Book Club with Michael Smerconish

Lloyd Blankfein: "Streetwise" 05.06.2026 34λ

Michael sits down with former Goldman Sachs Chairman and CEO Lloyd Blankfein to discuss his new memoir, "Streetwise: Getting To and Through Goldman Sachs." Blankfein reflects on his journey from Brooklyn public housing to Harvard and the top of Wall Street, sharing lessons on leadership, ambition, resilience, and navigating the 2008 financial crisis. In a candid and often humorous conversation, he offers an insider’s look at Goldman Sachs, the realities of high-stakes decision-making, and the street-smart instincts that shaped his remarkable career. Original air date 4 June 2026. The book was published on 3 March 2026.

Richard Louv: "Noticing" 03.06.2026 23λ

Michael welcomes bestselling author Richard Louv, whose groundbreaking book "Last Child in the Woods" introduced the concept of “nature-deficit disorder.” In this conversation, Louv discusses his new book, "Noticing: Intimate Encounters with the Natural World," and explores how reconnecting with nature can improve mental health, spark creativity, ease loneliness, and restore a sense of authenticity in an increasingly digital world. From childhood “first places” to the simple act of paying closer attention to the natural world around us, Louv offers a compelling case for why noticing nature may be more important than ever. Original air date 3 June 2026. The book was published on June 23, 2026.

Sharon McMahon: "We Are Mighty" 20.05.2026 24λ

Michael talks with bestselling author and educator Sharon McMahon about her new book "We Are Mighty: 12 Ordinary Americans Who Did the Next Needed Thing", an illustrated companion to her hit book "The Small and the Mighty." McMahon shares the inspiring stories of overlooked Americans whose courage and determination helped shape the nation, from civil rights pioneer Septima Clark to Constitution framer Gouverneur Morris. The conversation also explores the importance of civic education, free speech, and McMahon’s recent controversy surrounding her canceled university commencement address. Original air date 18 May 2026. The book was published on 19 May 2026.

Andrew Guthrie Ferguson: "Your Data Will Be Used Against You" 18.05.2026 27λ

Michael Smerconish sits down with George Washington University law professor Andrew Guthrie Ferguson, author of "Your Data Will Be Used Against You: Policing in the Age of Self-Surveillance," for a timely conversation about privacy, policing, and the rise of AI-powered surveillance. From license plate readers and facial recognition to Tesla “hurry up mode” and automated school bus tickets, they explore how technology is reshaping law enforcement — and what Americans may be sacrificing in the name of safety. Where should society draw the line between public security and personal privacy? Original Air Date 05/18/26, The book was published on 17 May 2026.

Admiral James Stavridis: "2084" 15.05.2026 19λ

Michael welcomes retired four-star Admiral James Stavridis to discuss "2084: A Novel of Future War", the gripping finale to his bestselling trilogy co-written with Elliot Ackerman. From great power conflict and artificial intelligence to climate catastrophe and the future of democracy, Stavridis explores the real-world forces shaping his vision of the late 21st century. The conversation ranges from China and NATO to sea-level rise, civil unrest, and the dangers of unintended war — while also revealing the hopeful message at the heart of the novel. A fascinating deep dive into geopolitics, storytelling, and the future of humanity. Original air date 15 May 2026.

Russell Muirhead: "A Lot of People Are Saying" 13.05.2026 15λ

As conspiracies about whether any of the three assassination attempts on President Donald Trump were staged or not, Michael speaks with Dartmouth professor Russell Muirhead, co-author of "A Lot of People Are Saying: The New Conspiracism and the Assault on Democracy", about the rise of modern conspiracism and its impact on democracy. From JFK theories to 2020 election claims and online misinformation, Muirhead explains how social media and “a lot of people are saying” culture have replaced evidence with repetition — and why rebuilding trust, skepticism, and real-world connection is more important than ever. Original air date 13 May 2026. The book was published on 16 April 2019.

