The Smerconish Podcast

Over 7 million protesters participated in "No Kings" protests across 2,600+ locations nationwide. Michael talks about this here and is asking you in today's Smerconish.com poll question: "Will the “No Kings” rallies lead to meaningful change? Listen to Michael offer dueling views from Colby Hall (Mediaite) and Will Bunch (Philly Inquirer), and then cast your ballot at Smerconish.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) joins Michael Smerconish to discuss their recent joint appearance on HBO's 'Real Time with Bill Maher', the government shutdown, President Trump, and foreign policy — until a fiery exchange over transgender service members derails the conversation. After Mace abruptly ends the call, Jo Ellis, the decorated National Guard veteran and black hawk pilot at the center of the debate, joins Michael to respond — offering a deeply personal perspective on service, identity, and respect. A powerful episode exploring free speech, empathy, and where civil discourse breaks down. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael dives into today's smerconish.com poll question: "Which indictment is strongest — John Bolton, James Comey, or Letitia James?" In this episode, Michael breaks down each case, weighs the legal and political stakes, and explains why he thinks one indictment clearly stands out. Plus, what “Show me the man, I'll find the crime” really says about our justice system. Listen, vote, and rate and review this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This interview is part of Michael's ongoing "Mingle Project." Learn more here.Helen Woolley is a Professor of Landscape Architecture, Children's Environments and Society at the University of Sheffield. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael speaks with Professor Michael Polelle a Florida voter, and constitutional law scholar, who's been fighting — solo — to overturn Florida's closed primary system. His lawsuit argues that forcing voters to join a political party to participate in publicly funded primaries violates free speech and equal protection rights. The Supreme Court declined to hear his case, but the fight for open primaries — and for millions of independent voters shut out of elections — is far from over. Michael himself is part of a lawsuit pursuing the same goal in Pennsylvania, also a closed primary state. Original air date 16 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.

Will President Trump give Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine? That is today's poll question at Smerconish.com....and deliberately, Michael is asking "WILL" and not "SHOULD." With President Zelensky visiting the White House and global tensions rising, Michael unpacks what this decision could mean for U.S. foreign policy, NATO, and Trump's stance toward Putin. Plus, Michael revisits the global debate over AI risk, and he explores a provocative essay arguing that sex robots might not be so bad after all! Don't miss it...listen here, and please rate and review this podcast. 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 is Editor-in-Chief of 2WAY and host of the Next Up podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Michael asks you chilling question: “Agree or Disagree — Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority akin to the threat of pandemics and nuclear war.” Michael dives into the warnings from AI experts who argue that artificial superintelligence could mean the end of humanity. From OpenAI's new video generator Sora to the blurring line between fact and fiction, Michael explores whether technology has already gone too far.

Michael runs through several major global headlines with retired Admiral James Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO. From Trump's proposed Tomahawk missiles for Ukraine to the fragile peace in Gaza, Poland's growing military power, and sending 'fat troops' home, the Admiral offers sharp, candid insights on America's attention span, global stability, and the future of warfare. Original air date 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.

If President Trump applied his Middle East peace strategies to America's political divide, would he succeed? With world leaders from all political perspectives praising Trump's role in Gaza's ceasefire, Michael explores whether that same deal-making could heal the deep fractures in U.S. politics — or if America is too divided for peace. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish talks with CNN's Jeff Zeleny about a groundbreaking poll that reveals five distinct types of independent voters. From the "Disappointed Middle" to the "Checked Out," understanding these groups is essential to understanding modern American politics. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A historic hostage deal sees 20 Israelis released in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners. Michael Smerconish asks the tough question: Is this kind of negotiation justified to facilitate peace? He breaks down the facts, shares powerful insights, and reveals what listeners like you had to say in today's poll at smerconish.com. Plus, thoughts on Trump's role in the deal, the ethics of negotiating with terrorists, and how this could shape the future of Middle East diplomacy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Ryan Burge is Professor of Practice at Washington University in St. Louis. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael offers a bold take on today's Smerconish.com poll question which asks: "If peace holds in the Middle East, should President Trump receive the Nobel Peace Prize next year?" From 2025 Nobel winner Maria Corina Machado to Thomas Friedman's surprising take, Michael explores whether Trump's diplomacy deserves global recognition — and what the Nobel Committee's decision really says about politics and peace. Listen here, then vote there! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish dives into two “Mingle Project”-themed stories that reveal how technology and loneliness are reshaping human connection. From a report that 1 in 5 teens have had a romantic AI relationship, to new research showing our brains can only handle 150 real friendships, Michael connects the dots on what's happening to our ability to truly mingle. Is society drifting from real relationships to artificial ones? Original air date 9 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.

Michael Smerconish dives into today's provocative poll question: "Will President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops spur the sort of violence that would justify continued military presence?" He unpacks the legal and political stakes — from the Posse Comitatus Act to the Insurrection Act — and asks whether the current strategy could be by design. Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael sits down with political analyst Mark Halperin to unpack new CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss's claim that the far left destroyed America's center-left, and what that and the rest of her opinions and experiences mean for that company moving forward. Halperin notes that Weiss is what big journalism needs now: He and Michael explore how media bias, polarization, and public perception are reshaping U.S. politics. They also also touch on the government shutdown, Russia's latest moves, and the uncertain economy ahead. A smart, spirited conversation about the future of the media, politics, and the American middle. Original air date 8 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.

