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
Nov 13, 2024 • 1h 7min
Claire McCaskill: Trump Staffs Up, Dems Hunker Down, & Musk Runs Amok
In this engaging discussion, Claire McCaskill, a former Democratic U.S. senator from Missouri, shares her insights on Donald Trump's latest cabinet picks, calling them a 'mixed bag.' She dives into the challenges of mass deportation and the friction brewing between Trump and Elon Musk. McCaskill also analyzes the post-election turmoil within the Democratic Party, including debates over accountability and coalition-building. With her extensive political background, she offers a seasoned perspective on navigating these turbulent times.
Nov 11, 2024 • 57min
Douglas Brinkley: Extreme Incaution, Enemies Lists, & The Age of Trump
Douglas Brinkley, a presidential historian and literary executor for Hunter S. Thompson, dives into the intriguing dynamics of the 2024 election. He critiques the impact of Kamala Harris's defeat on Biden’s legacy, emphasizing both her caution and Trump's boldness. Brinkley warns of the political implications surrounding Steve Bannon's aggressive rhetoric and how Trump's legal troubles could paradoxically bolster his campaign. The conversation highlights the stark realities of American politics in an era of division and uncertainty.
Nov 7, 2024 • 1h 28min
Trumpocalypse Now, Again: Puck Superfriends on 45 Becoming 47
Dylan Byers and Peter Hamby, both sharp political journalists at Puck, delve into the seismic impact of Donald Trump’s reelection campaign. They dissect the unexpected coalition behind Trump's success and question why the Democrats failed, especially in light of Vice President Kamala Harris's performance. With humor and insight, they explore the voter disconnect, the evolving media landscape, and the urgent need for the Democratic Party to adapt. Their lively discussion also touches on the motivating forces of anger and fear in voter behavior.
Nov 5, 2024 • 1h 26min
Nicolle Wallace: Happy Election Day — Everything’s Gonna Be Alright
Nicolle Wallace, an MSNBC host and close friend of John Heilemann, dives into the emotional landscape of Election Day. She discusses Kamala Harris's shift towards themes of unity and joy, contrasting with Donald Trump's erratic campaign style. The conversation includes insights on a surprising Iowa poll showing Harris leading—a seismic shift in the political narrative. Together, they question what a potential Trump reelection would signify for America, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and the evolving political climate.
Nov 4, 2024 • 1h 18min
Charlamagne tha God: Problematic Polling, Media Malpractice, & Trump Impunity
Charlamagne tha God, renowned radio host and media mogul, dives into the dynamics of politics and media leading up to the 2024 election. He passionately discusses his support for Kamala Harris and critiques Trump's manipulation of media narratives, especially during his clash with Anderson Cooper. Charlamagne also shares his views on the younger Democratic leaders he respects and calls out the ethics of misleading political advertising. With a touch of humor, he even comments on Tucker Carlson's bizarre demon encounter, adding a unique twist to the serious discourse.
5 snips
Nov 1, 2024 • 1h 24min
Costa & JMart: Road to the White House or Highway to Hell?
Robert Costa, CBS News' chief election correspondent, and Jonathan Martin, senior political columnist at Politico, offer insider insights into the intense dynamics of the presidential race. They dissect Kamala Harris's rallying cry and its implications for her campaign, while also critiquing Joe Biden's verbal missteps and their potential fallout. The conversation touches on Trump’s confidence and evolving strategies in battleground states like Michigan and Pennsylvania, all wrapped in a blend of serious analysis and lighthearted banter.
Oct 30, 2024 • 1h 9min
The Bulwark Fab Four: Garbage Jokes, Racist Tropes, & The Garden Party From Hell
George Conway, an outspoken attorney, joins Bill Kristol, a conservative commentator, Sarah Longwell, a strategist known for her focus groups, and Tim Miller, a political strategist, to dive into the current presidential race. They examine the closing arguments from Trump and Harris, the impact of Michelle Obama’s return, and the fallout from the outrageous rhetoric at Trump’s rally. Interspersed with humor, they tackle the dynamics of undecided voters and the challenges faced by female candidates in a tumultuous political climate.
Oct 28, 2024 • 1h 15min
Jason Bateman: Why SmartLess Soared & The Trump Show Jumped the Shark
Join Jason Bateman, the Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor known for his roles in "Arrested Development" and "Ozark," as he discusses the phenomenal success of his podcast, SmartLess, recently valued at $100 million. Discover why high-profile Democrats are drawn to its engaging format. Bateman shares thoughts on Trump's headline-grabbing antics, asserting they've "jumped the shark." Plus, hear about the humorous journey of his hairstyle in the upcoming series "Black Rabbit" that sparked a meme frenzy. A blend of laughs and insights awaits!
Oct 25, 2024 • 1h 9min
Anne Applebaum & Timothy Snyder: Love Letters to Adolph
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer for The Atlantic, and Timothy Snyder, a Yale history professor, delve into the alarming rise of authoritarianism in America. They assert that Donald Trump's rhetoric closely mirrors that of historic dictators like Hitler and Mussolini, highlighting the normalization of extreme political views. The conversation examines the historical connections between race and authoritarianism, and poses stark warnings about future implications for democracy if Trump is reelected. Engaging and thought-provoking, their insights spark critical reflection on the current political landscape.
Oct 24, 2024 • 11min
Presenting Gone South
Dive into gripping tales of crime in the South, where an investigator's high-stakes stakeout reveals dark secrets about a meth lab. The storytelling uniquely blends perspectives from criminals and law enforcement. Discover the evolution of meth production methods and the unlikely suspect whose lavish lifestyle raises eyebrows. Each story uncovers the complex narratives surrounding criminal behavior, making for a chilling yet captivating listen.
