Podcast appearances and mentions of lindsay chervinsky

Mona Charen and FT columnist Ed Luce dig into Giorgia Meloni's public  dressing down of Trump, the UK's political chaos, and the fallout from Trump's Iran war—including the case that the U.S. is now paying Iran reparations and Israel is boxed into an impossible corner. Plus: Luce's surreal Sunday phone calls with Trump himself.Upcoming: Mona will interview presidential historian Lindsay Chervinsky about her book, Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic.

Clay welcomes one of his favorite guests, Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, to talk about America at 250. Many Americans are bewildered and frightened by the current state of the Union, unsure how things got so partisan and paralyzed. Instead of offering our personal opinions on the current crisis, we, as historians, attempt to contextualize the present moment within the broad sweep of American history, beginning, of course, with the Founding Fathers. What would Adams and Jefferson say about the world of 2026? Would they be disappointed with us? And what would they urge us to reform as we move forward into the next fifty, one hundred, and two hundred fifty years? And Clay asked Lindsay to point to the Golden Age of American life. You may be surprised by her answer.

Mona Charen welcomes military analyst Andrew Fox for a conversation on Trump's Iran ceasefire, whether America squandered its leverage against Tehran, the growing influence of Qatar and Turkey, Israel's military and political mistakes, Hamas's strategy in Gaza, and the battle over public opinion that could shape the future of the Middle East.show notes:Bulwark Book Club: Mona will interview presidential historian Lindsay Chervinsky about her book, “Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic.”

Subscribe now for ad-free listening, early access, and bonus content! This is the fifth episode in an occasional series for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, America's semiquincentennial. Americans have always contested the meanings and purpose of the Revolution. During the 1850s, both unionists and secessionists, the anti-slavery movement and pro-slavery stalwarts, cited the Declaration of Independence to defend their positions. How could Americans who were on opposite sides of the all-important slavery conflict cite the same document invoking fundamental human equality? In this episode, historian James Oakes takes us into the mind of Abraham Lincoln, who reached back to 1776 to denounce the South's peculiar institution. Recommended reading: The Radical and the Republican: Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, and the Triumph of Antislavery Politics by James Oakes Further listening (America250 series): Episode 1 w/ Lindsay Chervinsky Episode 2 w/ Kate Carté Episode 3 w/ Alan Taylor Episode 4 w/ Lindsay Chervinsky

Clay and his frequent guest, the redoubtable Lindsay Chervinsky, discuss books written about Jefferson's declaration, arguably the most important document in the history of liberty. Among the titles discussed are Walter Isaacson's recent The Greatest Sentence Ever Written, which celebrates the preamble of the Declaration of Independence, to Garry Wills' award-winning 1978 Inventing America, which locates the inspiration in the Scottish Enlightenment, and Pauline Meier's 1997 American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence, which examines local and regional declarations that contributed to Jefferson's great national document. Could any of the other Founding Fathers have written so magnificent a declaration? What role did Jefferson's famous "felicity for expression" play in the historical fame of America's mission statement?

Subscribe now for ad-free listening, early access, and bonus content! This is the fourth episode in an occasional series for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, America's semiquincentennial. What if we approached this coming Fourth of July not as a single day to celebrate a special national birthday, but as the start of a decade-long commitment to a "civic renaissance"? The story of the founding of the United States didn't end on July 4, 1776 — it remains a work in progress (with plenty of setbacks, too). Indeed, a question people pondered at the time remains important today: What does it mean to be a republican citizen? Historian Lindsay Chervinsky, the executive director of the George Washington Library at Mount Vernon, is our guest. Further reading: A Bold Civic Renaissance for America's 250th by Lindsay Chervinsky and Julie Silverbrook (National Constitution Center) Further listening: Episode 1 w/ Lindsay Chervinsky Episode 2 w/ Kate Carté Episode 3 w/ Alan Taylor