Michael owns up to a one-word mistake in today's Smerconish.com poll question — and it sparks a fascinating debate. Listen here and then vote on this question: "Who will be elected president first, a woman or someone openly LGBTQ+?" He breaks down why that missing word matters, what new polling reveals about voter attitudes, and how figures like CBS' Bari Weiss and Pete Buttigieg factor into America's political future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael reacts to a new Politico poll that reveals a surprising truth: younger Americans are less likely than older ones to support electing a female president. He's joined by The Atlantic's Olga Khazan to unpack what this says about gender, power, and how women candidates still face a “double bind” in U.S. politics. Plus, what kind of woman could finally break the White House glass ceiling? Listen here for that, and reactions from the audience. Original air date 7 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.

Michael Smerconish dives into today's Smerconish.com poll question: Do you agree with Barry Weiss that the far left destroyed the center left in America? As Weiss takes the reins at CBS News, Michael explores her viral speech, her critique of political extremes, and what her rise means for the future of journalism—and both sides of the aisle. A must-listen for anyone trying to make sense of today's shifting political landscape. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish sits down with Dr. Michael Strain of the American Enterprise Institute to challenge the idea that the American Dream is out of reach. With Investopedia pegging its “cost” at over $5 million, Smerconish and Strain unpack what really defines success in America today. Is homeownership essential? Does hard work still pay off? And are our expectations part of the problem? A sharp, timely look at what it means to “make it” in modern America. Original air date 30 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.

Former FBI Director James Comey is now facing two felony charges. Listen here as Michael dives deep into the politics, strategy, and spectacle behind the case. Should Comey ask a judge to dismiss the charges now, or should he take the unprecedented step of going to trial for public vindication? Michael unpacks the legal dynamics, DOJ tensions, and political implications — and invites you to weigh in on today's poll question....listen and then go vote at Smerconish.com. And please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael takes a hard look at the ongoing government shutdown and asks the critical question: Who's really to blame? Drawing on William F. Buckley's famous “phone book” quote, Michael argues that Congress has become more dysfunctional than ever, with partisan politics and grandstanding replacing real compromise. With more than 700,000 federal workers furloughed and key programs in limbo, Michael explains how both parties are playing to their bases instead of governing for the country. This commentary is essential listening for anyone trying to understand the roots of the current Washington stalemate and what it says about the state of American democracy in 2025. Original air date 3 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.

Michael breaks down today's poll question: Do you think America's political system can still address the nation's problems or is it too politically divided to solve its problems? He compares his audience's response to recent New York Times data, explores the roots of our division, and shares shocking stats — like why only 28% of Americans trust the media and why 3 in 10 think political violence may be necessary. Plus, what really drives extremism in U.S. politics and how we might start fixing it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael sits down with Suzy Welch—NYU professor, journalist, and author of "Becoming You", to unpack her provocative Wall Street Journal essay that asked: Is Gen Z unemployable? Welch's research found that only 2% of Gen Z shares the core values most prized by employers, like achievement and a strong work ethic. Instead, young workers are prioritizing self-care, authenticity, and purpose—sparking a growing clash between companies and new hires. Michael and Suzy dive deep into the data, the pushback from Gen Z, and what this generational disconnect means for the future of work, parenting, and American competitiveness. Original air date 2 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.

Michael Smerconish breaks down today's critical poll question: Which party faces more political risk from the government shutdown? He dives into how healthcare is at the heart of the standoff, and what the latest polling data reveals about public perception. Plus, reflections on Hispanic voting trends, the "Hard Hat Riot," and how history might be repeating itself. A can't-miss episode for political junkies. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael is joined by political analyst Mark Halperin for a wide-ranging conversation on the biggest political stories of the week. From the government shutdown and who's most likely to take the blame, to President Biden's approval numbers, the Comey indictment, and the surprising twists in the New York City mayoral race, they cover it all. Halperin shares why the shutdown could end sooner than most expect, why Democrats may be politically vulnerable, and how Andrew Cuomo's comeback campaign might not be over yet. Plus, the two dive into the consequences of political prosecutions, the role of the military in domestic crises, and whether Americans are as engaged with D.C. drama as pundits think. Original air date 1 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.

Will Hispanic voters ultimately drift rightward, as so-called ethnic whites once did? That's today's poll question at Smerconish.com...drawing lessons from the 1970s “Hard Hat Riot” and the political realignment of working-class whites, Michael explores whether Democrats face an existential threat if Hispanic voters follow a similar path. He also revisits President Trump and War Secretary Hegseth's remarks to military generals yesterday, plus touching on his latest YouTube Episode of "The Mingle Project." Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered 800 of America's top generals and admirals to Quantico — with President Trump making a surprise appearance — it was an unprecedented show of force. But was it effective, or just political theater? Admiral James Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, joins Michael Smerconish to share a candid gut check on Hegseth's remarks. Original air date 30 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.

