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
Jul 28, 2025 • 1h 14min
Bob Shrum: Deep State Donald & The Democratic Messaging Imperative
Bob Shrum, a legendary Democratic strategist and professor at USC, joins the discussion to explore critical political dynamics. He delves into Donald Trump’s entanglements with the Epstein scandal, presenting unique opportunities for Democratic narratives. Shrum emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with working-class voters and crafting effective messaging to revitalize the party. He also analyzes the rising political ambitions of figures like Gavin Newsom and James Talarico, highlighting the need for authenticity and faith in leadership to engage younger constituents.
6 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 9min
Maggie Haberman: The Epstein Metastasis
Maggie Haberman, New York Times White House Correspondent and author of "Confidence Man," dives into the political fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal and its lasting impact on Donald Trump's reputation. She discusses the cultural implications of Trump's connection to Epstein and recent media scrutiny. The conversation further explores political tactics to divert attention from pressing issues. Haberman also shares insights on media dynamics and the evolving landscape of political resistance, punctuated by commentary on figures like Stephen Colbert and Bruce Springsteen.
Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 13min
Todd Purdum: How Desi Arnaz & “I Love Lucy” Created the TV Business
Join Todd Purdum, a former New York Times journalist and author of 'Desi Arnaz: The Man Who Invented Television,' as he delves into the life of Desi Arnaz. Discover how Arnaz, a Cuban refugee, transformed American television through 'I Love Lucy' and his innovative approach to production. Purdum discusses Arnaz's challenges with prejudice, his dynamic relationship with Lucille Ball, and how their love story shaped TV history. Explore Arnaz's enduring legacy and the cultural impact of his groundbreaking work in the industry.
10 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 1h 14min
Lis Smith: MAGA & The Manosphere Turn On Trump
Lis Smith, a savvy Democratic communications strategist known for her work with influential political figures, joins the discussion to delve into the brewing political storm surrounding Donald Trump and the Epstein scandal. They explore how Trump's rhetoric and the allegations could fracture his support base, affecting political coalitions. Smith underscores the urgency for Democrats to adapt their media strategies in this attention-driven age and highlights the importance of trust and accountability in governance as the political landscape braces for 2024.
10 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 13min
Will Leitch: Games People Play
Will Leitch, a New York Magazine columnist and MLB.com correspondent, brings his unique insights on sports, culture, and politics. He tackles the upcoming World Cup and its political implications, humorously questioning the Trump administration's ability to host diverse fans. Leitch also analyzes the NBA Finals' shift from superstars to teamwork and shares his excitement about the film 'Sinners', calling it a standout of the year. Plus, he discusses turning his novel into a film and why Jack Lemmon would have been the ideal Lloyd McNeil.
Jul 11, 2025 • 1h 14min
Nicolle Wallace: Why MAGA Went Ballistic Over Epstein & The Bear Heals All Wounds
John welcomes his bestie Nicolle Wallace, host of MSNBC’s Deadline White House, back to the show to discuss the intra-MAGA fallout from Donald Trump and Pam Bondi’s Trump failure to release the long-rumored list of Jeffrey Epstein’s clients; Nicolle’s new podcast, The Best People, and why its approach to politics is so different from than her daily TV show; and their shared enrapturement with the fourth season of The Bear. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
13 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 25min
Andrew Sullivan: Trump as King, State Terror Tactics & The Anti-Trans Backlash
Andrew Sullivan, the former editor of The New Republic and a pioneering voice in LGBTQ+ advocacy, joins to discuss the current political landscape. He describes Trump more as a wannabe monarch than a dictator, warning of authoritarian tactics. Sullivan critiques the gay rights movement's shift towards trans rights and reflects on the complexities of LGBTQ+ identity. He also shares his love for the Pet Shop Boys, emphasizing the cultural significance of their song 'Being Boring' against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis. The conversation is a captivating blend of politics, identity, and nostalgia.
Jul 4, 2025 • 1h 13min
Ben Kweller: Love, Loss, Grief, Hope & The Healing Power of Music
Ben Kweller, a talented country rock and indie folk musician, discusses the profound impact of his son Dorian's tragic death on his artistry. Reflecting on his new album, 'Cover The Mirrors,' he shares how music became a source of healing amidst grief. The conversation deep dives into themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of creativity, revealing the bittersweet journey from sorrow to acceptance. Kweller also emphasizes the spiritual connection musicians have with their instruments and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in the industry.
7 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 16min
Angus King & Jason Crow: Casus Belli & Caveat Emptor re Iran
Angus King, an Independent Senator from Maine and former governor, and Jason Crow, a Democratic Congressman and former Army Ranger, dive into the aftermath of U.S. air strikes on Iran. They raise critical questions about the effects on Iran's nuclear program and express concerns over the politicization of intelligence under the Trump administration. Additionally, King discusses Supreme Court rulings on birthright citizenship, while Crow analyzes the political implications of Zohran Mamdani's primary victory in New York City.
Jun 27, 2025 • 1h 31min
Ron Chernow: Forever the Twain Shall Meet
Ron Chernow, a National Book Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, discusses his latest biography on Mark Twain. He explores Twain's role as America's original political pundit, emphasizing the timelessness of his humor and insights. Chernow highlights Twain's transformation from a product of his Southern upbringing to a vocal critic of society. The conversation also touches on Percival Everett's reinterpretation of 'Huckleberry Finn,' expanding on its themes of race and American identity, showcasing Twain's complex legacy and contemporary relevance.
