
Politicology
Politics in America is transforming. We’re embarking on a new series to deepen our understanding of who we are, how we got here, and how we rebuild without repeating the mistakes of the past. Ron Steslow hosts academics, behavioral economists, social psychologists, politicos, philosophers, anthropologists, journalists, poets, and storytellers—and more—to discuss America’s political present and future and dive into the deeper problems we face as a nation. Email us questions or comments: podcast@politicology.com.
Latest episodes

Jun 19, 2024 • 59min
ENCORE: Democracy’s Christian Enemies — Part 1
Are there tendencies within Christian tradition that put some versions of the faith in tension with core principles of democracy?What is “Authoritarian Reactionary Christianity?”How can a pluralistic society guard against the rise of political figures—including Donald Trump—aiming to weaponize this phenomenon?In this two-part conversation, Ron Steslow and Rev. Prof. David Gushee (Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics at Mercer University) discuss these provocative questions and more as they dive into David’s book, Defending Democracy From Its Christian Enemies.In part 1:(04:40) Ron shares a personal note with David about the impact he’s had on Ron’s journey (07:24) David discussed a few of the transformative moments in his career (13:08) The historical and current challenges Christianity poses to democratic values (16:30) Why some Christians are skeptical of democracy and the nuanced reasons behind it(22:02 ) Authoritarian Reactionary Christianity and why it’s a better term for what we’re seeing than Christian Nationalism (28:38) How certain Christian groups prioritize their beliefs over democratic norms and values (34:02) The cycle of secular revolutions followed by religious counter-revolutions For more of David’s work visit his website: https://www.davidpgushee.com/Follow Ron on X (formerly Twitter):https://twitter.com/RonSteslowEmail your questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com or leave us a voicemail at (202) 455-4558. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 14, 2024 • 1h 24min
The Part-Time Boom—The Weekly Roundup
This week's panel discusses the struggles of part-time jobs and rising prices, Israel's hostage rescue, and new Russian sanctions. Zack Czajkowski and Molly McKew share insights on economic concerns, the Israel mission, and Russia. Stay informed with in-depth analysis and expert opinions.

Jun 13, 2024 • 1h 18min
ENCORE: Holy War—Part 1
Matthew Taylor, creator of 'Charismatic Revival Fury,' discusses the role of Charismatic Christianity in the Capitol riot. Topics include the intersection of Charismatic Christianity and politics, early Trump support from charismatic leaders, the concept of 'Christian Supremacy' vs 'Christian Nationalism,' and the increase in political engagement among Charismatic Christians.

Jun 13, 2024 • 1h 7min
ENCORE: Holy War—Part 2
Discussing the influence of Charismatic Christianity on the Capitol riot, exploring beliefs in Trump's divine appointment, strategic spiritual warfare, and threats to pluralism. Delving into the lack of media understanding, violence discourse, and future implications for the religious subculture.

Jun 7, 2024 • 1h 28min
Guilt & Glee—The Weekly Roundup
Lucy Caldwell, Board Advisor to Renew Democracy Initiative, discusses Trump's conviction, Biden's border security order, and concerns about cognitive fitness. Also, Fauci's pandemic response testimony and unfolding scandal.

Jun 5, 2024 • 1h 18min
LIVE: The Latino Century with Mike Madrid
Author Mike Madrid discusses the Latinization of America, Latino conservatism, Democratic outreach, and Republican appeal to Latino voters. Insightful takeaways for political professionals and reflections on American identity and values.

