Book Club with Michael Smerconish

Follow Book Club with Michael Smerconish
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Reading for Independent Minds. Unlike many author interviews, if Michael didn't actually read the book, you won't hear about it. If he read it, you'll hear it and you'll love it. Insights into a wide range of topics, including many titles you've probably never heard of. The perfect book is just one listen away.

SiriusXM


    • May 20, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 20m AVG DURATION
    • 544 EPISODES


    More podcasts from SiriusXM

    Search for episodes from Book Club with Michael Smerconish with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Book Club with Michael Smerconish

    Sharon McMahon: "We Are Mighty"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 24:12


    Michael talks with bestselling author and educator Sharon McMahon about her new book "We Are Mighty: 12 Ordinary Americans Who Did the Next Needed Thing", an illustrated companion to her hit book "The Small and the Mighty." McMahon shares the inspiring stories of overlooked Americans whose courage and determination helped shape the nation, from civil rights pioneer Septima Clark to Constitution framer Gouverneur Morris. The conversation also explores the importance of civic education, free speech, and McMahon's recent controversy surrounding her canceled university commencement address. Original air date 18 May 2026. The book was published on 19 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Andrew Guthrie Ferguson: "Your Data Will Be Used Against You"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 27:05


    Michael Smerconish sits down with George Washington University law professor Andrew Guthrie Ferguson, author of "Your Data Will Be Used Against You: Policing in the Age of Self-Surveillance," for a timely conversation about privacy, policing, and the rise of AI-powered surveillance. From license plate readers and facial recognition to Tesla “hurry up mode” and automated school bus tickets, they explore how technology is reshaping law enforcement — and what Americans may be sacrificing in the name of safety. Where should society draw the line between public security and personal privacy? Original Air Date 05/18/26, The book was published on 17 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Admiral James Stavridis: "2084"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 19:49


    Michael welcomes retired four-star Admiral James Stavridis to discuss "2084: A Novel of Future War", the gripping finale to his bestselling trilogy co-written with Elliot Ackerman. From great power conflict and artificial intelligence to climate catastrophe and the future of democracy, Stavridis explores the real-world forces shaping his vision of the late 21st century. The conversation ranges from China and NATO to sea-level rise, civil unrest, and the dangers of unintended war — while also revealing the hopeful message at the heart of the novel. A fascinating deep dive into geopolitics, storytelling, and the future of humanity. Original air date 15 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Russell Muirhead: "A Lot of People Are Saying"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 15:14


    As conspiracies about whether any of the three assassination attempts on President Donald Trump were staged or not, Michael speaks with Dartmouth professor Russell Muirhead, co-author of "A Lot of People Are Saying: The New Conspiracism and the Assault on Democracy", about the rise of modern conspiracism and its impact on democracy. From JFK theories to 2020 election claims and online misinformation, Muirhead explains how social media and “a lot of people are saying” culture have replaced evidence with repetition — and why rebuilding trust, skepticism, and real-world connection is more important than ever. Original air date 13 May 2026. The book was published on 16 April 2019. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Dr. Nassir Ghaemi on The Psychology of Great Leaders: The Creative Power of Mental Illness

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 24:30


    In this episode of Book Club with Michael Smerconish, Michael speaks with psychiatrist and author Dr. Nassir Ghaemi about the surprising connection between mental illness and exceptional leadership. Drawing from Dr. Ghaemi's books "A First-Rate Madness" and the newly published "Soul on Fire", the conversation explores how figures like Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and Ted Turner may have drawn strength from struggles with depression or bipolar disorder during times of crisis. It's a thought-provoking discussion about stigma, creativity, resilience, and the misunderstood realities of mental health. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Susan Page: "The Queen and Her Presidents"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 16:27


    Michael welcomes USA Today Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page to discuss her bestselling book "The Queen and Her Presidents: The Hidden Hand That Shaped History." From Ronald Reagan's close friendship with Queen Elizabeth II to Donald Trump's fascination with royal protocol, Page shares revealing stories about the monarch's relationships with every American president she encountered. The conversation explores unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments involving the Obamas, Jimmy Carter, JFK, and more — offering a fascinating look at how Queen Elizabeth quietly shaped the “special relationship” between the United States and Great Britain for more than seventy years. Original air date 7 May 2026. The book was published on 14 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Robert Putnam Revisits "Bowling Alone" with The Mingle Project

