
Book Club with Michael Smerconish
Reading for Independent Minds. Unlike many author interviews, if Michael didn't actually read the book, you won't hear about it. If he read it, you'll hear it and you'll love it. Insights into a wide range of topics, including many titles you've probably never heard of. The perfect book is just one listen away.
Latest episodes

May 27, 2022 • 22min
Anthony Mazzarelli: "Wonder Drug"
Michael chats with Dr. Anthony Mazzarelli about his book "Wonder Drug: 7 Scientifically Proven Ways That Serving Others Is the Best Medicine for Yourself." Originial air date 25 May 2022. The book publication date is 21 June 2022.

May 25, 2022 • 15min
Jon Meacham: "The Soul of America"
Michael's conversation with presidential historian Jon Meacham on his book "The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels." Original air date 7 May 2018. The book was published on 8 May 2018.

May 23, 2022 • 18min
Jane Mayer: "Dark Money"
Jane Mayer on her book "Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right." Original air date 27 January 2016. The book was published on 19 January 2016.

May 20, 2022 • 17min
Michael Shellenberger: "San Fransicko"
Michael speaks with California gubernatorial candidate Michael Shellenberger on his book "San Fransicko: Why Progressives Ruin Cities." Original air date 16 May 2022. The book was published on October 12, 2021.

May 18, 2022 • 23min
Tom Manion: "Brothers Forever"
Michael speaks with Tom Manion, co-author of "Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond between a Marine and a Navy SEAL that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice." Original air date 20 May 2014. The book was published on 13 May 2014.

May 16, 2022 • 18min
Alan Shipnuck: "Phil"
Michael welcomes Alan Shipnuck, author of "Phil: The Rip-Roaring (and Unauthorized!) Biography of Golf's Most Colorful Superstar." Original air date 13 May 2022. The book was published on 17 May 2022.

May 13, 2022 • 20min
Seth Stephens-Davidowitz: "Don't Trust Your Gut"
Michael welcomes data scientist Seth Stephens-Davidowitz, author of "Don't Trust Your Gut: Using Data to Get What You Really Want in Life." Original air date 10 May 2022. The book was published on 10 May 2022.

May 11, 2022 • 48min
Steven Levitt: "Freakonomics"
In 2005, Michael ran a week-long series with University of Chicago professor Steven Levitt, co-author of "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" which was published 12 April 2005. Michael hosted him for a segment each day that week, highlighting different concepts from the book. Enjoy all five segments in this one podcast.

May 9, 2022 • 41min
Chris Matthews: "Life's A Campaign"
Part of The National Constitution Center's "Author Series Programs," Michael sat down in front of a live audience with Chris Matthews for his book "Life's A Campaign: What Politics Has Taught Be About Friendship, Rivalry, Reputation and Success." The program was recorded on 23 October 2007. The Book was published on 2 October 2007.

May 6, 2022 • 8min
Tim Russert: "Wisdom of Our Fathers"
Michael's conversation with Tim Russert on his book "Wisdom of Our Fathers: Lessons and Letters from Daughters and Sons." Russert, best known for hosting NBC's "Meet The Press" passed away in June 2008. This interview is being released on the podcast this week, as May 7th, 1950 was his birthday, he would have been 72 this weekend. Original air date 11 June 2007. The book was released on 6 May 2006.