Impolitic with John Heilemann
Audacy | Puck
Join Puck’s chief political columnist, MSNBC/NBC News national affairs analyst, and best-selling author John Heilemann as he roams the corridors of power and influence in America on this twice-weekly interview show, taking you behind the scenes and beyond the headlines with the people who shape and shift our culture: icons and up-and-comers, incumbents and insurgents, moguls and machers in the overlapping worlds of politics, entertainment, tech, business, sports, media, and beyond. The conversations are rich and revealing, unrehearsed and unexpected … and reliably impolitic. A Puck-Audacy joint, new episodes drop every Wednesday and Friday.
Episodes
Mentioned books
12 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 1h 19min
Mark Hertling: War Criminal, Cosplay Commandant, or Both?
Retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling, a respected military analyst and former commander of U.S. Army Europe, joins the discussion on the controversial air strikes ordered during the Trump administration. He critiques Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's leadership and contrasting narratives about the strikes in Venezuela. Hertling emphasizes the importance of civilian-military relations and how current tensions threaten democratic norms. He also reflects on his upcoming book, exploring leadership during wartime. A thought-provoking dive into ethics and accountability in military actions!
Dec 1, 2025 • 1h 22min
Jonathan Karl: Vengeance Is Mine, Sayeth the President
Jonathan Karl, ABC News chief Washington correspondent and bestselling author, shares insights from his new book, *Retribution*. He discusses Trump's enduring desire for vengeance, which now fuels his 2024 campaign, alongside his complex dynamic with the media. Karl reflects on how Trump's behavior has remained stable over decades while subtly shifting focus on legacy. He also reveals Nancy Pelosi's covert role in prompting Biden's reelection exit and clarifies Steve Bannon's influence over Trump’s decisions.
Nov 28, 2025 • 1h 20min
Jonathan Freedland: The Traitor’s Circle (Live)
Jonathan Freedland, a prominent journalist and author, shares insights about his latest book, The Traitor’s Circle, a gripping historical narrative about a secret resistance network in Nazi Germany. He explains how he combines rigorous historical research with thriller pacing to engage readers. Freedland reveals the dramatic story of a betrayal at a tea party that led to devastating consequences and discusses the delayed cultural memory of the Holocaust. He also reflects on modern resistance and the challenges of navigating different audience expectations in his work.
14 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 1h 18min
Stuart Stevens: Trumpism’s Pickett’s Charge & 2028’s Yawning Chasm
Stuart Stevens, a former Republican consultant and anti-Trump advocate, discusses the waning influence of Trump and the fractures within the GOP. He examines the implications of Trump's potential lame-duck status and likens the 2024 political landscape to Pickett's Charge, signaling a peak for Trumpism. Stevens critiques J.D. Vance as a troubling front-runner and highlights a talent gap between the parties heading into 2028, while also delving into the GOP’s relationship with Russia and challenges posed by Trump's rhetoric.
Nov 21, 2025 • 1h 25min
Tim Miller: Fissures, Fault Lines & The Great MAGA Crackup
Tim Miller, a political commentator and host of The Bulwark Podcast, dives into the unraveling of MAGA, exploring tensions over the Epstein files and rising anti-Semitism within the movement. He discusses how Trump's miscalculations might alienate younger supporters and reshapes party dynamics. Miller also dissects the evolving role of figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene and the growing factions within MAGA, questioning whether current infighting can be reconciled. Expect insightful commentary peppered with cultural critiques and political analysis!
Nov 17, 2025 • 58min
Pat Ryan: Epstein Portents, Off-Year Omens & DJT’s Lame Duckification
Join Pat Ryan, a four-term congressman and Iraq War veteran, as he dives into the pressing issues of the day. He discusses the recent off-year election outcomes and the warning signs of Donald Trump's waning influence. Ryan's passionate advocacy for the Stop Sports Blackout Act highlights the intersection of good policy and politics. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining accountability within the military and the crucial need for Democrats to communicate clearly and effectively to avoid complacency.
6 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 1h 11min
Carol Leonnig: Disarray & Debauchery at the DOJ
Carol Leonnig, a four-time Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter and senior MSNBC correspondent, delves into her new book about the Justice Department's turmoil. She examines how Trump’s tenure undermined the DOJ’s integrity and how Merrick Garland's inaction post-January 6th further complicated accountability. The discussion reveals insights on controversial pardons, the chilling effects of Trump's personal attacks on agents, and the obstacles faced by investigators, raising urgent questions about the future of justice in America.
5 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 15min
Chris Matthews: What Dems Today Can Learn From RFK (Sr, not Jr!)
Chris Matthews, a seasoned political commentator and author known for his insights on the Kennedys, discusses his new book about Robert F. Kennedy's enduring relevance for Democrats. He highlights RFK's qualities of emotional resonance, moral authority, and the importance of pragmatism in winning elections. Matthews analyzes recent election results, identifies potential future leaders like Abigail Spanberger, and emphasizes the need for Democrats to embrace transparency and admit past mistakes to rebuild their brand. His insights make a compelling case for modern political strategy.
4 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 10min
Presenting: Otherworld | Zaza
Dive into a mysterious tale from Wyoming, where a group of teenagers uses a Ouija board in hopes of contacting John Lennon. Witness their initial excitement as they receive unexpected signs, including a falling photo. But as the story unfolds, the host questions whether their open-minded approach might have invited unforeseen consequences. Join the exploration of paranormal experiences and the unexpected twists that come with trying to connect with the unknown.
Nov 7, 2025 • 1h 16min
Democrats & Dodgers Doubleheader with Jonathan Lemire
Join Jonathan Lemire, co-host of Morning Joe and Atlantic staff writer, as he delves into the week's political landscape, discussing the Democratic Party's crushing victories and the fallout from Trump's losses. He highlights the triumph of rising stars like Zohran Mamdani and the implications of Gavin Newsom's win. Shifting gears to baseball, Lemire explores the Dodgers' World Series success, MLB's resurgence with new stars like Shohei Ohtani, and the looming labor disputes that could disrupt the sport’s momentum. A thrilling blend of politics and America's pastime!
