The Smerconish Podcast

Michael Smerconish dives into today's provocative poll question: Would legalizing heroin and cocaine actually reduce fentanyl deaths and improve global stability? Inspired by a listener's message and supported by Kofi Annan's striking 2016 essay, Michael examines the arguments for and against a radical shift in drug policy. He also updates listeners on the ongoing mystery around the unreleased video of the second Venezuela boat strike and how the administration's messaging continues to shift. 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.

Minnesota Star Tribune investigative reporter Jeffrey Meitrodt joins Michael Smerconish to break down the massive fraud scandal rocking Minnesota — from the Feeding Our Future nonprofit to autism-service billing schemes and housing fraud. While President Trump claims “billions” were stolen, the evidence so far paints a very different picture. They explore how loosened guardrails during COVID opened the door to widespread abuse, the political fallout targeting the Somali community, and why federal investigators say more indictments are coming. Smerconish revisits his early warnings about pandemic-era fraud and hears from listeners on the front lines. A deep dive into one of America's most troubling — and misunderstood — corruption stories. 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 Smerconish.com poll question: Why hasn't video of the second boat strike been released? He explores the competing theories—from protecting sources and methods, to avoiding evidentiary exposure, to the mysterious surge in voters selecting “something else.” Michael also revisits recent poll results - A fast, insightful look at the biggest question listeners are debating today. Be sure to 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.

Robert A. PapeProfessor, Political Science DepartmentDirector, Chicago Project on Security and ThreatsUniversity of Chicago Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael digs into the controversy surrounding the unreleased video of the second boat strike — the tape lawmakers saw but the public hasn't. He breaks down conflicting accounts from the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Washington Post, and CNN, revealing key details about the 41-minute deliberation, what the survivors were actually doing, and whether the strike may violate the Law of War. Listen here, then vote on today's poll question at Smerconish.com, and be sure to 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.

CNBC and MSNBC commentator Ron Insana joins Michael to break down what's really driving the stock market — and why most investors aren't feeling the gains. From the soaring dominance of the “Magnificent Seven” tech giants to fears of an AI-fueled bubble, Insana explains the risks, the misconceptions, and how everyday Americans should think about investing in a highly concentrated market. They also tackle AI job displacement, universal basic income, Nvidia's explosive rise, and the surprising decline in what it means to be “wealthy” today. Original air date 4 December 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is a $1 million net worth still considered wealthy in 2025? New research reveals that most American millionaires don't think so — and they're more financially anxious than ever. Michael breaks down the surprising data, what “wealth” now means to Americans, and why geography and comparison play such big roles. Listen here, then vote on today's poll question at Smerconish.com, and be sure to 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 Smerconish sits down with Admiral James Stavridis to unpack the explosive controversy surrounding a September military strike now under congressional investigation. Drawing on his experience as former Supreme Allied Commander at NATO, Stavridis breaks down the chain of command, the laws of war, the role of the Secretary of Defense, and why missing video footage raises serious questions. Together, they examine whether orders were lawful, what accountability should look like, and why oversight is essential as new details emerge. A deep, clear, and urgent conversation about military ethics, civilian control, and the fog of war. Original air date 3 December 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Should Admiral “Mitch” Bradley face disciplinary action for authorizing a second strike on a suspected drug-trafficking boat? Michael is asking this poll question at Smerconish.com today. Using reporting from The Washington Post, legal insights from military experts, and new comments from Secretary Hegseth, Michael unpacks the law-of-war implications, the political fallout, and why this case could affect far more than one admiral's career. Plus, he revisits yesterday's razor-thin poll results and breaks down new details in the Lane Kiffin controversy. Listen, vote, rate, review, share! 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 Peter Adams at the News Literacy Project to unpack a startling new study on how 13–18-year-olds view journalism—revealing deep distrust, confusion about media ethics, and a surprising cultural touchstone: Spider-Man. Michael also dives into how movies and TV shape our understanding of the press, from “Spotlight” and “Absence of Malice” to “Anchorman” and “The Morning Show.” A wide-ranging conversation about the future of news, the state of media literacy, and why local journalism still matters. Original air date 2 December 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 Smerconish.com poll asks: “Should Ole Miss have allowed Lane Kiffin to finish the season even after he accepted the LSU job?” Michael breaks down the full drama—from the Rebels' championship run, to LSU's massive contract offer, to the competing arguments from top analysts in the sports world. He explains why the decision raises bigger questions about loyalty, business, and the state of college football today. Cast your vote at Smerconish.com, and be sure to 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.