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 28:57


    Visit The Mingle Project, and watch this in Episode #27 of The Mingle Project on YouTube. The Mingle Project is Michael's mission to restore civility and compromise to our public discourse. For three decades, he's had a front-row seat to the increase in polarization that has gripped the nation. He sees the current climate as part of a much larger disconnect in society fueled by technology and self-sorting, having a serious impact on the mental health of our youth. The Mingle Project is both his diagnosis and prescription for the problem, presented through anecdotes, social science… and a few laughs! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Julian Zelizer: "The Presidency of Joseph R. Biden"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2026 21:34


    Michael welcomes Princeton University professor and historian Julian Zelizer with "The Presidency of Joseph R. Biden: A First Historical Assessment", a new collection of essays examining Biden's legacy. They explore the administration's major accomplishments—from economic recovery to climate and foreign policy—alongside the political challenges that defined his presidency, including inflation, immigration, and the Afghanistan withdrawal. Zelizer explains why early historical evaluations matter and how Biden's decisions, especially his bid for a second term, may shape how history ultimately judges his time in office. Original air date 29 April 2026. The book was published on 7 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Sarah Isgur: "Last Branch Standing"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 24:22


    Michael sits down with legal analyst and Advisory Opinions host Sarah Isgur to discuss her best-selling book "Last Branch Standing: A Potentially Surprising, Occasionally Witty Journey Inside Today's Supreme Court" and unpack how the Supreme Court really works. Using engaging examples—from “snails on a train” to modern constitutional debates—they explore competing theories of interpretation, the myth of a purely partisan court, and why most decisions defy simple ideological lines. Isgur also offers an insider's look at the justices, the Court's internal dynamics, and controversial questions like transparency, media influence, and the role of judgment in the law. Original air date 23 April 2026. The book was published on 14 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Jonathan Zimmerman: "Free Speech - And Why You Should Give A Damn"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 14:30


    Michael Smerconish speaks with University of Pennsylvania historian Jonathan Zimmerman about "Free Speech: And Why You Should Give a Damn," co-authored with Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Signe Wilkinson. They explore how free speech—once a cornerstone of liberal activism—has become politically polarized, with conservatives now claiming its mantle. Zimmerman argues that cultural shifts, campus controversies, and the rise of “cancel culture” have reshaped public discourse, often discouraging open debate. The conversation examines the tension between free speech and social justice, the impact of self-censorship, and why reclaiming robust dialogue is essential to addressing inequality. Original air date 8 April 2021. The book was published on 1 April 2021. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Lanny Davis: "Finding The Third Way"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 42:05


    Michael Smerconish sits down with longtime political insider Lanny Davis to discuss his book "Finding the Third Way: Lessons in the Politics of Civility from My Journey through History." Through candid, often humorous stories—from Yale days alongside future presidents to moments inside the Clinton White House—Davis reflects on a lifetime in politics and the lessons he's learned about civility, empathy, and bridging divides. It's a wide-ranging conversation that blends history, personal anecdotes, and a call for a more respectful, “third way” approach to today's polarized climate. Original air date 15 April 2026. The book was published on 14 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Melissa S. Kearney: "The Two-Parent Privilege"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2026 21:14


    As U.S. birth rates hit record lows, Michael talks with economist Dr. Melissa Kearney, author of "The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind" about the consequences. From marriage trends to economic inequality, they break down what's driving the decline—and why it matters for the future of families, the workforce, and the social safety net. Original air date 13 April 2026. The book was published on 18 September 2023. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Richard Louv: "Vitamin N"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 17:59


