The Puck: Venture Capital and Beyond

David French returns to The Puck for a wide-ranging, deeply thoughtful conversation about the state of American democracy, the risks of authoritarianism, and the spiritual costs of political polarization. A New York Times columnist and former National Review editor, French unpacks the dangerous allure of strongman politics, reflects on Israel's evolving strategy in the Middle East, and explores how each of us can preserve trust and truth in chaotic times. We talk about why institutions feel broken, how Trump uses public spectacle as a shield against accountability, and what it means to live with faith and courage in a disorienting moment. From LA protests to global power shifts, from misinformation to moral resilience—this is an episode you don't want to miss.

To mark our 100th episode and launch of Season 9, Jim Baer sits down with Jeffrey Rosen—President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, host of We the People, and author of The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America. In this rich and timely conversation, Rosen explores how ancient moral philosophy shaped the Founders' vision of happiness—not as pleasure, but as virtue. Together, we examine how this wisdom can help us navigate today's polarized world, restore purpose to leadership, and reconnect with practices of self-mastery, deep reading, and spiritual discipline. Rosen also shares his personal journey, the impact of Stoic philosophy, and his unexpected path into songwriting. A profound and inspiring dialogue for anyone seeking meaning, clarity, and civic renewal.

Stanford psychology professor Greg Walton returns for his second appearance on The Puck to discuss his new book, Ordinary Magic: The Science of How We Can Achieve Big Change with Small Acts. Three years after our first conversation, Greg rejoins the show to reflect on how our world has changed—and how subtle, science-backed interventions can help us find common ground and foster belonging. From reducing recidivism among formerly incarcerated youth to encouraging empathy across political divides, Greg explores how grace, discomfort, and deep listening can drive meaningful transformation.

On this episode of The Puck: Venture Capital & Beyond, Jim Baer sits down with Kristian Rönn—climate tech founder, AI ethicist, and author of The Darwinian Trap—to explore how humanity can escape destructive evolutionary forces and build a future rooted in shared values, long-term thinking, and spiritual renewal. A conversation about risk, responsibility, and hope at the edge of history.

In this powerful episode of The Puck, Jim Baer sits down with Michelle Goldberg—New York Times columnist, author, and longtime voice of progressive political commentary—for a deep and timely conversation. They explore how the Trump era reshaped institutional norms, the growing influence of conspiracy thinking, and the failures of both political parties to inspire and govern effectively. From Goldberg's early activism to her critiques of Gavin Newsom's media strategy, this discussion pulls no punches. They dive into the crisis of civic trust, the role of the media and social platforms in fueling division, and what it might take to inspire a new generation of political leadership. Whether you're left, right, or somewhere in between, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity in a chaotic time.

What if the strongest case for Christianity's role in democracy came from an atheist? Jim Baer sits down with Jonathan Rauch to discuss Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy, and why America needs the moral backbone that Christian virtues once provided. Rauch—Jewish, gay, and secular—argues that courage, equality, and forgiveness are essential civic values we're losing. They talk fear, demagogues, pseudo-religions, and how a more humble, and forbearing approach could help save both faith and democracy. Plus, a look at aging and purpose from The Happiness Curve. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this thought-provoking episode, Jim Baer sits down with political scientist Steven Teles, professor at Johns Hopkins University and co-author of The Captured Economy and Never Trump. Together, they explore the shifting class dynamics fueling America's political polarization and the deepening distrust in institutions—from higher education to public health. Teles unpacks the realignment of the Democratic and Republican parties, the decline of union-based class identity, and why our government struggles to get big things done. With sharp insight and a rare ability to speak across ideological lines, Teles highlights the paradox of an economy that protects the powerful while making life harder for the working class. If you care about the future of democracy, the role of universities, or how we might rebuild public trust—this one's for you.

