James Fishkin: "Can Deliberation Cure the Ills of Democracy?"
Michael Smerconish speaks with Stanford political scientist Dr. James Fishkin about his groundbreaking book "Can Deliberation Cure the Ills of Democracy?" They explore how bringing diverse Americans together for civil, informed discussion—through experiments like America in One Room—can reduce polarization and lead to surprising consensus. A hopeful look at democratic reform in a divided age. Original air date 15 July 2025. The book was published on 3 July 2025.
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Tyler Pager: "2024"
Michael welcomes New York Times White House Correspondent Tyler Pager, co-author (with Josh Dawsey and Isaac Arnsdorf) of "2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America." Hear the behind-the-scenes drama, exclusive scoops, and pivotal moments that defined the 2024 election — from Kamala Harris’s rocky campaign to Trump’s post-assassination rise and Biden’s fateful debate decision. Original air date 15 July 2025. The book was published on 8 July 2025.
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Carter Sherman: "The Second Coming"
Carter Sherman, reproductive health reporter at The Guardian joins Michael with her book "The Second Coming: Sex and the Next Generation’s Fight Over Its Future." They explore how politics, technology, and social norms are reshaping the way young Americans think about and experience sex. From "hookup culture" to the "sex recession," and from Roe v. Wade to TikTok, this conversation dives deep into the evolving sexual landscape—and the clash between sexual conservatism and progressivism defining it. Original air date 11 July 2025. The book was published on 24 June 2025.
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Jim Abbott: "Imperfect"
Watch the "Book Club" special event at Citizen's Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA on June 12, 2012 where Michael and Jim Abbott talk in front of 1,000 people in the stadium here!On Sunday, July 13th, 2025, Jim Abbott is the subject of a new ESPN E60 Documentary, Southpaw: The Life and Legacy of Jim Abbott. Michael spoke with Abbott about this new feature about his incredible story on The Smerconish Daily Podcast this week (Wednesday, July 29 2025). Listen to that episode here!
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Salena Zito: "Butler"
In this episode, Michael Smerconish talks with journalist and author Salena Zito about her new book "Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America’s Heartland." Salena shares her firsthand account of being just feet away during the shooting of Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, explores the significance of this pivotal moment, and reveals the profound impact on Trump, the crowd, and the broader political landscape. A powerful look at trauma, resilience, and the heart of America's working-class communities. Original air date 8 July 2025. The book was published on 8 July 2025.
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.
South Africa