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
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!
7 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 1h 13min
2025 Election Preview with David Axelrod
David Axelrod, former chief strategist for Obama and CNN political analyst, shares insights on the upcoming off-year elections. He highlights the energizing role of young voters in Zohran Mamdani’s campaign and the importance of addressing identity issues in a polarized environment. Axelrod critiques Andrew Cuomo's campaign approach and explains how competitive contests in Virginia and New Jersey can signal national trends. He also discusses the implications of Gavin Newsom's redistricting initiative on California politics and its potential impact on his future.
Oct 31, 2025 • 1h 10min
J. Michael Luttig: Trump’s Plan to Be President for Life Is No Joke
J. Michael Luttig, a former U.S. Court of Appeals judge and conservative legal scholar, delves into alarming implications of Trump's ambition for power. He argues that Trump’s claims about future elections shouldn’t be dismissed as jokes; they signify serious threats to democracy. Luttig scrutinizes the potential for Trump to circumvent the 22nd Amendment and highlights dangers of executive overreach. He warns against normalizing anti-constitutional behavior, advocating for public mobilization as a remedy to maintain democratic integrity.
Oct 28, 2025 • 1h 39min
Cameron Crowe, Pt 2: Backstage Passes & Lost Youth, Lester Bangs & Jeff Spicoli
Cameron Crowe, Oscar-winning writer-director and former teenage rock journalist, shares captivating stories from his life and career. He discusses his deep connection with rock critic Lester Bangs, revealing how their bond shaped his work. Crowe opens up about the loss of his sister, Kathy, and its profound influence on his writing and family dynamics. He also reflects on reclaiming his youth through 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High,' the writing process behind memorable films, and the powerful moments that defined his journey in Hollywood.
Oct 27, 2025 • 1h 22min
Cameron Crowe, Pt 1: The Birth of The Uncool
Cameron Crowe, Oscar-winning writer-director and former rock journalist, shares riveting tales from his teenage years with legends like Led Zeppelin and The Allman Brothers. He delves into how those experiences inspired his classic films, especially Almost Famous. Crowe recounts a memorable encounter with Glenn Frey that made its way into his movies and reflects on the ethical dilemmas faced while writing about rock royalty. His profound relationship with Bob Dylan unveils the unique collaborations that enriched his cinematic journey.
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.
