

Steve Teles
Senior Fellow at the Niskanen Center. He focuses on American political development, social policy, and the relationship between knowledge and public policy.
Top 10 podcasts with Steve Teles
Ranked by the Snipd community

92 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 54min
Minority Rule in America
In this insightful conversation, Steve Teles, a Political Science professor at Johns Hopkins University, delves into the profound impact of minoritarianism on American democracy. He discusses how small groups can disproportionately influence governance, often at the expense of majority desires. Teles critiques institutional mechanisms like the Electoral College and filibuster that favor minority interests, while also exploring challenges in environmental policymaking. His call for reforms and embracing ideological diversity highlights urgency in enhancing democratic representation.

9 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 54min
557 | Steve Teles: Can the Abundance Agenda Win America's Factional Future?
In this engaging discussion, Steve Teles, a political scientist from Johns Hopkins University, delves into the Abundance Agenda and its potential to reshape American politics. He navigates the complexities of union politics in New York while addressing tensions within the Democratic Party. Teles emphasizes the need for a hopeful narrative in political discourse and argues for policies that prioritize citizen needs over corporate interests. His insights on engaging constituents and shifting from cynicism to an abundance mindset are compelling and thought-provoking.

9 snips
Oct 3, 2024 • 1h 26min
510 | Steve Teles & Marshall Kosloff: Why We Embraced the Abundance Agenda
Steve Teles, an advocate for the Abundance Agenda at the Niskanen Center, joins Marshall Kosloff for an engaging conversation. They explore the evolution of political identities and the impact of Trump's rise on party dynamics. The duo discusses YIMBYism and urban housing challenges, emphasizing practical solutions over ideological divisions. Teles shares insights on synthesizing political beliefs, advocating for an abundance approach that fosters collaboration across various sectors, including housing, defense, and energy.

8 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 39min
556 | Steve Teles: Are the Abundance Agenda and Populism Incompatible?
Steve Teles, a professor at Johns Hopkins and senior fellow at the Niskanen Center, dives into the tensions between populism and the abundance agenda. He shares insights from a pivotal poll showing that many voters lean towards populism. Teles argues that these two concepts can complement each other rather than conflict. He discusses the pitfalls of over-relying on polling data and how the abundance agenda could tackle issues such as accessibility in higher education, emphasizing the need for proactive reform.

7 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 55min
526 | Steve Teles & Marshall Kosloff: Abundance and Its Enemies
In this engaging discussion, Steve Teles, a contributor at the Niskanen Center and Johns Hopkins University, dives into the nuances of political and economic dynamics. He discusses the challenges posed by rising opposition to the abundance agenda within the Democratic Party, shedding light on tensions between traditional structures and progressive activists. The conversation also explores the importance of an abundance mindset for future electoral strategies, emphasizing the need to better connect with voter concerns, particularly around public safety and economic issues.

Nov 8, 2024 • 56min
517 | Steve Teles & Marshall Kosloff: 2024 Election Autopsy Part I - The Democrats
Steve Teles, a contributor to the Niskanen Center and Johns Hopkins University, joins Marshall Kosloff to dissect the Democrats' 2024 election strategy. They delve into Kamala Harris's loss to Donald Trump and the controversial idea of her appearing on the Joe Rogan Experience. The duo examines whether 'wokeness' has hurt the party, the need for more relatable candidates, and how the Democrats must adapt to changing voter sentiments. Additionally, they explore the party's institutional identity amidst rising populism and historical political dynamics.

Jul 31, 2025 • 43min
564 | Steve Teles: What Democrats Can Learn from the GOP's Trump-Era Upheaval
In this discussion, political scientist Steve Teles from the Niskanen Center shares insights on the Democratic Party's evolution during the Trump era. He explores how Democratic factions, like reformers and 'Common Sense Democrats,' compare to the GOP's reform conservatism. Topics include the challenges of innovation after electoral losses, New York's dynamic primary elections, and the importance of authentic political messaging. Teles emphasizes the need for new ideas to reconnect with voters and why challenging party norms is essential for real change.

Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 47min
540 | Felicia Wong & Steve Teles: Can the Abundance Agenda and Economic Populism Get Along?
Felicia Wong, Principal at the Roosevelt Institute, and Steve Teles, Senior Fellow at the Niskanen Center, delve into the potential synergy between economic populism and the abundance agenda. They discuss the vital role of unions, the need for increased supply in key sectors, and the challenge of addressing economic inequality while fostering growth. Topics also explore the dynamic relationship between political factions, the significance of labor representation, and the impact of policies on working-class voters. The conversation is rich in insights on governance and the future of economic strategy.

Aug 28, 2025 • 48min
571 | Steve Teles: The Varieties of Abundance - Why Abundance Isn't Left, Right, or Center
Steve Teles, a Senior Fellow at the Niskanen Center, dives into the diverse interpretations of abundance across the political spectrum. He discusses six distinct varieties, from 'Red Plenty' to 'Dark Abundance,' illustrating how different ideologies shape our understanding of abundance. Teles emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to economic growth while tackling challenges like public education and urban policies. He also examines the political influences behind abundance and how changes in governance can lead to a more sustainable future.

May 22, 2025 • 51min
553 | Steve Teles: Where Does the Abundance Agenda Go Next?
Steve Teles, a Senior Fellow at the Niskanen Center and professor at Johns Hopkins University, dives into the future of the abundance agenda. He reveals the contrast between his 'captured economy' thesis and left populist critiques of corporate power. The discussion spans power dynamics in economic abundance, the impact of historical optimism on central planning, and the tensions between right and left factions in the movement. Teles also critiques higher education's role and introduces the provocative idea of 'dark abundance' shaping political narratives.