Dr. Nassir Ghaemi on The Psychology of Great Leaders: The Creative Power of Mental Illness 11.05.2026 24λ

In this episode of Book Club with Michael Smerconish, Michael speaks with psychiatrist and author Dr. Nassir Ghaemi about the surprising connection between mental illness and exceptional leadership. Drawing from Dr. Ghaemi’s books "A First-Rate Madness" and the newly published "Soul on Fire", the conversation explores how figures like Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and Ted Turner may have drawn strength from struggles with depression or bipolar disorder during times of crisis. It’s a thought-provoking discussion about stigma, creativity, resilience, and the misunderstood realities of mental health.

Susan Page: "The Queen and Her Presidents" 08.05.2026 16λ

Michael welcomes USA Today Washington Bureau Chief Susan Page to discuss her bestselling book "The Queen and Her Presidents: The Hidden Hand That Shaped History." From Ronald Reagan’s close friendship with Queen Elizabeth II to Donald Trump’s fascination with royal protocol, Page shares revealing stories about the monarch’s relationships with every American president she encountered. The conversation explores unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments involving the Obamas, Jimmy Carter, JFK, and more — offering a fascinating look at how Queen Elizabeth quietly shaped the “special relationship” between the United States and Great Britain for more than seventy years. Original air date 7 May 2026. The book was published on 14 April 2026.

Robert Putnam Revisits "Bowling Alone" with The Mingle Project 07.05.2026 28λ

Michael sits down with Harvard political scientist Robert Putnam, author of "Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community" (2000), for a timely conversation about America’s growing social isolation and political polarization. In this special episode talking about The Mingle Project, Putnam explains how the decline of civic life, community ties, and shared experiences helped create the conditions for today’s populism — and why rebuilding “social capital” is essential to restoring democracy. From school buses and bowling leagues to social media algorithms and Silicon Valley, Smerconish and Putnam explore what tore Americans apart, what history teaches about recovery, and how communities can reconnect before it’s too late. Original air date 7 May 2026.

Julian Zelizer: "The Presidency of Joseph R. Biden" 29.04.2026 21λ

Michael welcomes Princeton University professor and historian Julian Zelizer with "The Presidency of Joseph R. Biden: A First Historical Assessment", a new collection of essays examining Biden’s legacy. They explore the administration’s major accomplishments—from economic recovery to climate and foreign policy—alongside the political challenges that defined his presidency, including inflation, immigration, and the Afghanistan withdrawal. Zelizer explains why early historical evaluations matter and how Biden’s decisions, especially his bid for a second term, may shape how history ultimately judges his time in office. Original air date 29 April 2026. The book was published on 7 April 2026.

Sarah Isgur: "Last Branch Standing" 27.04.2026 24λ

Michael sits down with legal analyst and Advisory Opinions host Sarah Isgur to discuss her best-selling book "Last Branch Standing: A Potentially Surprising, Occasionally Witty Journey Inside Today's Supreme Court" and unpack how the Supreme Court really works. Using engaging examples—from “snails on a train” to modern constitutional debates—they explore competing theories of interpretation, the myth of a purely partisan court, and why most decisions defy simple ideological lines. Isgur also offers an insider’s look at the justices, the Court’s internal dynamics, and controversial questions like transparency, media influence, and the role of judgment in the law. Original air date 23 April 2026. The book was published on 14 April 2026.

Jonathan Zimmerman: "Free Speech - And Why You Should Give A Damn" 23.04.2026 14λ

Michael Smerconish speaks with University of Pennsylvania historian Jonathan Zimmerman about "Free Speech: And Why You Should Give a Damn," co-authored with Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Signe Wilkinson. They explore how free speech—once a cornerstone of liberal activism—has become politically polarized, with conservatives now claiming its mantle. Zimmerman argues that cultural shifts, campus controversies, and the rise of “cancel culture” have reshaped public discourse, often discouraging open debate. The conversation examines the tension between free speech and social justice, the impact of self-censorship, and why reclaiming robust dialogue is essential to addressing inequality. Original air date 8 April 2021. The book was published on 1 April 2021.

Lanny Davis: "Finding The Third Way" 17.04.2026 42λ

Michael Smerconish sits down with longtime political insider Lanny Davis to discuss his book "Finding the Third Way: Lessons in the Politics of Civility from My Journey through History." Through candid, often humorous stories—from Yale days alongside future presidents to moments inside the Clinton White House—Davis reflects on a lifetime in politics and the lessons he’s learned about civility, empathy, and bridging divides. It’s a wide-ranging conversation that blends history, personal anecdotes, and a call for a more respectful, “third way” approach to today’s polarized climate. Original air date 15 April 2026. The book was published on 14 April 2026.

