Axios CEO Jim VandeHei on Optimism, Responsibility & Community

Axios CEO Jim VandeHei on Optimism, Responsibility & Community

In this episode of The Smerconish Podcast, Michael Smerconish is joined by Jim VandeHei, co-founder and CEO of Axios, to discuss VandeHei’s widely shared “Message to College Students.” His candid advice has gone viral for its tough love and optimism, urging young people to tune out the noise of toxic politics, social media doom scrolling, and fear-driven headlines — and instead recognize that “America rocks.”

Michael and Jim explore:

  • Why VandeHei believes America’s youth have been “duped” by media and algorithms.
  • The hidden truth about everyday Americans versus what we see online.
  • How investing in friendships and real-world community is more powerful than any app.
  • The role of personal responsibility in shaping your future.
  • Why the U.S. remains the most opportunity-rich nation on earth.

Jim VandeHei’s message is both a reality check and a call to action: stop letting fear dominate your outlook, build deep relationships, and engage meaningfully with your community. As he tells Michael: “Shame on us if we don’t figure this out. America has never had more opportunity.”

Whether you’re a student, a parent, or simply concerned about the nation’s future, this conversation offers perspective, hope, and practical steps to reclaim optimism in a time of division.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Avsnitt(1773)

Has The FCC's Media Regulation Outlived Its Purpose? Colbert's 'Equal Time' Flap, Explained

Has The FCC's Media Regulation Outlived Its Purpose? Colbert's 'Equal Time' Flap, Explained

Stephen Colbert says CBS lawyers pulled his interview with Texas state Rep. James Talarico over concerns about the FCC’s “Equal Time Rule.” So what exactly is that rule — and why is it suddenly back i...

19 Feb 35min

Today's Poll Question: Why--Or Why Not--Should The U.S. Strike Iran?

Today's Poll Question: Why--Or Why Not--Should The U.S. Strike Iran?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "The U.S. should strike Iran: a) To eliminate its nuclear capability, b) To change its leadership, c) Both, d) Neither." With U.S. aircraft carriers deployed a...

19 Feb 11min

Mark Halperin Ranks 2028 Democrats: Newsom #1, Shapiro Rising, AOC Slips?

Mark Halperin Ranks 2028 Democrats: Newsom #1, Shapiro Rising, AOC Slips?

Mark Halperin joins Michael to rank the top Democratic contenders for 2028 — and the results may surprise you. Why is Gavin Newsom leading the field? Is Josh Shapiro the real threat? Where do Kamala H...

18 Feb 30min

Today's Poll Question: Do you agree with Obama on Aliens?

Today's Poll Question: Do you agree with Obama on Aliens?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Do you agree with President Obama who says "The odds are good that there's life out there...but... the chances we've been visited by aliens is low"? After for...

18 Feb 14min

The Truth About SNAP: Who Decides What Low-Income Families Can Eat?

The Truth About SNAP: Who Decides What Low-Income Families Can Eat?

Five states have begun banning soda and candy purchases through SNAP — with 18 states seeking similar waivers. Is this smart public health policy or government overreach? Michael speaks with Dr. Juli...

17 Feb 26min

Today's Poll Question: Should Olympic athletes make political statements during the games?

Today's Poll Question: Should Olympic athletes make political statements during the games?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Should American Olympic athletes make political statements during the games?" As the Winter Games unfold in Milan-Cortina, several Team USA athletes are speak...

17 Feb 14min

Today's Poll Question: Is Donald Trump the Most Consequential President in 100 Years?

Today's Poll Question: Is Donald Trump the Most Consequential President in 100 Years?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Like him or not, is Donald Trump the most consequential president of the last hundred years?" On Presidents Day, Michael steps back from partisanship to exami...

16 Feb 15min

The SAVE Act Explained: Voting Security or Voter Suppression?

The SAVE Act Explained: Voting Security or Voter Suppression?

The House has passed the SAVE Act — a sweeping election reform bill that would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections. But what does that really mean? Michael Smerc...

13 Feb 28min

Populärt inom Politik & nyheter

motiv
aftonbladet-krim
rss-krimstad
p3-krim
fordomspodden
flashback-forever
spar
aftonbladet-daily
rss-viva-fotboll
blenda-2
rss-sanning-konsekvens
svenska-fall
rss-krimreportrarna
rss-frandfors-horna
rss-vad-fan-hande
olyckan-inifran
rss-flodet
rss-expressen-dok
dagens-eko
svd-dokumentara-berattelser-2