
Half Of America's Murderers Get Away With It
Michael is joined by New York Times reporter German Lopez to discuss his jaw-dropping report on America’s crime clearance rates — and the results will stun you. Nearly half of murders in the U.S. go unsolved. Why? From outdated priorities to resource shortages and a lack of public trust, they explore how America stacks up globally and why more technology isn’t translating into more justice. Then, Michael takes audience calls to hear their personal crime stories and reactions. Original air date 10 July 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
10 Juli 41min

$1000 Trump Accounts For Babies? Michael Smerconish Says No
Should every child born in the U.S. receive a $1,000 government contribution into a tax-free investment account? Michael dives into the new “Trump Account” policy and unpacks its roots in the progressive “baby bonds” idea. With insights from economist Derek Hamilton—who helped originate the concept—Michael explores whether this version helps close the wealth gap or actually makes it worse. A thought-provoking look at wealth inequality, public policy, and how political branding may shape our financial future. Listen to his thoughts here, then go vote at smerconish.com! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
10 Juli 17min

MLB Legend Jim Abbott’s Story Will Break You Open
In this deeply moving episode, Michael reunites with legendary one-handed MLB pitcher Jim Abbott, whose incredible journey is now the focus of the new ESPN documentary "SOUTHPAW". Abbott shares how he overcame bullying, physical limitations, and public doubt to throw a no-hitter for the New York Yankees—and become an icon of resilience. Hear how he inspired thousands of families, mentored kids with disabilities, and changed the way people think about adversity. Plus, callers share their own remarkable stories of triumph over hardship. A must-listen for anyone in need of some real-life inspiration. Original air date 9 July 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
9 Juli 31min

Should Pastors Pick Presidents? The IRS Just Changed the Rules
Michael dives into a hot-button issue with today's poll question at Smerconish.com: Should religious leaders be permitted to endorse political candidates in churches and other religious centers without losing their tax-exempt status? The IRS just made a quiet but potentially seismic shift — is this a free speech win or a threat to the separation of church and state? Plus, a look back at yesterday’s poll question results on the alarming study on the decline of children's health in America. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
9 Juli 14min

Inside the Texas Flood Crisis: National Weather Service Failures & Heartbreaking Stories
Michael speaks with New York Times reporter Christopher Flavelle about the tragic Texas floods that have claimed over 100 lives so far. They discuss critical staffing shortages at the National Weather Service that may have impacted warnings and emergency response. Then, Michael connects with Texans on the ground to hear their reactions and personal stories from the disaster. Join us as we explore whether this tragedy was preventable and what it reveals about extreme weather, government preparedness, and climate change. Original air date 7 July 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
8 Juli 31min

U.S. Kids Are Twice as Likely to Die—The Devastating Data No One’s Talking About
A new study conducted by a team at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals a deeply troubling reality: children in the United States are facing worse health outcomes than their peers in other high-income nations—across nearly every indicator. Michael Smerconish breaks down the findings with insight, urgency, and a bit of personal reflection. From chronic conditions and gun violence to mental health, poverty, and policy failures, this episode dives deep into why America is falling short. This is the premise for today's Daily Poll Question at Smerconish.com, which asks: Why do U.S. children have comparatively worse health outcomes? Listen here, then vote there! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
8 Juli 14min

Proud To Be An American: Michael Smerconish In 1985 vs. Today
Michael returns from vacation with a powerful reflection on patriotism in America—then and now. Sparked by a Gallup poll showing record-low pride in the U.S., he compares national data with his own take and responses from the audience. He also revisits a 1985 essay he wrote at age 23 about the American Dream—and unpacks how his perspective has changed over four decades. What does it mean to be “extremely proud” to be American today? And can the U.S. endure another 250 years? A must-listen conversation on national identity, generational divides, and the future of the American experiment. Original air date 7 July 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
7 Juli 29min

Preventable Disaster? Michael Smerconish on the Deadly Texas Storm
Michael Smerconish returns from vacation with a heavy heart, reflecting on the tragic Texas flood that left dozens dead—many of them children. Was it an unavoidable act of nature or a preventable catastrophe worsened by government staffing shortages and climate denial? Michael dives into today’s smerconish.com poll question, shares personal reflections on flash floods, and previews an important conversation with New York Times journalist Christopher Flavelle on the failures in weather forecasting. A sobering, thoughtful look at disaster response in a time of extreme weather. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
7 Juli 17min