Navigating a New World with Michael Lind In this episode of The Puck, Jim Baer sits down with acclaimed writer and policy thinker Michael Lind, co-founder of New America and author of Hell to Pay: How the Suppression of Wages is Destroying America. Together, they explore the global economic shifts, the U.S. political realignment, the dangers of intellectual gridlock, and the implications of Cold War II with China. Lind offers a wide-ranging, provocative analysis—from the future of the middle class and productivity growth to the challenges facing both major political parties. If you're looking for sharp insight into where the world—and America—might be headed, this is a must-listen.

On this episode of The Puck, host Jim Baer sits down with Aswath Damodaran, renowned NYU finance professor and the “Dean of Valuation,” for a deep dive into the current economic landscape. Damodaran breaks down the market's recent volatility, the looming risk of a recession, and why the U.S. has been able to defy macroeconomic gravity for so long. He explores the impact of globalization's decline, the role of risk capital, and the evolving influence of AI and Big Tech on markets. From the challenges of government inefficiency to the realities of investing in turbulent times, this episode offers a sharp, data-driven perspective on what lies ahead. Is the U.S. government running an unsustainable economic experiment? Can AI and technology continue to carry the economy? And what should investors do in a world of increased volatility? Tune in to hear Damodaran's take on where we're headed—and why adaptability is more crucial than ever.

On this episode of The Puck: Venture Capital and Beyond, host Jim Baer sits down with Republican pollster and political strategist Patrick Ruffini, co-founder of Echelon Insights and author of The Party of the People: Inside the Multiracial Populist Coalition Remaking the GOP. Ruffini shares his insights on the shifting political landscape, the rise of a multiracial working-class coalition within the Republican Party, and what this realignment means for future elections. They discuss why Trump's economic populism has resonated with minority voters, how the GOP has become the party of the working class, and what both parties must do to stay competitive in an evolving electorate. Looking ahead to 2028, they explore whether figures like J.D. Vance can carry the torch and how policy, bureaucracy, and economic realities will shape the next four years. Tune in for a data-driven, big-picture look at where American politics is heading.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Gary Gerstle, author, professor, and historian with a focus on “Political Orders.” His most recent book, “The Rise and Fall of the Neoliberal Order,” came out in 2022, and explores the larger trends in political thinking which make up a consensus, oftentimes a consensus we take for granted. Their conversation covers classical liberalism, neoliberalism, and… where we are right now. You don't want to miss this clarifying discussion.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Frank Furedi, author, social commentator, and Emeritus Professor of Sociology at the University of Kent. Frank is a free speech absolutist and has been a longtime critic of what he and others call “The Culture Wars.” They discuss Frank's background, his academic work, and how he formed his worldview.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Jai Das, President and Partner at Sapphire Ventures. They cover Jai's history as a developer, the Sapphire origin story, and Jai's current read of the financial landscape. Their conversation explores what sets successful companies apart, and what's next for Sapphire, including their groundbreaking AI investment initiative. A fascinating conversation you don't want to miss!

In this illuminating episode of The Puck, Jim sits down with Greg McKeown, the bestselling author of "Essentialism" and "Effortless." McKeown shares his journey from London law student to influential thought leader, revealing his groundbreaking philosophy of achieving more by doing less. Through engaging stories—ranging from Silicon Valley successes to Norwegian polar expeditions—McKeown explains how success often leads to "the undisciplined pursuit of more," and offers practical tools for moving from chaos to clarity. The conversation weaves together practical productivity advice with deeper insights about limitlessness, the power of true listening, and the art of making extraordinary progress without extraordinary strain

Once again, we have the privilege of hosting world-renowned economist Sir Paul Collier. Paul and Jim discuss the vast changes in the world economy since Paul was last on the show in 2022. They cover inflation, geopolitical conflict, and of course Paul's new book, Left Behind: A New Economics for Neglected Places. Give us a listen and let us know what you think.