Andrew C. McCarthy is a senior fellow at National Review Institute, an NR contributing editor, and author of Ball of Collusion: The Plot to Rig an Election and Destroy a Presidency. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael dives into today's "Cyber Monday" Smerconish.com poll: "How much does a family of four truly need to live independently in America?" He breaks down new research suggesting the real poverty line may be closer to $140,000—far above federal estimates—and explores the ‘Valley of Death' where families lose benefits faster than wages rise. Plus, he reviews recent poll results and explains why this topic sparks so much frustration across the electorate. Listen here, then cast your vote at the website, 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.

Michael Smerconish talks with Josh Fryday, California's Chief Service Officer and candidate for Lieutenant Governor, about the alarming crisis facing young men — rising loneliness, declining engagement, and surging mental-health challenges. Fryday explains the newly launched California Men's Service Challenge, a statewide push to recruit 10,000 male mentors, coaches, and role models. Together, they discuss the power of service, the need to rebuild social capital, and how volunteerism could help reconnect a divided America. Original air date 26 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.

Michael dives into the Smerconish.com poll question inspired by DOT Secretary Sean Duffy's controversial claim that airline passengers should “dress with respect” to promote civility. From shocking in-flight behavior stats to a viral DOT video, Michael explores whether our clothing really influences how we act in the air. Listen to this lively, timely conversation heading into Thanksgiving travel, vote at Smerconish.com, and then 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.

Breaking news meets expert analysis. As reports emerge that Ukraine may have agreed to a peace proposal with Russia, Michael brings in one of the world's most trusted strategic minds — Admiral James Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO. In this urgent conversation, the Admiral reacts in real time to developing headlines, explains how the peace plan has shifted, and breaks down the difficult trade-offs Ukraine may face, including territorial concessions, NATO's role, and long-term security guarantees. A must-listen episode on what could be the most consequential diplomatic moment of the war. Original air date 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.

Michael dives into today's hot-button poll question that he's asking at Smerconish.com: Should Ukraine agree to a peace deal involving territorial concessions to Russia if its future security is guaranteed? From Tom Friedman's “dirty vs. filthy” deal framework to the evolving U.S.-Ukraine peace plan, Michael breaks down the politics, principles, and tough trade-offs of ending the war. Plus, behind-the-scenes fun from the new Smerconish studio and updates from the nationwide Mingle Meetups. Listen here and vote on the poll question, 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.

When six Democratic members of Congress released a video urging troops to “refuse illegal orders,” President Trump called it seditious behavior. But was the video itself appropriate—or reckless? Michael speaks with Lt. Col. Rachel VanLandingham (ret.), a former Air Force JAG and law professor, who says the lawmakers “did more harm than good.” Together, they unpack what the law actually says about disobeying orders, how politics risks turning the military into a pawn, and where the real danger to democracy lies. Original air date 24 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.

Was it appropriate for members of Congress to release a video urging military personnel to refuse illegal orders? That's today's Smerconish.com poll question...While President Trump's fiery response suggesting the Democrats in the video be tried for treason grabbed headlines, Michael explores the deeper issue — was the video itself a political provocation or a necessary act of principle? Hear Michael's take, and insights from a piece written by Retired Lt. Col. Rachel VanLandingham, now a professor at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles, who argues the lawmakers may have “done more harm than good.” (Programming Note: Michael interview Lt. Col. VanLandingham in a podcast episode being released later today!) Listen now as Smerconish challenges both sides to think critically about duty, politics, and the Constitution...and cast your vote at smerconish.com, and thank you for sharing, rating and reviewing 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.

