Episodes

The Identity Trap—Part 2

Yascha Mounk

Even after historic civil rights progress over the last sixty years, there’s no denying that certain groups of people still face real, serious, and even systemic discrimination. In pursuit of justice, many well-meaning activists have made identity central to their cause—arguing, for example, that in order to right wrongs, rules and laws must treat people differently, not equally, depending on the groups to which they belong. Whatever you think of the term "wokeness," this new ideology has spread like wildfire through academia, journalism, entertainment, governments, and corporations, radically changing politics, policy, and our public discourse. But what if they have missed the mark? What if crusading identitarianism is doing more harm than good? What if it’s actually chipping away at some of the bedrock principles of our liberal democracy? If we want honest answers, we have to take these ideas seriously. In this two part series, host Ron Steslow and Yascha Mounk break down his new book, “The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time." In this second episode, they discuss how the identity synthesis moved from college classrooms, to Tumblr, to newsrooms and workplaces. They discuss the common “with us or against us" attitudes the identity synthesis produces and the infighting at progressive institutions over identity issues. They discuss the impact that “cancel culture" can have over trust in scientific research and why the identity synthesis isn’t compatible with liberal democracy.

The Identity Trap—Part 1

Yascha Mounk

Even after historic civil rights progress over the last sixty years, there’s no denying that certain groups of people still face real, serious, and even systemic discrimination. In pursuit of justice, many well-meaning activists have made identity central to their cause—arguing, for example, that in order to right wrongs, rules and laws must treat people differently, not equally, depending on the groups to which they belong. Whatever you think of the term "wokeness," this new ideology has spread like wildfire through academia, journalism, entertainment, governments, and corporations, radically changing politics, policy, and our public discourse. But what if they have missed the mark? What if crusading identitarianism is doing more harm than good? What if it’s actually chipping away at some of the bedrock principles of our liberal democracy? If we want honest answers, we have to take these ideas seriously. In this two-part series, host Ron Steslow and Yascha Mounk break down his new book, “The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time." In this first episode, they discuss the rapidly changing meanings of words like “woke" and why Yascha coined the term “identity synthesis" to replace it. They look at the spread of the identity synthesis and how quickly it is changing our politics. They dive into the intellectual underpinnings of the identity synthesis and why Yascha decided to write the book now.

Democracy Under Duress: The U.S.-Israel Relationship

Avi Mayer

Picture this: It’s the middle of the Israeli summer and the sun is blazing down. Crowds of people are in the streets, banners aloft, voices raised. Protests have erupted over extremely controversial reforms—reforms that sound alarm bells about the very foundations of Israeli democracy. Switch scenes to Chicago, Illinois. A Democratic congresswoman calls Israel a 'racist state.' Fairly swiftly, her colleagues in Washington, DC disavow her words, reaffirming the extraordinarily close but complex U.S.-Israel alliance. In this episode host Ron Steslow and Avi Mayer (Editor-in-Chief of The Jerusalem Post) break down the judicial reforms in Israel, the tinderbox of recent protests, that incendiary "racist state" comment, and the legislative maneuvering that followed—Congress's reaffirmation that yes, we “will always be a staunch partner and supporter of Israel."

Rank the Vote, Rock the Vote

Deb Otis

Imagine a world where candidates no longer need to pander to the extremes, where minor candidates don’t tip elections one way or another, and where your vote can truly represent your values. Sounds like a dream, right?

The State of Georgia v. Donald John Trump—The Weekly Roundup

Michael Zeldin

On Monday, Donald Trump was hit with his fourth criminal indictment of the year this time by a Grand Jury in Fulton County, Georgia. What are the allegations in this newest indictment? How is the District Attorney, Fani Willis, using a law designed to fight organized crime to prosecute Trump’s plot to steal the 2020 election? What will the timeline for these cases be? Join our host, Ron Steslow, as he explores these questions Michael Zeldin (former federal prosecutor).

Encore: Any Given Tuesday

Lis Smith

What does it take for a mid-west mayor to become a viable presidential candidate? What’s it like to be a crisis communications expert in the eye of New York City Tabloids? What does it take to go from a field organizer to one of the most well respected communications strategists in American politics? Lis Smith (former senior advisor to presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss her career working on twenty-something political campaigns, and her new memoir, Any Given Tuesday: A Political Love Story.