Melissa S. Kearney: "The Two-Parent Privilege" 15.04.2026 21λ

As U.S. birth rates hit record lows, Michael talks with economist Dr. Melissa Kearney, author of "The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind" about the consequences. From marriage trends to economic inequality, they break down what’s driving the decline—and why it matters for the future of families, the workforce, and the social safety net. Original air date 13 April 2026. The book was published on 18 September 2023.

Richard Louv: "Vitamin N" 13.04.2026 17λ

Ten years ago this week, Michael sat down with "Last Child In The Woods" author Richard Louv to explore the growing disconnect between children and the natural world—and why it matters more than ever. Louv's book discussed here is "Vitamin N: The Essential Guide To A Nature-Rich Life." He shares research on the physical, mental, and academic benefits of time spent outdoors, while offering practical, affordable ways families can reconnect with nature. From backyard adventures to rethinking schools and cities, this conversation is a compelling call to get outside and rediscover the power of the natural world. Original air date 12 April 2016. The book was published on 12 April 2016.

Jeffrey Sonnenfeld: "Trump's Ten Commandments" 10.04.2026 22λ

Michael sits down with Yale University's Jeffrey Sonnenfeld to discuss his bestselling book "Trump's Ten Commandments: Strategic Lessons from the Trump Leadership Toolbox." Drawing on decades of firsthand observation, Sonnenfeld breaks down the management principles and communication strategies that define Donald Trump’s leadership style. The conversation explores whether Trump’s approach is instinctive or deliberate—and what it reveals about power, persuasion, and modern leadership. Original air date 9 April 2026. The book was released on 31 March 2026.

Mark Halperin & John Heilemann: "Double Down" 08.04.2026 36λ

From the archives from November of 2013, we revisit two revealing conversations with John Heilemann and Mark Halperin, co-authors of "Double Down: Game Change 2012," offering a behind-the-scenes look at the 2012 presidential campaign. From Mitt Romney’s uneasy path to the nomination to Barack Obama’s debate recovery—and the unforgettable convention moments featuring Clint Eastwood and Bill Clinton—the authors unpack the strategy, personalities, and pivotal decisions that shaped the race. It’s a candid exploration of modern campaigns, media coverage, and the human drama behind the headlines - and to listen to and relive it again over a decade later is quite something! Original air dates mid-November 2013. The book was published on 5 November 2013.

Seth Davis: "Wooden" 06.04.2026 14λ

Michael Smerconish sits down with Sports Illustrated senior writer Seth Davis to discuss his acclaimed biography "Wooden: A Coach’s Life." Davis offers a nuanced portrait of legendary UCLA coach John Wooden—exploring not just his unparalleled success on the court, but the complexities, pressures, and contradictions that shaped his life and legacy. From coaching philosophy to personal struggles, this conversation reveals the man behind the myth. Original air date 5 February 2014. The book was published on 14 January 2014.

David Pogue: "Apple" 02.04.2026 25λ

Michael Smerconish sits down with tech journalist and author David Pogue to explore Apple: The First 50 Years. From Steve Jobs’ unforgettable personality and bold decisions to little-known stories about Apple’s early days, Pogue shares behind-the-scenes insights into the company that reshaped modern life. The conversation covers iconic moments—from the iPhone launch to Apple’s legendary ads—while reflecting on innovation, design, and Apple’s enduring global influence. Original air date 2 April 2026. The book was published on 10 March 2026.

Christopher Kennedy Lawford: "What Addicts Know" 16.03.2026 42λ

Michael sits down with Christopher Kennedy Lawford to discuss "What Addicts Know: 10 Lessons from Recovery to Benefit Everyone." In this candid 2014 conversation, Lawford reflects on addiction, recovery, family tragedy, and the lessons recovery can offer far beyond substance abuse. The episode also features listener calls on alcoholism, marijuana, moderation, and the path to healing. The book was published in 2014. Original air date 23 January 2014.