Eitan Hersh, a Professor of Political Science, discusses the importance of strategic political action over hobbyism. Topics include effective protest movements, voter ID laws, navigating political perspectives, and polarization in higher education. Emphasizes the need for local engagement and open debate in academia.

Rachel Kleinfeld, a senior fellow at Carnegie Endowment for Intl Peace, discusses the rise of political violence in America with Yascha Mounk. They explore resilience factors against civil war, rise in violence triggers, and combating political violence through societal actions and norm enforcement.

Elizabeth Anderson, a prominent political philosopher, discusses workplace equality, unionization, intersectionality, and the impact of societal structures on privilege with Yascha Mounk. They explore the need for nuanced understandings of social categories, structural domination, and the role of unions in achieving greater equality. The conversation also touches on police violence, racial disparities, and the importance of civil discourse in addressing societal issues.

Political scientist Francis Fukuyama talks with Yascha Mounk about the French far-right's success, Biden's debate woes, and global democracy challenges. They delve into the Ukraine-Russia conflict, potential outcomes for Joe Biden, and the state of democracy worldwide.

Yuval Levin, director at the American Enterprise Institute, discusses the failures of both Democrats and Republicans to build lasting coalitions post-Cold War. Topics include the evolution of conservative policy, challenges in defining conservative identity, and the importance of valuing American institutions. The conversation delves into the role of think tanks in shaping public policy and the need for addressing societal issues impacting American politics.

Activist Simon Fanshawe and Yascha Mounk discuss hiring for merit vs. diversity, lessons from the gay rights movement, and the importance of building alliances for social change. They explore the evolution of LGBTQ+ rights advocacy, navigating ideology in movements, and the power of humor in activism.

French political scientist Olivier Roy and Yascha Mounk talk about the rise of the French right, the concept of laïcité in secularism, and the possibility of universal values amidst identity politics. Topics include the shift towards right-wing populism in Europe, the challenges faced by Macron's party, the changing societal values in Europe, and the evolution of language and culture in communication.

Brad Wilcox, Professor of Sociology, discusses the benefits of marriage for individuals and society. Topics include the impact of marriage on stability and well-being, the importance of promoting marriage culturally, and the happiness gap between liberals and conservatives in the US.

William Galston, academic and author, discusses the impact of cultural issues on elections, the opportunities for ideological upstarts post-2024 election, and the influence of 'dark passions' like humiliation in voting behavior. The podcast explores the challenges of Democrats and Republicans in building a governing majority, analyzing class politics, working class perceptions, immigration legislation, racial dynamics, and the role of dark emotions in politics.

Daryl Davis, a musician and activist, shares how he befriended KKK members to promote understanding. He discusses childhood experiences with racism, the importance of staying 'pro-human' in the face of bigotry, and challenges beliefs through humanizing interactions. The podcast explores confronting racial biases, embracing core values in dialogue, and combatting ignorance through exposure and education.