The Smerconish Podcast

Michael unpacks today’s Smerconish.com poll question: "Is there anything inherently wrong with the Department of War summoning senior military leaders to Quantico?" He explains why his answer is “no,” explores the concerns behind such a high-level gathering, and reflects on recent poll results about political violence and rhetoric. Plus, a preview of today’s Mingle Project episode with Dr. Brian Rosenwald on the history of talk radio. Listen here, then vote! And please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wall Street Journal reporter Rachel Ensign joins Michael to explore a surprising new trend: wealthy retirees are hiring professional writers to craft their family memoirs — sometimes spending tens of thousands, even six figures, to do it. From revealing secrets to preserving heritage, these personal histories aren’t meant for bookstores, but for children, grandchildren, and generations to come. Is this a priceless legacy, or a self-indulgent luxury? Hear Michael and callers share their own experiences with capturing family stories. Original air date 18 September 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael is on the west coast today, having appeared on HBO's "Real Time with Bill Maher" on Friday night. He shares stories from his time there, and then moves on to today's poll question at Smerconsih.com, where he's asking you: "Will the trend of retributive prosecutions persist beyond the Trump administration?" From Alvin Bragg to Fani Willis to the new Comey indictment, Michael lays out why he believes the weaponization of justice is one of the greatest threats facing democracy today. Listen here, then cast your vote at Smerconish.com! And please rate and review this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Despite a long day of travel ahead, Michael Smerconish shares his thoughts on today's daily poll question: "Is Kamala Harris’ book release and media tour enhancing or diminishing her prospects to one day be elected president?" Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New York Times' Jia Lynn Yang joins Michael to unpack America’s disturbing new era of political violence. From the assassination of Charlie Kirk to nihilistic acts with unclear ideology, are we witnessing the collapse of coherent political conflict — or the rise of something even more dangerous? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish digs into today’s poll question: Is the rise in political violence driven by rhetoric or deeper societal issues? Citing expert research, tragic examples, and his own Mingle Project, he explores how loneliness, disconnection, and despair—especially among young men—are fueling a dangerous trend. Plus, a fiery fact-check on JD Vance’s claims and thoughts on how we can start to fix what’s broken. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode of The Smerconish Podcast, Michael reflects on the life and legacy of Philadelphia Flyers legend Bernie Parent, who passed away this week at the age of 80 (1945-2025). In the opening minutes, Michael shares personal memories of the Hall of Fame goaltender, recalling Bernie’s impact on the city, his larger-than-life personality, and the joy he brought to fans. Following the remembrance, we revisit a 2008 archive conversation between Michael and Bernie. In this interview, Bernie opens up about his career, his philosophy on life, and the mindset that made him one of hockey’s most celebrated figures, all while taking calls from listeners that day on WPHT in Philly (February 18, 2008). This episode is both a tribute and an opportunity to hear Bernie’s voice once more, in his own words. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish welcomes Chris Cuomo (host of Cuomo on NewsNation) for a candid conversation about the future of late-night TV and Jimmy Kimmel’s place in it. The two dig into Kimmel's removal from the airwaves and subsequent return, his emotional defense, and what it reveals about media, politics, and free speech in today’s polarized climate. Cuomo argues that the real issue isn’t “state action” from the FCC but market forces—and how networks respond when audiences push back. Original air date 24 September 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Michael explores:Kimmel’s emotional on-air response following criticism.The shifting late-night landscape and declining broadcast TV audiences.How younger viewers are consuming late-night comedy through clips, not full shows.The bigger cultural conversation: Are the days of shared television experiences over?Plus, Michael connects today’s debate to The Mingle Project, reflecting on how fragmented viewing habits impact our ability to share cultural touchstones. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Governor Andy Beshear (D-KY) recently joined SiriusXM with a weekly show on Progress Channel 127, a sister channel to POTUS 124, where Michael's show is heard. The day of the Governor's radio debut, Michael welcomed him for a conversation and had some advice for how to succeed in bringing "The Andy Beshear Podcast" to the radio airwaves. It's not as obvious and easy as it seems. Original air date 9 September 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.