Why We Buy

Marcus Collins

In our digital age, people have grown to see social media platforms as mere tools and applications. Marcus Collins, the award-winning marketer, former digital strategist for Beyoncé, and author of "For The Culture", argues otherwise. Join host Ron Steslow as he sits down with Marcus to unravel the deep-seated influence of culture on social media and our daily choices. Marcus elaborates on his assertion that "social media is people" and why understanding this fundamental idea changes our approach to digital platforms. He also delves into the crucial role of culture in hyperpolarization and how it weaves into the fabric of our society.

The Real Cost of Cheap Food

Jeff Tkach

Over the last 100 years, we have streamlined the process of food production. A hundred years ago, 99% of people were engaged in the agricultural process in some way. Today, that number is 1%. As a result, our relationship with food has become desperately impersonal. But what are the consequences of all that efficiency? Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of our food systems with Jeff Tkatch (CEO of the Rodale Institute) and host Ron Steslow. In this captivating conversation, we dig deep into the living soil beneath our feet, our disconnection from nature, and the mechanisms driving our extractive farming systems. Jeff provides a comprehensive understanding of the difference between soil and dirt, explaining why one gives life while the other is lifeless. He shares his personal journey towards regenerative agriculture and elaborates on the role Rodale Institute plays in shaping the future of farming.

The Power Code

Katty Kay

Katty Kay (veteran reporter and four-time NYT bestselling author) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss her new book The Power Code: More Joy. Less Ego. Maximum Impact for Women (and Everyone), co-written with Claire Shipman.

Immigration: Too Big To Solve?

Frank Sharry and David Bier

Frank Sharry (Founder of America’s Voice) and David Bier (Associate Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute) join host Ron Steslow to discuss some of the biggest issues in immigration policy and what’s getting in the way of immigration reform.

China Wants A New World Order

Evan Medeiros

Evan Medeiros (Penner Family Chair in Asia Studies at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and Former Senior Director for Asian Affairs at the National Security Council) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the increasing tension in the United States’ relationship with China.

"Dead To Rights" — George Conway on Trump’s 2nd Indictment

George Conway

George Conway (conservative attorney and Lincoln Project co-founder) and Ron Steslow discuss Donald Trump’s indictment on federal charges over his mishandling of classified documents and obstructing the government's efforts to reclaim them.

‘Give Ukraine What it Needs to Win’

Molly McKew

Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) joins Ron Steslow to answer a listener's question about how the current war in Ukraine differs from Russia’s invasion of Georgia in 2008 and the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and why support for Ukraine is greater now than it was then.

TikTok Showdown: The RESTRICT Act Debate

Hagar Chemali and Joe Cohn

TikTok's potential risk to US national security is raising tough questions about how to address the challenge—legally. With 150 million Americans' personal data possibly falling into the hands of the Chinese Communist Party and fears of election interference via a foreign-controlled algorithm, TikTok finds itself in the harsh glare of the U.S. government's scrutiny. Broad bipartisan support favors aggressive action to ban the platform, but is such action even constitutional? Join Joe Cohn, Director of Legislative and Policy at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, and Hagar Chemali, former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN. Together with host Ron Steslow, they dissect the potential impact of the RESTRICT Act that could not only ban TikTok but delegate sweeping power to the executive branch to go even further.Tune in to explore the delicate balance between national security and preserving free speech rights.

Misunderstanding Misinformation

Claire Wardle

Claire Wardle (co-founder and co-director of the Information Futures Lab, and Professor of the Practice at the Brown School of Public Health) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the challenges( and failures) in improving our information landscape.

In Money We Trust

Donna Redel

Donna Redel (former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum) joins Ron Steslow to put the biggest financial stories in the news into context.

