
What Really Matters with Walter Russell Mead
Walter Russell Mead, a historian, pundit, and popular author, is encyclopedic about politics, culture, and history. On What Really Matters, Mead and Tablet deputy editor Jeremy Stern help you understand the news, decide what news matters and what doesn’t, and enjoy following the story of America and the world more than you do now.Check out Walter Russell Mead’s Tablet column at https://www.tabletmag.com/columns/via-meadia.
Latest episodes

38 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 30min
What Does Trump’s Bombing of Iran Mean for the Middle East?
The discussion dives into why major powers like China, Russia, and North Korea have stayed on the sidelines regarding Iran. A significant primary victory in New York signals changing political tides influenced by immigration patterns. The conversation also critiques how Trump's view of NATO stands in stark contrast to his predecessors. The impact of U.S. actions, especially the bombing of Fordow, raises questions on Middle Eastern alliances and the humanitarian implications in Gaza, framing a complex narrative about regional tensions.

42 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 36min
Trump and the Israel-Iran War
Explore the complexities of military and diplomatic strategies in the Israel-Iran conflict. Discover how Israel's air superiority contrasts with Russia's challenges in Ukraine. Delve into Iran's push for nuclear negotiations amidst deep mistrust. Uncover the divided stance within the MAGA coalition over U.S. support for Israel and how Trump's decisions are shaped by competing political factions. Finally, compare past presidential successes and failures in Middle Eastern diplomacy, shedding light on the enduring challenges in the region.

6 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 31min
Unrest in Los Angeles
Tensions in Los Angeles flare as ICE raids spark protests, revealing deep immigration issues. Meanwhile, the U.S. navigates rising hostilities with Iran, impacting diplomatic relations in the Middle East. Global religious demographics are discussed, showcasing the growth of Christianity and Islam and the complexities in measuring them. The strained U.S.-India relationship is scrutinized, with a focus on geopolitical challenges and domestic policies. Lastly, personal stories and musical tributes celebrate the legacy of American songwriters.

Jun 6, 2025 • 30min
The Trump-Musk Eruption
This week, Walter and Jeremy discuss the public spat between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, the AI threat to white-collar jobs, Ukraine’s drone attack on Russian aircraft, and “Zero Day,” a new 10-part Taiwanese TV drama about a war with China.

24 snips
May 30, 2025 • 1h 3min
The Foreign Policy Consequences of Biden’s Decline and Fall
Alana Newhouse, Editor-in-chief of Tablet Magazine, dives into her bold choice to launch a print magazine in today's digital world. She explores the emotional impact of print journalism and its human touch in storytelling amidst the rise of AI. The conversation also touches on the ethical responsibilities of journalists today and the need for thoughtful content in an era dominated by rapid information consumption. Newhouse emphasizes the resurgence of print as a tool for genuine engagement and crucial narratives.

58 snips
May 23, 2025 • 38min
Resistance Fighters of the World Unite
This week, the hosts dive into Trump's controversial ban on foreign students at Harvard and its political ramifications. They explore the Supreme Court's ruling on presidential powers over federal commissioners, shedding light on the balance between government branches. A heated discussion follows on the Senate's push against California's electric vehicle mandate and its implications for democracy. The conversation wraps up with enchanting tales from Scandinavia, from stunning fjords to vibrant city architecture, inspiring travel adventures.

31 snips
May 15, 2025 • 37min
Trump's Persian Gulf Tour
The discussion opens with the decline of boys and young men in the U.S., touching on education and mental health. It then explores how changing gender dynamics are reshaping the workforce. Key trade negotiations between the Trump administration and China are highlighted, along with Qatar's unique role in U.S. politics. The conversation shifts to Trump's Persian Gulf tour, discussing his strategies regarding sanctions on Syria and military deals with Gulf nations. Finally, it analyzes evolving U.S. interests in the Middle East, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

May 9, 2025 • 42min
The New Pope and the Scramble for Africa
This week, Walter and Jeremy discuss the first American Pope, the India-Pakistan conflict, Trump's trade deal with the UK, and the new struggle for mastery in Africa.

23 snips
May 2, 2025 • 32min
Lurching Toward Hot War in Asia
The discussion dives into the economic fallout of U.S.-China tariffs and their overlooked effects on China. A pivotal mineral deal between the Trump administration and Ukraine showcases the U.S.'s strategic interests amid rising tensions. Canada's political shift, led by Mark Carney's anti-Trump stance, is analyzed alongside the geopolitical strains between India and Pakistan. This backdrop raises questions about potential global conflicts involving America and China, while historical lessons from Byzantine dynamics offer intriguing insights into contemporary power struggles.

18 snips
Apr 25, 2025 • 43min
Why the Papacy Is One of the Greatest Shows on Earth
This week, the discussion dives into Trump's controversial Ukraine peace deal and its potential impact on NATO and European unity. The recent militant attack in Kashmir raises difficult questions about India-Pakistan relations and tourism. The legacy of Pope Francis is examined, positioning him as a conservative reformer. Finally, the complexities of unifying the Catholic Church amid ideological divides are explored, particularly concerning issues like priestly celibacy and inclusion. Together, these themes reveal the intricate interplay of politics, faith, and society.