Jon Meacham

Jon Meacham, a presidential historian and acclaimed author, joins to dissect the current political landscape against the backdrop of U.S. history. They delve into Trump’s rhetoric and billionaire backing while questioning its unprecedented nature. The duo reflects on the legacy of the Biden administration and how past crises inform America's future. Engagingly, they examine democracy, empathy in leadership through a young Bush's story, and the philosophies of Hobbes and Locke, all highlighting the recurring patterns that shape governance.

Jon Meacham and Annette Gordon-Reed discuss Thomas Jefferson's complex legacy, exploring his presidency, the Declaration of Independence, and his ownership of slaves. They also delve into Jefferson's political tactics, his impact on America, his interest in science and exploration, and his contradictory stance on slavery.

Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Jon Meacham discusses leading through crises, humility, and the struggle between humanity's noble and darker instincts. They touch on the relevance of historical lessons in leadership and the importance of storytelling in shaping societies.

Michael Beschloss and Jon Meacham, two renowned presidential historians, dive into the cultural and political chaos of the Trump era. They discuss the chilling implications of Trump’s pardons linked to the January 6 insurrection and compare it to Biden's last-minute family pardons. The duo also explores the intriguing promise of declassifying assassination files of iconic figures like JFK, revealing which documents excite their historical curiosity. Their engaging banter offers both analysis and a dose of humor amid today's political turmoil.

Jillian Michaels brings her expertise as a fitness guru and wellness author, discussing the trends around health treatments and advocating for holistic approaches over pharmaceuticals. Jon Meacham, the renowned presidential historian, weighs in on the political landscape, examining the interplay between current events and history. The conversation also delves into the disturbing trends in children's entertainment, the sexualization of young stars, and modern parenting challenges, creating a thought-provoking yet entertaining dialogue.

Jon Meacham, a renowned presidential historian and author, dives into the motivations behind iconic U.S. presidents like Jefferson, Lincoln, and FDR. He unpacks Jefferson's complex legacy on slavery and Jackson's populism amid controversies. The discussion also highlights Lincoln's blend of humility and political power during the Civil War and the deep bond between FDR and Churchill in facing global challenges. Meacham even speculates on a counterfactual scenario involving Hannibal Hamlin's presidency and its potential impacts on civil rights.

In this podcast, historian Barbara Bair, radio host Steve Inskeep, and historian Jon Meacham delve into the tragic and violent life of Andrew Jackson. They discuss his brutal battles, policies against Native Americans, and the complexities of his relationships. They explore Jackson's impact on America, his grassroots campaign for the presidency, and his belief in limited government. The podcast also examines Jackson's land policy, slavery, and the shifting views of his legacy over time.

Julia Ioffe, a founding partner at Puck and renowned political commentator, joins Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Jon Meacham in a compelling discussion. They tackle the political absurdities surrounding recent events, including immigration strategies and the unique narratives in media like the show 'Monarch.' The conversation reflects on personal growth, historical parallels to modern politics, and the pressing need for political accountability. With humor and sharp analysis, they explore how our understanding of history shapes today's political landscape.

Jon Meacham, a renowned historian and author of "And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle," joins David to delve into Lincoln's transformative leadership during a divided America. They discuss Lincoln's moral dilemmas regarding slavery and the qualities that define a great president. Meacham connects historical lessons to contemporary political challenges, emphasizing the need for moral integrity and unity over division in modern democracy. The conversation highlights Lincoln's enduring relevance in navigating today's complex political landscape.

Jon Meacham and Robert Woodson discuss the controversy over teaching American history objectively and comprehensively. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging both the successes and dark aspects of the country's past. The speakers also highlight the need to find solutions within communities and recognize the achievements of black Americans.