The Fight for Zimbabwe — Part 2: Prosperity, Justice, and Modernization

Robert Chapman

In Part 2, recorded 9 months after Part 1, Ron Steslow and Robert Chapman (Candidate for President of Zimbabwe) look at how the landscape has changed since they first talked, Robert’s goals for rebuilding the economy and infrastructure in Zimbabwe, why this is in America’s interest, the growing Chinese influence in Africa, the fight for democracy and the challenges his campaign has faced, and his plan to win.

The Fight for Zimbabwe — Part 1: Confronting a Failed State

Robert Chapman

This is a story about human rights, corruption, hyperinflation, rapacious economic development, a currency war, a diaspora, and one man’s mission to make meaningful change for suffering people in a failed state. Robert Chapman (Candidate for President of Zimbabwe) join Ron Steslow to discuss the history of Zimbabwe and his campaign to become its next president.

Leaks and Hostages

Molly McKew

Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the recently revealed leaked intelligence documents, the 21-year-old leaker, the WSJ reporter detained in Russia, and how all of this impacts the war in Ukraine.

Of Boys and Men—Part 2

Richard Reeves

Richard Reeves (author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book and the struggles facing boys and men.

Of Boys and Men—Part 1

Richard Reeves

Richard Reeves (author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book and the struggles facing boys and men.

Testimony—Part 2

Jon Ward

Jon Ward (Journalist and author of Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation) joins Ron Steslow to discuss growing up in the Evangelical Church, "Christian Trumpism," and his new memoir.

Testimony—Part 1

Jon Ward

Jon Ward (Journalist and author of Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement That Failed a Generation) joins Ron Steslow to discuss growing up in the Evangelical Church, "Christian Trumpism," and his new memoir.

"I’m in the Ponzi Business" — Part 2

Justin Weitz and Donna Redel

In the second part of this two part episode, Donna Redel (former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum) and Justin Weitz (partner at the law firm Morgan Lewis) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the downfall of FTX and Sam Bankman-Fried.

"I’m in the Ponzi Business" — Part 1

Justin Weitz and Donna Redel

Donna Redel (former Managing Director of the World Economic Forum) and Justin Weitz (partner at the law firm Morgan Lewis) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the downfall of FTX and Sam Bankman-Fried.

The War Has Changed The World

Tom Nichols and Anne Applebaum

Anne Applebaum (Pulitzer Prize winning historian) and Tom Nichols (staff writer at The Atlantic) join Ron Steslow to discuss Russia’s invasion of Ukraine that is now a year old, how it has changed the way the world operates, and where we go from here.

Above The Law?

Jay Schweikert

Jay Schweikert (research fellow with the Cato Institute’s Project on Criminal Justice) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the qualified immunity doctrine, its origins, and how it stands in the way of protecting civil rights.

The Power of Emotional Intelligence

Catherine Sanderson

Catherine Sanderson (Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College) joins Ron Steslow to discuss emotional intelligence and how it impacts success in the workplace, politics, and our everyday lives.

Send In The Leopards

Molly McKew

Molly McKew (Lead author of GreatPower.US) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, the United States and Germany sending tanks to Ukraine and how Ukraine is preparing for another Russian offensive as we head toward spring.

In Search Of

Pat Condo

Pat Condo (Founder and CEO of Seekr Technologies) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the media landscape, their search tool that uses Artificial Intelligence to index websites and news stories to rate the content so readers can make better informed choices about what they read.

The New Rainmakers with Danny Hogenkamp

Danny Hogenkamp

Founder and CEO of Grassroots Analytics Danny Hogenkamp joins Ron Steslow to discuss how digital fundraising and the incentives of the outrage economy have changed the way campaigns bring in money and how it influences our political landscape.

"There’s No Turning Back for Them" — Hagar Chemali on the Protests in Iran

Hagar Chemali

Former spokesperson for the U.S. Mission to the UN and former Middle East Director at the National Security Council in the Obama White House Hagar Chemali joins Ron Steslow to discuss the protests in Iran.

Politicology Mailbag with Lucy Caldwell & Mike Madrid

Lucy Caldwell and Mike Madrid

Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder) and Lucy Caldwell (Walsh 2020 Campaign Manager) join host Ron Steslow Ron Steslow to answer Politicology listeners’ questions.