A three-judge federal panel just struck down Texas's mid-decade redistricting map — and the fallout could reshape the 2026 House majority. Michael invites Yale constitutional law professor Jed Rubenfeld to break down why the court called it an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, how a “volcanic” dissent all but guarantees Supreme Court review, and what this means for California's controversial Prop 50 map. A deep dive into the legal, political, and democratic stakes of America's newest redistricting showdown. 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: If courts halt Texas's redistricting, should California pause theirs too? He explores the legal, political, and constitutional stakes behind state-by-state redistricting battles—and what “fairness” really means in the process. Vote in today's poll and watch the full show on 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.

Michael digs into a groundbreaking New York Times report revealing Amazon's push to automate up to 600,000 jobs — and what it means for the future of American work. NYT tech correspondent Karen Weise joins to explain what she saw inside Amazon's most advanced robotic facility, how automation is reshaping warehouse labor, and why this shift is already underway. Michael also revisits a professor's bold prediction of 99% unemployment, audience skepticism, and the broader debate over AI's impact on jobs. A must-listen for anyone wondering where the workforce is headed next. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael tackles today's big question: Should Americans be able to vote from their phones? In this episode, he explores the security risks, potential benefits for voter turnout, global experiments with digital voting, and how mobile ballots could reshape U.S. politics. Plus, he reviews audience reactions to the Daily Poll and the ongoing debate over trust in American elections. A timely, thought-provoking look at the future of democracy. Join the conversation and vote now on 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.

Mark Halperin dives deep into the ongoing debate surrounding the release of Jeffrey Epstein files and why Donald Trump's decision to withhold them is raising more questions than answers. In this thought-provoking discussion, Halperin explains the political strategy, potential risks, and the broader implications of releasing sensitive files—while also shedding light on the complexities of Trump's relationship with Epstein. Should the public know everything? Or are there valid reasons to keep some documents hidden? Tune in for an insightful analysis. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael analyzes whether the GOP's swift vote to release the Epstein files signals a meaningful shift in Trump's influence over his party. With new data, expert perspectives, and a look at the growing media angles, he explores whether this moment is a blip—or the beginning of a broader rupture. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Veteran crisis-manager and former White House Special Counsel Lanny Davis joins Michael to break down how President Trump handled the Epstein files — and what he should have done instead. Davis explains the “tell it early, tell it all, tell it yourself” rules Trump ignored, why resistance fuels speculation, and how the story could have been neutralized from the start. Plus: his upcoming book Finding the Third Way and a great story involving his son, a college basketball game, and a surprise call from George W. Bush. 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 invites listeners to consider this question: Will The Majority Of House Republicans Vote To Release The Epstein Files? Listen here, and 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.

Michael sits down with NYT's Journalist Andrew Ross Sorkin to discuss his riveting new book, "1929," 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. 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 Marjorie Taylor Greene's surprising shift toward political “kindness,” comparing it to his own evolution as a Republican-turned-independent. Is MTG experiencing genuine growth—or just chasing relevance? Michael invites listeners to weigh in on political about-faces and what sparks them. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With Marjorie Taylor Greene making headlines for her newfound politics in addition to comments on Donald Trump and the Epstein Files, Michael Smerconish raises this question; Marjorie Taylor Greene: Evolution or Opportunism? Listen here, and 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.

Listen to Michael's first Book Club Podcast Interview with Barry Levine about "The Spider." (Podcast July 2025, the book was published in 2020). Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael breaks down a new data point from the National Association of Realtors: the median age of U.S. home buyers has climbed to 59. He explores what's driving the shift—from affordability crises to shifting priorities—and examines new proposals like 50-year mortgages and portable home loans. Plus, how America's housing shortage ties into mental health, generational trends, and global comparisons. It's all the basis for today's Smerconish.com Poll Question, which asks "Why has the median age for U.S. homebuyers risen to 59 - Affordability, or Shifting Priorities?" Listen here, and 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.

In this episode, Michael unpacks the stunning release of thousands of Jeffrey Epstein emails that have Washington on edge. What began as a selective Democratic leak of three explosive emails suggesting Donald Trump knew more about Epstein's abuse than he admitted soon became a political firestorm — with Republicans countering by releasing over 20,000 documents. Michael walks listeners through what the emails actually say — and what's pure speculation. Epstein's cryptic phrase “the dog that didn't bark,” his mention of Trump spending hours with Virginia Giuffre, and references to Trump “knowing about the girls” are now public. But the real question, Michael argues, is why the White House is scrambling — with reports of Lauren Boebert being summoned to the Situation Room and Trump playing phone tag with Nancy Mace. Is there more we haven't seen? Or is this another example of political theater in overdrive? Original air date 13 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.

