

The Commentary Magazine Podcast
Commentary Magazine
Commentary is America's premier monthly magazine of opinion: General, yet Jewish. Highly variegated, with a unifying perspective.Listen to The Commentary Magazine Podcast, along with more than 40 other original podcasts, at Ricochet.com. No paid subscription required.
Episodes
Mentioned books

53 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 5min
Trump's Ceasefire and Its Discontents
Eli Lake, a Commentary contributing editor and host of the Breaking History Podcast, dives into the recent ceasefire between Israel and Iran. He analyzes Trump's mixed responses and the implications of his pressure on Israel to react lightly. The discussion explores power dynamics in the Middle East, the evolution of conspiracy theories, and how media narratives shape public perception. A deep look at loyalty and patriotism in American politics highlights the complexities of these geopolitical tensions.

34 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 1h 14min
Destroying Nuclear Sites Is Good, Not Bad
The discussion kicks off with the discontent of arms control experts over efforts to dismantle Iran's nuclear program. It dives into Israel's military actions against Iranian sites and the complex media narratives surrounding democratic and authoritarian regimes. The podcast critiques the effectiveness of nuclear diplomacy and non-proliferation treaties. There's also an intriguing look at Trump's controversial legacy concerning the Jewish community and the upcoming NYC mayoral primary, highlighting the rise of emerging political figures.

54 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 1h 35min
America Goes All In With Israel
Jonathan Schanzer, a Commentary Contributing Editor and expert on the Iranian threat, provides sharp insights into America's military operation against Iran's nuclear sites. He discusses the implications for Israel and U.S.-Israel relations, touching on MAGA's evolving stance on support for Israel. The conversation explores the intricacies of foreign policy amidst political shifts, contrasting non-proliferation strategies, and historical reflections on Jewish defense. Schanzer emphasizes the strategic need for international pressure on Iran to avert further conflict.

38 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 1h 12min
Five For Bombing
John Ondrasik, renowned pop-rock singer of hits like 'Superman,' joins to share his insights on geopolitics and activism. He dives into the moral complexities of American foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel and Iran. The conversation sheds light on the cultural responsibilities of artists in political discourse, exploring their silence on pressing issues. Ondrasik also reflects on the disconnection between military actions and moral imperatives, emphasizing the need for a more conscientious narrative surrounding military service.

35 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Anti-War Crowd Takes a Hit
The conversation delves into the rising tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions and the implications for U.S.-Israel relations. It examines how anti-war sentiments on the right are facing challenges with current military rhetoric. The hosts discuss the intertwining of comedy and politics in shaping public opinion on foreign interventions. Additionally, critical intelligence oversights related to Hamas and their effects on perceptions of conflict are analyzed. The significance of Purim as a celebration of triumph is also highlighted, adding a cultural layer to the discussion.

20 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 55min
Does Israel Go It Alone or Should We Join
Tensions surrounding Israel and Iran take center stage, with discussions on the geopolitical implications for U.S. military strategy. The evolving Jewish demographics in New York City and their political influence shed light on complex relations with Israel. The radical left's actions and their impact on mainstream Democrats provoke debate about civil disobedience. The potential for diplomatic ties between Iran and Israel is also examined, raising questions about nuclear disarmament. All this unfolds amidst a backdrop of media narratives and urgent political considerations.

21 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 1h 8min
Trump, Bibi, and God
Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on the intertwining of faith and geopolitical strategy, particularly regarding Iran and Israel. Explore how Donald Trump's foreign policy has evolved, reflecting on its historical underpinnings. The contrasting leadership styles of Trump and Netanyahu take center stage, shedding light on their unique approaches to global politics. Find out how pop culture shapes perceptions of adversaries and the nuances of U.S. foreign policy. Finally, navigate the complexities of Iranian aggression and the broader implications for regional security.

9 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 30min
Israel Batters Iran; Will Trump Join In?
The podcast dives into Israel's military successes against Iran, highlighting strategic strikes on Iranian military sites. Discussions include the implications of U.S. involvement and potential use of bunker-buster bombs on Iran’s nuclear facilities. The evolving dynamics of the conflict are explored, emphasizing air superiority and the risks of regional instability. Historical contexts and current geopolitical tensions shape the narrative, linking military actions to broader diplomatic dilemmas. The episode also touches on public protests and their impact on U.S.-Israel relations.

61 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 19min
The Attack 20 Years in the Making
Dive into the strategic intricacies of Israel's military operations targeting Iran, showcasing innovative drone technology. Explore how historical traumas echo in modern conflicts and the tangled web of U.S.-Iran relations. Witness the impact of shifting foreign policies during the Trump era, including the recognition of Jerusalem and the formation of the Abraham Accords. Discuss the complexities of military engagement and public perception, alongside Israel's restrained approach post-October 7th attacks in the face of rising geopolitical tensions.

12 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 3min
It's Hard to Fix Big Things
The discussion dives into the contentious issues of immigration, highlighting the polarized views on enforcement and the challenges Congress faces in creating reforms. There's an intriguing examination of the economic impacts of immigration policy, particularly how restrictions affect labor costs and public perception. The conversation also touches on the shifting political climate in New York and the broader humanitarian challenges faced in the Middle East. Plus, find out about a shopper's amusing customer service mishap that leads to a Wes Anderson film recommendation!