The Head & The Heart

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with David Frum, political columnist for The Atlantic and former speechwriter for President George W. Bush. Frum, who is Canadian-American, shares his unique perspective on the history of American-led democracy and how it has evolved. In this wide-ranging conversation, Frum delves into the resurgence of political interest in the United States, why there will only ever be two political parties, America's role in the war between Russia and Ukraine, and why the Republican Party of today seems to be standing against the ideals of its past. With Frum's in-depth analysis and thoughtful commentary, this episode provides a deep dive into the current state of American democracy and offers a hopeful vision for its future. Don't miss this engaging conversation with one of the most insightful voices in politics today. David Frum has been active in Republican politics since the first Reagan campaign of 1980. From 2014 through 2017, Frum served as chairman of the board of trustees of the leading UK center-right think tank, Policy Exchange. In 2001-2002, he served as speechwriter and special assistant to President George W. Bush. He holds a BA and MA in history from Yale and a law degree from Harvard, where he served as President of the Federalist Society. Frum is the author of ten books, most recently TRUMPOCALYPSE: Restoring American Democracy (HarperCollins, 2020). His first book, Dead Right, won praise from William F. Buckley as “the most refreshing intellectual experience in a generation” and from Frank Rich in the New York Times as “the smartest book written from the inside about the American conservative movement.”

As an advisor to Presidents, and as a journalist and teacher, David Gergen has enriched the civic health of our nation. From the U.S. Navy to the West Wing, he as committed virtually his entire life to serving our country. In today's episode, David shares his perspective on public service, and the importance of character, moral purpose, and truth telling. It's an honor to share this very special conversation with a giant of civic life and public service.  David Gergen is a professor of public service and founding director of the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School. In addition, he serves as a senior political analyst for CNN. In the past, he has served as a White House adviser to four U.S. presidents of both parties: Nixon, Ford, Reagan and Clinton. He wrote about those experiences in his New York Times best-seller, Eyewitness to Power: The Essence of Leadership, Nixon to Clinton (Simon & Schuster, 2001). In the 1980s, he began a career in journalism. Starting with the MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour in 1984, he has been a regular commentator on public affairs for some 30 years. Twice he has been a member of election coverage teams that won Peabody awards, and he has contributed to two Emmy award-winning political analysis teams. In the late 1980s, he was chief editor of U.S. News & World Report. Over the years, he has been active on many non-profit boards, serving in the past on the boards of both Yale and Duke Universities. Among his current boards are Teach for America, The Mission Continues, The Trilateral Commission, and Elon University's School of Law.  David's work as director of the Center for Public Leadership at the Kennedy School has enabled him to work closely with a rising generation of younger leaders, especially social entrepreneurs, military veterans and Young Global Leaders chosen by the World Economic Forum. Through the generosity of outside donors, the Center helps to provide scholarships to over 100 students a year, preparing them to serve as leaders for the common good. The Center also promotes scholarship at the frontiers of leadership studies.A native of North Carolina, David is a member of the D.C. Bar, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and a member of the U.S. executive committee for the Trilateral Commission. He is an honors graduate of Yale and the Harvard Law School. He has been awarded 27 honorary degrees.

Why do people believe liars? How do authoritarians enthrall a nation? Historian and Author Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins the Head and the Heart to discuss her book Strongmen: Mussolini To The Present. In this episode she offers her fascinating analysis of fascism and highlights the modern authoritarian leaders who exhibit these all too familiar tendencies. Ed & Perry examine the through line of corruption, violence, and toxic masculinity that are often characteristic of past and present authoritarian political leaders, and they attempt to find an answer as to why these men are often popular and beloved by their followers. Ruth Ben-Ghiat is a historian who writes about authoritarianism, democracy, and propaganda. She is Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University, the recipient of Guggenheim, Fulbright, and other fellowships, and Advisor to Protect Democracy. She is an MSNBC opinion columnist, a regular contributor to CNN and The Washington Post, and provides live commentary on CNN, MSNBC, and other networks. Follow Ed & Perry on Twitter @Head_Heart_Pod

Ed and Perry welcome back their first returning guests, renowned journalists Peter Baker and Susan Glasser for a conversation about their new book: 'The Divider: Trump in the White House 2017-2021,' which chronicles the sobering events of the Trump years. In this definitive inside-the-room account of what is perhaps America's most controversial and divisive presidency, Baker and Glasser deliver never-before-told stories about Donald Trump's four-year war against the Washington establishment, his own administration officials, and democratic norms. Their impeccably reported book offers a dramatic view of the chaos, confusion, and relentless inner conflict of an administration unlike any other in history. Peter Baker is the chief White House correspondent for the The New York Times, a political analyst for MSNBC, and the author of "Days of Fire” and “The Beach.” Susan Glasser is a staff writer for “The New Yorker” and author of its weekly “Letters from Biden's Washington,” as well as a CNN global affairs analyst.