The Power of Silence — Part 2

Justin Zorn and Leigh Marz

We live in a loud world that’s getting louder. We encounter noise all around us—from the chatter of polite conversations, to street noise in a big city, to the constant intrusion of the dings of notifications. But what is all of this noise doing to us, and what does it mean to find quiet in the midst of it? In fact, what is silence, anyway? How can it affect our minds, our bodies, and our relationships? Harvard and Oxford trained policymaker Justin Zorn and NASA consultant Leigh Marz join host Ron Steslow to discuss their new book, Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise.

The Power of Silence — Part 1

Leigh Marz and Justin Zorn

We live in a loud world that’s getting louder. We encounter noise all around us—from the chatter of polite conversations, to street noise in a big city, to the constant intrusion of the dings of notifications. But what is all of this noise doing to us, and what does it mean to find quiet in the midst of it? In fact, what is silence, anyway? How can it affect our minds, our bodies, and our relationships? Harvard and Oxford trained policymaker Justin Zorn and NASA consultant Leigh Marz join host Ron Steslow to discuss their new book, Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise.

A Red…Splash?

Susan Del Percio, Mike Madrid, Lucy Caldwell, Steve Israel, Marc Polymeropolous, Tharon Johnson, Zack Czajkowski, David Becker, and Lanae Erickson

Ron Steslow calls some Politicology fan favorites to discuss the midterm elections, the surprisingly good night for Democrats, the races that are still too close to call, and what it could mean for future elections.

"The Big Truth" with Major Garrett and David Becker

David Becker and Major Garrett

Major Garrett (CBS News Chief Washington Correspondent) and David Becker (Executive Director of The Center for Election Innovation and Research) talk with Ron Steslow about their new book, The Big Truth, the lies about the 2020 election, and how we can restore trust in our electoral system.

Democracy Interventions with Prof. Robb Willer

Robb Willer

What are the psychological forces driving that partisan animosity? What’s causing Americans to vote for anti-democracy candidates? Are there any interventions that might actually work to turn down the heat and save our democracy? Robb Willer, professor of sociology, psychology, and organizational behavior at Stanford University talks with Ron Steslow about Stanford’s Strengthening Democracy Challenge, reducing partisan animosity and support for anti-democracy candidates.

‘They Really Do Believe’ with Scott MacFarlane

Scott MacFarlane

CBS News Congressional Correspondent Scott MacFarlane talks with Ron Steslow about the most critical filings and pivotal moments in the Feds’ ever-growing case against the January 6 insurrectionists.

The Workingman’s Party?

Scott Tranter, Mike Madrid, and Ruy Teixeira

Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project Cofounder), Ruy Teixeira (Nonresident Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute), Scott Tranter (Investor and Advisor to Decision Desk HQ) join host Ron Steslow to discuss the erosion of support for Democrats among Hispanic voters

Free Speech Culture

Greg Lukianoff

Greg Lukianoff (President and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE)) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss FIRE’s fight to protect free speech on—and, now, off—campus.

Worthy of Protection — Part 2

Géraldine Blanche

Géraldine Blanche (Intellectual Property Lawyer and PhD candidate in Intellectual Property Law at the Sciences Po Law School in Paris) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics of fashion and intellectual property law.

Worthy of Protection — Part 1

Géraldine Blanche

Géraldine Blanche (Intellectual Property Lawyer and PhD candidate in Intellectual Property Law at the Sciences Po Law School in Paris) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics of fashion and intellectual property law.

Fraught and Dubious: Student Debt Cancellation

Lanae Erickson

Lanae Erickson (Senior Vice President for Social Policy, Education & Politics at Third Way) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss President Biden’s executive order canceling student loans

Rule Makers and Rule Breakers

Michele Gelfand

Michele Gelfand (Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a Professor of Psychology by Courtesy at Stanford University) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss culture, social norms, and her book Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: How Tight and Loose Cultures Wire Our World.

War Weary

John Sipher (Fmr. member of the CIA’s Senior Intelligence Service) joins host Ron Steslow to discuss the changes in the war in Ukraine and the global impact of Russia’s six-month invasion.