Larry takes a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of our nation's heroes, as he explores the fascinating story of Peter Francisco, a giant of a man who fought bravely in the Revolutionary War and became one of America's forgotten heroes. He also delves into the world of George Washington, our nation's first commander-in-chief, and discuss the importance of his legacy on Memorial Day. In this episode, he's joined by John T. Palmer, author of "George Washington's One Man Army," which tells the incredible story of Peter Francisco's life and battles. He talks to Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, the executive director of the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon, about the importance of preserving our nation's history and the sacrifices of our military. He also discusses the latest developments in Maryland's mail-in ballot scandal and the need for voter integrity.Become a Townhall VIP member with promo code "LARRY": https://townhall.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Diplomatic Immunity, host Kelly McFarland sits down with presidential historian Lindsay Chervinsky, executive director of the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon, to explore one of the most consequential partnerships in American foreign policy history: James Monroe and his Secretary of State, John Quincy Adams.   They dig into the origins of the Monroe Doctrine, why Adams famously turned down a British alliance offer, and what it actually meant to declare the Western Hemisphere off-limits to European imperial expansion in 1823. From the Adams-Onís Treaty to the Greek War of Independence, this conversation reveals just how much of early American foreign policy was shaped by Adams' extraordinary global experience — and why his vision remains remarkably relevant today.   Topics covered: The Monroe-Adams partnership and the post-War of 1812 landscape The Adams-Onís Treaty and the acquisition of Florida The origins and three components of the Monroe Doctrine Why did Adams reject the British alliance offer Adams' famous July 4th address: "America does not go abroad in search of monsters to destroy" John Quincy Adams' presidency and his forward-thinking approach to Latin American alliances Why the Monroe Doctrine keeps coming back — and why context matters   Produced by Freddie Mallinson and Mislav Majcan. Recorded on 20 April, 2026.   Diplomatic Immunity, a podcast from the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University, brings you frank and candid conversations with experts on the issues facing diplomats and national security decision-makers around the world. Funding support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York.   For more, visit our website, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram @gudiplomacy  

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, biographer and journalist Sally Bedell Smith explores the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II's father George VI, who unexpectedly became king after his older brother, Edward VIII, abdicated. Smith explores what leadership looks like in the modern British monarchy and the impact George VI had on his daughter Elizabeth. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, biographer and journalist Sally Bedell Smith explores the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II's father George VI, who unexpectedly became king after his older brother, Edward VIII, abdicated. Smith explores what leadership looks like in the modern British monarchy and the impact George VI had on his daughter Elizabeth. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

Today we're traveling back to December 23rd, 1783, to the Maryland State House in Annapolis, a quiet moment that spoke louder than any battle: General George Washington's resignation of his military commission.It's easy to remember Washington as the victorious commander of the Continental Army, but what he did after the war was just as revolutionary. When he handed back his commission to Congress, he voluntarily gave up power, something almost unheard of in the 18th century, especially for a man who could have ruled as a king.In today's episode, we'll unpack why that decision was so significant — how it set a precedent for civilian control of the military, influenced the founding of the Republic, and helped define the very idea of American leadership. We'll also look at what this moment meant for Washington himself — and for a nation still learning what it meant to be free.Our guest is Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, a presidential historian and the Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library. She's the author of the award-winning book The Cabinet: George Washington and the Creation of an American Institution, which explores how Washington built the presidency and set lasting precedents for executive power. Her work has appeared in outlets like The Washington Post, TIME, and The Wall Street Journal, and she's a frequent commentator on how early American leadership continues to shape our politics today.Her insight into Washington's character, decision-making, and vision for the new republic makes her the perfect person to help us understand the deeper meaning behind that quiet yet revolutionary moment in Annapolis, when the most powerful man in America chose to give up power.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, attorney and legal analyst Elie Honig explores the origins, mission, and evolving role of the U.S. Department of Justice. While the DOJ is meant to operate independently of politics, its integrity has long depended less on constitutional mandates than on norms, traditions, and the people entrusted to uphold them. Tune in to examine what principled leadership looks like within this powerful arm of the executive branch—and why it ultimately requires presidential leadership grounded in facts, not party loyalty.Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, attorney and legal analyst Elie Honig explores the origins, mission, and evolving role of the U.S. Department of Justice. While the DOJ is meant to operate independently of politics, its integrity has long depended less on constitutional mandates than on norms, traditions, and the people entrusted to uphold them. Tune in to examine what principled leadership looks like within this powerful arm of the executive branch—and why it ultimately requires presidential leadership grounded in facts, not party loyalty.Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

