The Smerconish Podcast

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.