Beneath the Supreme Court Earthquake—Part 2

Akhil Reed Amar

Renowned constitutional scholar Akhil Reed Amar (Sterling Professor of Law and Political Science at Yale University) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the recent Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade and why (as a liberal law professor) he agrees with the decision.

Beneath The Supreme Court Earthquake—Part 1

Renowned constitutional scholar Akhil Reed Amar (Sterling Professor of Law and Political Science at Yale University) joins Ron Steslow to discuss the recent Supreme Court decision, including overturning Roe v. Wade, and why (as a liberal law professor) he agrees with that decision as well as their approach.

Deep Democracy with Yonathan Keren—Part 2

Yonathan Keren

Yonathan Keren (co-founder of House of Deep Democracy) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his work building deep democracy.

Deep Democracy with Yonathan Keren—Part 1

Yonathan Keren

Yonathan Keren (co-founder of House of Deep Democracy) joins Ron Steslow to discuss his work building deep democracy.

The Intimidation Game

Ben Ginsberg and David Becker

For nearly four decades, Ben Ginsberg was one of the preeminent Republican election lawyers. Now he’s working to stop their attempts to subvert elections. He and election law experts David Becker (Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research) join Ron Steslow to talk about the threats to elections officials and what it could mean for democracy.

Part 2: Deepfakes and the Infocalypse with Nina Schick

Nina Schick

What does it mean when you can’t trust what you see with your own eyes or hear with your own ears? In the second half of this two-part episode, Author and political advisor Nina Schick joins Ron Steslow to discuss her book Deepfakes: The Coming Infocalypse and what the use of synthetic media could mean for our politics and society.

Deepfakes and the Infocalypse with Nina Schick—Part 1

Nina Schick

What does it mean when you can’t trust what you see with your own eyes or hear with your own ears? In this two-part episode, Author and political advisor Nina Schick joins Ron Steslow to discuss her book Deepfakes: The Coming Infocalypse and what the use of synthetic media could mean for our politics and society.

Behind the Filter Bubble

Mehran Sahami and Rob Reich

Algorithms are the secret sauce of Silicon Valley startups and social media giants. They are complex sets of rules—written in code—that dictate your experience when you’re scrolling through Twitter or Facebook or Instagram in your own digital ‘filter bubble.’ In this episode, Stanford Professors Mehran Sahami and Rob Reich join Ron Steslow to discuss Elon Musk’s proposal to make Twitter’s algorithms open source and what algorithmic transparency could mean for users, for civil society, and for democracy.

Modeling Victory—Part 2

In the second episode of this two part series, Øptimus co-founder and Data Science Director for Decision Desk HQ Scott Tranter joins Ron Steslow to talk about data science, polling, and modeling.

Modeling Victory—Part 1

In this two part series, Øptimus co-founder and Data Science Director for Decision Desk HQ Scott Tranter joins Ron Steslow to talk about data science, polling, and modeling.

France's Mainstreaming Extremism

French Journalist Karen Lajon joins Ron Steslow to discuss France’s presidential election last weekend.

420 Special: Cannabis Politics with California's 'Pot Girl'

Amy O’Gorman Jenkins joins Ron Steslow to discuss cannabis policy and how public opinion on marijuana has changed.

It’s Numbers Season — Part 2

In the second part of this two part episode, Mike Madrid breaks down some recent polling numbers and discusses what it might mean during the midterm elections.

It’s Numbers Season — Part 1

In this two part episode, Mike Madrid joins Ron Steslow to discuss how political campaigns use polling data to make decisions and how pollsters gather data to measure public opinion.

War and Moral Rebels

Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to look at the psychological phenomenon of "moral rebels" and vis-a-vis Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Deeper Than Agreement

Kristyn Komarnicki and Darren Calhoun

This episode is a little bit different. And personal. Kristyn Komarnicki, director of dialogue and convening at Christians for Social Action, and Darren Calhoun, a justice advocate, worship leader, and Associate Fellow at CSA, join Ron Steslow to discuss intentional dialogue, and how we can use their techniques in the relationships that matter to us.