Michael digs into today's Smerconish.com poll question: "Did the ends of the Democrat-supported government shutdown justify the means?" After weeks of stalemate, Democrats ended the fight without key concessions—but may have reframed the national debate on health care. Was the pain worth the politics? Plus, insights on yesterday's poll results - listen here, and 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.

Michael Smerconish is joined by political analyst Mark Halperin to unpack breaking revelations from Jeffrey Epstein's newly surfaced emails — including what they suggest Donald Trump may have known about Epstein's conduct. Then, shifting gears to dissect the GOP's healthcare dilemma, rising insurance premiums, and what both parties risk in the next budget showdown. Finally, they look ahead to 2028, where Halperin just changed his mind about Gavin Newsom's presidential ambitions. Original air date 12 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.

Michael Smerconish dives into today's Smerconish.com poll, asking: Should the Supreme Court allow states to count mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day but arriving afterward? He breaks down the upcoming Supreme Court case, explores how 30 states already handle this issue, and weighs both sides of the debate — from election integrity to voter access. Plus, reflections on yesterday's conversation about whether betting markets can out-predict polls. Listen here, then vote, and please rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast app! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Doug Sosnik is a policy and political expert who has closely advised President Bill Clinton and multiple U.S. Senators, governors, Fortune 100 corporations, foundations and universities. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Admiral James Stavridis is a retired four-star U.S. naval officer. He is currently Partner and Vice Chair of Carlyle, a global investment firm. He is also 12th Chair of Rockefeller Foundation board.  Previously he served for five years as the 12th Dean of The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He led the NATO Alliance in global operations from 2009 to 2013 as 16th Supreme Allied Commander with responsibility for Afghanistan, Libya, the Balkans, Syria, counter piracy, and cyber security. He also served as Commander of U.S. Southern Command, with responsibility for all military operations in Latin America from 2006-2009. He earned more than 50 medals, including 28 from foreign nations in his 37-year military career. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Veterans Day, Michael asks: Which is a more reliable predictor of elections — traditional polls or betting markets? With new data from Vanderbilt showing gamblers outperformed pollsters in 2024, he wonders if polling as we know it is on the way out. Listen in and see if you agree, and vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate, comment, 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.

Billionaire trader and philanthropist Jeff Yass joins Michael to discuss his $100 million donation to the University of Austin, a new institution co-founded by CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss that promises “the fearless pursuit of truth.” Yass explains why he believes higher education is broken, how government involvement has inflated costs, and why this new school refuses federal funding altogether. He outlines a radical model — no tuition, no federal money, and full accountability to students' success — arguing that universities should be judged not by prestige, but by the impact of their graduates. An eye-opening conversation about money, ideology, and the future of learning. Original air date 10 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.

41 days later...Eight Democrats broke ranks to help end the government shutdown — but was it the right call? Michael weighs in on today's hot-button Smerconish.com poll question and explains why compromise might still be possible in Washington. 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.

The #1 movie on Netflix, 'A House of Dynamite', imagines the unthinkable: a ballistic missile headed straight for Chicago. Michael Smerconish sits down with screenwriter Noah Oppenheim and former White House national security advisor Richard Clarke to separate cinematic fiction from terrifying fact. Oppenheim, who co-wrote 'Zero Day' and once led NBC News, reveals how his collaboration with director Kathryn Bigelow turned a 20-minute nuclear countdown into the most intense film of the year—and why the Pentagon actually responded to it. Then Clarke, who served under Presidents Bush, Clinton, and Bush, explains how much of the movie mirrors his real-life experience in the Situation Room on 9/11, and why America's nuclear defenses may not be as foolproof as we'd like to think. Can the U.S. really stop an incoming missile? Would the President have only minutes to decide the fate of the world? And how close are we, right now, to midnight on the doomsday clock? Listen here, 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.