

Beyond Politics
Matt Robison
Politics may be dismal, but the ideas that swirl around it and shape it are fascinating. This is a show that looks not just at politics, but the deeper ideas from history, science, psychology, economics, and technology that are shaping our world. We feature smart, lively, upbeat discussions with people who know what they're talking about and can help us understand the world better. Hosted by Matt Robison: writer, former senior congressional staffer, and campaign manager.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 19, 2023 • 24min
Financial Life Planning: Cut the Cord
Let’s start with a simple question: How many services do you subscribe to? Not sure? You’re not alone! Many people experience difficulty keeping track of multiple subscriptions. As the number of available services grows, managing various accounts and remembering which shows or channels each one offers becomes increasingly overwhelming.

Nov 17, 2023 • 24min
Is the Future of Tech, AI, and Politics...good?
Adam Kovacevich, the founder and CEO of the Chamber of Progress gives a center-left perspective on the future of social media, false information on platforms like Facebook/Meta, and the influence of artificial intelligence.
02:12 Is there a Progressive Future of Technology
03:13 Impact of Social Media on Elections
12:01 Concerns about AI and Creativity
18:44 Discussion on President Biden's Executive Order on AI

Nov 15, 2023 • 39min
Trump Goes Full Mussolini
Donald Trump isn't just calling his opponents "vermin," his allies have crafted a detailed plan hundreds of pages long about how they plan a full authoritarian takeover if he ever regains power. The panel runs down the frightening scheme. Also, Biden-Axelrod fight! And can Biden turn around voter perceptions on the economy by the election?

Nov 13, 2023 • 24min
The Most Important Number in Politics Right Now is 10
Matt Robison joins Howard Monroe's radio program to explore Joe Biden's current position in the polls and whether it means he should drop out of the race. Matt argues that the answer is no, and because of the significance of the number 10. Also, are any of the judges in Trump's trials going to hold him accountable for breaking their courtroom rules, or even jail him?
00:17 Discussion on Joe Biden's Political State
02:04 Biden's Potential Replacement?
06:05 Why 10 is the Most Important Number in Politics
17:04 Will Trump Be Jailed for His Behavior in Court?

Nov 12, 2023 • 26min
Financial Life Planning: Ongoing Costs
It is essential to recognize the ongoing responsibilities and costs that come with one-time purchases. By understanding and preparing for the continuous costs – both in terms of money and time – you can enjoy your investments without the constant stress of unexpected expenses. Expect maintenance, be proactive, budget wisely, prepare, and remember – it’s not just the price tag; it’s the ongoing commitment that truly defines ownership.

Nov 8, 2023 • 36min
What Does Democrats Huge Election Night Victory Actually Mean?
De3mocrats ran the table in the 20232 elections, so how does that mesh with all that polling suggesting Joe Biden is down against Donald Trump in 2024? Conservative analyst Alicia Preston suggests Republicans need a 'cleansing fire' to rid them of Trump's shadow. Does this mean we are in for a totally negative re-run of recent campaigns next year? Also, should anyone watch the Republican Presidential debate? And should Democrat Rashida Tlaib have been censured for her comments on Israel?
00:44 Analyzing the Recent Democratic Victories
01:43 Implications for Biden and 2024
08:19 The Role of the Economy in Voter Sentiment
14:03 The Impact of Inflation
31:35 Tlaib and Free Speech

Nov 6, 2023 • 29min
Why You Should NOT Freak Out About that Scary NYT Poll
Recent New York Times poll results show President Biden trailing Donald Trump in six key battleground states for the 2024 election. Host Matt Robison welcomes back guest Ian Smith, Director of Polling and Analytics for Navigator Research, to talk about why Democrats should not panic.
00:01 Polling Results
02:03 The Impact of Economic Factors on Voter Sentiment
03:52 The Role of Campaigns and the Potential for Change
07:47 The Influence of Negative News and Criminal Trials
07:47 Why Are Dems Suddenly losing young, Black, and Latino voters?
11:01 The Importance of Voter Education and Awareness
15:50 The Potential Impact of Donald Trump's Legal Troubles
20:20 The Debate on Whether President Biden Should Drop Out
25:41 The Need for a Micro Economy Message

Nov 5, 2023 • 26min
Financial Life Planning: Get Organized After Estate Planning
Tune in to this week's podcast where Mike Morton and I discuss how to stay organized while estate planning. Make sure to follow the correct process so that your heirs aren't left cleaning up a mess.

Nov 3, 2023 • 23min
The Financial Mystery of the Most Powerful Republican in America
Does Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson not have a bank account? It seems like the answer might be no, and whatever is going on, it only leads to more disturbing questions. Guest Roger Sollenberger, Senior Political Reporter with The Daily Beast, shares insights into a story he broke.
00:01 Why does the most powerful Republican in America seem to have no bank account?...01:48 Comparing Johnson's Finances with Other Politicians...02:37 Exploring Possible Reasons for Johnson's Financial Status... Implications of Johnson's Financial Status on His Political Position....17:00 How did he find this story?

Nov 1, 2023 • 36min
Is Election Denier Speaker Mike Johnson REALLY This Crazy?
New House Speaker Mike Johnson literally believes that people rode dinosaurs onto Noah's Ark. Really. But that may not even be the most out-there thing about him. Matt, Paul, and Alicia dive in to the deep right-wing craziness of the man who is second in line to the Presidency. Also, can Republicans pay for Israel support...with a tax CUT? (12:44) Will the investigation into Clarence Thomas go anywhere? (17:06)? Does Dean Phillips run for the Dem nomination matter? (23:49) Will Santos get kicked out of the House, and will Tlaib get censured? (30:48)