The Plot to Steal the Presidency (and How to Stop It)

Matt Bennett and Jess Marsden

Matt Bennett, cofounder and executive vice president for public affairs at Third Way, and Jess Marsden, who oversees Protect Democracy’s election work, join Ron Steslow to discuss Third Way’s recent presentation about the plot to steal the presidency in 2024 and what we need to do to stop it.

"Laboratories of Autocracy" — Part 2

In this two part series, Former Chair of the Ohio Democratic Party David Pepper joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book, Laboratories of Autocracy, and how state legislatures have contributed to the erosion of democracy—and why Ohio is emblematic of what’s happening around the country.

"Laboratories of Autocracy" —Part 1

David Pepper

In this two part episode, Former Chair of the Ohio Democratic Party David Pepper joins Ron Steslow to discuss his book, Laboratories of Autocracy, and how state legislatures have contributed to the erosion of democracy—and why Ohio is emblematic of what’s happening around the country.

The Future of Food

You may know him from his dazzling dishes showcased on the hit Netflix TV series, "Chef’s Table," but three-Star Michelin Chef Dan Barber (Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Blue Hill NYC) has a relationship with ingredients far deeper and more complex than pretty plates of food. In this episode, Chef Dan joins Ron Steslow to discuss the politics and future of food and the consequences of how America feeds itself.

Making A Majority

Colin Allred and Brad Schneider

New Democrat Coalition Congressmen Brad Schneider (IL) and Colin Allred (IL) join Ron Steslow to talk about The New Dem Action Fund’s "Majority Makers" ad, telegraphing what the largest caucus of House Democrats believes they must do to keep control of the House in the upcoming midterm election.

Little Liars Everywhere—Part 2

David Becker

In part two, election law expert David Becker, Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research, joins Ron Steslow to talk about new election laws and the rising threats to election integrity.

"Little Liars Everywhere" — Part 1

David Becker

In this two part series, election law expert and Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research David Becker joins Ron Steslow to talk about new election laws and the rising threats to election integrity.

The Cases of the Coup

Michael Zeldin

Former federal prosecutor and legal analyst Michael Zeldin joins Ron Steslow to talk about the seditious conspiracy charges and the January 6th prosecutions.

On the Border of War

John Sipher

Retired CIA Senior Intelligence Service Officer John Sipher joins Ron Steslow to talk about how the Russian troop buildup at the Ukrainian border and the American response. Before retiring, Sipher ran the CIA’s Russia Operations at headquarters.

Adventures In Federalism

Lucy Caldwell

Political Strategist Lucy Caldwell joins Ron Steslow to talk about how the state-level infrastructure allows Republicans to develop similar laws in statehouses across the country.

We have a Democracy Problem — with Mike Madrid

Mike Madrid

In Part 2 of this wide-ranging conversation between Mike Madrid and Ron Steslow, co-founders of The Lincoln Project, the two political strategists discuss what Latino voter trends can tell us about future elections and the erosion of democracy around the globe.

Democrats Have A Latino Problem — with Mike Madrid

Mike Madrid

In Part 1 of this wide-ranging conversation between Mike Madrid and Ron Steslow, co-founders of The Lincolns Project, the two political strategists discuss hidden Latino voting trends and how Democrats must better understand this part of the electorate in order to win pivotal electoral fights. Part 2 will be published on Wednesday, December 29, 2021.

Does giving make you happy? with Dr. Catherine Sanderson

Catherine Sanderson

Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to talk about how giving can make you happier.

Scott MacFarlane on Prosecuting the Insurrection — Part 2

Award-winning investigative reporter Scott MacFarlane talks with Ron Steslow about the most critical filings and pivotal moments in the Feds’ ever-growing case against the January 6 insurrectionists.

‘The Rule of Law is Back’ with Adam Schiff

Congressman Adam Schiff joins Ron Steslow to discuss his rise in prominence during the Trump presidency, the work of the January 6th committee, and his new book Midnight in Washington: How We Almost Lost Our Democracy and Still Could.

System Error — Part 2

Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein

In the second part of this two-episode conversation, Stanford Professors Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein join Ron Steslow to discuss their book System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot.

System Error — Part 1

Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein

In this two-episode conversation, Stanford Professors Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein join Ron Steslow to discuss their book System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot.

