The Stephen Mansfield Podcast

There’s a story not often told about John McCain’s life. We all know he spent years in a Vietnamese prisoner of war camp. But the hidden side of that story, which touches and inspires Stephen the most, reveals how McCain’s boyhood training as an Episcopal acolyte came into play. The POW’s ability to recall prayers, creeds, hymns, and Scriptures throughout those five-and-a-half harrowing years has largely inspired Stephen’s own life. Listen in as Stephen pays tribute to three of The Maverick’s noble characteristics. Related: Great Words that Inspire (text) and The McCains (podcast)

In order for Roe v. Wade to be overturned, there will have to be a test case brought before the Supreme Court. Then, the court will have to agree to hear it. Then, many judges will rule on the case’s unique features and eccentricities. Then, if overturned, the issue of abortion will be rolled back to the states. As you can see, abortion will not suddenly become “illegal” in the U.S. As the abortion discussion heats up, ground yourself with this episode.

Following President Trump’s appointment of Justice Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, Americans on both sides of the aisle are curious and concerned about what may happen to abortion’s legal status. In this episode (part one of a two-part series), Stephen argues that Roe v. Wade was bad law. Find out why…

In this episode, Stephen explains why he finds it concerning that people might think Donald Trump represents conservatism. “Trumpism” and “conservatism" are two separate things, and Donald Trump’s approach to championing those values can make many conservatives nervous… and for good reason! Take President Trump’s approach to tariffs, duties, and trade negotiations, as examples.

What’s it like to be free from the Messianic nature of American politics? Find out in this episode! No candidate or party will ever be the universal one-size-fits-all solution to the world’s problems. We’ve got to do the best we can with what we’ve got. Also in this episode – discover why Stephen’s approach to Donald Trump is exactly the same as his approach to Barack Obama.

We’ve entered a new age of our generation: an age of crass, malicious, and vile politics. It’s not one-sided. Both Trump and the left have contributed to this. In this episode, Stephen urges listeners to be on guard. Don’t allow the coarseness in public debate to make you coarse, too. Think rationally. Find common ground. Support good, judicious leaders.

If you’re a regular listener, you know that Stephen's hammered the Trump administration for its lack of support of the Kurds. But something wonderful happened earlier this month. The Trump administration broke ground on a brand new consulate in Erbil. This $600 million facility, situated on a 200,000 square meter piece of land, could potentially become the future site of an actual embassy when the Kurds gain independence.

As you know, Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy will retire at the end of the month. In his place we should hope for a justice who understands and acts according to a judge’s true role: the role of interpreting the law – not creating it. In this week’s episode, Stephen discusses politics, justice appointments, and the Supreme Court’s place in our society.

Midsummer is here, and reading is on many listeners’ minds. In this episode, Stephen shares some of the top reading habits he’s developed over the years. Listen in to discover tactics that will make you a better and more accomplished reader. This episode is a must-listen for veteran readers and would-be readers alike!

Melania has many admirable qualities, but she does not seem to rely on advisers. The recent “I really don’t care, do u?” jacket faux pas is one of the most recent examples. As a leader, you’ve got to know what kind of advisers you need. And then you’ve got to trust them. We all need people in our lives who will help us be better.