Once again, we have the privilege of hosting world-renowned economist Sir Paul Collier. Paul and Jim discuss the vast changes in the world economy since Paul was last on the show in 2022. They cover inflation, geopolitical conflict, and of course Paul's new book, Left Behind: A New Economics for Neglected Places. Give us a listen and let us know what you think.

Media entrepreneur and Hidden Forces host Demetri Kofinas returns to The Puck to discuss the evolution of technology, security, and social dynamics since last year when he was on. From the siloing of our media ecosystems to the relationship between innovation and regulation, Demetri shares a nuanced perspective on how emerging technologies are reshaping global politics and international conflicts. A fascinating conversation you don't want to miss!

Jim sits back down with Shomik Dutta, co-founder and managing partner at Overture VC, who is on the cutting edge of climate tech. They catch up and discuss how the VC and climate space has changed in the last 18 months. Don't miss it!

On this episode, Jim interviews economist Doug Holtz-Eakin, president of the American Action Forum, to explore the current slate of economic issues facing the United States. Drawing from his extensive experience in academia and government, Holtz-Eakin offers his perspective on topics ranging from sustainable economic growth and fiscal policy to past financial crises, monetary policy, housing markets, and potential economic risks. Their conversation provides valuable insights into the complexities of economic policymaking and the massive potential of market-based solutions – a fascinating conversation you don't want to miss!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Greg Lukianoff, president and CEO of The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, an organization focused on the legal defense of free speech. Greg is the co-author of The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure with Jonathan Haidt. Most recently Greg co-authored The Canceling of the American Mind: Cancel Culture Undermines Trust and Threatens Us All—But There Is a Solution with Rikki Schlott. In 2022, FIRE announced an expansion initiative into off-campus free speech advocacy and legal defense. His conversation with Jim covers the current slate of student protests all around the country. You don't want to miss it.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with non-theist chaplain Devin Sean Moss. Devin has done significant work as a podcast host and producer on the subject of death and dying. Their conversation covers belief, fundamental goodness in the world, and of course, a vast exploration of our collective understanding of death. A deeply moving conversation that you don't want to miss.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Stephen M. R. Covey, author, motivational speaker, and all-around expert on the subject of leadership. Their wide-ranging conversation covers his background, how he built his leadership practice, and, of course, his relationship with his father, the late Stephen R Covey, author of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. You don't want to miss it!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with renowned physician, scientist, and author of the New York Times bestseller “Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself,” Dr. William Li. Dr. Li is a lab scientist and vascular biologist, who has built a career studying our relationship to food. Their conversation covers Dr. Li's research, his background, and some practical advice about how diet can impact your long-term health.

Frank Bruni is a contributing Opinion writer at The New York Times. He has been both a White House correspondent and the chief restaurant critic. He is the author of four New York Times best sellers: a 2022 reflection on illness, aging and optimism, "The Beauty of Dusk"; a 2015 examination of the college admissions frenzy, “Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be”; a 2009 memoir, “Born Round,” about the joys and torments of his eating life; and a 2002 chronicle of George W. Bush's initial presidential campaign, “Ambling Into History.” In the summer of 2021, he became a professor of journalism and public policy at Duke University. His newest book is called THE AGE OF GRIEVANCE.