    Ten years ago this week, Michael sat down with "Last Child In The Woods" author Richard Louv to explore the growing disconnect between children and the natural world—and why it matters more than ever. Louv's book discussed here is "Vitamin N: The Essential Guide To A Nature-Rich Life." He shares research on the physical, mental, and academic benefits of time spent outdoors, while offering practical, affordable ways families can reconnect with nature. From backyard adventures to rethinking schools and cities, this conversation is a compelling call to get outside and rediscover the power of the natural world. Original air date 12 April 2016. The book was published on 12 April 2016. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Jeffrey Sonnenfeld: "Trump's Ten Commandments"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 22:55


    Michael sits down with Yale University's Jeffrey Sonnenfeld to discuss his bestselling book "Trump's Ten Commandments: Strategic Lessons from the Trump Leadership Toolbox." Drawing on decades of firsthand observation, Sonnenfeld breaks down the management principles and communication strategies that define Donald Trump's leadership style. The conversation explores whether Trump's approach is instinctive or deliberate—and what it reveals about power, persuasion, and modern leadership. Original air date 9 April 2026. The book was released on 31 March 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Mark Halperin & John Heilemann: "Double Down"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 36:50


    From the archives from November of 2013, we revisit two revealing conversations with John Heilemann and Mark Halperin, co-authors of "Double Down: Game Change 2012," offering a behind-the-scenes look at the 2012 presidential campaign. From Mitt Romney's uneasy path to the nomination to Barack Obama's debate recovery—and the unforgettable convention moments featuring Clint Eastwood and Bill Clinton—the authors unpack the strategy, personalities, and pivotal decisions that shaped the race. It's a candid exploration of modern campaigns, media coverage, and the human drama behind the headlines - and to listen to and relive it again over a decade later is quite something! Original air dates mid-November 2013. The book was published on 5 November 2013. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Seth Davis: "Wooden"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 14:49


    Michael Smerconish sits down with Sports Illustrated senior writer Seth Davis to discuss his acclaimed biography "Wooden: A Coach's Life." Davis offers a nuanced portrait of legendary UCLA coach John Wooden—exploring not just his unparalleled success on the court, but the complexities, pressures, and contradictions that shaped his life and legacy. From coaching philosophy to personal struggles, this conversation reveals the man behind the myth. Original air date 5 February 2014. The book was published on 14 January 2014. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    David Pogue: "Apple"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 25:12


    Learn more here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Christopher Kennedy Lawford: "What Addicts Know"

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 42:21


    Christopher Lawford passed away in 2018.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Bob Crawford: "America's Founding Son"

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 15:52


    The conversation delves into Adams' fierce opposition to slavery, his role in shaping the Monroe Doctrine, and the striking political parallels between his era and today—from media polarization to debates over tariffs and national identity. Blending rigorous research with vivid storytelling, Crawford reintroduces one of America's most complex leaders and makes the case for why John Quincy Adams' legacy still matters now. Find America's Founding Son here! Bob Crawford is bassist for the Avett Brothers and co-host of The Road To Now podcast. He is also a guest host of The Michael Smerconish Program on SiriusXM. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Dr. Debra Soh: "Sextinction"

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 25:43


    Dr. Debra Soh is a neuroscientist who specializes in human sexuality and biological explanations for behavior. Find "Sextinction" here! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Michael Shermer: "Truth"

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 17:30


    Is America living in a “post-truth” era? In this episode of Book Club, Dr. Michael Shermer — founding publisher of Skeptic magazine and author of "Truth: What It Is, How to Find It, and Why It Still Matters" — joins Michael for a wide-ranging conversation about belief, evidence, and critical thinking in a complicated age. Shermer addresses the recent surge of UFO and UAP claims, explaining why decades of investigation have left him unconvinced of extraterrestrial visits. From conspiracy theories and alternative facts to AI-generated deepfakes and declining trust in institutions, the discussion explores how we determine what's real — and why skepticism remains essential. Are we more gullible than ever? Can truth survive politics, social media, and artificial intelligence? And what does healthy skepticism actually look like? A thoughtful, timely conversation about how to separate fact from fiction — and why it still matters. Original air date 12 February 2026. The book was published on 27 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Jean Becker & Tom Collamore: "Don't Tell The President"

