
The Michael Steele Podcast
The Michael Steele Podcast is a podcast hosted by former Republican National Committee Chairman and Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele. Each week, Michael moderates a barbershop style discussion about the key political and cultural issues of the day. Michael brings his experience as an MSNBC political analyst and from a lifetime in politics to a podcast which transcends traditional political boundaries in order to dig deep and find real solutions.
Latest episodes

Jan 18, 2025 • 17min
Hold Ruling Class Criminals Accountable! (Quick Take)
Michael Steele speaks with Glenn Kirschner about our government's inability to hold Trump accountable for his crimes. They also discuss Pam Bondi and Pete Hegseth's hearings.
If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to leave a review or share it with a friend!
Follow Glenn Kirschner @glennkirschner2
Follow Michael Steele @MichaelSteele
Follow the podcast @steele_podcast
Follow The Bulwark @BulwarkOnline

Jan 16, 2025 • 53min
What Happens When Trump Takes Office? (with Glenn Kirschner)
Michael Steele speaks with Glenn Kirschner about the ceasefire between Israel and Gaza (and how MAGA is already taking credit for it), Special Counsel Jack Smith's report on Trump, Merrick Garland's failings and what we can all expect on Inauguration Day.
If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to leave a review or share it with a friend!
Follow Glenn Kirschner @glennkirschner2
Follow Michael Steele @MichaelSteele
Follow the podcast @steele_podcast
Follow The Bulwark @BulwarkOnline

Jan 11, 2025 • 19min
"If You're Gonna Do Identity Politics, Do It Right" (Quick Take)
Michael Steele speaks with Tim Miller and Roland Martin about identity politics, how it informed the 2024 election and how to engage in identity politics "the right way."
If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to leave a review or share it with a friend!
Follow Tim Miller @Timodc
Follow Roland Martin @rolandsmartin
Follow Michael Steele @MichaelSteele
Follow the podcast @steele_podcast
Follow The Bulwark @BulwarkOnline

Jan 9, 2025 • 1h 20min
What Did We Learn from 2024? (with Karen Hunter, Tim Miller & Roland Martin)
Joining Michael Steele are Karen Hunter, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and Sirius XM host, Tim Miller, a political analyst and author, and Roland Martin, a dynamic political commentator. They delve into the need for Democrats to adopt bolder strategies to engage voters, emphasizing the importance of grassroots mobilization and a comprehensive 50-state strategy. The conversation also critiques the disconnect in identity politics and the historical evolution of the Republican Party, advocating for a more culturally relevant approach to reconnect with working-class communities.

Jan 8, 2025 • 3min
A Moment Of Clarity: Republicans Dance With Fascism
Michael Steele talks about how President-elect Donald Trump is nominating a cabinet full of loyalists.

Jan 4, 2025 • 14min
Read What Jesus Said (Quick Take) [Rebroadcast]
In this thought-provoking conversation, best-selling author Tim Alberta shares insights from his book, delving into the complexities of American Evangelicalism. He discusses the clash between grace-filled living and the combative approach some Christians adopt in a secular age. Alberta reveals how political rhetoric can distort the true messages of Jesus, emphasizing the need for humility and resilience. He critiques the commercialization of faith, advocating a return to core Christian values of love and acceptance, free from materialism.

Jan 2, 2025 • 1h 5min
Evangelicals in the Age of Political Extremism: With Tim Alberta [Rebroadcast]
Tim Alberta, a best-selling author and staff writer for The Atlantic, delves into the complex intersection of evangelical faith and political extremism. He discusses how Christian values have been reshaped by MAGA politics and critiques the misinterpretation of the Church's purpose. Alberta shares insights from the American Restoration Tour, emphasizing the need to return to compassion and love in faith. The conversation highlights the tension between personal belief and political allegiance, ultimately advocating for a deeper understanding of Christ-centered values.

Dec 29, 2024 • 52min
Democracy Has Been In Peril Before Now (Quick Take) [Rebroadcast]
Join Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin as she reflects on the intertwining of personal love stories and major historical events of the 1960s. She discusses the shifting narratives from traditional history to intimate reflections, shedding light on the civil rights movement and political love affairs. Doris underscores the historical perils of democracy and the necessity for active citizen engagement, particularly in protecting voting rights. Her insights highlight the enduring impact of leadership and the importance of civic responsibility.

Dec 28, 2024 • 52min
Lessons on Love, Politics and History (With Doris Kearns Goodwin) [Rebroadcast]
Doris Kearns Goodwin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning presidential historian and best-selling author, shares her journey through love and history. She discusses her latest book, where she unveils cherished memories with her late husband, Dick, against the backdrop of the 1960s. The conversation highlights Lyndon Johnson’s crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement and the current challenges facing democracy. Doris emphasizes the importance of active citizenship and the need for renewed leadership to navigate today’s political landscape.

Dec 27, 2024 • 2min
A Moment of Clarity: That's dumb - offering Musk up to be Speaker of the House
Elon Musk's unexpected rise in the Republican party takes center stage. The discussion dives into the idea of Musk possibly becoming Speaker of the House and what that means for Trump's political future. With Musk's influence growing, questions arise about his alignment with traditional GOP values. Additionally, there's a candid look at Trump, suggesting he may be too old for the political demands ahead. The dynamics of modern politics are examined through a unique lens of personality and power.