Real Time with Bill Maher

Bill Maher and his guests answer viewer questions after the show. (Originally aired 2/28/25) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week features Rahm Emanuel, former mayor of Chicago and U.S. ambassador to Japan, and Fareed Zakaria, CNN host and best-selling author. They delve into the chaotic state of U.S. governance, discussing how figures like Trump and Trudeau shape political narratives. The conversation also touches on the surprising parallels between Hollywood's hitman tropes and serious healthcare debates. Additionally, they explore the authenticity needed in politics, emphasizing how relatability can make or break electoral success amidst a backdrop of evolving democratic norms.

A rock star's quirky Valentine's Day kicks off a mix of personal stories and insightful discussions on Kamala Harris's political aspirations. The conversation shifts to Kid Rock's new gospel album, showcasing his artistic evolution. There's a candid dive into addiction, where humor meets sober reflections on drug policies and cultural impacts. Generational differences in substance use are explored, alongside the changing dynamics of the Boy Scouts and the role of traditional masculinity in today's society.

Kid Rock, the legendary musician known for his rock anthems and bold political views, joins Tim Ryan, former Ohio congressman and clean energy advocate, and Pamela Paul, New York Times opinion columnist and cultural commentator. They dive into the intersection of politics and pop culture, share laughs about Valentine's Day humor, and tackle pressing issues like environmental challenges and media narratives on women's empowerment. The conversation also touches on the evolving dynamics of gender identity and the intriguing rise of AI in relationships.

Delve into the evolving dynamics of political influence shaped by media figures. Explore the impact of wealth and aesthetic trends in politics, illustrating how personal styles affect the political scene. Hear a humorous take on smartphones while addressing serious topics like identity theft. Engage in a lively discussion about the possibilities of political comebacks and even wild hypotheticals like Canada's annexation. The lively banter also touches on the tensions between rap icons and the political landscape in Florida.

Joining the show are Chris Hayes, a prominent journalist and host of MSNBC's "All In"; Rep. Byron Donalds, a Republican congressman from Florida; and Tara Palmeri. They discuss the tangled web of U.S. military strategy in the Middle East, focusing on the Gaza situation and troop deployment debates. The conversation humorously critiques modern tech's impact on attention spans and the frustrations of streaming sports. They also tackle the disconnect in the Democratic Party, exploring how societal issues connect to government inefficiencies.

The discussion kicks off with John Fetterman's casual Senate attire, sparking debate on dress codes and personal expression. Humor and historical leadership styles are compared, drawing connections to figures like Henry V. The conversation shifts to the evolution of English, highlighting the contrast between straightforward communication and ornate language. Modern-day imperialism is critiqued alongside the role of cryptocurrency and tech elites, revealing concerns about dark money's influence in geopolitics. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking blend of humor, history, and current affairs.

Guests include Dan Jones, a historian known for his works on medieval history, and Max Brooks, an author famous for his zombie literature and commentary on modern warfare. They dive into the absurdities of political narratives, exploring the evolving expectations of leadership, especially among Gen Z. Their conversation extends to crucial societal issues, from immigration complexities to the challenges posed by China's AI advancements, all while providing historical insights that illuminate today’s political climate.

Stephen A. Smith, a prominent sports commentator from ESPN, joins the discussion alongside other guests to tackle various pressing issues. They debate the complexities of cryptocurrency and explore its societal implications. The talk expands to the challenges of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in tech, emphasizing the need for reform. They also navigate the impact of streaming services on live sports and examine innovative marketing strategies. The dialogue is lively, merging humor with serious discussions on current events.

Jesse Eisenberg, an award-winning actor known for his roles in "The Social Network" and "Zombieland," shares insights on Jewish identity and a heartfelt film about family history. Stephen A. Smith, the ESPN sports commentator, lightens the mood with humorous takes on current events and the chaos in Los Angeles. Congressman Ro Khanna addresses the responsibility of the wealthy in societal change, critiquing disengaged tech leaders while exploring the role of public figures in tackling issues like domestic violence.