Clay's favorite guest, Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, makes her first 2026 appearance to discuss foreign policy in the administrations of George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson. America's recent incursion into the sovereign nation of Venezuela raises questions about the war powers in America. The Founding Fathers were adamant that Congress (not the executive) must initiate wars, and vote funds to pay for them, too. We discuss the crisis of the French Revolution in America, Washington's famous Farewell Address in 1796, the Quasi-War with France during the John Adams administration, and Adams' heroic decision to seek peace rather than war with the French Republic. We explore Jefferson's idealism as voiced in a letter he wrote in 1799 and his famous First Inaugural Address in 1801. Jefferson believed it was too late in the world's history to solve our disputes through bloodshed, and yet he sent marines and a naval squadron to North Africa to bloody the nose of the Pasha of Tripoli. This episode was recorded on January 5, 2026.

Subscribe now to enjoy ad-free listening and bonus content. Keep the narrative flow going in 2026! This is the first in an occasional series of episodes (one or two per month) marking the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In January 1776, a pamphlet printed in Philadelphia became an instant sensation. Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" was a provocative attack on the British constitution and hereditary monarchy, and a call for American colonists to seek independence. In this episode, historian Lindsay Chervinsky, the executive director of Mount Vernon's George Washington Presidential Library, takes us back to the ideas and arguments that made a revolution. Recommended reading: To Make the World Again by Lindsay Chervinsky (Imperfect Union on Substack) Common Sense (contextus.org)

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, historian and best-selling author Max Boot reflects on the insights he gained while writing the first definitive biography of President Ronald Reagan. From a turbulent childhood to his unlikely rise as a Hollywood leading man, Reagan's early experiences shaped a leadership style that would eventually carry him to the highest office in the land. Boot explores how Reagan's willingness to compromise—often overlooked—became a cornerstone of his enduring legacy. Tune in for a nuanced look at the evolution of Reagan's leadership, including the strengths that defined him and the weaknesses that tested him. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, historian and best-selling author Max Boot reflects on the insights he gained while writing the first definitive biography of President Ronald Reagan. From a turbulent childhood to his unlikely rise as a Hollywood leading man, Reagan's early experiences shaped a leadership style that would eventually carry him to the highest office in the land. Boot explores how Reagan's willingness to compromise—often overlooked—became a cornerstone of his enduring legacy. Tune in for a nuanced look at the evolution of Reagan's leadership, including the strengths that defined him and the weaknesses that tested him. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

Clay welcomes one of his favorite guests, Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, back to the program to talk about political theater in American presidential history. Thomas Jefferson walked to his inauguration, met visitors to the White House, including diplomats, while wearing his house slippers. George Washington was able to quell a potential military coup (the Newburgh Conspiracy) by taking a pair of spectacles out of his pocket and apologizing that his eyesight had deteriorated in the long years of the War of Independence. How calculated were these moments of political theater? Were they planned and maybe even rehearsed, or were they more or less spontaneous evocations of presidential character? We talk about all of the early presidents, but end in a discussion of Lyndon Johnson taking the Oath of Office on the tarmac at Love Field in Dallas on the afternoon of JFK's assassination. This episode was recorded on November 19, 2025.

