

Tom Nichols
Political commentator and professor emeritus at the U.S. Naval War College, author of books including The Death of Expertise; featured guest offering analysis on national security and politics.
Top 10 podcasts with Tom Nichols
Ranked by the Snipd community

77 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 35min
18 Minutes From Nuclear Annihilation
Screenwriter Noah Oppenheim, known for "A House of Dynamite," and Tom Nichols, a national-security expert, dive into the nail-biting reality of nuclear command decisions. They discuss the terrifying 18-minute time frame for U.S. presidents in crises, emphasizing human fallibility amid rehearsed procedures. Nichols warns of irrational leaders exacerbating risks, while Oppenheim highlights the film's portrayal of rational decision-makers to showcase systemic flaws. They also touch on the current state of nuclear proliferation and the need for public engagement to reduce the threat.

71 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 60min
Would U.S. Generals Obey Illegal Trump Orders?
In this discussion, Tom Nichols, a civil-military relations expert, analyzes the implications of militarizing American politics under Trump's administration. He talks about how the erosion of legal structures and the purging of Pentagon lawyers pressure military leaders into compliance with dubious orders. The conversation shifts to the risks of using the National Guard for political purposes and the potential chaos in national security decision-making. Nichols argues for the moral responsibility of military officials to resist illegal orders, highlighting a critical moment in U.S. democracy.

71 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 60min
Tom Nichols: A Farce and a Sham
Tom Nichols, an author and political columnist for The Atlantic, joins Tim Miller for a lively discussion on the tumultuous political landscape. They dissect Trump's pardons for insurrectionists and the alarming normalizing of such actions. Nichols critiques the influence of tech moguls in politics, questioning the ties between wealth and leadership. They also touch on the emotional repercussions of recent immigration policy shifts and examine the fractured narratives affecting public trust in governance, all delivered with sharp wit and insight.

60 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 55min
Tom Nichols: The Buzz Has Worn Off
Political commentator Tom Nichols, also a professor emeritus at the U.S. Naval War College, joins Tim Miller to dissect the current state of MAGA supporters as they navigate infighting and unmet promises. They critique Trump’s impractical 'golden fleet' of warships and explore the dangerous implications of nuclear arms on surface ships. The duo also dives into the Epstein controversy, reflecting on political consequences of past behaviors, while addressing the erosion of enthusiasm within Trump's base. A candid discussion on future GOP leadership wraps up their insights.

53 snips
May 1, 2025 • 50min
S2 Ep1033: Tom Nichols: The Hollow Opportunists
Tom Nichols, Professor Emeritus at the Naval War College and a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the evolving foreign policy landscape under the Trump administration. He critiques figures like Marco Rubio and Pam Bondi, highlighting their transformation and complicity. The conversation also addresses the U.S.-Russia relations, implications of Ukraine's financial dealings, and the troubling trends in political communication. Nichols reflects on the complexities of patriotism in education and the absurdity of current political narratives, providing a thought-provoking analysis.

48 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 20min
The Real Problem With Trump's Parade
Tom Nichols, a seasoned military analyst and staff writer for The Atlantic, explores the implications of a politically charged military parade. He discusses how Trump’s tactics might be shaping public perception of the military and the dangers of politicizing its role. Nichols addresses the complexities of deploying troops to LA during protests, unveiling the tensions in federal-state relations. The conversation also highlights how such crises may be engineered to influence civic engagement, urging the importance of active participation in democracy.

25 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 58min
Tom Nichols: Don't Descend into Darkness
In this engaging discussion, Tom Nichols, a Professor emeritus at the US Naval War College and staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the impacts of political absurdity in America since Trump. He critiques the normalization of controversial figures and reflects on the erosion of civil discourse. The conversation touches on the rise of tech oligarchs, wealth versus expertise, and the profound psychological effects of these dynamics on society. The duo lightens the mood with a festive Christmas playlist, blending serious discourse with holiday cheer.

21 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 52min
Tom Nichols: Into Darkness
Tom Nichols, a political scientist and author known for his insights on international relations, joins for a deep dive into the current landscape of political violence and authoritarianism. They discuss how figures like Donald Trump embrace fascist rhetoric while challenging democracy's fragility. The conversation highlights tribal loyalties in media, the ethically questionable actions of the U.S. military, and the urgency of addressing political distractions. Nichols stresses the importance of confronting these threats as tensions escalate—particularly with approaching elections.

20 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 51min
Tom Nichols: Free Press, JD Vance, and the MAGA Right
Tom Nichols, an Atlantic writer and national security commentator, dives into the Pentagon's controversial media restrictions, arguing they threaten democracy as outlets push back. He discusses the MAGA movement's hostility towards free speech and breakdowns of Trump's foreign policy. The conversation also explores JD Vance's defense of young extremists and the complex geopolitical landscape around issues like Tomahawk missile support for Ukraine. Nichols provides insights on the need for transparency and accountability in both politics and military actions.

19 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 54min
Tom Nichols: America's Problem Child
Tom Nichols, a Professor emeritus at the Naval War College and writer for The Atlantic, shares his insights on the troubling dynamics of American politics. He humorously likens Trump to a dysfunctional child, exploring how media and supporters excuse his reckless behavior. The conversation touches on the damaging impact of power maneuvers within government and raises concerns about transparency regarding presidential health. Nichols also critiques the shallow political narratives surrounding key issues, advocating for expertise and strategic dissent in governance.


