Judah Freed on Making Global Sense, Thomas Paine, and the Power of Interdependence

On this episode of the Big Time Talker Podcast, recorded at the American Library Association Summer Conference in Chicago, Burke Allen sits down with author Judah Freed to discuss the 2026 edition of Making Global Sense, his modern extension of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense. Judah explains how Paine’s ideas inspired him to explore concepts he calls a “Declaration of Interdependence,” mindful self-rule, personal democracy, and direct republics. At the center of his philosophy is the belief that recognizing our interconnectedness can influence how people treat themselves, one another, and the communities and institutions around them. The conversation explores Judah’s interpretation of authority, leadership, external validation, personal responsibility, and the importance he places on conscience and intuition. He also discusses his proposal for giving citizens a more direct role in ratifying laws and how those ideas connect to his reading of Paine and the values of the Enlightenment. With the 2026 edition marking the 250th anniversary of Common Sense, Judah reflects on the continuing relevance he sees in questions about freedom, responsibility, democracy, and how individuals relate to the wider world. He also shares news about the paperback, hardcover, ebook, and forthcoming audiobook editions of Making Global Sense.  This episode of Burke Allen’s Big Time Talker was recorded live in the great city of Chicago at the American Library Association Podcast Pavilion, thanks to the Next Generation Indy Book Awards, Headline Books and Speakermatch.com!