The Axe Files with David Axelrod

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has been thinking about the economy since she was a young girl in the working-class neighborhood of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, keenly attuned to how broader economic trends impacted the employment of her neighbors. Once she took her first economics class in college, she was hooked. She has since spent her career moving between academic and government roles, including many years at the Federal Reserve. Secretary Yellen joined David to talk about the barriers women face in finance, the economic implications of immigration, China and tariffs, and why government intervention in the financial system is necessary.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a child, journalist Kasie Hunt eagerly awaited the arrival of “Time” magazine each week. She loved current events, which eventually piqued her interest in national security and journalism. She joined David to talk about growing up in a post-war period and watching 9/11 puncture that feeling of safety, covering Jan. 6 as a Capitol Hill reporter, what advice she would give a young campaign journalist, starting a new job at CNN while learning she had a brain tumor, and what she learned from that life-altering experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At 11 years old, Roger Carstens, already an avid news consumer, was struck by stories of genocide in Cambodia. He resolved that when he grew up, he would work to alleviate human suffering. That mission took him to the Army and jobs in the non-profit sector and government, including his current role as the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs. In this job, Amb. Carstens works tirelessly to bring home Americans wrongfully detained across the globe. He talked with David about what keeps him up at night, the importance of entering negotiations with humility, his journey with spirituality, and his focus on the families of the hostages he works to free. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DeMar DeRozan, a six-time NBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, opens up about his journey from the challenges of growing up in Compton to becoming a prominent advocate for mental health. He discusses the importance of therapy, empowerment, and building resilience amidst adversity. DeRozan shares heartfelt anecdotes about family, fatherhood, and his evolving relationship with basketball, all while promoting his new memoir, 'Above the Noise.' His experiences highlight the power of community and the vital need for openness in sports.

DJ Cassidy, the energetic DJ known for his role at major political events, joins Dana Gorzelany-Mostak, a music and political campaign expert, to explore the potent role of music in politics. They discuss what makes a great campaign song and its emotional impact on voters. Cassidy shares insights from live performances that shape the atmosphere, while Gorzelany-Mostak delves into music's ability to forge connections and influence political messaging. Discover how tunes resonate with identity and the evolving relationship between artists and politicians.

Nancy Pelosi, a prominent political figure and former Speaker of the House, reflects on her influential career and recent book, "The Art of Power." She discusses the significance of protecting the Constitution during elections and her experiences advocating for children and women's participation in politics. Pelosi draws parallels between her passion for the Grateful Dead and effective governance, emphasizing collaboration across party lines. She also shares insights on Biden's achievements and the importance of unity among Democrats.

Kamala Harris, the Vice President and former California senator, shares her insights on criminal justice reform and the need for strategic political navigation. She reflects on her diverse background, detailing how her family's civil rights work shaped her commitment to social justice. Harris critiques current law enforcement practices, advocating for drug issues to be viewed as public health concerns. She also discusses the importance of bipartisan collaboration on infrastructure and immigration, along with the intricacies of Supreme Court nominations.

Ezra Klein, a veteran journalist and Opinion columnist at The New York Times, dives into the current political landscape. He discusses how Kamala Harris has emerged as a key figure, overshadowing Trump. Klein breaks down the unexpected dynamics of the 2024 presidential race, noting how typical political metaphors fall short. He also highlights Gov. Tim Walz as a bold choice alongside Harris on the ticket, reflecting on the evolving strategies candidates must employ to resonate with voters in today's fast-paced media environment.

Don Rose, a veteran Chicago journalist and activist, reflects on his role in organizing the tumultuous 1968 protests against the Vietnam War. He draws fascinating parallels between then and today, discussing how contemporary protests, including those about Gaza, may impact the upcoming DNC. The conversation highlights Kamala Harris's surprising rise in politics, her focus on abortion rights, and the strategic choice of Tim Walz as her running mate. Rose’s insights on media influence and civil unrest make for a compelling discourse on political evolution.

Audie Cornish, a seasoned journalist with experience at NPR and CNN, shares her compelling journey growing up as a child of Jamaican immigrants in Boston during a turbulent time. She recounts her unexpected path into journalism and the impact of representation in media. The conversation navigates the current political landscape, discussing Vice President Kamala Harris’s approach as a presidential candidate. Audie also sheds light on her CNN podcast, “The Assignment,” emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in political conversations.