In this brand new conversation, Washington Post political columnist, Dana Milbank discusses his new book “The Destructionists: The Twenty-Five Year Crack Up of the Republican Party” in which he describes the evolution of the GOP in the last three decades, from Newt Gingrich and his contract with America in 1994, all the way to the January 6th, 2021 election-lie insurrection. Aside from writing a nationally syndicated column for the Washington Post, Dana Milbank is a CNN and MSNBC contributor, and author of Homo Politicus, Tears of a Clown, O is for Obama, and Smashmouth.

The Franklin Project's Co-Executive Directors, Erin Dobson and Greg Jenkins join Perry and Ed to talk about their mission to promote civic engagement and education. The Franklin Project was founded to elevate the voices of reason and civility - regardless of party affiliation - to improve the health and durability of our democracy. Their aim is to empower everyday people to become defenders of our Republic against those who place self-interest and the acquisition of power ahead of the public's trust. The focal point of their work is helping people find ways to engage in good faith conversation about the governance of our country, and honest disagreements over issues. It's about giving a damn about democracy, and really thinking about how we individually can best show up for it. Please enjoy this conversation and visit The Franklin Project at: franklinproject.us

In this episode, Pulitzer Prize winning, New York Times bestselling author, Carol Leonnig discusses her new book: “Zero Fail: The Rise and Fall of the Secret Service,” in which she pulls back the curtain on the history, inner workings, and culture of the US Secret Service. For the last decade Carol has been reporting on the Secret Service for the Washington Post. In “Zero Fail” she has written the definitive account of the scandals and shortcomings that have plagued the government agency tasked with protecting our democracy and continuity of government. Her descriptions of the relationship each presidential administration has had with the Secret Service represents a broad swath of American history that has gone largely unexamined. In story after story she vividly describes the heroics and stumbles of an agency constantly strapped for resources and often undermined by politics and a toxic work culture. Written with the cooperation of current and former Secret Service agents, her book is part tribute and part public warning about one of our country's most essential agencies. Connect with Ed & Perry @Head_Heart_Pod on Twitter

Former University of Kentucky and NBA great Rex Chapman talks about his life on and off the court, and his personal journey from addiction to redemption. Rex recounts his early years as a star college athlete, and the challenges and adjustments of entering the NBA while still so young. Reflecting on his 12 year career, he shares lessons learned, and talks about the teammates that influenced him most; and also the social anxiety associated with fame which contributed to his battle with pain medication. He speaks honestly and movingly about his struggles and is an inspiration for anyone trying to overcome their own challenges. Rex's newfound stardom on social media wasn't by design, but his Twitter account, which has been called “the soul of the internet” has nevertheless garnered attention from millions around the world. Chapman co-hosts “The Rex Chapman Show with Josh Hopkins” podcast where they discuss the latest news from the NBA, and share personal stories with special guests.

Journalist and Emmy-nominated producer of the Netflix documentary Fyre, Gabrielle Bluestone, joins us to discuss her new book: "HYPE: How Scammers, Grifters, and Con Artists Are Taking Over the Internet - and Why We're Following." In a time where social media hype, puffery and propaganda dominate the digital age, Gabrielle reveals how she came to report on the now incarcerated event organizer Billy McFarland. McFarland is the fraudster behind the ill-fated Fyre Festival. He defrauded investors of over $27 million by marketing and selling tickets to the festival and other events. Bluestone uncovers the larger social implications surrounding McFarland's fraud, explaining the reasons why people were deceived, and exploring the psychology that makes all of us vulnerable to internet con artists and grifters.

Political commentator William “Bill” Kristol has been a leading voice of conservative thought for decades. He served as Chief of Staff to Vice President Dan Quayle, and was founder of the conservative magazine, "The Weekly Standard.” Bill joins us for a wide ranging conversation where he takes on the political landscape of today, and aims his deft analysis on how the Republican Party succumbed to Donald Trump's nativist and anti-democratic intuitions. Reflecting on the evolution of his own political philosophy, he thoughtfully explains - despite some honest differences - why he is genuinely hoping for Joe Biden's success. Today Bill Kristol is the editor-at-large of “The Bulwark,” a news network dedicated to political analysis free of partisan loyalties or tribal prejudices.