Michael unpacks today's Smerconish.com poll question: "Is there anything inherently wrong with the Department of War summoning senior military leaders to Quantico?" He explains why his answer is “no,” explores the concerns behind such a high-level gathering, and reflects on recent poll results about political violence and rhetoric. Plus, a preview of today's Mingle Project episode with Dr. Brian Rosenwald on the history of talk radio. Listen here, then vote! And please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wall Street Journal reporter Rachel Ensign joins Michael to explore a surprising new trend: wealthy retirees are hiring professional writers to craft their family memoirs — sometimes spending tens of thousands, even six figures, to do it. From revealing secrets to preserving heritage, these personal histories aren't meant for bookstores, but for children, grandchildren, and generations to come. Is this a priceless legacy, or a self-indulgent luxury? Hear Michael and callers share their own experiences with capturing family stories. Original air date 18 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.

Michael is on the west coast today, having appeared on HBO's "Real Time with Bill Maher" on Friday night. He shares stories from his time there, and then moves on to today's poll question at Smerconsih.com, where he's asking you: "Will the trend of retributive prosecutions persist beyond the Trump administration?" From Alvin Bragg to Fani Willis to the new Comey indictment, Michael lays out why he believes the weaponization of justice is one of the greatest threats facing democracy today. Listen here, then cast your vote at Smerconish.com! And please rate and review this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Despite a long day of travel ahead, Michael Smerconish shares his thoughts on today's daily poll question: "Is Kamala Harris' book release and media tour enhancing or diminishing her prospects to one day be elected president?" Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New York Times' Jia Lynn Yang joins Michael to unpack America's disturbing new era of political violence. From the assassination of Charlie Kirk to nihilistic acts with unclear ideology, are we witnessing the collapse of coherent political conflict — or the rise of something even more dangerous? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish digs into today's poll question: Is the rise in political violence driven by rhetoric or deeper societal issues? Citing expert research, tragic examples, and his own Mingle Project, he explores how loneliness, disconnection, and despair—especially among young men—are fueling a dangerous trend. Plus, a fiery fact-check on JD Vance's claims and thoughts on how we can start to fix what's broken. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode of The Smerconish Podcast, Michael reflects on the life and legacy of Philadelphia Flyers legend Bernie Parent, who passed away this week at the age of 80 (1945-2025). In the opening minutes, Michael shares personal memories of the Hall of Fame goaltender, recalling Bernie's impact on the city, his larger-than-life personality, and the joy he brought to fans. Following the remembrance, we revisit a 2008 archive conversation between Michael and Bernie. In this interview, Bernie opens up about his career, his philosophy on life, and the mindset that made him one of hockey's most celebrated figures, all while taking calls from listeners that day on WPHT in Philly (February 18, 2008). This episode is both a tribute and an opportunity to hear Bernie's voice once more, in his own words. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish welcomes Chris Cuomo (host of Cuomo on NewsNation) for a candid conversation about the future of late-night TV and Jimmy Kimmel's place in it. The two dig into Kimmel's removal from the airwaves and subsequent return, his emotional defense, and what it reveals about media, politics, and free speech in today's polarized climate. Cuomo argues that the real issue isn't “state action” from the FCC but market forces—and how networks respond when audiences push back. Original air date 24 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.

In this episode, Michael explores:Kimmel's emotional on-air response following criticism.The shifting late-night landscape and declining broadcast TV audiences.How younger viewers are consuming late-night comedy through clips, not full shows.The bigger cultural conversation: Are the days of shared television experiences over?Plus, Michael connects today's debate to The Mingle Project, reflecting on how fragmented viewing habits impact our ability to share cultural touchstones. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Governor Andy Beshear (D-KY) recently joined SiriusXM with a weekly show on Progress Channel 127, a sister channel to POTUS 124, where Michael's show is heard. The day of the Governor's radio debut, Michael welcomed him for a conversation and had some advice for how to succeed in bringing "The Andy Beshear Podcast" to the radio airwaves. It's not as obvious and easy as it seems. Original air date 9 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.

On today's episode, Michael digs into today's Smerconish.com poll question: "Would you discourage a pregnant family member or friend from taking Tylenol?" With conflicting studies, heated political commentary, and widespread public confusion, Michael unpacks the science, the headlines, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding acetaminophen use during pregnancy. Listen here, then vote at smerconish.com! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Having watched the entire Charlie Kirk Memorial, Michael reflects on what he saw, objecting only to the "us vs. them" characterization of the assassination. Original air date 22 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.

Today's poll question is a contentious one: Should the U.S. join allies like Australia, Britain, Canada, and France in recognizing a Palestinian state? Michael Smerconish breaks down the complex geopolitical, moral, and humanitarian implications — from Netanyahu's West Bank strategy to the erosion of global sympathy for Israel after 10/7. Tune in for a deeply personal, thought-provoking take on one of the world's most volatile conflicts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.