
Reaganism
Reaganism is dedicated to exploring where the Reagan Movement lives today, hosted by the Director of the Ronald Reagan Institute, Roger Zakheim. The show has two goals: understand the foundations of the political philosophy that powered the Reagan Revolution; and host discussions about contemporary issues through the lens of Reagan. The podcast looks at the continuing impact of #40’s principles and beliefs on our leaders as they address the complex problems of today and tomorrow.
Latest episodes

Jun 20, 2025 • 37min
General Jack Keane on Iran's Nuclear Threat
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim sits down with retired General Jack Keane, who serves as the Chairman of the Institute for the Study of War. They discuss the ongoing military actions by Israel against Iran's nuclear weapons program, the implications for U.S. involvement, and the strategic landscape in the Middle East. He assesses the current state of the Iranian nuclear program, evaluates Israel's military options, and outlines the potential risks and benefits of U.S. engagement in the conflict. The discussion highlights the historical context of U.S.-Iran relations and the importance of supporting allies in the region.

Jun 17, 2025 • 39min
Government's Role in Pharmaceutical Innovation
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim sits down with Dr. Tevi Troy, a senior fellow at the Reagan Institute and former deputy secretary of Health and Human Services. They discuss Dr. Troy's article 'In Praise of Big Pharma,' exploring the critical role of the pharmaceutical industry in healthcare innovation and the challenges it faces from government regulation and public perception. The conversation also touches on the importance of vaccines, the impact of government policies on healthcare costs, and the future of American innovation in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the context of competition with China.

Jun 9, 2025 • 53min
Trump, Trade, and China with Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim sits down with Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick. They discuss the pivotal role of Pennsylvania in national politics, particularly in relation to tariffs and trade policies. He emphasizes the need for fairness in trade relationships, the importance of industrial policy for national security, and the role of government in fostering economic growth. The discussion also touches on the complexities of negotiating trade deals, the future of U.S.-China relations, and the necessity of revitalizing American manufacturing. Sen. McCormick also highlights the strategic challenges posed by China, the importance of a robust U.S. foreign policy, and the need to address rising anti-Semitism in America. He reflects on his recent trip to the Middle East, emphasizing the existential threat posed by Iran and the need for a united front against adversaries.

Jun 2, 2025 • 2h 1min
China's Military Rise: A New Era
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim is joined by Dr. Zack Cooper, who is a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. They discuss Dr. Cooper’s book, Tides of Fortune, which explores the rise and decline of great militaries, focusing on China's military buildup and its implications for U.S. defense strategy. The discussion covers the historical context of military power, the dynamics of rising and declining powers, and the need for the U.S. to reassess its military investments in light of China's advancements. Dr. Cooper emphasizes the importance of a balanced military mix and the role of technology in modern warfare, advocating for a strategic shift in U.S. defense policy to address emerging threats effectively.

May 26, 2025 • 2h 1min
The Intersection of Military and Business Strategy with The Honorable Dr. John Hillen
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim is joined by the Honorable Dr. John Hillen who serves as the James C. Wheat Jr. Professor in Leadership at the Wilson Center and is also a professor in the government and foreign affairs department at Hampden-Sydney College. They discuss the importance of strategic thinking in both business and government. Dr. Hillen emphasizes that while many business executives focus on task accomplishment, only a small percentage naturally think strategically. He draws parallels between military training and business strategy, highlighting the need for leaders to develop strategic and interpersonal skills as they advance in their careers. The discussion also touches on the current state of global leadership, the lessons from history, and the philosophical differences in American foreign policy regarding spheres of influence versus systems of governance.

May 19, 2025 • 2h 1min
Defending Freedom: Estonia's Stance Against Russian Aggression
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim is joined by Hon. Hanno Pevkur who serves as the Minister of Defence for the Republic of Estonia. They discuss the current geopolitical landscape, Russia's aggressive actions in Eastern Europe, and the importance of NATO and collective defense. Minister Pevkur emphasizes Estonia's commitment to its own defense and support for Ukraine. The conversation reflects on historical contexts, the significance of NATO's Article 5, and the challenges posed by Russian influence in the region.

May 8, 2025 • 22min
Going Big on Defense: A Conversation with Chairman Mike Rogers
In this episode of Reaganism, Chairman Mike Rogers discusses the critical state of national defense funding, emphasizing the need for increased investment to address the lowest defense spending levels since World War II. He highlights the challenges facing the defense industrial base, the importance of sustained investment in munitions, and the necessity of strategic planning to counter global threats. The conversation also touches on fiscal responsibility and the imperative of maintaining a strong military to ensure national security.

Apr 28, 2025 • 43min
Writing for the Crusader with Dr. Paul Kengor
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim is joined by Dr. Paul Kengor a prominent scholar on Ronald Reagan, and author of ‘The Crusader’. They discuss the significance of the ‘Evil Empire’ speech, exploring how it framed the Cold War in moral terms and the role of speechwriting in shaping Reagan’s legacy as a communicator. Dr. Kengor emphasizes the importance of Anthony Dolan’s contributions and the moral clarity that President Reagan brought to foreign policy during a pivotal time in history. In this conversation, they explore the moral vision of Ronald Reagan, the significance of speechwriting in politics, and the role of morality in foreign policy. They discuss how President Reagan’s speeches were influenced by his faith and the religious backgrounds of his speechwriters.

Apr 21, 2025 • 49min
The Significance of US-India Relations with Shruti Rajagopalan
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director of the Center for Civics, Education, and Opportunity Dan Rothschild is joined by Shruti Rajagopalan who is a Senior Research Fellow at the Mercatus Center. They discuss the evolving relationship between the United States and India, emphasizing the significance of economic engagement, the impact of the 1991 reforms, and India’s emerging identity on the global stage. They explore how India views itself in the context of global politics, its relationship with the US, and the challenges and opportunities in manufacturing, particularly in light of the China plus one strategy.

Apr 14, 2025 • 30min
DOGE’s Impact on Government Efficiency with Joseph Lonsdale
On this episode of Reaganism, Reagan Institute Director Roger Zakheim is joined by Joseph Lonsdale who is Founder and Managing Partner at 8VC. They discuss the impact of Doge on government transparency and efficiency, the need for budget cuts in Congress, and the importance of technology in improving government operations. Mr. Lonsdale also addresses the rise of anti-Semitism and the alliance between Jews and Christians in combating hate and promoting shared values.