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 37:52


    What really goes into a presidential visit? In this episode of Book Club, Michael sits down with Jean Becker and Tom Collamore to discuss their new book, "Don't Tell the President: The Best, Worst, and Mostly Untold Stories from Presidential Advance." From George H.W. Bush and Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama, Becker and Collamore pull back the curtain on the high-stakes world of “advance” work — the behind-the-scenes operatives who plan every detail of a president's public appearances. The conversation features unforgettable stories, including the controversy over a papal backdrop, the infamous Dukakis tank photo, assassination attempts on President Ford, a royal riser mishap with Queen Elizabeth II, and even Smerconish's own unexpected detour into a Brussels brothel while advancing Vice President Bush. It's a candid, entertaining, and revealing look at the moments that shaped presidential history — and the unsung professionals who made (and sometimes nearly broke) them. Original air date 11 February 2026. The book was published on 3 February 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Josh Shapiro: "Where We Keep the Light"

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2026 24:09


    Michael sits down with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro to discuss his new memoir, "Where We Keep the Light: Stories from a Life of Service." Shapiro reflects on the values that shaped him—faith, family, and public service—and opens up about the defining moments of his life and career. From a traumatic arson attack on the Governor's Residence to leading the investigation that exposed widespread abuse within the Catholic Church, Shapiro shares deeply personal stories about resilience, leadership, and moral responsibility. The conversation also explores mental health, political courage, campus protests, bipartisan governance, and the role his wife, Lori, plays in grounding his decisions. It's a candid and wide-ranging discussion about service, conviction, and finding light in the darkest moments. Original air date 10 February 2026. The book was published on 27 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Vanessa Diaz: "P FKN R"

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 19:10


    Vanessa Díaz is Associate Professor of Chicana/o and Latina/o Studies at Loyola Marymount University. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Elliot Williams: "Five Bullets"

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 22:28


    CNN legal analyst Elliot Williams joins Michael to discuss his gripping new book, "Five Bullets: The Story of Bernie Goetz, New York's Explosive '80s, and the Subway Vigilante Trial That Divided the Nation", an in-depth examination of the 1984 Bernhard Goetz subway shooting that shocked New York City. Together, they revisit a crime-ridden, volatile era of the city, unpack the facts and myths surrounding the case, and explore how issues of race, fear, vigilantism, media, and justice collided in what became one of the most polarizing trials of the 1980s. A timely conversation about crime, context, and how one moment can reshape a city—and a country. Original air date 6 February 2026. The book was published on 20 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Chris Miller: "The Real Animal House"

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2026 11:20


    Michael sits down with Animal House co-creator Chris Miller to discuss his memoir "The Real Animal House: The Awesomely Depraved Saga of the Fraternity That Inspired the Movie." Miller reveals the outrageous real-life fraternity stories at Dartmouth that inspired the iconic film, from legendary pranks to unforgettable characters. Funny, candid, and occasionally jaw-dropping, this episode pulls back the curtain on how campus chaos became comedy history. This archive conversation originally aired in 2006. The book was published on 1 November 2006. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Mark Bowden: "The Three Battles of Wanat"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 15:33


    Michael speaks with acclaimed journalist and author Mark Bowden (Black Hawk Down) about his book "The Three Battles of Wanat: And Other True Stories." Bowden unpacks the tragic 2008 battle in Afghanistan that claimed nine American lives, and the deeper fights that followed—over truth, accountability, and reputation. The wide-ranging discussion also touches on long-form journalism, war reporting, politics, crime, gambling, and Bowden's unforgettable portraits of figures from Joe Biden to Pablo Escobar. A thoughtful look at warfare, storytelling, and the human cost behind the headlines. Original air date 7 January 2016. The book was published on 5 January 2016. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Dimitris Xygalatas: "Ritual"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 18:56


    , Michael speaks with cognitive scientist and anthropologist Dr. Dimitris Xygalatas, author of Ritual: How Seemingly Senseless Acts Make Life Worth Living. From firewalking and pilgrimages to sports fandom and workplace traditions, they explore why rituals are a fundamental part of human nature—and why shared, in-person experiences create meaning, connection, and belonging. Drawing on research, personal stories, and Michael's own “Mingle Project,” this conversation makes the academic and emotional case for why ritual and human connection matter more than ever in a divided, digital age. Original air date 14 January 2026. The book was published on 13 September 2022. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Brad Meltzer: "The Viper"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 27:10


    Bestselling author Brad Meltzer joins Michael Smerconish for a wide-ranging conversation about his first thriller in four years, "The Viper: A Fast Paced Thriller of Family Bonds and Deadly Conspiracies." Meltzer discusses the viral University of Michigan commencement speech that sparked a national conversation about empathy and kindness, the deeply personal experiences that shaped it, and how those themes inform his writing. The discussion also dives into the gripping opening of The Viper, the secrets hidden in its plot, and Meltzer's research into Dover Air Force Base and the unseen costs of war. Thoughtful, moving, and suspenseful, this episode blends storytelling, humanity, and a powerful look at what connects us all. Original air date 12 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Dr. Zeke Emanuel: "Eat Your Ice Cream"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 19:13


    Michael Smerconish sits down with renowned physician and bioethicist Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel to discuss his new book, "Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life." Their wide-ranging conversation explores why social connection is a powerful predictor of health and happiness, how everyday interactions can improve both mental and physical well-being, and what science says about living longer—and better. From the importance of “mingling” to managing technology, embracing community, and prioritizing quality of life, this episode is a thoughtful and practical guide to living well in a disconnected age. Original air date 7 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Andy Webb: "DIANARAMA"

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2025 19:13


    British journalist Andy Webb joins Michael to discuss his explosive new book, "Dianarama: Deception, Entrapment, Cover-Up: The Betrayal of Princess Diana." Webb reveals how BBC journalist Martin Bashir used deception, forged documents, and fear to secure Princess Diana's infamous Panorama interview—and the lasting consequences that followed. Drawing on firsthand accounts and newly uncovered evidence, this conversation revisits one of the most consequential media scandals in modern history and reframes the final years of Princess Diana's life. Original air date 19 December 2025. The book was published on 25 November 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Roger Stone, "The Man Who Killed Kennedy: The Case Against LBJ"

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 15:44


    Political Strategist, Roger Stone, joins Michael to discuss his provocative book, "The Man Who Killed Kennedy: The Case Against LBJ." Stone outlines why he believes Lyndon Johnson played a central role in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, drawing on decades of political experience and his own interpretation of historical records. In this conversation, Stone explains the motives, alleged cover-ups, and longstanding political rivalries that shape his controversial theory. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    NEW REVELATIONS: Gerald Posner Revisits 'Case Closed' and 'Killing the Dream'

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2025 18:13


    "Case Closed: Lee Harvey Oswald and the Assassination of JFK" was first published in 1993."Killing the Dream : James Earl Ray and the Assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr." was first published in 1998.You can hear Michael's other book interviews with Gerald Posner in Episodes #214 (God's Bankers), #222 (Pharma), #285 (Case Closed). Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Larry Magid: "The Philadelphia Music Book" and Live Aid 40 Years Ago

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 39:13


    In this wide ranging conversation, Larry Magid shares candid reflections about artists at their peak, surprising backstage moments, the rise and fall of careers, and the behind-the-scenes chaos that helped define some of rock's most iconic performances.Whether you're a music historian, a Live Aid nostalgist, or a fan of the Philly music scene, this episode is a treasure trove of anecdotes—and a tribute to the man who spent his life bringing live music to millions.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Chris Matthews: "Lessons From Bobby"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2025 41:37


    On Robert F. Kennedy's 100th birthday, Chris Matthews joins Michael for an in-depth conversation on why RFK's legacy still matters today. With rare moments and firsthand historical insight, they revisit RFK's most powerful speeches, his moral courage after MLK's assassination, his 1966 “Ripple of Hope” moment in South Africa, and the tragic 1968 campaign that changed American politics forever. Matthews also weighs in on the politics of the present and the alternate history of what might have happened had RFK lived. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Codie Sanchez: "Main Street Millionaire"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 20:27


