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
6 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 1h 16min
Ro Khanna: Donald Trump’s Wrecking Ball & The Democrats' New Guard
Ro Khanna, a California Democratic congressman and advocate for economic populism, joins the discussion on Trump’s antics and their implications for democracy. He argues that Trump’s $230 million demand from the Justice Department showcases a government geared towards billionaires. Khanna emphasizes the need for transparency around the Epstein files and critiques the GOP's reluctance to address it. He also discusses his support for insurgent candidates like Graham Platner, calling for more inclusivity within the party while recognizing unexpected alliances.
9 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 1h 18min
Don Lemon: Living La Vida YouTube
Former CNN primetime anchor Don Lemon shares his journey into independent media on YouTube. He discusses the alarming rhetoric surrounding Trump's prosecution of political opponents and the dynamics of recent protests like No Kings Day. Lemon explores the creative freedom he's found outside corporate constraints, touching on his experiences reporting in Chicago and the complexities of local politics. He also reflects on his controversial interview with Elon Musk and the challenges of thriving as an independent voice in today's media landscape.
Oct 17, 2025 • 1h 23min
Dennis Ross: Mideast Momentum & The Long Hard Road to Peace
Dennis Ross, a veteran U.S. diplomat and key figure in Middle East negotiations, dives into the recent Gaza ceasefire brokered by Trump. He discusses the limitations of this achievement and the crucial need for disarmament and U.S. oversight. Ross highlights challenges from past peace efforts, like the failed Camp David summit, stressing the importance of learning from history. He also analyzes Trump's leverage over Netanyahu and outlines a roadmap for sustainable peace, emphasizing the need for reform and international stability.
Oct 13, 2025 • 1h 29min
Pablo Torre: Bad Bunny & Bad Ballmer
Pablo Torre, an investigative sports journalist and host of "Pablo Torre Finds Out," joins to delve into the cultural storm surrounding Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime gig and the unfolding controversy with Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. He explores why the NFL chose Bad Bunny amid political backlash and breaks down his exclusive findings that triggered an NBA investigation into Ballmer’s dubious financial maneuvers. The conversation highlights sports as a cultural unifier and examines the dynamics of wealth and power in professional athletics.
Oct 10, 2025 • 1h 23min
Michael Steele: First the Chainsaw, Now the Scythe
Michael Steele, former RNC chairman and MSNBC host, dives into the current political landscape, discussing the looming government shutdown and Democrats’ messaging triumphs. He critiques Pam Bondi's Senate performance and the concerning militarization of cities under Trump. Steele emphasizes the need for 'Team Democracy' to unify and adapt, advocating for proactive Democratic strategies and raising alarms about the dangers of AI in political media. Their conversation shines a light on the evolving challenges within American politics.
28 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 1h 8min
Dylan Byers: Bari's New Perch & Kimmel's Curtain Call
Dylan Byers, a media reporter and editor at Puck, joins to discuss significant shifts in the media landscape. He dives into Bari Weiss's new role as editor-in-chief at CBS News and what it means for the network’s future. Byers explores the implications of Jimmy Kimmel's return after his suspension and the lessons learned by media companies from his situation. The conversation also touches on Hollywood's anxiety over AI advancements with OpenAI's Sora 2 and the Washington Post’s attempts to reinvent its op-ed page under new leadership.
10 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 1h 11min
Jennifer Palmieri: Dems Are Winning the Shutdown Showdown (So Far)
In a lively discussion, Jennifer Palmieri, former White House communications director for Obama, offers her insights on the recent government shutdown that distinguishes itself with its vindictive nature. She argues that Democrats are effectively leveraging the situation, especially through a focus on healthcare. Palmieri critiques GOP tactics, noting how their missteps aid Democratic narratives. Additionally, she speculates on the positioning of potential 2028 candidates and the evolving political landscape, emphasizing the need for unifying leaders.
5 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 1h 12min
Floyd Abrams: Comey, Kimmel, & Trump’s Limitless Enemies List
Floyd Abrams, a veteran First Amendment lawyer with a rich history of Supreme Court cases, joins to discuss the ongoing threats to free expression under Trump. He highlights the alarming implications of Jim Comey’s indictment and the dangers of weaponizing the legal system against political opponents. They explore the significance of Jimmy Kimmel's return as a symbol of free speech and the chilling effects of FCC threats on broadcasters. Abrams warns against politicization in media regulation and explains the motivations behind right-wing criticisms of these actions.
Sep 27, 2025 • 2min
Introducing Simpsons Declassified with Nancy Cartwright
Join Nancy Cartwright, the beloved voice of Bart Simpson, as she unveils the secrets of Springfield! Discover wild fan theories and shocking behind-the-scenes stories from over 35 years of The Simpsons. Dive into eerie coincidences and the show’s uncanny predictions of the future. Expect memorable interviews with writers and celebrity superfans who bring insights and laughs. Plus, engage with fun Simpsons-themed games and test your knowledge of this iconic animated series!
Sep 26, 2025 • 1h 13min
Rahm Emanuel: Jimmy Kimmel Shows Why Growing a Pair > Bending the Knee
John welcomes Rahm Emanuel, a seasoned political figure and likely 2028 presidential candidate. They dive into the impact of Jimmy Kimmel's recent return, highlighting media pressure in the Trump era. Rahm calls for unity among broadcast networks to push back against political coercion and defends the independence of the Federal Reserve against Wall Street's silence. He also talks strategy for Democrats on healthcare cuts and suggests branding a potential government shutdown as the 'Trump shutdown' to sway public opinion. It’s a lively discussion on courage in politics!
