Ronald Reagan is one of the most mythologized figures in American politics, but how did an actor and former Democrat become the standard-bearer of conservatism?

In this new series exclusively for Founding Members explore Reagan’s rise, legacy, and myth. Who was the real Ronald Reagan, and what does his story reveal about the Republican Party today under Donald Trump?

Become a Founding Member: Go deeper into US politics every week with ad-free listening, members-only miniseries, early access to live show tickets and a bonus members-only Q&A podcast every week. Sign up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠therestispoliticsus.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

In Episode 1, we trace Reagan’s unlikely transformation from small-town Democrat to Hollywood liberal, and finally to conservative crusader. Raised in poverty in the Midwest, he found fame on the silver screen before becoming a union activist, only to be pulled rightward by Cold War paranoia, tax battles, and a new marriage.

Instagram: ⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠

Twitter: ⁠⁠@RestPoliticsUS⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠therestispoliticsus@goalhanger.com⁠⁠

Assistant Producer: India Dunkley

Producer: Fiona Douglas

Video Editor: Kieron Leslie, Adam Thornton

Social Producer: Charlie Johnson

Senior Producer: Dom Johnson

Head of Content: Tom Whiter

Head of Digital: Sam Oakley

Exec Producers: Tony Pastor, Jack Davenport

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Deep Dive with Kate Bowler on the Happy Files 2025

Kelly Corrigan Wonders

Intro

The AI-powered Podcast Player