
The American Mind
The American Mind Podcast uncovers the ideas and principles that drive American political life. In each episode, we engage Claremont Institute scholars, co-conspirators, and critics in thought-provoking discussions about the real causes of our current political and cultural reality. We explore these ideas with an eye towards restoring American civic health.
The Roundtable is a weekly show, hosted by our editors and publisher with a unique blend of joviality and intellectually stimulating conversation, boosted by an occasional glass of whisky. Each episode focuses on a handful of topics that carry significant weight in the debate of ideas for the best path of American life, both privately and civically. Of course, we do reserve some time for fun in each show.
Occasionally, we produce special podcast features on individual topics with commentary from the top thinkers in America today. Think of American Mind Podcast specials as succinct audio-documentaries.
Tell us what you think! Subscribe to our channel, rate us, leave a review, and help spread the word to your friends and colleagues! Interested in hearing from us on a particular topic? Email your suggestions to americanmind@claremont.org. And visit our website, americanmind.org, for essays, editorials, debates, and more.
The American Mind, The Roundtable, and our specials are productions of the Claremont Institute. The mission of the Claremont Institute is the recovery of the American idea—the timeless principles that have made America great since its founding.
Latest episodes

Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 3min
Big Tech Turns Red
The age of the normie has arrived. As Mark Zuckerberg lifts Facebook’s censorial boot off the neck of its users and moves its moderation team from California to Texas, which seems to signal a sincere tech bro realignment, America is at the dawn of a freer era. Elsewhere in the digital world, conservatives on X discuss the job market: there are two paths, bootstraps or victimhood—what will it be, young man? Plus: The hosts comment on Pete Hegseth’s confirmation hearing and his qualifications, as well as the DoD’s overreliance on experts.

Jan 9, 2025 • 57min
Mar-a-Igloo
To kick off the new year, the guys open the mail and answer listeners’ questions on everything from cutting back the glut of unaccountable bureaucratic offices to buying Greenland. Meanwhile, Governor Gavin Newsom and the radical conservationists of California, in attempting to create an anti-human environmentalist utopia, have tragically but predictably turned Los Angeles into a literal dumpster fire. It’s a new year, but the laws of hubris and nemesis remain undefeated.

8 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 1h 2min
Unidentified Federal Operations
Drones buzzing overhead spark wild theories about their origins, from aliens to government secrets. The breakdown of trust in leadership leads to speculation about Biden's quiet approach and Kamala's potential 2028 candidacy. Political accountability comes into question with Biden's pardons against a backdrop of corruption and shifting masculinity debates. Amid reflections on American principles and the changing media landscape, the hosts share their holiday plans and invite listener engagement for a lively end-of-year discussion.

9 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 1h 2min
Strangio-er than Fiction (ft. Gates Garcia)
Gates Garcia, a Lincoln Fellow at the Claremont Institute, dives into pressing social issues and legal debates surrounding gender identity and healthcare. They discuss recent Supreme Court rulings on gender treatments for minors, highlighting the tensions between evolving legal interpretations and traditional views. The conversation also addresses the DEI movement, focusing on detransitioning and the psychological impacts of early transitions. Additionally, Garcia analyzes the fallout from violence in healthcare and the complex political landscape in Syria, advocating for cautious diplomacy.

28 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 57min
A Pardon in a Pear Tree
Dive into the moral complexities of public service and how evolving societal values shape pardoning decisions. Unpack the implications of Hunter Biden's recent pardon and its impact on political accountability and media narratives. Explore the GOP's responses to perceived injustices, particularly under NYC's controversial immigration policies. Reflect on shifting political perspectives post-Trump, the nostalgia in digital narratives, and the potential conservative pivot of tech titans. Finally, consider calls for reform within the U.S. intelligence community and its historical failures.

9 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 1h 16min
Biden’s Parting Gifts
As the Biden administration concludes, tensions in Ukraine escalate and immigration policies are set to challenge the incoming administration. Critics point to a disconnect between Democratic strategies and voter sentiments, hinting at a turbulent future. The discussion touches on fiscal challenges and the national debt, highlighting the urgent need for reform. Amidst political reflections, heartfelt Thanksgiving anecdotes provide a light-hearted counterpoint, showcasing gratitude and the importance of foundational principles in today's landscape.

Nov 21, 2024 • 1h 4min
Recess is Over
In this insightful discussion, Professor Amy Wax, a law expert from the University of Pennsylvania known for her controversial views, explores the future of education reform. She critiques the belief that teacher diversity enhances educational outcomes, emphasizing potential quality compromises. The talk delves into combating far-left ideologies in schools, advocating for traditional values and parental rights. Wax also highlights the importance of reforming educational standards, addressing ideological biases in higher education, and the need for local control over educational practices.

Nov 14, 2024 • 60min
One Shift, Two Shifts, Whiteshift, Redshift
The discussion kicks off with a look at Trump's youthful cabinet, showcasing strategic appointments and a generational shift in leadership. Democrats grapple with a critical choice: adapt or risk irrelevance in the face of changing voter sentiments. The conversation dives into surprising trends among Latino and Black voters moving towards conservative views, challenging traditional narratives. They also delve into the evolving media landscape, highlighting the decline of established outlets and the rise of new voices shaping public opinion.

Nov 7, 2024 • 59min
He's So Back
Trump's electoral comeback sends shockwaves through the political landscape, prompting a deep dive into shifting voter sentiments and reactions from the Left. The discussion highlights the complexities of scapegoating and media dynamics, particularly concerning the contributions of African-Americans. A concession speech analysis reveals generational divides and critiques tone and content across the political spectrum. As the new administration prepares, pressing challenges in immigration and voter regulations loom large, calling for innovative reforms.

Oct 31, 2024 • 60min
Madison Square Garbage
Joe Biden's candid remarks about Trump supporters create a political stir, sparking debate over the rhetoric that surrounds campaigns. The discussion dives into the controversial moments at a recent rally, including a comedian's incendiary joke about Puerto Rico. As the 2024 elections loom, the narrative contrasts voter dissatisfaction with established institutions against the need for open discourse. Additionally, the evolving relationship between YouTube and conservative creators highlights challenges in media dynamics, while foundational principles of American liberty are revisited through historical perspectives.