In the second installment of The Remnant's unofficial presidential-biographers series, Jonah Goldberg powwows with Lindsay Chervinsky about John Adams, the Alien and Sedition Acts, unwritten laws, the pardon power, and the centrality of the Continental Army to the development of American identity. Plus, Jonah asks Lindsay about his favorite libertarian urban myth. Shownotes:—Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic—List of vice presidents of the United States—Remnant on Martin Van Buren—George Washington's cover letter—Jeffrey Rosen - The Pursuit of Liberty: How Hamilton vs. Jefferson Ignited the Lasting Battle Over Power in America—General Orders, 4 July 1775 The Remnant is a production of ⁠The Dispatch⁠, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch's offerings—including access to all of Jonah's G-File newsletters—⁠click here⁠. If you'd like to remove all ads from your podcast experience, consider becoming a premium Dispatch member ⁠by clicking here⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This live episode was recorded at Mount Vernon as part of The American Military at 250: The 2025 George Washington Symposium.Retired Marine Corp General and former Chief of Staff John Kelly, the 78th Secretary of the Navy the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, and former Deputy Under Secretary of Defense Comptroller the Honorable Kathleen Miller discuss the American military today in this panel conversation moderated by Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

This live episode was recorded at Mount Vernon as part of The American Military at 250: The 2025 George Washington Symposium.Retired Marine Corp General and former Chief of Staff John Kelly, the 78th Secretary of the Navy the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, and former Deputy Under Secretary of Defense Comptroller the Honorable Kathleen Miller discuss the American military today in this panel conversation moderated by Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

Hours after the Battles of Lexington and Concord, rebel British Americans begin laying siege to Boston, trapping thousands of civilians and soldiers in town for months with dwindling supplies, compelling the British to make a costly assault on nearby Bunker Hill and Breed's Hill. Featuring: Rick Atkinson, Lindsay Chervinsky, Brad Jones, and Rosemarie Zagarri. Voice Actors: Adam Smith, Grace Mallon, John Turner, Annabelle Spencer, Evan McCormick, John Terry, Spencer McBride, and Peter Walker. Narrated by Dr. Jim Ambuske. Music by Artlist.io This episode was made possible with support from a 2024 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities.  Help other listeners find the show by leaving a 5-Star Rating and Review on Apple, Spotify, Podchaser, or our website. Follow the series on Facebook or Instagram. Worlds Turned Upside Down is a production of the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

This live episode was recorded at Mount Vernon as part of The American Military at 250: The 2025 George Washington Symposium.In this conversation, Lindsay Chervinksy and Kori Schake discuss the history of civil-military relations from George Washington to today. Dr. Schake leads the foreign and defense policy team at the American Enterprise Institute, and is the author of The State and the Solider: A History of Civil-Military Relations in the United States. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

This live episode was recorded at Mount Vernon as part of The American Military at 250: The 2025 George Washington Symposium.In this conversation, Lindsay Chervinksy and Kori Schake discuss the history of civil-military relations from George Washington to today. Dr. Schake leads the foreign and defense policy team at the American Enterprise Institute, and is the author of The State and the Solider: A History of Civil-Military Relations in the United States. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, historian, professor, and author Zara Anishanslin explores how art became a powerful form of leadership and resistance in London during the American Revolution. Through striking symbolism and emotional imagery, little-known Patriot artists transformed their creative talents into tools of protest, inspiration, and even espionage, revealing how art shaped the fight for independence in unexpected ways. Tune in for new insights into the hidden power of art, the politics of creativity, and the previously untold stories of artists who impacted a revolution from across the Atlantic. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, historian, professor, and author Zara Anishanslin explores how art became a powerful form of leadership and resistance in London during the American Revolution. Through striking symbolism and emotional imagery, little-known Patriot artists transformed their creative talents into tools of protest, inspiration, and even espionage, revealing how art shaped the fight for independence in unexpected ways. Tune in for new insights into the hidden power of art, the politics of creativity, and the previously untold stories of artists who impacted a revolution from across the Atlantic. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