Carly Fiorina on Playing the Long Game

Former presidential candidate and Former HP CEO Carly Fiorina joins Ron Steslow to discuss how short-term gains have gotten preferential treatment over long-term planning and success.

Winners Take All with Congressman Steve Israel

Former Congressman and former Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Steve Israel sits down with Ron Steslow to discuss what Democrats must learn from the 2020 election and what they must do to have a shot at maintaining their majorities in 2022.

Strongmen — Part 2

Ruth Ben-Ghiat

In the second part of this two-episode conversation, NYU Professor of History and Italian Studies Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins Ron Steslow to discuss her book Strongmen and what we can learn from the history of autocrats and those who stood up to them.

Strongmen — Part 1

Ruth Ben-Ghiat

In this two-episode conversation, NYU Professor of History and Italian Studies Ruth Ben-Ghiat joins Ron Steslow to discuss her book Strongmen and what we can learn from the history of autocrats and those who stood up to them.

Our Own Worst Enemy — Part 2

Tom Nichols

In this two-episode conversation, Professor of National Security Affairs Tom Nichols joins Ron Steslow to discuss who is really to blame for the crisis in American democracy—and what we can do about it.

Our Own Worst Enemy — Part 1

Tom Nichols

In this two-episode conversation, Professor of National Security Affairs Tom Nichols joins Ron Steslow to discuss who is really to blame for the crisis in American democracy—and what we can do about it.

A Short Bench

Lanae Erickson

Social policy expert Lanae Erickson joins Ron Steslow to talk about how Republicans and Democrats view and prioritize federal judges

The Pursuit of Happiness with Dr. Catherine Sanderson

Catherine Sanderson

Poler Family Professor and chair of the psychology department at Amherst College Dr. Catherine Sanderson joins Ron Steslow to talk about happiness and how to harness the power of a positive mindset.

Leaving Afghanistan: Part 2

Molly McKew and Marc Polymeropolous

National security writer and researcher Molly McKew and Fmr. Senior CIA Official and author Marc Polymeropoulos continue their conversation with host Ron Steslow about America’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the role of the Biden and Trump administrations.

Leaving Afghanistan: Part 1

Molly McKew and Marc Polymeropolous

National security writer and researcher Molly McKew and fmr. senior CIA official and author Marc Polymeropoulos join host Ron Steslow to discuss the chaos and catastrophe in Afghanistan.

Capturing Insurrection: January 6 through a Photographer’s Lens

Gabriella Demczuk

Photographer Gabriella Demczuk walks listeners through her firsthand account of the January 6, 2021 insurrection, from Donald Trump’s "Stop The Steal" rally on the National Mall to the gallery of the House chamber as rioters breached the Capitol.

Directed Energy Attacks and Leadership Lessons with Marc Polymeropoulos

Marc Polymeropolous

Fmr. Senior CIA Official Marc Polymeropoulos and author of Clarity in Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the CIA joins Ron Steslow to discuss Havana Syndrome, his struggle for treatment, and what he learned about leadership in 26 years at the CIA.

Despair, Hope, and the Fight for 'Libertad' in Cuba with Al Cardenas

Al Cardenas

Attorney and fmr. special ambassador Al Cardenas joins Ron Steslow to reveal the dynamics of the unprecedented uprising in Cuba:

Scott MacFarlane on Prosecuting the Insurrection

Scott MacFarlane

Award-winning investigative reporter Scott MacFarlane talks with Ron Steslow about the most critical filings and pivotal moments in the Feds’ ever-growing case against the January 6 insurrectionists.

"Democracy In Triage" — David Becker on Brnovich v. DNC, the Voting Rights Act, and how to fight back

David Becker

"Our democracy is in triage right now." David Becker, the Executive Director and Founder of the Center for Election Innovation & Research, CBS News contributor and election law expert, joins Ron Steslow to break down the Supreme Court’s decision about Arizona voting laws in Brnovich v. DNC, the gutting of the Voting Rights Act, and what it portends for the fight to protect the franchise, and ultimately, our democracy.