Larry Summers is on the show this week! Jim sits down with renowned economist Larry Summers to talk recent US financial history, the current state of the national debt, some unintended consequences of Quantitate Easing, and much much more. In addition to serving as Secretary of the Treasury under Bill Clinton and the Director of the National Economic Council under Barack Obama, Summers was President of Harvard University, and, in a Puck Podcast first, was portrayed (albeit briefly) in the 2010 Academy Award winning film, The Social Network. A fascinating conversation with a fascinating guest.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Dr. Tommy Wood, neuroscientist, researcher, and athletic performance consultant to talk about the human brain. They cover the relationship between diet and brain health, long-term cognitive function, and the real-world, practical steps you can take to keep your brain and avoid cognitive decline. You don't want to miss it!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Navneet Govil, Executive MP and CFO of SoftBank Vision Fund. Their wide ranging conversation covers Navneet's background, the history of SoftBank, the current state of the investment market, and the role of AI in today's world. You don't want to miss it!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Ash Beckham, a self-described Accidental Advocate and author of Step Up: How to Live with Courage and Become an Everyday Leader. After Ash gave a 2014 TEDx Talk focused on “coming out of your individual closet” and opening up, she became a sought-after speaker and authority on initiating difficult conversations. She talks Jim through her background, polarization, and offers advice on how to engage with those with whom you may not agree. A fascinating conversation you don't want to miss!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Professor William Egginton, author of The Rigor of Angels – Borges, Heisenberg, Kant, and the Ultimate Nature of Reality. Their conversation covers the similarities underpinning both New Atheism and Religious Fundamentalism, accepting the reality of discomfort between different mindsets, philosophical paradox, the benefits of reason and evidence-based-arguments. You don't want to miss it!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Peter Berg, Managing Partner of M12, Microsoft's venture arm. Their conversation covers M12's history, the relationship between M12 and Microsoft as a whole, and the current state of investing and AI. You don't want to miss it!

The word “trauma” seems to be everywhere. As part of our three-part series on mental health, we wanted to dive into the concept. George Bonanno is a Professor of Clinical Psychology at Columbia University's Teachers College and internationally recognized for his pioneering research on human resilience in the face of loss and potential trauma. On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Professor Bonanno to discuss his book, The End of Trauma How the New Science of Resilience Is Changing How We Think About PTSD. Their conversation covers the origins of our conception of trauma, the modern phenomenon of labeling things “trauma,” and the power of resilience. As always, let us know what you think.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Dr. Joshua Coleman. Dr. Coleman is an author and psychologist who specializes in contemporary families, particularly on the topic of estrangement. Their conversation covers Dr. Coleman's research history, his most recent book, Rules of Estrangement, and how to heal intergenerational divides. You don't want to miss it!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with author and columnist for the Washington Post, Henry Olsen. Henry specializes in global politics with a particular focus on America and populism. Their wide-ranging conversation covers the roots of the modern populist movement, when Henry first noticed this shift, and where we are now. Henry's insight allows us to use the lessons of the past to tell us more about the present.

This week, Jim has Professor Christopher Miller on the show to talk about something we all interact with but very rarely think about: microchips. Chris' new book is called Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology. Their conversation covers the history of microprocessors, the current geopolitical implications of chip technology, and most importantly, what's next.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Neil Howe, author, historian, and one half of the team, along with Bill Strauss, behind the Strauss-Howe generational theory initially explored in their books Generations and The Fourth Turning. As the title of his new book suggests, The Fourth Turning is Here. We thought, what better time to have Neil on the show? The subtitle of his new book is “What the Seasons of History Tell Us About How and When This Crisis Will End.” Give the episode a listen, and, as always, let us know what you think.