John Adams' single term as President has long been cast as a low point in his political career, but Lindsay Chervinsky sees it differently. "George Washington created the Presidency," she writes in her new book Making the Presidency, "but John Adams defined it."   In this episode, Lindsay joins us to share why she sees Adams as a crucial figure in transforming an office that had been established for, and created by, George Washington, into a position with the customs and practices that could be passed down through generations. Along the way, Lindsay explains why she thinks we've gotten Adams so wrong (hint: both Jefferson and Hamilton disliked his politics), the crucial role he played in establishing a peaceful transition of power, and how the January 6th insurrection might help us all have a greater appreciation for President John Adams.   Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky is the Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library and author of the new book Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic, which is out September 5th, 2024 from Oxford University Press. You can find out more about her work at her website: lindsaychervinsky.com   If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to check out Lindsay Chervinsky's  previous RTN appearances on The Road to Now:   ·      #184: The President's Cabinet ·      #263: Mourning the Presidents ·      #296: The Election of 1824 (Part 1 in our Third Party Elections Series)   This episode originally aired as RTN #313 on Sept. 2, 2024. This rebroadcast was edited by Ben Sawyer  

Subscribe now to skip ads, get bonus content, and enjoy access to the entire catalog of 500 episodes. Keep the narrative flow going! President Donald Trump enjoys bashing the press by calling some outlets "fake news" or any negative story a "hoax." Some past presidential administrations went further by censoring information, shutting down newspapers, or even jailing critical voices. Just about every U.S. leader has complained at one time or another about the press while simultaneously trying to cultivate positive coverage. In this episode, historian Lindsay Chervinsky, the executive director of the George Washington Presidential Library, takes us on a tour of more than 200 years of president-press relationships. Recommended reading: The Presidents and the Press, Part 1 by Lindsay Chervinsky (Imperfect Union on Substack) The Presidents and the Press, Part 2 by Lindsay Chervinsky

From September 23, 2024: Lindsay Chervinsky is the Executive Director of the George Washington Library at Mount Vernon. She is also the author of a much celebrated new book on the John Adams presidency that is focused primarily on the national security decision-making of the second president and how it set norms for the conduct of the presidency and its powers with which we still live today. She sat down with Lawfare Editor-in-Chief Benjamin Wittes to talk about how Adams defended presidential power while it was under assault by both his Jeffersonian foes and the radicals of his own Federalist party.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, historian and author Frank Cogliano takes a fresh look at Thomas Jefferson as a leader of ideas, a party builder, and the President of the United States. By examining Jefferson's strengths and weaknesses, Cogliano paints a vivid picture of an unconventional leader who learned from his mistakes, balanced lofty ideals with the realities of power, and cleverly relied on others to handle political battles. Tune in for new insights into Jefferson's evolution as a leader and the turbulent politics of the Early Republic.Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, historian and author Frank Cogliano takes a fresh look at Thomas Jefferson as a leader of ideas, a party builder, and the President of the United States. By examining Jefferson's strengths and weaknesses, Cogliano paints a vivid picture of an unconventional leader who learned from his mistakes, balanced lofty ideals with the realities of power, and cleverly relied on others to handle political battles. Tune in for new insights into Jefferson's evolution as a leader and the turbulent politics of the Early Republic.Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

Clay and his popular guest, Lindsay Chervinsky, discuss the history of American presidents and the fourth estate. Almost all presidents are frustrated by a free press, and some have attempted to censor it. Beginning with George Washington (who was thin-skinned but did not strike out at the opposition), through Adams and Jefferson, and all the way to Richard Nixon, the First Amendment has been a casualty of real or perceived national and international crises. The Sedition Act of 1798 and the Espionage Act of 1918 have much in common. Thomas Jefferson, as usual, said all the right things about the importance of a free press, but he also encouraged the governor of Pennsylvania to undertake a few wholesome prosecutions of the most vitriolic Federalist newspapers. Generally speaking, after periods of censorship during national security crises, the pendulum swings back to the center. This program aims to provide historical context and clarity amid our own First Amendment crisis. This episode was recorded on October 17, 2025.  

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, Susan K Neely discusses her extensive experience in public service at the state and federal levels, as well as leadership in the business world. She was Special Assistant to President George W. Bush in the White House as well as the first Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. She also held senior roles with two members of Congress, and the longest serving governor in American history. She was CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers and the American Beverage Association. In this conversation you'll hear about her groundbreaking partnerships between business and public service, how she learned from mistakes, and her deep commitment to advancing presidential history through her personal philanthropy, especially the lessons in leadership of George Washington.Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, Susan K Neely discusses her extensive experience in public service at the state and federal levels, as well as leadership in the business world. She was Special Assistant to President George W. Bush in the White House as well as the first Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. She also held senior roles with two members of Congress, and the longest serving governor in American history. She was CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers and the American Beverage Association. In this conversation you'll hear about her groundbreaking partnerships between business and public service, how she learned from mistakes, and her deep commitment to advancing presidential history through her personal philanthropy, especially the lessons in leadership of George Washington.Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, presidential historian William Haldeman explores six defining characteristics of presidential leadership, each illustrated by a president who embodied that trait. From optimism and confidence to courage and dedication, Haldeman emphasizes how true leaders prioritize principle over popularity and understand the long-term impact of their choices. Tune in to gain insights on presidential leadership, character formation, authenticity, and what we should be looking for in the leaders of tomorrow. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, presidential historian William Haldeman explores six defining characteristics of presidential leadership, each illustrated by a president who embodied that trait. From optimism and confidence to courage and dedication, Haldeman emphasizes how true leaders prioritize principle over popularity and understand the long-term impact of their choices. Tune in to gain insights on presidential leadership, character formation, authenticity, and what we should be looking for in the leaders of tomorrow. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

Frequent guest, Lindsay Chervinsky, makes a late summer appearance to discuss Ten Books on the American Revolution. Ken Burns recently said the American Revolution was the most important event since the birth of Jesus. Our listeners have asked for advice about what to read as July 4, 2026, looms over American life. Lindsay is current with recent scholarship; Clay's approach is more biographical. They agreed that you cannot go wrong with Rick Atkinson's trilogy on the revolution, and reading anything by Joseph Ellis is great. Clay recommended Ellis's book Passionate Sage, on John Adams, while Lindsay recommended Founding Brothers. Listen to the podcast for lots more great book recommendations and their lively discussion. This episode was recorded on August 18, 2025

A Presidency is defined by the decisions that a person makes while serving as Executive, but a Presidential legacy is about much more than that. In Mourning the Presidents: Loss and Legacy in American Culture, (UVA Press, 2023)Lindsay Chervinsky and Matthew Costello have brought together a collection of chapters that explore the ways that mourning ceremonies, causes of death, and moments of passing impact the way that we remember a President at the time they die, and how new research and a more inclusive understanding of US history have reshaped Presidential legacies in the years that follow. In this episode, Lindsay joins Ben and Bob for a conversation about some of the fascinating stories crafted by the book's contributing authors and how Presidential legacies might tell us more about ourselves than the individuals who have served in the Oval Office. Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky is a historian of the American Presidency who is currently a fellow at the Kluge Center at the Library of Congress and a Senior Fellow at the Center for Presidential History at Southern Methodist University. Her first book, The Cabinet: George Washington and the Creation of an American Institution (Belknap Press, 2020) won multiple awards and was the topic of our conversation for her first appearance on The Road to Now in episode 184. You can learn more about Lindsay and her work at her website: LindsayChervinsky.com If you enjoyed this episode, you'll probably also like our conversation with Jeffrey Engle on the history of Presidential impeachment (RTN episode 109). This episode originally aired as episode 263 on February 20, 2023. This rebroadcast was edited by Ben Sawyer.