Across the world today liberal democracy is under siege while different forms of authoritarianism are on the rise. Historian and author Anne Applebaum joins Perry and Ed to discuss this alarming trend. In her most recent book, ‘Twilight of Democracy,' she argues that there is an inherent appeal to political systems with radically simple beliefs, especially when they benefit the loyal to the exclusion of everyone else. Anne describes with captivating clarity how the people enabling this trend are not just ideological, but also pragmatic and opportunistic. From the politicians to journalists and public intellectuals who have abandoned democratic ideals; Applebaum reveals the patterns that link the advocates of illiberalism and maps out how they use conspiracy theory, political polarization, social media, and nostalgia to change their societies.

World renowned Harvard economist Dr. Benjamin Friedman joins 'The Head and the Heart' to talk about the role that faith has had on the rise and growth of capitalism. Professor Friedman discusses how religious beliefs from past centuries influences our economic systems of today; and explores such topics as why economic growth matters, and why lower income Americans vote against their own self interest.

Chuck Rosenberg is a former U.S. attorney and senior Justice Department official. In his podcast called, ‘The Oath,' he chronicles the stories of men and women who have taken an oath to protect and defend our Constitution and nation. Who are these - often anonymous - duty bound Americans that serve with honor and integrity? Why do they do it? What compelled an F-16 fighter pilot to accept a mission that meant possibly sacrificing her own life on 9/11? And why is an Army war veteran, who lost 4 limbs in combat, still willing to fight for and serve his country? In this podcast he shares insights from some of his most memorable shows and provides a window into why they do it. A distinguished and highly honorable public servant in his own right, Chuck talks about his various career appointments and what true leadership means. Including the principled stand he took that led to his departure from government service. From Robert Mueller to newly confirmed Attorney General Merrick Garland, to our Librarian of Congress, Carla Hayden, Chuck humanizes the work of the federal government and celebrates the people who commit themselves to keeping the public trust.

When he opened the FBI investigation into Russia's election interference, Peter Strzok had already spent more than two decades defending the United States against foreign threats. His career in counterintelligence ended shortly thereafter, when the Trump administration used his privately expressed political opinions to force him out of the Bureau. Perry and Ed speak with Peter about his book Compromised, where he draws on lessons from a long career - from his role in the Russian illegals case that inspired FX Network's The Americans, to the investigation of Hillary Clinton's e-mail server, and ultimately Crossfire Hurricane, that explored the links between Russian officials and the 2016 campaign of Donald Trump. Peter's final days at the FBI forced him to confront the most impossibly difficult question that should concern every U.S. citizen: when a president appears to favor personal and Russian interests over those of our nation, has he become a national security threat?

What motivates the Christian voter? How does faith influence politics? Pastor Doug Pagitt joins Ed & Perry to discuss these questions, and his organization Vote Common Good which inspires and mobilizes people of faith towards more civic engagement. Doug Pagitt is an American author, pastor, social activist and executive director of Vote Common Good. A leading voice for progressive Christianity, Doug makes frequent national media and speaking appearances. Pagitt, an early leader in the movement, founded Solomon's Porch, a “holistic missional Christian community” in Minneapolis. His new book, Outdoing Jesus, is available now from Eerdmans Publishing.

For a quarter-century, from the end of Watergate to the aftermath of the Cold War, no Republican won the presidency without his help or governed without the advice of James A. Baker III. Both a statesman and political operative, Baker served as White House Chief of Staff, Treasury Secretary, and Secretary of State, becoming one of the most influential political figures of the last century. Journalism power-couple Peter Baker and Susan Glasser join Ed & Perry to discuss Baker's life and historic career. Peter Baker and Susan Glasser are the authors of The Man Who Ran Washington: The Life and Times of James A Baker III. Peter Baker is the Chief White House Correspondent for The New York Times and a regular panelist on Washington Week on PBS. He is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Breach, about Bill Clinton's impeachment, and, with his wife, Susan Glasser, of Kremlin Rising, about Vladimir Putin's Russia. Susan Glasser is a staff writer for The New Yorker and author of its weekly “Letter from Trump's Washington” as well as a CNN global affairs analyst.

On the eve of the 2020 presidential election Perry & Ed are joined by psychologist Dr. John Gartner. Dr. Gartner who is featured in the 2020 documentary “#UNFIT: The Psychology of Donald Trump,” presents an alarming psychological diagnosis of the president and explains why his innate personality traits, which include authoritarian inclinations, are a threat to the future of American democracy. Dr. John Gartner is an American psychologist, psychotherapist, author, and former assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University Medical School. In 2017, Gartner founded Duty To Warn, an organization of mental health professionals and laypersons who consider it their duty to warn patients, clients and the community-at-large, when aware of potential danger. Dr. Gartner is also the author of numerous scholarly articles and several books including The Hypomanic Edge (2005), and In Search of Bill Clinton (2008). He's also featured in the new 2020 documentary #UNFIT: The Psychology of Donald Trump.