Earlier this summer, Jim sat down with Demetri Kofinas, media entrepreneur, financial analyst and the Co-Editor and host of Hidden Forces. Hidden Forces is a multimedia educational platform exploring the underlying forces that drive the most powerful changes we see in the world. Jim and Demetri discuss the current state of the economy and political discourse, as well as how Demetri shaped and continues to shape his own perspective, and sharpen his critical thinking approach.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Martin Gurri, author – visiting research fellow at George Mason University and former CIA analyst who specializes in the relationship between politics and media. Their conversation touches on many topics, including Martin's most recent book, The Revolt of the Public and the Crisis of Authority in the New Millennium. A fascinating conversation you don't want to miss!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with author, educator, and astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tysonto discuss one of Jim's favorite books of last year, Starry Messenger. Their wide-ranging conversation touches on Tyson's personal journey to astrophysics, the current state of the American education system, and, of course, as someone who studies the stars, what compelled him to write a book about the happenings here on Earth. A fascinating conversation you don't want to miss!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Curtis Chang, author of the book The Anxiety Opportunity, and host of the Good Faith podcast. Their wide-ranging conversation covers the nature and roots of anxiety, aspects of spiritual practice, and the role of religion in modern society.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with life coach and Somatic Experiencing practitioner Sarah Baldwin to talk about the relationship between our nervous system and past experiences. They cover trauma, mental health, breath work, and attachment theory, while also diving into how – physically – our childhood experiences impact our lives today.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Meera Clark of Redpoint Ventures, a firm focused on investments in seed, early, and growth-stage companies. They discuss Meera's background, the current work Redpoint is doing, and Meera's Substack called The Conscious Consumer.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with John Andrew Entwistle, founder and CEO of Wander, a young but rapidly growing proptech startup looking to challenge Airbnb. Over the course of their conversation, they talk about work-life balance, building community, how he got into the property business in the first place, and the current state of venture funding.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Shomik Dutta, former member of the Obama White House and managing partner of Overture VC, a firm focused on sustainable energy and climate tech. Shomik discusses the current state of innovation in sustainable energy through the VC lens, the improvements in material science, and the relationship between government and the private sector.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Mark Sherman, managing partner at Telstra Ventures, a venture firm focused on the emerging technology space. While the episode was recorded before the collapse of SVB, their conversation does touch on AI, lighthouse leaders, and the potential for downturns in the economic cycle. A prescient conversation that you don't want to miss.

On this week's episode, we have Professor Brad De Long of the University of California, Berkeley. Professor DeLong is an economic historian, as well as a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of the US Department of the Treasury during the Clinton Administration. In light of the recent financial upheaval, we at The Puck felt that a certain amount of historical perspective could benefit our listeners. A fascinating trip through financial history that you don't want to miss.

On this week's episode, we sit down with Joe Dormani, founding principal investor at TR Ventures, the investment arm of Thomson Reuters. In light of the recent advances in AI and the collapses of SVB and Signature, we thought it would be very prescient to revisit this conversation. A really interesting discussion considering the current financial landscape.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Rana Foroohar, author, business columnist, associate editor at the Financial Times, and global economic analyst with CNN to discuss her most recent book, Homecoming: The Path to Prosperity in a Post-Global World. Their conversation covers the current financial situation, crypto, the era of globalization and a growing movement toward economic localization. A fascinating conversation you don't want to miss!

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Vanessa Bennett – author, holistic psychotherapist, facilitator, and podcast host – as the two discuss mental health in the digital age. Bennett and her partner John Kim recently published the book It's Not Me, It's You, about breaking the blame cycle and strengthening relationships, and have also released an accompanying podcast series. Vanessa and Jim then talk about how Vanessa built her business from the ground up, the positive sides of media, spirituality, and where she thinks the puck is going.

On this week's special episode, Puck host Jim Baer is now the guest. Interviewed by former producer, Caitlin Lalezari, Jim answers any and all questions you may have about the current state of the economy – we cover inflation, Quantitative Easing, and the potential of a coming recession. A fascinating conversation about what Jim is seeing as a boots-on-the-ground financial professional.

On this week's episode, Jim sits down with Mike Green, financial strategist and portfolio manager at Simplify Asset Management and lifelong student of the market and market structure. In addition to his traditional finance background, Mike is a public speaker and financial media voice who looks at societal factors and their potential to impact our collective economic futures. They touch on the current state of the US economy, population growth (or lack thereof), and intergenerational attitudes towards politics. A fascinating conversation that you don't want to miss.

On this week's episode of The Puck, Jim sits own with Andrea Lamari Walne, partner at Manhattan Venture Partners, a venture firm focused on redefining liquidity options in the private market. MVP works with some of the largest private start-ups in the world to provide a secondary marketplace for employees to extract money from their business before they had traditionally been able to do so. She and Jim discuss Andrea's journey as a founder, the current state of the American economy, and the regulatory intricacies that come with developing a new mechanism of shareholder compensation.