

Beyond Politics
Matt Robison
Politics may be dismal, but the ideas that swirl around it and shape it are fascinating. This is a show that looks not just at politics, but the deeper ideas from history, science, psychology, economics, and technology that are shaping our world. We feature smart, lively, upbeat discussions with people who know what they're talking about and can help us understand the world better. Hosted by Matt Robison: writer, former senior congressional staffer, and campaign manager.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 1, 2023 • 36min
America is Doing Well. So Why Do Americans Feel So Down?
Exploring the disconnect between positive economic data and negative public sentiment, the podcast delves into the impact of fear and perceived threats on societal behavior and the influence of political narratives and social media on decision-making. It also discusses the causes of dissatisfaction in American society, the allure of conspiracy theories, and the complex interplay of media, politics, and society.

Nov 28, 2023 • 33min
Does ABC Scoop Change How We Think About Jan 6?
The panel debates whether recent revelations -- scooped by ABC News -- about former Vice President Mike Pence actually deciding to let Donald Trump have his way on counting the 2020 electoral votes on January 6 are an understandable moment of human doubt that only a partisan would criticize, or a major sliding doors moment in American history that changes our understanding of Mike Pence and that day. Also:
00:25 Discussion on Journalists Held Hostage
01:08 Analysis of Israel-Hamas Conflict
03:34 Critique of Media Coverage on Israel-Hamas War
06:21 Discussion on Mike Pence's Role in Election Certification
19:37 Debate on Trump's Mental State and Presidential Prospects
23:45 Speculation on Republican Nomination Process
30:38 Hunter Biden to testify, Santos to be sent packing
wDzlFPIL4tpTJBooQghd

Nov 26, 2023 • 30min
Financial Life Planning: Sparketype
Tune in to this weeks podcast about Sparketypes and how they can impact your life!

Nov 22, 2023 • 31min
Dems Dividing, R's Weird Obsession with Minor Celebrities
Part Two of our conversation with Justin Higgins and John Gunnison of the hit podcast Politics+ Media 101 (find Part One in their feed). We dive into the divisions inside the parties, the rise of young educated voters in driving the Dems, and what's up with Republicans' fascination with D-List celebrities?
00:09 How Dems Dealt with Rashida Tlaib's Controversial Statements
03:47 The Role of Young Elites in Shaping the Democratic Party
07:05 President Biden's Legislative Successes and Challenges
09:08 The Influence of Media Ecosystem on Political Success
21:35 The Impact of Abortion and Dobbs
27:27 Republicans and Celebrities

Nov 21, 2023 • 33min
Will Trump Be Gagged?
Will a federal appeals court keep a gag order on Donald Trump for the rest of his trial? Also, what's happening with young voters' attitude towards Joe Biden?
01:01 Discussing the Gag Order on Trump
05:27 Trump's Mental and Physical Health
10:35 Young Voters' Attitude Towards Biden and Trump
11:41 The Role of Polls in Politics
28:19 The Influence of Social Media on Politics

Nov 19, 2023 • 24min
Financial Life Planning: Cut the Cord
Let’s start with a simple question: How many services do you subscribe to? Not sure? You’re not alone! Many people experience difficulty keeping track of multiple subscriptions. As the number of available services grows, managing various accounts and remembering which shows or channels each one offers becomes increasingly overwhelming.

Nov 17, 2023 • 24min
Is the Future of Tech, AI, and Politics...good?
Adam Kovacevich, the founder and CEO of the Chamber of Progress gives a center-left perspective on the future of social media, false information on platforms like Facebook/Meta, and the influence of artificial intelligence.
02:12 Is there a Progressive Future of Technology
03:13 Impact of Social Media on Elections
12:01 Concerns about AI and Creativity
18:44 Discussion on President Biden's Executive Order on AI

Nov 15, 2023 • 39min
Trump Goes Full Mussolini
Donald Trump isn't just calling his opponents "vermin," his allies have crafted a detailed plan hundreds of pages long about how they plan a full authoritarian takeover if he ever regains power. The panel runs down the frightening scheme. Also, Biden-Axelrod fight! And can Biden turn around voter perceptions on the economy by the election?

Nov 13, 2023 • 24min
The Most Important Number in Politics Right Now is 10
Matt Robison joins Howard Monroe's radio program to explore Joe Biden's current position in the polls and whether it means he should drop out of the race. Matt argues that the answer is no, and because of the significance of the number 10. Also, are any of the judges in Trump's trials going to hold him accountable for breaking their courtroom rules, or even jail him?
00:17 Discussion on Joe Biden's Political State
02:04 Biden's Potential Replacement?
06:05 Why 10 is the Most Important Number in Politics
17:04 Will Trump Be Jailed for His Behavior in Court?

Nov 12, 2023 • 26min
Financial Life Planning: Ongoing Costs
It is essential to recognize the ongoing responsibilities and costs that come with one-time purchases. By understanding and preparing for the continuous costs – both in terms of money and time – you can enjoy your investments without the constant stress of unexpected expenses. Expect maintenance, be proactive, budget wisely, prepare, and remember – it’s not just the price tag; it’s the ongoing commitment that truly defines ownership.