We look at what became of Federal Hall in NY after the federal government left. Also, book recommendations, online recommendations and question of the week. Blog ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://blog.AmRevPodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ includes a complete transcript, as well as more resources related to this week's episode. Book Recommendation of the Week: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Cabinet: George Washington and the Creation of an American Institution, by Lindsay Chervinsky. Online Recommendation of the Week: Washington's Inaugural Address: https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/president-george-washingtons-first-inaugural-speech Join American Revolution Podcast on Reddit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.reddit.com/r/AmRevPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ask your American Revolution Podcast questions on Quora: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://amrevpod.quora.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Facebook group, American Revolution Podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/132651894048271⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow the podcast on X ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AmRevPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the podcast mail list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/d3445a9cd244/american-revolution-podcast-by-michael-troy ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ARP T-shirts and other merch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://merch.amrevpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support this podcast on Patreon ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/AmRevPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or via PayPal ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://paypal.me/AmRevPodcast⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clay's conversation with popular guest Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky on Patrick Henry. Henry began his life as a shopkeeper but rose to become the governor of Virginia and one of the handful of most essential rabble-rousers in the American Revolution. Henry and Jefferson were frenemies; at one point, Jefferson (the Deist) said to his friend Madison, “We must pray for Henry's death.” This quip was likely a joke, but Jefferson was quite critical of Henry, and he never forgave him for initiating a legislative investigation into Jefferson's conduct as the beleaguered wartime governor of Virginia. Henry refused to attend the Constitutional Convention in 1787 because, he said, “he smelt a rat.” He opposed ratification in Virginia, but when Jefferson and Madison were considering secession in 1798 and 1799, Henry declared to George Washington that the constitutional settlement must not be disturbed by the Jeffersonians. This episode was recorded live on May 16, 2025. *Note, we posted this description in error for the podcast episode published on June 9, 2025.  

In this compelling second installment of our series on Revolutionary War espionage, host Tony Sweet sits down with Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library, to uncover the shadowy world behind America's fight for independence.Dr. Chervinsky shares expert insights on George Washington as the “Spymaster-in-Chief,” revealing the sophisticated networks, coded messages, and double agents that turned the tide of the war. Beyond the battles and politics, they explore Washington's leadership style, his mastery of deception, and the human stories behind the Culper Ring and other intelligence operations.This episode offers a rare look at the man behind the myth—one who understood that winning hearts and minds sometimes required secrecy and subterfuge. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the hidden side of America's founding, don't miss this fascinating conversation about the secrets that built a nation.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, Anita McBride—author and former Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush—offers an insider's perspective on the evolving role of America's first ladies. Drawing on her own White House experience, McBride highlights how communication, altruism, and quiet courage have shaped some of the most impactful partnerships in presidential history. From behind-the-scenes influence to public leadership, she demonstrates how first ladies have helped to define the nation's highest office. Tune in to gain insights on the many roles of women in the White House, our expectations of a first lady, and leadership lessons from the first military spouse of the United States.Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

In this episode of Leadership and Legacy, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and journalist Rick Atkinson delves into the nature of military leadership through the lens of George Washington during the Revolutionary War. Atkinson outlines the essential traits of an effective commander—unshakable resolve, strategic communication, and a keen ability to navigate the complexities of the battlefield across both space and time. He also highlights Washington's political acumen and talent for recognizing potential in others, setting him apart from his British counterparts, whose flawed assumptions and leadership missteps raise the intriguing question: Could the British have won? Tune in to gain insights on military leadership, character, and the need to protect hard-won liberties for future generations. Leadership and Legacy: Conversations at the George Washington Presidential Library is hosted by Washington Library Executive Director Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky. It is a production of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and Primary Source Media. For more information about this program, go to www.GeorgeWashingtonPodcast.com.