    Michael sits down with Codie Sanchez—entrepreneur, investor, and author of "Main Street Millionaire"—to unpack the surprising wealth hidden in “boring” businesses like laundromats, car washes, HVAC companies, and vending routes. Sanchez explains why these recession-resistant, AI-proof businesses are often more profitable than glamorous careers, why boomers are desperate to sell, and how anyone can start buying small businesses using simple, practical frameworks. A must-listen for parents, young adults, and anyone rethinking the traditional path to success. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Andrew Ross Sorkin: "1929"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 21:43


    Michael sits down with NYT's Journalist Andrew Ross Sorkin to discuss his riveting new book, "1929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History--and How It Shattered a Nation," a narrative dive into the personalities, excess, and miscalculations that fueled the most infamous market crash in history. From Jesse Livermore's billion-dollar bet to the birth of American credit culture—and even Winston Churchill's front-row seat—Sorkin reveals surprising parallels to today's AI-driven boom. A conversation packed with history, cautionary lessons, and unforgettable stories. Original air date 17 November 2025. The book was published on 14 October 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Alex DeMille: "The Tin Men"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 22:50


    In this special Book Club episode, Michael reflects on the life and legacy of his late friend and favorite novelist, Nelson DeMille, the master of the modern thriller. Michael revisits a memorable 2004 conversation with DeMille about the real-life tragedy that inspired Night Fall, then welcomes Alex DeMille, Nelson's son and co-author of "The Tin Men: A Novel" —the final novel from the iconic writer. Together, they discuss Nelson's extraordinary career, his meticulous research, and how Alex helped complete The Tin Men, a gripping and timely story exploring AI-driven warfare, loyalty, and the human cost of technology. Filled with humor, warmth, and reverence, this episode celebrates a literary giant and the family legacy that carries his voice forward. Original air date 7 November 2025. The book was published on 28 October 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Scott Galloway: "Notes on Being a Man"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 19:13


    What you'll hear in this episode:-Why young men are struggling: friendship decline, school/labor trends, and mental health-The case for “leaving the house”: proximity, promotions, and purpose-Boy Scouts, shared rituals, and learning respect, discipline, and outdoor skills-Mingling > scrolling: phones, algorithms, and the engagement economy-Dancing as a confidence signal (and why “fearless” beats “perfect”)-Alcohol: risks acknowledged, but also its historic role in rites of passage and bonding-Porn: moderation, motivation, and channeling energy into real relationships-Practical habits: fitness, manners, eye contact, humor, and kindness Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Stephen Dubner: "Freakonomics" (20th Anniversary Special)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 26:08


    Listen to Michael's original 5-part-series interview with co-author Steven Levitt from 2005 here! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Joe Manchin: "Dead Center"

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 20:15


    Former Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV) joins Michael to discuss his memoir, "Dead Center: In Defense of Common Sense." Together, they explore the deep divides in American politics, what it means to 'lead from the middle,' and why Manchin believes the center is the only path forward for the country. From his candid reflections on the Democratic Party's evolution to his efforts to build bipartisan cooperation through his “Americans Together” initiative, Manchin opens up about lessons learned in Washington and what he got wrong—like aspects of the Affordable Care Act. The conversation ranges from party polarization to possible paths for independent candidates and the future of term limits—all grounded in Manchin's belief that “if you can't change your mind, you can't change anything.” Original air date 21 October 2025. The book was published on 16 September 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    John Malone: "Born To Be Wired"

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 44:21


    In this fascinating conversation, Michael Smerconish sits down with legendary media mogul John Malone — Chair of Liberty Media, Liberty Broadband, and Liberty Global, and former CEO of Telecommunications, Inc. — to discuss his new memoir, "Born to Be Wired: Lessons from a Lifetime Transforming Television, Wiring America for the Internet, and Growing Formula One, Discovery, Sirius XM, and the Atlanta Braves." Malone reflects on the origins of the cable television industry, the rise of “cable cowboys,” and the bold decisions that transformed American media. From small-town entrepreneurs stringing wire on telephone poles to the birth of modern communications giants, Malone shares behind-the-scenes stories of risk, innovation, and resilience. Original air date 17 October 2025. The book was published on 2 September 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Claim Book Club with Michael Smerconish

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel