
The Mona Charen Show
After a great five year run on Beg to Differ, Mona Charen brings you a new show dedicated to deepening your understanding of complex issues and trends facing society. Each week she'll engage an expert for a probing discussion that goes past the day's headlines.
Latest episodes

Aug 16, 2024 • 1h 14min
"Rational Exuberance"
Joining the discussion is Charlie Sykes, a sharp commentator and writer on American politics. He shares insights on the surprising rise of Kamala Harris and the waning influence of Donald Trump. They explore the ramifications of election deniers losing primaries and delve into Trump's connections with controversial figures. The panel also touches on Ukraine's military advances and the fallout of media tactics within political campaigns. Sykes brings a critical eye to shaping voter engagement and the ethical dilemmas facing journalists today.

Aug 9, 2024 • 1h 17min
With Walz, Harris Can Pivot to the Center
David French, a noted political commentator, joins to discuss the implications of Trump's legal battles and their impact on the political landscape. He highlights the tension surrounding Kamala Harris's pivot towards centrist policies amidst public scrutiny. The conversation also critiques the court ruling on presidential immunity, raising questions about democracy and legal interpretations. Additionally, the speakers reflect on the Olympics and delve into their personal experiences with literature, showcasing the intersection of politics and culture.

Aug 2, 2024 • 57min
Did Trump Plan It?
A.B. Stoddard, a political analyst and guest host, dives into the controversial remarks made by Donald Trump at a NABJ interview, debating whether his provocations were strategic or impulsive. The conversation touches on the implications for the 2024 election, particularly regarding Black voter sentiment and the dynamics within the Republican Party. Stoddard also explores the significance of vice presidential picks in shaping campaign strategies, while drawing intriguing parallels between Trump's approach and professional wrestling, revealing a unique perspective on his media manipulation tactics.

Jul 26, 2024 • 1h 11min
We Have Lift-Off
Nick Grossman discusses Biden's exit and Harris's rise, strengths and weaknesses, VP possibilities, GOP blues, and Bibi's speech. Highlights include Biden's address, while lowlights cover Netanyahu's speech. The podcast explores the selection process for VP, Kamala Harris' strategies and vulnerabilities, and potential Democratic VP candidates.

Jul 18, 2024 • 1h 8min
The Clock is Ticking
Susan Glasser from The New Yorker joins to discuss aftermath of assassination attempt on Trump, impact of JD Vance, and Biden's speeches. Topics include Trump's response to shooting, Biden's policy mistake, late Soviet America debate, and calls for Biden to step down.

8 snips
Jul 12, 2024 • 1h 15min
An Open Convention Could be Great for Democracy
Political commentator A.B. Stoddard discusses Biden's stance, Democratic party strategies, and the debate around endorsing Kamala Harris. The podcast explores concerns about election outcomes, calls for Biden to step down, and the proposal for an open candidate selection process to enhance democracy within the party.

Jul 4, 2024 • 1h 3min
Courting Disaster
Former Rep Adam Kinzinger and Chris Cillizza discuss the Court's alarming ruling opening the door to potential chaos if Trump wins. Topics include presidential immunity, unethical orders, calls for Biden to step aside, and speculations on the political landscape. They also touch on emotional challenges, therapy benefits, and travel experiences in Israel, highlighting courage and integrity in politics and journalism.

6 snips
Jun 29, 2024 • 1h 14min
The Most Consequential Failure of Recent Times
Political commentator David Frum joins to discuss the Biden debate debacle and potential withdrawal. They also touch on Supreme Court cases, migrant numbers, public opinion shifts on same-sex marriage, and a unique French election.

Jun 21, 2024 • 1h 9min
Attack of the Phones
Political commentator Tom Edsall discusses rising polarization, Biden's immigration actions, and kids' smartphone use. Topics include Trump-Biden debate handicapping, activism failures, and LA's Ten Commandments law.

Jun 14, 2024 • 1h 18min
The 'Absurdly Normal' President
Tom Nichols joins the panel to discuss the rise of the right in Europe (and here), the Hunter Biden verdict, and the Israel hostage rescue.
Mona: The Big Lie's Bad, Very Bad Week by Charlie Sykes.
Linda: No, You Don’t Have the Power to Stop Climate Change by Quico Toro (Persuasion)
Bill: American journalist Evan Gershkovich to stand trial on espionage charges in Russia (NPR)
Damon: John Ganz's new book "When the Clock Broke: Con Men, Conspiracists, and How America Cracked Up in the Early 1990s"
Tom: John Bolton going through exhaustive detail about Trump's manifest unfitness and then saying he won't vote for Biden on MSNBC.
Tom's referenced item "The Jimmy Clean Hands Election" at The Atlantic.