The current political climate is fertile ground for conspiracy theories. But who believes in them, and why? Are they harmless or do they undermine public trust and our democracy? Perry and Ed talk to University of Miami Associate Professor of Political Science Joseph Uscinski, who reveals why conspiracy theories are so enticing, and how false rumors, and absurd ideas persist. Joseph Uscinski is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Miami. He studies public opinion and mass media, with a focus on conspiracy theories and related misinformation. He is the co-author of American Conspiracy Theories (Oxford, 2014) and editor of Conspiracy Theories and the People Who Believe Them (Oxford, 2018).

Jonathan Karl, ABC's chief White House correspondent and author of "Front Row at the Trump Show," offers revealing insights into Donald Trumps relationship with the news media and the administration's impact on democratic norms. Jonathan Karl is ABC News Chief White House Correspondent. He is also the former President of the White House Correspondents' Association and author of the book "Front Row at the Trump Show". Karl has broad experience covering U.S. politics, foreign policy and the military, and has reported from more than 30 countries. He has contributed to various ABC News programs, including Good Morning America and Nightline. His reporting drives news cycles and has been recognized with some of the most prestigious honors in journalism, including the Walter Cronkite Award for National Individual Achievement and the National Press Foundation's Everett McKinley Dirksen Award, the highest honor for Congressional reporting.

In the midst of a chaotic election and the explosive politics of replacing Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the Supreme Court, political commentator S.E. Cupp has emerged as a conservative voice of reason. She joins Ed and Perry to talk about what convinced her to support Joe Biden and the importance of taking down the political temperature of the Nation. S.E. Cupp is the host of CNN's “S.E. Cupp Unfiltered," a weekly program covering the intersection of politics and media. Cupp continues to be a nationally syndicated political columnist, culture critic and author. She regularly writes for the New York Daily News, Glamour and CNN.com.

Former Trump spokesman Anthony Scaramucci discusses his journey from Trump confidant to outspoken critic. “The Mooch” reflects honestly about his relationship with Donald Trump, recounting his brief stint as White House Communications director, and offering a first hand assessment of the president's personality and character. Anthony Scaramucci is the Founder and Managing Partner of SkyBridge Capital. He was the communications director for Donald Trump's White House in 2017, being famously removed from that position after only 11 days. Scaramucci also created the widely-attended SALT alternative investment conference and was co-host of Wall Street Week on Fox Business. He is the author of Trump: The Blue-Collar President.

Award winning documentarian Alex Gibney stops by to discuss his fascinating new film ‘Agents of Chaos' now streaming on HBO Max, which examines how Russian state actors operating from shadowy troll farms interfered with the 2016 presidential election, and weaponized our own prejudices against us to sow chaos and destroy faith in American democracy. Alex Gibney is known for his cinematic, gripping, and deeply insightful documentaries, he has won the Academy Award®, multiple Emmy Awards, the Grammy Award, several Peabody Awards, the DuPont-Columbia, The Independent Spirit, and the Writers Guild of America Awards. Gibney was honored with the International Documentary Association's Career Achievement Award in 2013 and the first ever Christopher Hitchens Prize in 2015. His credits include ‘The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley', Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief (winner of three Emmys in 2015), and his current film ‘Agents of Chaos' now streaming on HBO Max.

Jim Sciutto examines the current administrations “America First” stance on foreign Policy. Sciutto explains how US foreign policy, which at one point focused on strengthening relationships, now antagonizes US Allies, flatters authoritarians, and has become “hyper-personalized." Jim Sciutto is CNN's chief national security correspondent and co-anchor of CNN Newsroom and is the author of a book on Russian and Chinese efforts to undermine the U.S., entitled "The Shadow War," published in 2019 by Harper Collins. His latest book is, “The Madman Theory: Trump Takes On the World.”

Is America out of time when it comes to Democracy? Historian Timothy Snyder, author of ‘Our Malady' warns that our liberties are in jeopardy and shares how his near death experience exposed the fragile relationship between American health care and our freedoms in the United States.

“Trump has always benefitted from the inability to imagine Trump." In this inaugural episode political strategist and author Stuart Stevens talks about his book, “It Was All a Lie,” where he describes the erosion of conservative core values within the Republican Party.

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