Topic: Cato Institute

Host Greg Carlwood introduces Carrie McDonald, a senior education fellow at the Foundation of Economic Education and author of Unschooled. The discussion frames the American education system as a regimented, prison-like structure designed to break the independent spirit of children. McDonald’s background in education policy from Harvard University and her work with the Cato Institute are highlighted as she joins the program to discuss alternatives to conventional schooling.

The discussion addresses the regulatory environment in California, noting that while it is a high-regulation state, starting private schools remains relatively easy. McDonald references a 2021 Cato Institute report on entrepreneurial friendliness, noting a discrepancy where states like Colorado are friendly to general business but remain difficult for education innovators. These policy barriers often prevent the scaling of non-traditional learning networks.