We're Losing Touch with Nature — And It's Worse Than You Think
Are we forgetting nature? Michael speaks with Professor Miles Richardson, a leading expert on "nature connectedness" at the University of Derby. Richardson’s research shows a 60% drop in our connection to nature since 1800—reflected in everything from language to lifestyle. Together, they explore why children are growing up without a bond to the natural world, how urbanization plays a role, and what we can still do to reverse this hidden crisis. If you’ve ever loved a walk in the woods, this episode will make you think twice about how—and whether—that experience is being passed on. Original air date 13 August 2025.
25 Aug 29min
Live From The New Joint
Today’s episode marks a milestone over 30 years in the making. Michael Smerconish unveils his brand new studio—affectionately dubbed The New Joint—a space he’s envisioned for decades and finally brought to life. This isn’t just a backdrop for broadcasting; it’s the physical realization of a lifelong dream, built with purpose, precision, and a whole lot of personality. In this special episode, Michael takes you behind the scenes of The New Joint, guiding you through every detail of his long-envisioned studio—from lighting and layout to the personal touches that make it uniquely his. He shares the journey from dream to reality, reflecting on how the new space will enhance everything from daily poll segments to deep-dive conversations, while offering heartfelt thanks to the designers, contractors, artists, engineers, and friends who helped bring it to life. this episode offers a rare peek behind the mic—and a powerful reminder that dreams, even those 30 years in the making, can come true with patience, grit, and the right people by your side. Original air date 22 August 2025.
22 Aug 13min
California’s Political Earthquake: Is Redistricting Reform About to End?
Gerrymandering is bad. But self-sorting? It might be the silent force doing even more damage to American democracy. In today’s episode, Michael Smerconish dives into California’s surprising move to potentially dismantle its independent redistricting commission—a system once hailed as the national model for fairness and transparency. Why now? What’s driving this shift? Should California abandon its independent redistricting commission? Vote Now at Smerconish.com
22 Aug 11min
A Bad Day For World Peace
Michael reflects on what he calls a truly bad day for world peace. From Israel’s explosive expansion of West Bank settlements to Russia’s massive new strike on Ukraine, he connects the dots and explains why these developments may mark the death of the two-state solution and a dangerous new phase in global instability. Sobering, passionate, and essential listening...all starting with something he found as he began to unpack in his brand new studio. Original air date 21 August 2025.
21 Aug 29min
Too Left? Too Elitist?... Why Dems Are Hemorrhaging Voters
The numbers are in—and they’re brutal. In today’s episode, Michael Smerconish unpacks what the data reveals—and just as importantly, what it doesn’t. Democrats have lost ground to Republicans in every single state that tracks party registration—an eye-popping 4.5 million voter swing since 2020. Why are so many Americans abandoning the Democratic Party? Michael lays out six possible explanations. His choice is surprising; what's yours? Go cast your ballot at Smerconish.com.
21 Aug 10min
'Shambolic But Strategic’: Mark Halperin on Trump’s Ukraine Move
Listen to Mark's Next Up Podcast.
20 Aug 31min
Yes, Voting By Mail Is Secure
Is voting by mail secure? With President Trump vowing to ban it and bringing election integrity back in the spotlight, Michael explores the real data behind mail-in voting. From Civil War history to MIT studies to recent political firestorms, this episode breaks down what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what’s at stake for 2026 and 2028. Spoiler: The fraud rate is lower than your chances of getting struck by lightning.
20 Aug 15min
Could Trump Really Win the Nobel Peace Prize?
Could Donald Trump ever be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize? Michael speaks with with University of Agder Professor Dr. Øyvind Tønnesson, a former advisor to the Nobel Institute, for a provocative conversation about peace, politics, and character. With historical insight and sharp commentary, they debate whether Trump — even if he brokered peace in Ukraine — would ever be a viable candidate. An unmissable episode about power, perception, and the most prestigious prize on earth. Original air date 19 August 2025.
19 Aug 28min
