone should know for a better understanding of the country then and now. Excellent job

I’m excited to be able to listen to Hement’s logical, clear, and convincing arguments. In addition to his active writing, he’s a true hero in the very real fight to save our republic from religious zealots.

I thought I knew about the pledge. Turns out I’m pretty illiterate on the subject. Very interesting information. Looking forward to the next episodes!