

Shane Smith Has Questions
VICE News & Studio71
Shane Smith Has Questions is a dynamic, apolitical podcast hosted by Shane Smith dedicated to getting to the bottom of prominent instances of misinformation and disinformation while revealing the fascinating fundamental truths (if there are any?) of the most interesting and convoluted social and political issues of our time.For advertising opportunities please email PodcastPartnerships@Studio71us.com We want to make the podcast even better, help us learn how we can: https://bit.ly/2EcYbu4 Privacy Policy: https://www.studio71.com/terms-and-conditions-use/#Privacy%20Policy
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 23, 2025 • 1h 6min
Why Hollywood Lost Its Soul ft. Barry Diller | Shane Smith Has Questions
In this engaging discussion, media mogul Barry Diller shares his incredible journey from a mailroom job to leading major studios like Paramount and 20th Century Fox. He reflects on the pivotal moments of his career, including his nervous breakdown at 19, and the chaos of iconic films like 'Grease.' Diller critiques Hollywood's shift to data-driven content and emphasizes the lost art of creative confrontation. With stories of near misses with Amazon and a candid look at his relationship with Diane von Furstenberg, he advocates for the power of curiosity in business.

30 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 2h 33min
The Spiritual Crisis of Modern Intelligence ft. Sam Harris | Shane Smith Has Questions
Sam Harris, a philosopher and neuroscientist known for his insights on consciousness and AI ethics, joins Shane Smith for a thought-provoking discussion. They explore the impact of psychedelics on self-awareness and the importance of meditation in a rapidly changing world. Harris warns about the existential risks of unaligned AI and critiques tech billionaires' ethics. He delves into the illusion of free will and its moral implications, advocating for a compassionate understanding of our shared humanity amidst technological advances.

Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 7min
How America Lost Faith in Everything ft. Chuck Todd | Shane Smith Has Questions
In this engaging conversation, Chuck Todd, a veteran political journalist and former host of Meet the Press, shares insights after leaving legacy media. He discusses the misreading of Obama's 2012 victory and how identity politics overshadowed class issues. Chuck also highlights the collapse of local journalism and its role in diminishing trust in democracy. He argues for rebuilding that trust through grassroots community storytelling and warns about the dangers of polarization in today's political landscape.

Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 45min
The Rage Economy Is Destroying Us ft. Scott Galloway | Shane Smith Has Questions
Scott Galloway and Shane Smith dive into the growing tension in today’s society, exploring how economic instability, digital culture, and political unrest are shaping people’s frustrations and anger.
They analyze the rise of digital platforms, the deepening wealth divide, and the decline of traditional work structures, which have fueled a wave of anxiety and frustration. Galloway breaks down how capitalism’s evolution and the collapse of old economic systems are leaving many feeling powerless and left behind.
The conversation delves into the cultural forces that amplify anger, and how these shifts are not only affecting individuals but also reshaping businesses and politics in ways that could have long-lasting consequences.
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Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 47min
The Hidden Side of Psychedelic Research ft. Hamilton Morris | Shane Smith Has Questions
Psychedelics are reshaping medicine and culture. Ayahuasca ceremonies, ibogaine treatments, and ketamine clinics promise breakthroughs but raise hard questions about safety, tradition, and control.
Hamilton Morris joins Shane Smith to unpack the science, myths, and politics behind today’s psychedelic movement. He breaks down the promises of ibogaine clinics, the rise of ketamine in psychiatry, and the battles over MDMA research, showing how curiosity and controversy continue to shape the future of psychedelics.
The conversation highlights how political and economic forces influence the direction of psychedelic research.
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Sep 18, 2025 • 58min
Are We Headed for Global Chaos? ft. Ian Bremmer | Shane Smith Has Questions
Ian Bremmer, the President and founder of Eurasia Group, dives deep into the rapidly changing global landscape. He highlights the impact of drone warfare, noting how cheap swarms can reshape security threats. As tensions rise between global powers like the U.S., China, and Russia, Bremmer discusses the challenges of diplomacy and the fractured state of globalization. He also touches on the tech race, emphasizing the U.S. lead in AI while warning about China's advancements in clean energy. Climate risks loom, yet a cleaner future is within reach if politics align.

Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 26min
Addiction, Injuries & the Cost of Comedy ft. Johnny Knoxville | Shane Smith Has Questions
Johnny Knoxville sits down with Shane Smith to discuss the physical and emotional costs of his career. He reflects on the chaotic start of Jackass, the pressures of sudden fame, and serious injuries like concussions and an eye fracture that nearly ended his life.
The conversation covers his collaborations with Spike Jonze and Jeff Tremaine, the shift from MTV to feature films, and the political backlash that ultimately forced the show off the air. Knoxville speaks openly about his mental health struggles after repeated head trauma and how he found stability through therapy.
Beyond the stunts, Knoxville highlights projects he’s proud of, including The Ringer, his outlaw country radio show, and documentaries like The Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia. This honest talk reveals a rarely seen side of Knoxville—the man behind the daredevil persona who lived through the consequences.
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Aug 28, 2025 • 1h 34min
What the U.S. Military Knows About UFOs ft. Jeremy Corbell
Investigative filmmaker Jeremy Corbell, renowned for his documentaries on military UFOs, dives into the mysterious world of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena. He reveals astonishing military footage and firsthand accounts of encounters with strange craft, including the infamous ‘Mosul Orb.’ The conversation shifts from UFOs to UAPs, exploring the implications of potential non-human intelligence and government secrecy. Corbell also discusses the push for transparency and the philosophical questions arising from these revelations, leaving listeners intrigued and questioning reality.

32 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 48min
How Psychiatry Lost Its Way ft. Phil Stutz | Shane Smith Has Questions
Phil Stutz, a renowned psychiatrist and bestselling author known for 'The Tools,' discusses the shortcomings of conventional psychiatry. He emphasizes action over endless analysis for genuine healing. Stutz shares insights on dealing with anxiety and depression, highlighting gratitude as a powerful tool against despair. The conversation touches on 'Part X,' the psychological barrier hindering growth, and the importance of human connection in wellness. They also explore how confronting mortality can ignite creativity and give life deeper meaning.

Aug 14, 2025 • 1h 17min
Why Playing It Safe Kills Brands ft. Mike Cessario | Shane Smith Has Questions
Mike Cessario, Founder and CEO of Liquid Death, shares his insights on branding and the art of provocation. He reveals how his company harnessed Internet hate into a billion-dollar brand and emphasizes that execution is paramount in marketing. Cessario compares brand-building to political strategy, discussing the power of authenticity in messaging and the dangers of playing it safe. He also explores the impact of controversy on consumer engagement and the evolving landscape of advertising, where creativity must thrive amid censorship and digital innovation.