The (Departed) Lincoln Project Founders: Part 1

George Conway, Jennifer Horn, and Mike Madrid

For the first time since the 2020 election, George Conway, Jennifer Horn, Mike Madrid, and Ron Steslow—four since-departed co-founders of The Lincoln Project—reunite to discuss the most important political fight of their lives...and what comes next. In Part 1, the panel discusses their individual paths to The Lincoln Project, and how the fight to remove Donald Trump from office evolved and escalated throughout 2020.

Out on the Field—Israel Gutierrez

Israel Gutierrez

Across the country, Republican legislatures are pushing anti-trans bills to exclude trans women and girls from joining sports leagues and teams. ESPN’s Israel "Izzy" Gutierrez has a different message: Let them play.

BOЯDEЯ CЯISIS—Molly McKew

The Kremlin is aggressively mobilizing weapons and ground troops along the border with Eastern Ukraine, and fears of a new Russian invasion are rising. Molly McKew, a leading expert on Russian influence and warfare, joins Ron Steslow to bring listeners to the Russian border with Ukraine, and why the future of the West may hang in the balance between a resolute Biden administration, and an American electorate increasingly weary of foreign entanglements.

The Great Suppression—Tharon Johnson

Tharon Johnson

Tharon Johnson, a Democratic political strategist who has worked for Congressman John Lewis and President Barack Obama joins Ron Steslow to examine what’s in Georgia’s new anti-democracy law and understand the dastardly motives and false pretenses being used by Republicans across the country to push similar voter suppression legislation.

John Sipher and Molly McKew on Russia’s Asymmetrical Attacks on America

John Sipher and Molly McKew

John Sipher, a member of the CIA's Senior Intelligence Service who lead Russia Operations and Molly McKew, a leading writer and researcher of Russian influence and information warfare join host Ron Steslow to dissect the U.S. intelligence community’s report on Russian interference in the 2020 election.

Victoria Soto on the She-cession: Women and Working Families in the Era of COVID-19

Victoria DeFrancesco Soto, assistant dean at the University of Texas at Austin’s LBJ School of Public Affairs, and a contributor to MSNBC and Telemundo joins host Ron Steslow to look at the disproportionately high unemployment rates for women of color through the pandemic, what this shows us about the underlying issues facing women in the workforce and working families, how supporting working families in our communities will generate a strong ROI, and how this all impacts our entire economy.

Dr. Catherine Sanderson on Becoming Moral Rebels

Catherine Sanderson

Dr. Catherine Sanderson, Poler Family Professor, Chair of Psychology at Amherst College and the author of Why We Act: Turning Bystanders Into Moral Rebels joins host Ron Steslow to analyze why Trump was able to exert control on the Republican party, how to recognize leaders who will stand up for what’s right—and what we can do to become moral rebels.

Celeste Headlee on Having Better Conversations

Journalist, Public Speaker and Author Celeste Headlee (@CelesteHeadlee) joins host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to reveal the science and history behind human communication, share keys to unlock deeper conversations, and explain how critical empathy is for our ability to listen and connect.

How Smartmatic vs. Fox News Will Impact Cable News with Joyce Vance

Joyce Vance

Former U.S. Attorney Joyce Vance (@JoyceWhiteVance) joins Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to discuss the $2.7 billion lawsuit Smartmatic filed against Fox News, three Fox hosts, and two Trump attorneys and the impact it could have on the misinformation cable news channels produce.

Impeachment and the Most Divided Deliberative Body with U.S. Sen. Doug Jones

Doug Jones

Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones (@DougJones) joins Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to discuss the insurrection at the Capitol, the second Impeachment trial of Donald Trump, holding presidents accountable for their actions, and how we should expect a 50-50 Senate to function.

Reckoning with our Shared Trauma with Mary Trump

Mary Trump (@MaryLTrump) joins host Ron Steslow (@RonSteslow) to discuss how she felt after the 2020 election, how the pandemic and the insurrection at the Capitol have impacted our collective mental health, what could cause so many people to engage in insurrection, the compounding effect of a year laden with traumatic events, Donald Trump’s insidious technique for gaining followers, and how we can protect against it in the future.