Clay's conversation with popular guest Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky on Patrick Henry. Henry began his life as a shopkeeper but rose to become the governor of Virginia and one of the handful of most essential rabble-rousers in the American Revolution. Henry and Jefferson were frenemies; at one point, Jefferson (the Deist) said to his friend Madison, “We must pray for Henry's death.” This quip was likely a joke, but Jefferson was quite critical of Henry, and he never forgave him for initiating a legislative investigation into Jefferson's conduct as the beleaguered wartime governor of Virginia. Henry refused to attend the Constitutional Convention in 1787 because, he said, “he smelt a rat.” He opposed ratification in Virginia, but when Jefferson and Madison were considering secession in 1798 and 1799, Henry declared to George Washington that the constitutional settlement must not be disturbed by the Jeffersonians. This episode was recorded live May 16, 2025.

Clay and frequent guest Lindsay Chervinsky discuss the American Revolution in a “live” podcast recording in Vail, Colorado. Was George Washington a great military strategist? How vital was Jefferson's Declaration of Independence when it was written? Why weren't women incorporated as full citizens — as Abigail Adams suggested — when America re-constituted itself in the 1770s and 1780s? Was what happened in those dramatic years a true revolution — or merely a separation from the mother country England? How important was Thomas Paine's pamphlet Common Sense? This program was the first time Clay and Lindsay had met in person and one of the few live audience recordings of Listening to America. This podcast was recorded live on March 27, 2025.

With tariffs, the Enemy Alien Act, and politically driven calls for judicial impeachment in the headlines, Ben & Bob decided to sit down and put these developments in historic context. We've never been so disappointed to have such a great reason to discuss the history we love!   Some recommended readings: The US Constitution Scott Bomboy, “A Brief History of the Constitution and Tariffs,” National Constitution Center, Feb. 07, 2025 Lindsay Chervinsky, “Why the Last Supreme Court Impeachment was The Last (So Far),” The Bulwark, Sept. 02, 2022. This episode was edited by Ben Sawyer.

Lindsay Chervinsky, Director of the George Washington Presidential Library, joins Cara Rogers Stevens this week to discuss Abigail Adams and her impact on John’s public life. Learn more about Lindsay: https://www.lindsaychervinsky.com/ Get her book: https://a.co/d/6OOF1ny Learn about the George Washington Library: https://www.mountvernon.org/library Listen to Lindsay’s podcast: https://www.georgewashingtonpodcast.com/show/conversations/ Host: Jeff Sikkenga Executive Producer: Jeremy Gypton Subscribe: […]

Clay is joined by Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky and Dr. Casey Burgat to discuss a new book, We Hold These “Truths”: How to Spot the Myths That are Holding America Back. The book aims to tackle 13 myths at the core of political dysfunction: lobbyists are evil, Congress doesn't do anything, the Supreme Court has become too political, and there is a demand that we keep politics out of sports. Clay and his guests try to make sense of how much weight they should give to the vision of the Founding Fathers, who Lindsay notes were not saints or Platonic sages but men (and a few women) who put together what they hoped would be a self-sustaining American republic. They grieve the death of civics education in America's schools, without which we are all subject to political notions that may have no factual or historical basis. And no, says Casey Burgat, we do not want term limits for members of Congress.

On the fourth anniversary of January 6th, Leah, Melissa & Kate dive deep on presidential power: how the presidency became what it is today, transitions of power, and how we've seen checks on the power of the president from unexpected quarters. Joining them are two experts: Lindsay Chervinsky, author of Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic and Corey Brettschneider, author of The Presidents and the People: Five Leaders Who Threatened Democracy and the Citizens Who Fought to Defend It. Follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky

Services honoring former President Jimmy Carter begin this weekend. We assess his legacy, explore which presidents have rewritten history from the grave, and discuss the growing trend of historians being asked to act as present-day pundits with Lindsay Chervinsky, Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library and co-editor of Mourning the Presidents: Loss and Legacy in American Culture. Plus, as incidents of people being pushed in front of subways increase, one transit activist has proposed a solution so unconventional it just might work—or almost certainly make things worse. Produced by Joel Patterson and Corey Wara Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com To advertise on the show, visit: https://advertisecast.com/TheGist Subscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_g Follow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices