What does it actually take to raise boys who become faithful, purposeful men — in a generation that’s been told they have no purpose? In this episode of Refining Rhetoric, host Robert Bortins sits down with Braeden Sorbo — CC alumni, author of Embrace Masculinity, and cultural commentator with over 2 million followers — to talk about Christian masculinity, Gen Z’s real struggles, and what parents of teenage boys need to understand right now.
Braeden shares what homeschooling through Classical Conversations gave him that public school couldn’t — the flexibility, the community, and a foundation in truth, beauty, and goodness that still shapes how he thinks and creates. He opens up about what his generation is actually up against: a third of Gen Z aborted before they were born, a housing market that locks most of them out, and a culture that tells young men they have no purpose. But rather than despair, Braeden draws on the saints of old — St. Justin Martyr, St. Moses the Black — and the classical tradition to make the case that none of this is new, and none of it is unsurmountable.
If you’re a parent of a teenage boy — or a young man trying to find your footing — this conversation is packed with clarity, conviction, and real talk from someone who’s been in it. Braeden’s challenge to parents: stop leading with “pick yourself up by your bootstraps” and start by understanding what your kids are actually up against. The burden of proof that this country is worth saving? He says it lands on you.
Braedon Sorbo’s Website: https://braedensorbo.com/
This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by Classical Conversations’ new 2026 Product Line:
This April, Classical Conversations launched an exciting portfolio of new products designed to strengthen math fluency, develop critical reasoning skills, and equip families with practical tools for classical, Christian homeschooling. From flashcard resources and reasoning curriculum to hands-on manipulatives and a foundational parent resource, these releases deepen the classical learning journey for families at every level.
Visit https://classicalconversations.com/WhatsNew/ to explore the entire April 2026 product collection and start strengthening your family’s classical, Christian education today.