5 snips
May 31, 2024 • 1h 15min
Full Blown Freakout—The Weekly Roundup
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts.This week, we discuss the “Dems in full blown ‘freakout’ over Biden.” Then, we talk about the high-level NIH officials who tried to undermine government transparency—including about the coronavirus.After that, we look at rising debt interest payments and why high interest rates are making it harder to manage the debtJoining Ron Steslow on this week’s panel: Mike Madrid (Lincoln Project cofounder)Anthony York (Fmr. Senior Communications Advisor to Gov. Gavin Newsom) Segments this week:(05:39) “Dems in full blown ‘freakout’ over Biden.” (30:05) The NIH subverting FOIA (44:51) Rising Debt Interest costs[Politicology+] Mike and Ron answer your questions Not yet a Politicology+ member? Don’t miss the extra episodes on our private, ad-free version of this podcast. Upgrade now at politicology.com/plus.Send your questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558Follow this week’s panel on X (formerly Twitter):https://twitter.com/RonSteslowhttps://x.com/madrid_mikehttps://x.com/anthonyyork49Related reading:Segment 1:Politico - Dems in full-blown ‘freakout’ over Biden - POLITICONYT - Republicans who backed Biden in 2020 complain he’s lost their phone numbersThe Hill - Axelrod: Biden ‘pride’ may cost him electionSegment 2: NYT - Health Officials Tried to Evade Public Records Laws, Lawmakers Say - The New York TimesHouse oversight Committee - Wenstrup Investigates NIH Conspiracy to Evade FOIA, Avoid Public Transparency - United States House Committee on Oversight and AccountabilitySegment 3: Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget - Interest Costs Just Surpassed Defense and Medicare-2024-05-10 Bloomberg - Yellen Says Higher Path for Rates Boosts Need to Lift Revenue - Bloomberg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 29, 2024 • 59min
Bitcoin is Changing the Fight for Freedom
Host Ron Steslow welcomes Alex Gladstein (Chief Strategy Officer at the Human Rights Foundation) to discuss the significant and often misunderstood role of Bitcoin in protecting human rights and fighting against authoritarians around the world.Segments to look forward to:(02:07) Alex’s background in human rights work and why he became interested in Bitcoin (16:18) Bitcoin vs other cryptocurrencies(26:04) Financial privilege(38:35) Bitcoin in action (45:50) Bitcoin creating financial independence for women in Afghanistan (56:25)How a human rights activist uses Bitcoin to free hostages (59:10) Bitcoin as a tool against monetary colonialism in west Africa (1:00:10) The importance of peer-to-peer transactions (1:07:50) How Bitcoin mining can bring electricity to remote areas and support sustainable energy projects (1:19:40) Why Bitcoin matters for everyoneFollow Ron and Alex on X (formerly Twitter):https://twitter.com/RonSteslowhttps://twitter.com/gladsteinEmail your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave us a voicemail at (202) 455-4558 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 24, 2024 • 1h 17min
Crypto Clash—The Weekly Roundup
This week on the podcast, they discuss the clash over crypto bills in Congress, the impact of housing issues on Latino voters, and the rise of political violence. They also touch on the challenges of regulating digital assets, the influence of cryptocurrencies on Democratic voters, and the divisions within Netanyahu's cabinet. Stay tuned for insights on social media, upcoming live shows, and ways to engage with the hosts.

May 23, 2024 • 2h 1min
Urban Warfare
** Get your ticket to our special LIVE pop-up recording with Ron Steslow and Mike Madrid in Sacramento, CA on May 29th: politicology.com/events **In the wake of the emotional and highly charged conversations surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict, information pollution has only added to the confusion. This week, we bring in an urban warfare expert to offer a sober and clear-eyed discussion on the Israel-Hamas war, the objectives and challenges involved, and the true meaning behind some of the most contentious terms being used.Segments to look forward to:(02:06) John’s background in urban warfare(06:20) The violence of October 7th(20:37) How Hamas’s human shield strategy exploits our different expectations for them and Israel (30:36) The context of bomb usage in the Israel-Hamas war(34:06) Misconceptions about urban warfare(41:30) Precision guided munitions (42:20) Examining the war crimes accusations (52:20) The manipulation of casualty numbers(1:04:10) Understanding what genocide means (1:18:40) The IDF’s standards of conduct in war (1:29:15) The importance of following a moral and ethical code during war(1:34:18) Israel’s efforts to protect civilians (1:38:40) What success looks like for Israel Follow Ron and John on X (formerly Twitter):https://twitter.com/RonSteslowhttps://x.com/SpencerGuardEmail your questions to podcast@politicology.com or leave us a voicemail at (202) 455-4558 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices