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Book Club with Michael Smerconish Profile

Book Club with Michael Smerconish

English, Literature, 1 season, 419 episodes, 5 days, 18 hours, 18 minutes
About
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.
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James B. Stewart: "Deep State"

Michael's conversation with James B. Stewart, the bestselling author of "Deep State: Trump, the FBI, and the Rule of Law." There are questions that the Mueller report couldn't—or wouldn't—answer. What actually happened to instigate the Russia investigation? Did President Trump’s meddling incriminate him? There’s no mystery to what Trump thinks. He claims that the Deep State, a cabal of career bureaucrats—among them, Andrew McCabe, Lisa Page, and Peter Strzok, previously little known figures within the FBI whom he has obsessively and publically reviled—is concerned only with protecting its own power and undermining the democratic process. Conversely, James Comey has defended the FBI as incorruptible apolitical public servants who work tirelessly to uphold the rule of law. Original air date 8 October 2019. The book was published on 8 October 2019.
10/21/202416 minutes, 32 seconds
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Larry Sabato: "The Kennedy Half Century"

UVA Professor Dr. Larry Sabato, author of "The Kennedy Half-Century: The Presidency, Assassination, and Lasting Legacy of John F. Kennedy." Because of his extraordinary promise and untimely death, JFK's star still resonates strongly. On the anniversary of his assassination, celebrated political scientist and analyst Larry J. Sabato-himself a teenager in the early 1960s and inspired by JFK and his presidency-explores the fascinating and powerful influence he has had over five decades on the media, the general public, and especially on each of his nine presidential successors. Original air date 18 October 2013. The book was published on 15 October 2013.
10/15/202414 minutes, 57 seconds
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Julie Hirschfeld Davis: "Border Wars"

Michael's conversation with Julie Hirschfeld Davis, co-author (with Michael D. Shear) of "Border Wars: Inside Trump's Assault on Immigration." Two New York Times Washington correspondents provide a detailed, “fact-based account of what precipitated some of this administration’s more brazen assaults on immigration” (The Washington Post) filled with never-before-told stories of this key issue of Donald Trump’s presidency. No issue matters more to Donald Trump and his administration than restricting immigration. Original air date 9 October 2019. The book was published on 8 October 2019.
10/11/202414 minutes, 34 seconds
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Admiral James Stavridis: "The Restless Wave"

From the New York Times bestselling former NATO commander comes a riveting historical novel that charts the coming-of-age of a gifted but immature young naval officer as he is tested in the crucible of World War II in the Pacific. Admiral James Stavridis is an acclaimed novelist, a decorated military leader, and a great student of military history. He draws on it all to capture the experience of being storm-tossed by the bloody first years of the Second World War. Scott Bradley James is a talented young officer, but he has a lot to learn. And war will have a lot to teach him. Listen to Michael's conversation with Admiral James Stavridis on the book "The Restless Wave: A Novel of the United States Navy." Original air date 9 October 2024. The book was published on 8 October 2024.
10/9/202422 minutes, 11 seconds
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Vince Papale: "Invincible"

Michael's conversation with Vince Papale on his autobiography, "Invincible: My Journey from Fan to NFL Team Captain." The true story of the NFL’s oldest rookie In 1976, Vince Papale was thirty, a former schoolteacher and part-time bartender, and a season ticket-holder for his beloved Philadelphia Eagles. When he heard that Coach Dick Vermeil was holding open tryouts, he decided to give it a shot. Shocking himself and the coaches, he ran an explosive 40-yard-dash in just 4.5 seconds — a world-class time — and was offered a contract on the spot. When he joined the team, Papale became the oldest non-kicking rookie in NFL history, a fan favorite who played for four years and was named a team captain. Original air date 3 August 2006. The book was published on 6 August 2003.
10/8/202419 minutes, 34 seconds
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Michael Scheuer: "Imperial Hubris"

From Michael's archives, his conversation with former CIA official Michael Scheuer, author of "Imperial Hubris: Why the West Is Losing the War on Terror." From the description written for the book: Though U.S. leaders try to convince the world of their success in fighting al Qaeda, one member of the U.S. intelligence community would like to inform the public that we are, in fact, losing the war on terror. Further, until U.S. leaders recognize the errant path they have irresponsibly chosen, he says, our enemies will only grow stronger. According to the author Michael Scheuer, the greatest danger for Americans confronting the Islamist threat is to believe—at the urging of U.S. leaders—that Muslims attack us for what we are and what we think rather than for what we do. Original air date 9 March 2005. The book was published on 1 June 2004.
10/1/202412 minutes, 21 seconds
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Dr. Marty Makary: "Blind Spots: When Medicine Gets It Wrong"

From Johns Hopkins medical expert Dr. Marty Makary, the New York Times-bestselling author of 'The Price We Pay'-an eye-opening look at the medical groupthink that has led to public harm, and what you need to know about your health. More Americans have peanut allergies today than at any point in history. Why? In 2000, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a strict recommendation that parents avoid giving their children peanut products until they're three years old. Getting the science perfectly backward, triggering intolerance with lack of early exposure, the US now leads the world in peanut allergies-and this misinformation is still rearing its head today. How could the experts have gotten it so wrong? Listen to his conversation with Michael about "Blind Spots: When Medicine Gets It Wrong, and What It Means for Our Health." Original air date 26 September 2024. The book was published on 17 September 2024.
9/27/202431 minutes, 42 seconds
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David Litt: "Democracy in One Book or Less"

Michael welcomes David Litt with his book "Democracy in One Book or Less: How It Works, Why It Doesn't, and Why Fixing It Is Easier Than You Think." The democracy you live in today is different—completely different—from the democracy you were born into. You probably don't realize just how radically your republic has been altered during your lifetime. Yet more than any policy issue, political trend, or even Donald Trump himself, our redesigned system of government is responsible for the peril America faces today. What explains the gap between what We, the People want and what our elected leaders do? How can we fix our politics before it's too late? And how can we truly understand the state of our democracy without wanting to crawl under a rock? That's what former Obama speechwriter David Litt set out to answer. Original air date 18 June 2020. The book was published on 16 June 2020.
9/23/202421 minutes, 31 seconds
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Melissa Fitzgerald & Mary McCormack: "What's Next"

Michael welcomes Melissa Fitzgerald & Mary McCormack, alumni of NBC's hit series "The West Wing," with their new book "What's Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, Its Cast and Crew, and Its Enduring Legacy of Service." Hear a behind-the-scenes look into the creation and legacy of The West Wing, with compelling insights exploring what made the show what it was and how its impassioned commitment to service has made the series and relationships behind it endure. Original air date 19 September 2024. The book was published on 13 August 2024.
9/19/202422 minutes, 48 seconds
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Bradley Tusk: "Vote With Your Phone"

Democracy is broken because the way we vote is broken. But there is a solution: Mobile Voting. Listen to Michael speak with Bradley Tusk, author of "Vote With Your Phone: Why Mobile Voting Is Our Final Shot at Saving Democracy." Original air date 16 September 2024. The book was published on 17 September 2024.
9/16/202419 minutes, 53 seconds
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Joe Navarro: "What Every BODY Is Saying"

Everyone is talking about the body language at the ABC News presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Michael gets some expertise from Joe Navarro, who literally wrote the book on the topic: "What Every Body Is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent's Guide to Speed-Reading People." He is a former FBI counterintelligence officer and a recognized expert on nonverbal behavior, explains how to "speed-read" people: decode sentiments and behaviors, avoid hidden pitfalls, and look for deceptive behaviors. You'll also learn how your body language can influence what your boss, family, friends, and strangers think of you. Original air date 12 September 2024. The book was published in 2008.
9/13/202418 minutes, 11 seconds
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Max Boot: "Reagan"

Son of the Midwest, movie star, and mesmerizing politician―America’s fortieth president comes to three-dimensional life in this gripping and profoundly revisionist biography. Michael talks to writer Max Boot, author of "Reagan: His Life and Legend, wherein he illuminates the untold story of Ronald Reagan, revealing the man behind the mythology. Boot draws on interviews with over one hundred of the fortieth president’s aides, friends, and family members, as well as thousands of newly available documents. Original air date 9 September 2024. The book was published on 10 September 2024.
9/9/202422 minutes, 15 seconds
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Dr. Laura Katz Olson: "Wrinkled Rebels"

Michael is an alum of Lehigh University, so he was thrilled to have this conversation with Dr. Laura Katz Olson, who has Distinguished Professor of Political Science at Lehigh University for 50 years - starting teaching in 1974. She's written the new novel, "Wrinkled Rebels." Now 80 years old, retirement and advanced age have dissipated the spirit of six college radicals of the 1960s, who jointly had participated in civil rights campaigns and anti-war protests. Having engaged in only periodic communication over the decades, they suddenly receive an invitation to reunite for an extended weekend. Struggling with whether to go, each of them has divergent qualms and expectations for the proposed gathering. Original air date 6 September 2024. The book was published on 23 July 2024.
9/6/202417 minutes, 25 seconds
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David Sanger: "New Cold Wars"

New Cold Wars: China's Rise, Russia's Invasion, and America's Struggle to Defend the West —the latest from the Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and bestselling author David E. Sanger—is a fast-paced account of America’s plunge into simultaneous confrontations with two very different adversaries. Listen to his conversation with Michael here. Original air date 29 August 2024. The book was published on 16 April 2024.
8/30/202415 minutes, 55 seconds
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Michael Lewis: "Going Infinite"

From the best-selling author of The Big Short and Flash Boys, the story of FTX’s spectacular collapse and the enigmatic founder at its center. When Michael Lewis first met him, Sam Bankman-Fried was the world’s youngest billionaire and crypto’s Gatsby. CEOs, celebrities, and leaders of small countries all vied for his time and cash after he catapulted, practically overnight, onto the Forbes billionaire list. Who was this rumpled guy in cargo shorts and limp white socks, whose eyes twitched across Zoom meetings as he played video games on the side? In Going Infinite Lewis sets out to answer this question, taking readers into the mind of Bankman-Fried, whose rise and fall offers an education in high-frequency trading, cryptocurrencies, philanthropy, bankruptcy, and the justice system. Listen to his conversation with Michael here, on "Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon." Original air date 26 August 2024. The book was published in October 2023, with the updated paperback version releasing on 27 August 2024.
8/26/202422 minutes, 52 seconds
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Charlotte Shane: "An Honest Woman"

Through the lens of her years spent as a sex worker, Charlotte Shane offers a provocative and tender reckoning of what it means to be a heterosexual woman and a feminist in a misogynistic society. Listen to her conversation with Michael on her new book "An Honest Woman: A Memoir of Love and Sex Work." Original air date 23 August 2024. The book was published on 13 August 2024.
8/23/202419 minutes, 21 seconds
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Valerie Bauerlein: "The Devil at His Elbow"

Power, privilege, and blood—this is the definitive and thrilling true story of Alex Murdaugh’s violent downfall, from a veteran Wall Street Journal reporter who has become an authority on the case. Listen to Michael's conversation with Valerie Bauerlein, author of "The Devil at His Elbow: Alex Murdaugh and the Fall of a Southern Dynasty." Original air date 20 August 2024. The book was published on 20 August 2024.
8/21/202424 minutes, 27 seconds
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Chris Matthews: "Tip and the Gipper"

Listen to Michael's conversation with Chris Matthews about "Tip and the Gipper: When Politics Worked".... a magnificent personal history of a time when two great political opponents served together for the benefit of the country. Matthews was an eyewitness to this story as a top aide to Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill, who waged a principled war of political ideals with President Reagan from 1980 to 1986. Together, the two men forged compromises that shaped America’s future and became one of history’s most celebrated political pairings—the epitome of how ideological opposites can get things done. Original air date 1 October 2013. The book was published on 1 October 2013.
8/19/202446 minutes, 36 seconds
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Jonathan Turley: The Indispensable Right"

A timely, revelatory look at freedom of speech—our most basic right and the one that protects all the others. Listen to Michael's conversation with GW Law Professor Jonathan Turley, author of "The Indispensable Right: Free Speech in an Age of Rage." Original air date 13 August 2024. The book was published on 18 July 2024.
8/13/202420 minutes, 26 seconds
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Mark Halperin: "How To Beat Trump"

Looking back at the 2020 presidential campaign, listen to his conversation Michael had with political analyst Mark Halperin, author of "How To Beat Trump: Americas Top Political Strategists on What It Will Take." Drawing on dramatic and illuminating war stories from presidential campaigns past, America’s top political operatives explain how to meet the daunting challenge of beating Trump, who is one of the most talented pure political campaigners in modern history. Original air date 29 October 2019. The book was published on 29 October 2019.
8/7/202444 minutes, 24 seconds
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Annie Jacobsen: "Nuclear War"

There is only one scenario other than an asteroid strike that could end the world as we know it in a matter of hours: nuclear war. And one of the triggers for that war would be a nuclear missile inbound toward the United States. Pulitzer Prize finalist Annie Jacobsen’s Nuclear War: A Scenario explores this ticking-clock scenario, based on dozens of exclusive new interviews with military and civilian experts who have built the weapons, have been privy to the response plans, and have been responsible for those decisions should they have needed to be made. Listen to her conversation with Michael now. Original air date 1 August 2024. The book was published on 26 March 2024.
8/2/202422 minutes, 7 seconds
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David Maraniss: "Rome 1960: The Olympics That Changed the World"

An account of the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome reveals the competition's unexpected influence on the modern world, in a narrative synopsis that pays tribute to such athletes as Cassius Clay and Wilma Rudolph while evaluating the roles of Cold War propaganda, civil rights, and politics. Enjoy this conversation Michael has with David Maraniss, author of "Rome 1960: The Olympics That Changed the World" with the backdrop of the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Original air date 21 July 2008. The book was published on 1 July 2008.
7/29/202412 minutes, 15 seconds
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William J. Kole: "The Big 100"

Journalist William J. Kole, reluctant but newly minted member of AARP, explores the looming era of super-aging—incredibly longer lifespans overall, and eight times more centenarians by the year 2050—through the lens of past, present, and future life at ages 50, 65, 80, and on to 100-plus. What happens to all of us when 65 is merely a life half-lived? Michael talks to him about his book "The Big 100: The New World of Super-Aging." Original air date 26 July 2024. The book was published on 3 October 2023.
7/26/202416 minutes, 43 seconds
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Nelson DeMille: "Wild Fire"

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Nelson DeMille comes a suspenseful new novel featuring Detective John Corey and an all-too-plausible conspiracy to detonate a nuclear bomb in two major American cities. Michael talks to him about "Wild Fire (A John Corey Novel, 4)". Welcome to the Custer Hill Club--an informal men's club set in a luxurious Adirondack hunting lodge whose members include some of America's most powerful business leaders, military men, and government officials. Ostensibly, the club is a place to gather with old friends, hunt, eat, drink, and talk off-the-record about war, life, death, sex and politics. But one Fall weekend, the Executive Board of the Custer Hill Club gathers to talk about the tragedy of 9/11 and what America must do to retaliate. Their plan is finalized and set into motion. Original air date 27 November 2006. The book was published on 6 November 2006.
7/19/202429 minutes, 47 seconds
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Amy Chozik: "Chasing Hillary"

The dishy, rollicking, and deeply personal story of what really happened in the 2016 election, as seen through the eyes of the New York Times reporter who gave eight years of her life to covering the First Woman President who wasn't. For a decade, award-winning New York Times journalist Amy Chozick chronicled Hillary Clinton’s pursuit of the presidency. Chozick’s front-row seat, initially covering Clinton’s imploding 2008 campaign, and then her assignment to “The Hillary Beat” ahead of the 2016 election, took her to 48 states and set off a nearly ten-years-long journey in which the formative years of her twenties and thirties became – both personally and professionally – intrinsically intertwined to Clinton’s presidential ambitions. Listen to her conversation with Michael here on the book "Chasing Hillary: Ten Years, Two Presidential Campaigns, and One Intact Glass Ceiling." Original air date 23 April 2018. The book was published on 24 April 2018.
7/18/202415 minutes, 49 seconds
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Joan Williams: "White Working Class: Overcoming Class Cluelessness in America"

Michael is joined by Joan Williams, Distinguished Professor of Law and Hastings Foundation Chair at University of California, in a chat about her book "White Working Class: Overcoming Class Cluelessness in America." Original air date 18 November 2019. The book was published on 16 May 2017.
7/12/202417 minutes, 17 seconds
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Amy Chua: "Political Tribes: Group Instinct and the Fate of Nations"

Michael invites lawyer and writer Amy Chua to join him in a conversation about Chua's thought-provoking book "Political Tribes: Group Instinct and the Fate of Nations." Original air date 23 February 2018. The book was published on 20 February 2018.
7/10/202412 minutes, 13 seconds
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Adam Buckman: "Jerk: How I Wasted My Life Watching Television"

Listen to Michael chat with author Adam Buckman in a conversation about his book "Jerk: How I Wasted My Life Watching Television." Original air date 22 July 2014. The book was published on 14 September 2014.
7/8/202419 minutes, 4 seconds
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Yair Zivan: "The Centre Must Hold"

Division in society. The spread of misinformation. The rise of extremism. Centrism holds the answers. Listen to Michael's conversation with Yair Zivan, editor of "The Centre Must Hold: Why Centrism is the Answer to Extremism and Polarisation." Original air date 2 July 2024. The book was published on 27 June 2024.
7/2/202415 minutes, 28 seconds
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Howard Blum: "When the Night Comes Falling"

The definitive, inside story of the Idaho murders from bestselling author Howard Blum, whose groundbreaking coverage of the story was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. Timed for a trial that will capture national attention, "When the Night Comes Falling: A Requiem for the Idaho Student Murders" examines the mysterious murders of the four University of Idaho students. Having covered this case from its start, Edgar award winning investigative reporter Howard Blum takes readers behind the scenes of the police manhunt that eventually led to suspected killer, Bryan Christopher Kohberger, and uncovered larger, lurid questions within this unthinkable tragedy. Listen to Blum's conversation with Michael now. Original air date 1 July 2024. The book was published on 25 June 2024.
7/1/202417 minutes, 4 seconds
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Lanny Davis: "The Unmaking of the President 2016"

A longtime Washington insider argues that former FBI Director James Comey’s letter to Congress, sent just before the presidential election in 2016 was a key determining factor in Trump’s win. Listen to Michael's conversation with attorney Lanny Davis, author of "The Unmaking of the President 2016: How FBI Director James Comey Cost Hillary Clinton the Presidency." Original air date 7 February 2018. The book was published on 6 February 2018.
6/26/202417 minutes, 37 seconds
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Dr. Anthony Fauci: "On Call"

Doctor Anthony Stephen Fauci is an American physician-scientist and immunologist who served as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases from 1984 to 2022, and the chief medical advisor to the president from 2021 to 2022. He joins Michael to discuss his new book "On Call: A Doctor's Journey in Public Service." Original air date 21 June 2024. The book was published 18 June 2024.
6/21/202425 minutes, 11 seconds
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Bakari Sellers: "My Vanishing Country"

What J. D. Vance did for Appalachia with Hillbilly Elegy, CNN analyst and one of the youngest state representatives in South Carolina history Bakari Sellers does for the rural South, in this important book that illuminates the lives of America’s forgotten black working-class men and women. Part memoir, part historical and cultural analysis, "My Vanishing Country: A Memoir" is an eye-opening journey through the South's past, present, and future. Listen to Michael's conversation from 22 May 2020. The book was published on 19 May 2020.
6/19/202415 minutes, 38 seconds
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Courtney Valenti on Jack Valenti's "This Time, This Place"

Jack Valenti, former special assistant to President Lyndon B. Johnson and former President of the Motion Picture Association of America, penned a memoir, but did not live to be able to talk about it when it was published. Therefore, Michael welcomed his daughter, Courtney Valenti, for a wonderful conversation on "This Time, This Place: My Life in War, the White House, and Hollywood." Mr. Valenti passed away in April 2007. Original air date 20 June 2007. The book was published on 15 May 2007.
6/12/202416 minutes, 7 seconds
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Joseph Rodota: "The Watergate"

Since its opening in 1965, the Watergate complex has been one of Washington's chicest addresses, a home to power brokers from both political parties and the epicenter of a scandal that brought down a president. In "The Watergate: Inside America's Most Infamous Address" writer and political consultant Joseph Rodota paints a vivid portrait of this landmark and the movers and shakers who have lived there. Listen to his conversation with Michael here. Original air date 23 February 2018. The book was published on 20 February 2018.
6/10/202415 minutes, 45 seconds
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Garrett Graff: "When the Sea Came Alive"

From New York Times bestselling author and Pulitzer Prize finalist Garrett Graff comes the most up-to-date and complete account of D-Day—the largest seaborne invasion in history and the moment that secured the Allied victory in World War II. Garrett joins Michael to talk about his new book "When the Sea Came Alive: An Oral History of D-Day." Original air date 5 June 2024. The book was published on 4 June 2024.
6/5/202416 minutes, 9 seconds
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Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr: "The Melting Point"

As the Commander of U.S. Central Command, General Frank McKenzie oversaw some of the most important — and controversial operations in modern U.S. military history. He had direct operational responsibility for the strikes on Qassem Soleimani and two successive leaders of ISIS, the many months of deterrence operations against Iran and its proxies, and the methodical drawdown in Iraq. He directed the noncombatant evacuation operation in Afghanistan, and our final withdrawal from that tortured country. Listen to his conversation with Michael about "The Melting Point: High Command and War in the 21st Century
6/3/202422 minutes, 54 seconds
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Tom Steyer: "Cheaper, Faster, Better"

Michael welcomes climate investor and activist Tom Steyer, author of "Cheaper, Faster, Better: How We’ll Win the Climate War." The climate is changing more rapidly than scientists predicted even a few years ago, with extreme weather already touching our everyday lives. At the same time, the clean energy revolution is forging ahead faster than nearly anyone anticipated. As Tom Steyer sees it, these two trends together create a moment like the one America faced during World War II: on the one hand, an existential threat calling for collective action; on the other, an opportunity to lead the world, protect the planet, and set the stage for a new generation of shared economic prosperity. Original air date 28 May 2024. The book was published on 28 May 2024.
5/29/202419 minutes, 22 seconds
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Ken Langone: "I Love Capitalism!"

Entrepreneur and New York legend Ken Langone tells the compelling story of how a poor boy from Long Island became one of America's most successful businessmen. A pillar of corporate America for decades, he's a co-founder of Home Depot, a former director of the New York Stock Exchange, and a world-class philanthropist. In this memoir he finally tells the story of his unlikely rise and controversial career. Listen to Michael's conversation with Ken Langone on the bestselling book "I Love Capitalism!: An American Story." Original air date 23 May 2018. The book was published on 15 May 2018.
5/22/202418 minutes, 5 seconds
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Bernie Kerik: "From Jailer to Jailed"

Michael's conversation with Bernard Kerik about his book "From Jailer to Jailed: My Journey from Correction and Police Commissioner to Inmate #84888-054." The controversial New York City police commissioner shares the story of his fall from grace and the effects of his incarceration on his views of the American justice system. Kerik was New York City’s police commissioner during the 9/11 attacks, and became an American hero as he led the NYPD through rescue and recovery efforts of the World Trade Center. His résumé as a public servant is long and storied, and includes receiving a Medal of Honor. In 2004, Kerik was nominated by George W. Bush to head the Department of Homeland Security. Now, he is a former Federal Prison Inmate known as #84888-054. Original air date 7 April 2015. The book was published on 31 March 2015.
5/20/202424 minutes, 21 seconds
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William McRaven: "Sea Stories"

Following the success of his #1 New York Times bestseller 'Make Your Bed', Admiral William H. McRaven is back with amazing stories of bravery and heroism during his career as a Navy SEAL and commander of America's Special Operations Forces. He talks to Michael about his book "Sea Stories: My Life in Special Operations." Original air date 21 May 2019. The book was published on 21 May 2019.
5/17/202417 minutes, 1 second
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Jeff Greenfield: "If Kennedy Lived"

From one of the country’s most brilliant political commentators, the bestselling author of Then Everything Changed, an extraordinary, thought-provoking look at Kennedy’s presidency—after November 22, 1963. On that day, JFK does not die. What would happen to his life, his presidency, his country, his world? Michael speaks with Jeff Greenfield about his book "If Kennedy Lived: The First and Second Terms of President John F. Kennedy: An Alternate History." Original air date 28 October 2013. The book was published on 22 October 2013.
5/15/202416 minutes, 39 seconds
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Mark Bowden: "Hue 1968"

The first battle book from Mark Bowden since his #1 New York Times bestseller Black Hawk Down, "Hue 1968: A Turning Point of the American War in Vietnam" is the story of the centerpiece of the Tet Offensive. With unprecedented access to war archives in the U.S. and Vietnam and interviews with participants from both sides, Bowden narrates each stage of this crucial battle through multiple viewpoints. Listen to his conversation with Michael, from 23 June 2017. The book was published on 6 June 2017.
5/13/202420 minutes, 40 seconds
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Greg Kaplan: "The Journey"

Rooted in humorous stories distilled with bits of sagely honest advice, The Journey goes beyond the well-chronicled college admissions madness and cuts to the core of parental angst with concrete suggestions for preparing children for a competitive and rapidly changing world. Listen to Michael's conversation with college admissions strategist Greg Kaplan, author of "The Journey: How to Prepare Kids for a Competitive and Changing World." Original air date 8 May 2024. The book was published on 7 May 2024.
5/10/202420 minutes, 41 seconds
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James Traub: "True Believer"

Is there "another 1968" full of protests coming our way this year, with Democrats convening in Chicago this summer to nominate their candidate for president? Michael talks to Historian James Traub, who recounts Hubert Humphrey’s role as a liberal hero of twentieth-century America in "True Believer: Hubert Humphrey's Quest for a More Just America." Original air date 6 May 2024. The book was published on 13 February 2024.
5/8/202420 minutes, 37 seconds
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Michael Smerconish: "Talk"

This is a special conversation we like to call a "Reverse Book Club." It is political commentator Mike Barnicle interviewing Michael about his own book, "Talk: A Novel" in front of a studio audience. The book is The Primary Colors of 2014- an explosive novel exposing the inner workings of conservative talk radio and campaign politics. Original air date 8 May 2014. The book was published on 6 May 2014.
5/6/202446 minutes, 43 seconds
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Michael Hayden: "The Assault on Intelligence"

Michael Hayden is a retired United States Air Force four-star general and former Director of the National Security Agency, Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, and Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. He joins the podcast to discuss his book: "The Assault on Intelligence: American National Security in an Age of Lies." Original air date 16 May 2018. The book was published 01 May 2018.
5/3/202417 minutes, 31 seconds
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Adam Grant: "Give and Take"

For generations, we have focused on the individual drivers of success: passion, hard work, talent, and luck. But today, success is increasingly dependent on how we interact with others. It turns out that at work, most people operate as either takers, matchers, or givers. Whereas takers strive to get as much as possible from others and matchers aim to trade evenly, givers are the rare breed of people who contribute to others without expecting anything in return. Listen to Michael's conversation with UPenn Wharton Professor Adam Grant, he is the school's youngest professor to ever achieve tenure, is top-rated by his students, and is author of "Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success." Original air date 26 April 2013. The book was published on 9 April 2013.
5/1/202415 minutes
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Scott Galloway: "The Algebra of Wealth"

A must-have guide to optimizing your life for wealth and success. Today's workers have more opportunities and mobility than any generation before. They also face unprecedented challenges, including inflation, labor and housing shortages, and climate volatility. Even the notion of retirement is undergoing a profound rethink, as our life spans extend and our relationship with work evolves. In this environment, the tried-and-true financial advice our parents followed no longer applies. It's time for a new playbook. NYU Professor Scott Galloway joins Michael with his new book, "The Algebra of Wealth: A Simple Formula for Financial Security." Original air date 29 April 2024. The book was published on 23 April 2024.
4/29/202422 minutes, 17 seconds
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Bill Giles: "Pouring Six Beers At A Time"

A hilarious, fascinating, and revealing view of the national pastime from the 1930's to the present, "Pouring Six Beers at a Time: And Other Stories from a Lifetime in Baseball" offers a treasure trove of stories by a man once dubbed the P. T. Barnum of Major League Baseball, Philadelphia Phillies Chairman emeritus Bill Giles. Michael spoke to him when he was chair of the club in 2007. Original air date 18 June 2007. The book was published on 1 April 2007.
4/24/202436 minutes, 2 seconds
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Dr. Debby Herbenick: "Yes, Your Kid"

There is a troubling trend happening in teenage sex. Michael talks to Indiana University Professor Dr. Debby Herbenick, Ph.D, co-author of "Yes, Your Kid: What Parents Need to Know About Today's Teens and Sex." Original air date 22 April 2024. The book was published on 14 November 2023.
4/22/202416 minutes, 16 seconds
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Charles Murray: "The Curmudgeon's Guide to Getting Ahead"

For those starting out in their careers—and those who wish to advance more quickly—this is a delightfully fussy guide to the hidden rules of the road in the workplace and in life. As bestselling author and social historian Charles Murray explains, at senior levels of an organization there are curmudgeons everywhere, judging your every move. Yet it is their good opinion you need to win if you hope to get ahead. He joins Michael to discuss "The Curmudgeon's Guide to Getting Ahead: Dos and Don'ts of Right Behavior, Tough Thinking, Clear Writing, and Living a Good Life." Original air date 10 April 2014. The book was published on 8 April 2014.
4/17/202412 minutes, 57 seconds
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Brad Wilcox: "Get Married"

What's the recipe for happiness? If you listen to liberal elites or red pill influencers, you'd say it's making money, living for yourself, and staying single without kids—and you'd be wrong. Nothing predicts happiness better than a good marriage. University of Virginia Professor Brad Wilcox joins Michael with his new book "Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization." Original air date 15 April 2024. The book was published on 13 February 2024.
4/15/202420 minutes, 13 seconds
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Jeffrey Zaslow: "The Last Lecture"

This is a special extended edition of Book Club. In 2008, Michael had the opportunity to speak with Wall Street Journal reporter Jeffrey Zaslow, co-author of "The Last Lecture" which he wrote with Carnegie Mellon Professor Randy Pausch. It focuses on a final lecture that many college professors give, except for Pausch, it was very real - he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. He passed away in July 2008, just months after the book was published. The first part of this conversation with Mr. Zaslow by phone, and then a couple months later, he joined Michael in studio after they spoke in front of a live audience at the Keswick Theatre in June 2008 about "The Last Lecture." Mr. Zaslow has since also passed away, in 2012. Original air date Spring/Summer 2008. The book was published on 8 April 2008.
4/10/202443 minutes, 57 seconds
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Arianna Huffington: "Thrive"

Michael talks to "Huffington Post" co-founder Arianna Huffington about her book "Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder." The best-selling author makes an impassioned and compelling case for the need to redefine what it means to be successful in today's world. Original air date 7 April 2014. The book was published on 25 March 2014.
4/8/202411 minutes, 8 seconds
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Julian Zelizer: "The Presidency of Barack Obama"

An original and engaging account of the Obama years from a group of leading political historians: Barack Obama's election as the first African American president seemed to usher in a new era, and he took office in 2009 with great expectations. But by his second term, Republicans controlled Congress, and, after the 2016 presidential election, Obama's legacy and the health of the Democratic Party itself appeared in doubt. In "The Presidency of Barack Obama: A First Historical Assessment", Princeton University Professor Julian Zelizer gathers leading American historians to put President Obama and his administration into political and historical context. Original air date 16 March 2018. The book was published on 13 March 2018.
4/6/202411 minutes, 22 seconds
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Pete Dexter: "Paper Trails"

Former Philadelphia Daily News columnist and National Book Award Winner Pete Dexter ("Paris Trout") speaks with Michael about his book "Paper Trails: True Stories of Confusion, Mindless Violence, and Forbidden Desires, a Surprising Number of Which Are Not About Marriage." Original air date February 2007. The book was published on 7 February 2007.
4/3/202420 minutes, 18 seconds
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Cass Sunstein: "Conspiracy Theories and Other Dangerous Ideas"

The most controversial essays from the bestselling author once called the most dangerous man in America—collected for the first time. The nation’s most-cited legal scholar who for decades has been at the forefront of applied behavioral economics, and the bestselling author of Nudge and Simpler, Cass Sunstein is one of the world’s most innovative thinkers in the academy and the world of practical politics. Listen to his conversation with Michael on "Conspiracy Theories and Other Dangerous Ideas." Original air date 1 April 2014. The book was published on 18 March 2014.
4/1/202416 minutes, 17 seconds
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Jennifer Weiner: "In Her Shoes"

Looking back at Jennifer Weiner who joined Michael to discuss her book "In Her Shoes." The book tells the story of two women with nothing in common but a childhood tragedy, shared DNA, and the same size feet. The two are about to learn that their family is more different than they ever imagined, and that they're more alike than they'd ever believe. Original air date 2002. The book was published September 17th 2002.
3/27/202414 minutes, 34 seconds
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Jonathan Haidt: "The Anxious Generation"

After more than a decade of stability or improvement, the mental health of adolescents plunged in the early 2010s. Rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide rose sharply, more than doubling on many measures. Why? Phone-based childhoods. Michael talks to social psychologist and bestselling author Jonathan Haidt, on his book "The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness." Original air date 25 March 2024. The book was published on 26 March 2024.
3/25/202423 minutes, 24 seconds
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Al Gore: "Inconvenient Truth"

Michael had the opportunity to speak with Former Vice President Al Gore on his WPHT radio program in 2006. The interview did not quite go as planned - he reminisces in this episode, on the book "Inconvenient Truth: The Planetary Emergency of Global Warming and What We Can Do About It." Original air date 2006, The book was published in 2006.
3/22/202413 minutes, 30 seconds
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Gabriel Sherman: "The Loudest Voice In The Room"

So much has happened in the world surrounding FOX News, Donald Trump, and Roger Ailes since the paperback version of this book by Gabriel Sherman came out in early 2017, including Ailes passing away just a few months later in May 2017. Listen to Michael's and Sherman's conversation about "The Loudest Voice in the Room: How the Brilliant, Bombastic Roger Ailes Built Fox News--and Divided a Country." Original air date 16 February 2017. The updated paperback version was published 14 February 2017, and the book was originally published in 2014.
3/20/202413 minutes, 55 seconds
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Nathan Raab: "The Hunt For History"

Nathan Raab, America’s preeminent rare documents dealer, describes his years as the Sherlock Holmes of historical artifacts—questing after precious finds and determining their authenticity—and he shows us what the past can tell us about the present, in "The Hunt for History: On the Trail of the World's Lost Treasures―from the Letters of Lincoln, Churchill, and Einstein to the Secret Recordings Onboard JFK's Air Force One." Original air date 11 March 2020. The book was published on 10 March 2020.
3/18/202415 minutes, 25 seconds
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Nicholas F. Jacobs & Dan Shea: "The Rural Voter"

The widening gulf between rural and urban America is becoming the most serious political divide of our day. Support for Democrats, up and down the ballot, has plummeted throughout the countryside, and the entire governing system is threatened by one-party dominance. Is the country splintering between two very different Americas―one rural, one urban? Michael talks to Colby College Professors Nicholas F. Jacobs and Daniel M. Shea, authors of "The Rural Voter: The Politics of Place and the Disuniting of America." Original air date 15 March 2024. The book was published on 21 November 2023.
3/15/202421 minutes, 37 seconds
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Admiral James Stavridis: "2054"

From the acclaimed authors of the runaway New York Times bestseller "2034" comes another explosive work of speculative fiction set twenty years further in the future, at a moment when a radical leap forward in artificial intelligence combines with America’s violent partisan divide to create an existential threat to the country, and the world. Retired US Navy Admiral James Stavridis, a long-time friend of the show, is co-author (with Elliot Ackerman) of "2054: A Novel." Original air date 12 March 2024. The book was published 12 March 2024.
3/13/202417 minutes, 25 seconds
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David Charter: "Royal Audience"

From the moment she first appeared as a young princess, Queen Elizabeth II fascinated the world. And, the late Queen had a special relationship with the United States. Times of London U.S. Editor David Charter joins Michael with his new book, "Royal Audience: 70 Years, 13 Presidents--One Queen's Special Relationship with America." Original air date 11 March 2024. The book was published on 5 March 2024.
3/11/202422 minutes, 54 seconds
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Richard Clarke: "Warnings"

"Warnings: Finding Cassandras to Stop Catastrophes" is the story of the future of national security, threatening technologies, the U.S. economy, and possibly the fate of civilization. In Greek mythology Cassandra foresaw calamities, but was cursed by the gods to be ignored. Modern-day Cassandras clearly predicted the disasters of Katrina, Fukushima, the Great Recession, the rise of ISIS, the spread of viruses and many more. Like the mythological Cassandra, they were ignored. Listen to Michael's conversation with former government national security official Richard Clarke. Original air date 8 June 2017. The book was published on 23 May 2017.
3/6/20249 minutes, 10 seconds
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Joe Nocera: "Indentured"

“How can the NCAA blithely wreck careers without regard to due process or common fairness? How can it act so ruthlessly to enforce rules that are so petty? Why won’t anybody stand up to these outrageous violations of American values and American justice?” In 2012, Joe Nocera asked those questions, and then in 2016, wrote this book, "Indentured: The Inside Story of the Rebellion Against the NCAA." And in the years since this book came out and this great conversation with Michael, some of the payment rules for college athletes eased up starting in 2021. Original air date 15 March 2016. The book was published on 16 February 2016.
3/4/202419 minutes, 40 seconds
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Nick Troiano: "The Primary Solution"

In a divided America, the biggest solvable problem fueling political extremism and dysfunction is hiding in plain sight: party primaries. The Primary Solution shows how to fix them. Michael talks to Nick Troiano, Executive Director of Unite America, on his book "The Primary Solution: Rescuing Our Democracy from the Fringes." Original air date 28 February 2024. The book was published on 27 February 2024.
2/28/202414 minutes, 40 seconds
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Peter Singer: "Ethics In The Real World"

Peter Singer is often described as the world's most influential philosopher. He is also one of its most controversial. Listen to Michael's conversation with the Professor of Bioethics at Princeton University, on the book, "Ethics In The Real World: 82 Brief Essays On Things That Matter." Original air date: 13 September 2016. The book was published 13 September 2016.
2/26/202420 minutes, 48 seconds
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Patti Davis: "Dear Mom and Dad"

A remarkably poignant writer for our troubled times, Patti Davis writes about love, loss, and the power of redemption in this poetic letter to her long-gone parents. The daughter of Ronald and Nancy Reagan talks to Michael about her book "Dear Mom and Dad: A Letter About Family, Memory, and the America We Once Knew." Original air date 22 February 2024. The book was published on 6 February 2024.
2/23/202420 minutes, 12 seconds
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Jeffrey Rosen: "The Pursuit of Happiness"

A fascinating examination of what “the pursuit of happiness” meant to our nation’s Founders and how that famous phrase defined their lives and became the foundation of our democracy. Listen to Michael's conversation with National Constitution Center President Jeffrey Rosen about "The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America." Original air date 21 February 2024. The book was published on 13 February 2024.
2/21/202415 minutes, 48 seconds
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Rachel Dolezal: "In Full Color"

What determines your race? Is it your DNA? The community in which you were raised? The way others see you or the way you see yourself? With "In Full Color: Finding My Place in a Black and White World", Rachel Doležal describes the path that led her from being a child of white evangelical parents to an NAACP chapter president and respected educator and activist who identifies as Black. Original air date 31 March 2017. The book was published on 28 March 2017.
2/16/202416 minutes, 59 seconds
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Peter Wehner: "The Death of Politics"

Michael speaks with Peter Wehner about his book "The Death of Politics: How to Heal Our Frayed Republic After Trump." The New York Times opinion writer, media commentator, outspoken Republican and Christian critic of the Trump presidency offers a spirited defense of politics and its virtuous and critical role in maintaining our democracy and what he believes we must do to save it before it is too late. Original air date 6 June 2019. The book was published on 4 June 2019.
2/14/202418 minutes, 44 seconds
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Lisa Scottoline: "Lady Killer"

New York Times Bestselling author Lisa Scottoline joins Michael with her 2008 hit novel "Lady Killer." Mary DiNunzio is a trademark Lisa Scottoline heroine—she's strong, she's smart, and she's got plenty of attitude. She's become a big-time business-getter, and the last person she expects to walk into her office one morning—in mile-high stilettos—is super sexy Trish Gambone, her high school rival. Mary is forced to confront some very uncomfortable truths about her own past, and the profound effects of lifelong love—and hate. Original air date 20 March 2008. The book was published on 19 February 2019.
2/13/202422 minutes, 45 seconds
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Lenore Skenazy: "Free-Range Kids"

Free Range Kids has become a national movement, sparked by the incredible response to Lenore Skenazy's piece about allowing her 9-year-old ride the subway alone in NYC. Parent groups argued about it, bloggers, blogged, spouses became uncivil with each other, and the media jumped all over it. Michael and Lenore revisit her book "Free-Range Kids, Giving Our Children the Freedom We Had Without Going Nuts with Worry." Original air date 3 May 2023. The book was published on 20 April 2009.
2/9/202416 minutes, 39 seconds
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Jeffrey Toobin: "American Heiress"

On February 4, 1974, Patty Hearst, a sophomore in college and heiress to the Hearst Family fortune, was kidnapped by a ragtag group of self-styled revolutionaries calling itself the Symbonese Liberation Army. The weird turns that followed in this already sensational take are truly astonishing--listen to bestselling author Jeffrey Toobin talking to Michael about "American Heiress: The Wild Saga of the Kidnapping, Crimes and Trial of Patty Hearst." The book portrays the electrifying lunacy of the time and the toxic mic of sex, politics, and violence that swept up Patty Hearst and captivated the nation. Original air date: 18 August 2016. The book was published: 2 August 2016.
2/7/202422 minutes, 36 seconds
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Dr. Carl Hart: "Drug Use For Grown-Ups"

From one of the world's foremost experts on the subject, a powerful argument that the greatest damage from drugs flows from their being illegal, and a hopeful reckoning with the possibility of their use as part of a responsible and happy life. Michael talks with Dr. Carl Hart, Professor at Columbia University, about his book "Drug Use for Grown-Ups: Chasing Liberty in the Land of Fear."
2/5/202420 minutes, 6 seconds
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Richard Louv: "Last Child in the Woods"

Our kids are being raised disconnected from natural outdoor environments, for a variety of reasons like technology addictions, fears and dangers of being alone outside and many more. Michael welcomes Richard Louv, author of "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder." As children’s connections to nature diminish and the social, psychological, and spiritual implications become apparent, Mr. Louv highlights that new research shows that nature can offer powerful therapy for such maladies as depression, obesity, and attention deficit disorder. Original air date June 2007. The book was originally published on 15 April 2005.
2/2/202421 minutes, 20 seconds
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Kate Andersen Brower: "First Women"

Kate Andersen Brower, New York Times bestselling author, gives us an an intimate, news-making look at the true modern power brokers at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue: the First Ladies, from Jackie Kennedy to Michelle Obama and Melania Trump. Listen to Michael's conversation with her on "First Women: The Grace and Power of America's Modern First Ladies." Original air date 21 April 2016. The book was published on 12 April 2016.
1/31/202417 minutes, 48 seconds
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Bob Woodward: "State of Denial"

From the archives, Michael's conversation with journalist Bob Woodward on his #1 New York Times Bestselling book "State of Denial: Bush At War", which examines how the George W. Bush administration avoided telling the truth about Iraq to the public, to Congress, and often to themselves. This conversation is from 2006, around when the book was published.
1/29/202412 minutes, 51 seconds
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Ronald Granieri: "The Bondian Cold War"

Michael attended a talk at the Union League of Philadelphia called "James Bond Beyond The Cold War" and so enjoyed what he heard that he welcomed Dr. Ronald Granieri in for a conversation on the book he has co-authored, "The Bondian Cold War (Routledge Studies in Espionage and Culture)." Original air date 26 January 2024. The book was published on 1 September 2023.
1/26/202417 minutes, 34 seconds
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Sal Paolantonio: "How Football Explains America"

A fascinating, first-of-its-kind journey through the making of America's most complex, intriguing, and popular game. Michael's conversation with ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio, who explores just how crucial football is to understanding the American psyche. Original air date 16 September 2008. The book was published on 1 September 2008.
1/24/202422 minutes, 18 seconds
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P.J. O'Rourke: "The Baby Boom"

Longtime journalist and satirist P.J. O'Rourke with Michael on his book "The Baby Boom: How It Got That Way...And It Wasn't My Fault...And I'll Never Do It Again..." Mr. O'Rourke passed away in February 2022. Original air date 28 January 2014. The book was published on 07 January 2014.
1/22/202416 minutes, 50 seconds
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Seth Stephens-Davidowitz: "Who Makes the NBA?"

Height? Skill? Wealth? What is the most useful trait when looking to become an NBA player. Seth Stephens-Davidowitz joins Michael to discuss this question in his new book: "Who Makes the NBA?: Data-Driven Answers to Basketball's Biggest Questions." Original air date 19 January 2024. The book was published December 8 2023.
1/19/202414 minutes, 36 seconds
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Mitt Romney: "No Apology"

It was just before he decided to run for President in the 2012 cycle: Listen to Michael's conversation with former Governor & Senator Mitt Romney, on his book "No Apology: The Case for American Greatness." Original air date 6 April 2010. The book was published on 2 March 2010.
1/17/202413 minutes, 16 seconds
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Jack Lucas: "Indestructible"

Veteran Jack Lucas, who served in the Marines during World War 2 joins Michael to discuss his book "Indestructible: The Unforgettable Story of a Marine Hero at the Battle of Iwo Jima." Original air date 21 May 2007. The book was published 1 May 2006.
1/12/202411 minutes, 16 seconds
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Brad Meltzer: "I Am Ruth Bader Ginsburg"

Bestselling author Brad Meltzer joins Michael to discuss his new book "I Am Ruth Bader Ginsburg" which is part of his award-winning 'Ordinary People Change The World' series. Original air date 8 January 2024. The book was published on 9 January 2024.
1/8/202422 minutes, 11 seconds
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Annie Duke: "Thinking In Bets"

Decision strategist, professional poker champion and author Annie Duke joins Michael to discuss her life, career, and book "Thinking In Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don't Have All the Facts." Original air date: 09 February 2018. The book was published on 6 February 2018.
1/5/202426 minutes, 15 seconds
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Ted Gup: "Nation of Secrets"

Journalist and bestselling author Ted Gup writes on a broad range of American institutions, exposing how and why they keep secrets from the very people they are supposed to serve. Drawing on original reporting and startling analysis, Gup argues that a preoccupation with secrets has undermined the very values—security, patriotism, privacy, the national interest—in whose name secrecy is so often invoked. Listen to his conversation with Michael on his book "Nation of Secrets: The Threat to Democracy and the American Way of Life." Original air date 29 May 2007. The book was published on 29 May 2007.
1/3/202412 minutes, 14 seconds
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Maya Angelou: Letter To My Daughter

Winding back the clock, today's book club podcast Michael is joined by Maya Angelou an American memoirist, poet, and civil rights activist. She discusses her book "Letter To My Daughter." Original Air Date: September 2008. The book was published on 23 September 2008.
12/29/20237 minutes, 21 seconds
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Admiral William McRaven: "The Hero Code"

From the acclaimed, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Make Your Bed—a short, inspirational book about the qualities of true, everyday heroes. Listen to Michael talk to Admiral William McRaven about "The Hero Code: Lessons Learned from Lives Well Lived." Original air date 15 April 2021. The book was published on 13 April 2021.
12/25/202315 minutes, 57 seconds
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Jane Leavy: "The Big Fella"

Listen to Michael's conversation with Jane Leavy, the award-winning, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Boy and Sandy Koufax, author of "The Big Fella: Babe Ruth and the World He Created" - the definitive biography of Babe Ruth—the man Roger Angell dubbed "the model for modern celebrity." Original air date 14 December 2018. The book was published on 16 October 2018.
12/18/202324 minutes, 39 seconds
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Phil Lesh: "Searching For The Sound"

The Grateful Dead is one of Michael's favorite bands - listen to his conversation with legendary bass player Phil Lesh, on his book "Searching for the Sound: My Life with the Grateful Dead." Original air date April 2006. The book was published on 25 April 2006.
12/15/202311 minutes, 51 seconds
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Liz Cheney: "Oath and Honor"

Liz Cheney served as a member of Congress from 2017 to 2023, rising to chair the House Republican Conference until her stand against the January 6th insurrection caused her party to strip away that role, and led to her defeat in the 2022 primary election. An attorney and national security specialist, Cheney previously worked in Eastern Europe, Russia, Ukraine and the Middle East while serving in the State Department during the George W. Bush and George H.W. Bush administrations.
12/13/202317 minutes, 31 seconds
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Chip Colwell: "Stuff"

Michael is joined by American anthropologist and author Chip Colwell to discuss his new book: Stuff: Humanity's Epic Journey from Naked Ape to Nonstop Shopper. Original air date 11 December 2023. The book was published on 16 November 2023.
12/11/202312 minutes, 25 seconds
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Melissa Rivers: Joan Rivers Confidential

Comedian Joan Rivers passed away in 2014. In 2018, her daughter published this great book "Joan Rivers Confidential: The Unseen Scrapbooks, Joke Cards, Personal Files, and Photos of a Very Funny Woman Who Kept Everything." Listen to Michael's conversation with Melissa Rivers, right as the MeToo movement was underway, and what would her mom have said about it? Original air date 11 January 2018. The book was published on 24 September 2017.
12/8/202315 minutes, 18 seconds
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Buz Teacher: "Among Friends"

An incredible homage to the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of the book business in the 20th century. Book publisher Buz Teacher, co-founder of Running Press, joins Michael to discuss his new book "Among Friends: An Illustrated Oral History of American Book Publishing and Bookselling in the 20th Century." Original Air Date 06 December 2023. The book was published on 23 September 2023.
12/6/202319 minutes, 16 seconds
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Jack Bogle: "The Battle for the Soul of Capitalism"

How the American financial system lost its way, and how it can right its course...from deep in Michael's archives, a conversation with the founder and former CEO of Vanguard Jack C. Bogle, on his book "The Battle for the Soul of Capitalism." Mr. Bogle passed away in 2019. Original air date 8 November 2005. The book was published on 1 November 2005.
12/4/202316 minutes, 19 seconds
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Angelo Cataldi: "Loud"

Legendary Philadelphia sports talk radio host Angelo Cataldi, now retired, is out with a great new book and joins Michael to talk about "Angelo Cataldi: LOUD: How a Shy Nerd Came to Philadelphia and Turned up the Volume in the Most Passionate Sports City in America." Original air date 30 November 2023. The book was published on 28 November 2023.
12/1/202323 minutes, 39 seconds
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Arnold Schwarzenegger: "Total Recall"

From his days on local radio in Philadelphia, Michael spoke with former California Governor and Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger about the news of the day (2012 election, remember Mitt Romney's campaign?), and his book "Total Recall: My Unbelievably True Life Story." Also in the conversation are TC, and Michael's former producer at WPHT Greg Stocker. Original air date 8 October 2012. The book was published on 1 October 2012.
11/29/202320 minutes, 3 seconds
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Adam Nagourney: "The Times"

Michael has to physically touch the New York Times every day. The newsprint in his hands - its the only paper he has a copy of. It's a newspaper that has seen massive changes over the past four decades. Listen to Adam Nagourney, National Political Reporter for the Times, talk about his book "The Times: How the Newspaper of Record Survived Scandal, Scorn, and the Transformation of Journalism." Original air date 21 November 2023. The book was published on 26 September 2023.
11/27/202320 minutes, 45 seconds
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Jimmy Carter: "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid"

Michael's conversation with former President Jimmy Carter on his book "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid." The conversation is followed up by reaction from Harvard Professor Alan Dershowitz, who has differing opinions than President Carter - an interesting listen nearly 20 years later. Original air date 30 November 2006. The book was published on 16 November 2006.
11/24/202315 minutes, 20 seconds
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Jesse Ventura: "They Killed Our President"

Quite the conversation here from the archives: In October 2013 just before the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy Assassination, Michael hosted former MN Governor Jesse Ventura in front of a live studio audience in New York, on his new book "They Killed Our President: 63 Reasons to Believe There Was a Conspiracy to Assassinate JFK." Original air date 1 October 2013. The book was published on 1 January 2013.
11/22/202319 minutes, 52 seconds
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Brian Stelter: "Network Of Lies"

Michael is joined by journalist and author, Brian Stelter to discuss his new book "Network of Lies: The Epic Saga of Fox News, Donald Trump, and the Battle for American Democracy." It tells the story of how Fox News paid almost a billion dollars in legal settlements to bury the contents of this explosive account of the network’s attempts to manipulate the truth. Original air date: 16 November 2023. The book was published on 14 November 2023.
11/20/202315 minutes, 17 seconds
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Garrett Graff: "UFO"

Michael welcomes New York Times bestselling author and Pulitzer Prize finalist Garrett M. Graff with his new book, "UFO: The Inside Story of the US Government's Search for Alien Life Here―and Out There." Listen to this interview about the first comprehensive and eye-opening exploration of our government’s decades-long quest to solve one of humanity’s greatest mysteries: Are we alone in the universe? Original air date 15 November 2023. The book was published on 14 November 2023.
11/17/202322 minutes, 34 seconds
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David Brooks: "How To Know A Person"

Bestselling author and New York Times Columnist David Books joins the podcast to discuss his new book "How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen," which pulls from his own observations and research and dives into the topic of human connection and its importance in today's society. Original Air Date 14 November 2023. The book was published on 24 October 2023.
11/15/202322 minutes, 8 seconds
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Jim McGreevey: "The Confession"

Former New Jersey Governor James E. McGreevey, who in 2004 came out as gay and resigned from office, is back in the news, now announcing (in November 2023) that he is running for Mayor of Jersey City, NJ. In 2006, Michael spoke with him about his candid memoir, "The Confession." The book was published on 19 September 2006.
11/13/202335 minutes, 55 seconds
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Nelson DeMille: "Blood Lines"

Michael talks with New York Times bestselling author author Nelson DeMille on his new novel "Blood Lines." The story features the return of Army CID Special Agents Brodie and Taylor who are on the hunt for the cold-blooded murderer of one of their fellow agents. Original air date 10 November 2023. The book was published on 10 October 2023.
11/10/202317 minutes, 2 seconds
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Robert Rubin: "The Yellow Pad"

Michael talks with Robert Rubin, former secretary of the Treasury and co-chairman of Goldman Sachs, on his book "The Yellow Pad: Making Better Decisions in an Uncertain World." Original air date 7 November 2023. The book was published on 16 May 2023.
11/7/202316 minutes, 58 seconds
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Ralph Nader: " Unstoppable"

Michael talks to former presidential candidate Ralph Nader about his book "Unstoppable: The Emerging Left-Right Alliance to Dismantle the Corporate State," wherein he argues of the dangers that a politically divided America can bring. Original air date 23 March 2014. The book was published on 29 April 2014.
11/3/202315 minutes, 32 seconds
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Jeffrey Rosen: "Conversations with RBG"

Michael Smerconish talks with Jeffery Rosen, President& CEO of the National Constitution Center. His book about the life and career of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is "Conversations with RBG: Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Life, Love, Liberty, and Law." This conversation happened almost a hear before Justice Ginsburg passed away, she died in September 2020. Original air date 6 November 2019. The book was published on 5 November 2019.
11/1/202318 minutes, 11 seconds
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McKay Coppins: "Romney"

A remarkably illuminating biography of one of America’s most fascinating political figures—including news-making revelations from Mitt Romney himself about dissension within today’s Republican Party—written with his full cooperation by an award-winning writer at The Atlantic. Michael welcomes McKay Coppins for a conversation on "Romney: A Reckoning." Original air date 27 October 2023. The book was published on 24 October 2023.
10/30/202317 minutes, 36 seconds
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Frances Haugen: "The Power Of One"

Michael's conversation with the Facebook Whistleblower, Frances Haugen, on her book "The Power of One: How I Found the Strength to Tell the Truth and Why I Blew the Whistle on Facebook." Original air date 26 October 2023. The book was published on 13 June 2023.
10/27/202317 minutes
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Mike Huckabee: "God, Guns, Grits, and Gravy"

Former Governor Mike Huckabee (R-AR) asks, "Have I been taken to a different planet than the one on which I grew up?" The New York Times bestselling author explores today's fractious American culture, where divisions of class, race, politics, religion, gender, age, and other fault lines make polite conversation dicey, if not downright dangerous. Listen to Michael's conversation with him on his book "God, Guns, Grits, and Gravy." Original air date 27 January 2015. The book was published on 20 January 2015.
10/25/202316 minutes, 45 seconds
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Robert Sapolsky: "Determined: A Science of Life without Free Will"

One of our great behavioral scientists, the bestselling author of "Behave", plumbs the depths of the science and philosophy of decision-making to mount a devastating case against free will, an argument with profound consequences. Listen to Michael's conversation with Stanford University Professor of biology and neurolgy Dr. Robert M. Sapolsky, author of "Determined: A Science of Life without Free Will." Original air date 19 October 2023. The book was published on 17 October 2023.
10/23/202320 minutes, 11 seconds
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Melissa DeRosa: "What's Left Unsaid"

One of the most powerful women in New York State government history shares her gripping and candid story for the first time - Melissa DeRosa became a household name as an aide to then-New York Governor Andrew Cuomo when he was thrust onto the national stage during COVID. She joins Michael with her memoir "What's Left Unsaid: My Life at the Center of Power, Politics & Crisis." Original air date 20 October 2023. The book was published on 24 October 2023.
10/20/202316 minutes, 21 seconds
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Khizr Khan: "An American Family"

He was a captivating speaker at the 2016 Democratic National Convention - and he wrote a captivating book. Hear Michael speak with Khizr Khan, on "An American Family: A Memoir of Hope and Sacrifice." Original air date 27 October 2017. The book was published on 24 October 2017.
10/18/202321 minutes, 53 seconds
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Greg Lukianoff: "The Canceling of the American Mind"

As companies are refusing to hire prospective employees who are voicing their opinions against Israel defending itself against the terrorist attacks from Hamas, its a perfect time for a conversation with Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) President & CEO Greg Lukianoff, co-author of "The Canceling of the American Mind: Cancel Culture Undermines Trust and Threatens Us All―But There Is a Solution." Original air date 12 October 2023. The book was published on 17 October 2023.
10/16/202318 minutes, 44 seconds
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Ben Bradlee, Jr: "The Forgotten"

Hear how voters in Luzerne County, PA, a pivotal county in a crucial swing state, came to feel like strangers in their own land, and after voting democratic for decades...flipped. Michael talks to Ben Bradlee, Jr on his book "The Forgotten: How the People of One Pennsylvania County Elected Donald Trump and Changed America." Original air date 30 October 2023. The book was published on 2 October 2018.
10/13/202313 minutes, 59 seconds
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Senator Doug Jones: "Bending Toward Justice"

Senator Doug Jones (D-AL) prosecuted the last of the living bombers of the 1963 Birmingham church bombing. He talks about it with Michael in his book "Bending Toward Justice: The Birmingham Church Bombing that Changed the Course of Civil Rights." Original air date 4 March 2019. The book was published on 5 March 2019.
10/11/202314 minutes, 59 seconds
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Dr. Morris Fiorina: "Unstable Majorities"

Partisan politics, gridlock, incivility, division. All negative words - but there is hope. Listen to Michael's conversation with Stanford University's Dr. Morris Fiorina, author of "Unstable Majorities: Polarization, Party Sorting, and Political Stalemate." Original air date 9 April 2020. The book was published on 1 November 2017.
10/10/202317 minutes, 7 seconds
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Aurelian Craiutu: "Why Not Moderation?"

Michael talks with Indiana University Political Science Professor Aurelian Craiutu, author of "Why Not Moderation?: Letters to Young Radicals." Original air date 6 October 2023. The book was published on 12 October 2023.
10/6/202313 minutes, 40 seconds
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Scott Stankavage: "The QB Mentor"

Michael's conversation with Scott Stankavage, author of "The QB Mentor: Words of Wisdom From an NFL Veteran For An Injured Quarterback That Can Improve Your Life and Career." Original air date 15 March 2016. The book was published on 1 January 2016.
10/5/202319 minutes, 49 seconds
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David Bianculli: The Platinum Age of Television

With the 2023 Hollywood writers strike in the rear view mirror, its the perfect time to listen to David Bianculli on his book "The Platinum Age of Television: From I Love Lucy to The Walking Dead, How TV Became Terrific." Original air date 21 November 2016. The book was published on 15 November 2016.
10/2/202318 minutes, 11 seconds
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Diane Dimond: "We're Here To Help"

Michael talks to author Diane Dimond about her new book "We're Here to Help: When Guardianship Goes Wrong." Original air date 29 September 2023. The book was published on 19 September 2023.
9/29/202318 minutes, 30 seconds
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Brian Grazer: "Face To Face"

Hollywood producer and bestselling author Brian Grazer on his book "Face to Face: The Art of Human Connection." Original air date 20 September 2019. The book was published on 17 September 2019.
9/27/202317 minutes, 29 seconds
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John Kasich: "It's Up To Us"

Michael's conversation with former Governor of Ohio, John Kasich, author of "It's Up to Us: Ten Little Ways We Can Bring About Big Change." Original air date 17 October 2019. The book was published on 15 October 2019.
9/25/202316 minutes, 26 seconds
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Matt Taibbi: "Insane Clown President"

Michael's conversation with Rolling Stone's Matt Taibbi, author of "Insane Clown President: Dispatches from the 2016 Circus." Original air date 18 January 2017. The book was published on 17 January 2017.
9/22/202311 minutes, 12 seconds
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Sheila Johnson: "Walk Through Fire"

She is the co-founder of BET and America's first African American female billionaire - listen to Michael's conversation with Sheila Johnson, on her book "Walk Through Fire: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Triumph." Original air date 19 September 2023. The book was published on 19 September 2023.
9/20/202316 minutes, 9 seconds
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David Fajgenbaum: "Chasing My Cure"

The powerful memoir of a young doctor and former college athlete diagnosed with a rare disease who spearheaded the search for a cure—and became a champion for a new approach to medical research. Michael talks to David Fajgenbaum, author of "Chasing My Cure: A Doctor's Race to Turn Hope into Action; A Memoir."
9/18/202314 minutes, 53 seconds
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Aaron David Miller: "The End Of Greatness"

Michael talks with Aaron David Miller, author of "The End of Greatness: Why America Can't Have (and Doesn't Want) Another Great President." The End of Greatness explores the concept of greatness in the presidency and the ways in which it has become both essential and detrimental to America and the nation's politics. Original air date 14 October 2014. The book was published on 7 October 2014.
9/15/202314 minutes, 53 seconds
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Ashton Applewhite: "This Chair Rocks"

You're never too old to listen to a great conversation - Michael talks with author and activist Ashton Applewhite, about "This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism." Original air date 8 September 2016. The book was published in 2016.
9/13/202330 minutes, 39 seconds
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Gerald Posner: "Case Closed"

In 2013, Michael spoke with Gerald Posner on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy - he's author of the 1993 book "Case Closed: Lee Harvey Oswald and the Assassination of JFK." Original air date 15 November 2023. The book was published in 1993 and republished in paperback on 9 September 2003.
9/11/202318 minutes, 20 seconds
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Franklin Foer: "The Last Politician"

Michael talks with Franklin Foer, writer at The Atlantic, about his new book "The Last Politician: Inside Joe Biden's White House and the Struggle for America's Future." Original air date 7 September 2023. The book was published on 5 September 2023.
9/8/202319 minutes, 46 seconds
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Caveat Magister: "The Scene That Became Cities" (Burning Man)

Michael talks to Benjamin Wachs, who under the pen name Caveat Magister is the author of "The Scene That Became Cities: What Burning Man Philosophy Can Teach Us about Building Better Communities." Michael spoke to him on the occasion of Burning Man 2023. Original air date 5 September 2023. The book was published on 25 June 2019.
9/6/202320 minutes, 42 seconds
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Nelson Schwartz: "The Velvet Rope Economy"

A gripping investigation into how a virtual velvet rope divides Americans in every arena of life. Michael talks to New York Times business reporter Nelson D. Schwartz about his book "The Velvet Rope Economy: How Inequality Became Big Business." Original air date 10 March 2020. The book was published on 3 March 2020.
9/1/202318 minutes
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Dr. Avi Loeb: "Interstellar"

Harvard University astrophysicist Dr. Avi Loeb breaks news that metallic spheres found on the floor of the Pacific Ocean are interstellar in origin, on the same day that he releases his new book "Interstellar: The Search for Extraterrestrial Life and Our Future in the Stars." Original air date 29 August 2023. The book was released on 29 August 2023.
8/29/202318 minutes, 38 seconds
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Carter Malkasian: "The American War in Afghanistan"

Michael's conversation with Carter Malkasian, the Special Assistant for Strategy to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, eneral Joseph Dunford, from 2015 to 2019. His book is "The American War in Afghanistan: A History" - the first comprehensive history of America's longest war. Original air date 8 July 2021. The book was published on 1 July 2021.
8/28/202317 minutes, 48 seconds
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Saul Austerlitz: "Kind of a Big Deal"

One of the most iconic comedies to hit the big screen in the last 20 years, "Anchorman" - is worthy of the full treatment of a great book. Michael welcomes NYU Professor Saul Austerlitz, author of "Kind of a Big Deal: How Anchorman Stayed Classy and Became the Most Iconic Comedy of the Twenty-First Century." Original air date 25 August 2023. The book was published on 22 August 2023.
8/25/202322 minutes, 54 seconds
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Billy Walters: Gambler

The wild and highly anticipated autobiography of Billy Walters—“the greatest and most controversial sports gambler ever” (ESPN)—who shares his extraordinary life story, reveals the secrets to his fiercely protected betting system, and breaks his silence about Phil Mickelson. Listen to Michael's conversation with him here. Original air date 22 August 2023. The book was published on 22 August 2022.
8/23/202318 minutes, 56 seconds
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Ron Lieber: The Price You Pay For College

Are your kids heading to college? Or planning to in the future? This is a must-listen - Michael's conversation with NY Times columnist Ron Lieber, author of "The Price You Pay for College: An Entirely New Road Map for the Biggest Financial Decision Your Family Will Ever Make." Original air date 29 January 2021.
8/21/202321 minutes, 24 seconds
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Margaret Sullivan: "Ghosting The News"

Michael's conversation with Washington Post Media Columnist Margaret Sullivan, on her book "Ghosting the News: Local Journalism and the Crisis of American Democracy."
8/18/202319 minutes, 44 seconds
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Amanda Ripley: "The Smartest Kids In The World"

As kids go back to school, this is the perfect time to listen to Michael's conversation with NY Times best-selling author Amanda Ripley, on her book "The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got That Way." Listen to find out how other countries make "smarter kids" - Amanda Ripley followed three American families in three different countries for a year. Original air date 2 September 2014. The paperback version of the book was published on 29 July 2014.
8/16/202325 minutes, 2 seconds
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David Sanger: "The Perfect Weapon"

David Sanger's "The Perfect Weapon: War, Sabotage, and Fear in the Cyber Age" tells the story of the rise of cyberweapons: a transformational twist for geopolitics comparable to the atomic bomb. Original air date 18 July 2018.
8/11/202319 minutes, 23 seconds
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Jonathan Allen: "Shattered"

Jonathan Allen, co-author of "Shattered: Inside Hillary Clinton's Doomed Campaign" on the unseen architects of Hillary Clinton's memorable defeat back in 2016. Original air date 25 April 2017.
8/9/202322 minutes, 15 seconds
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Daniel Markovits: The Meritocrat Who Wants To Unwind the Meritocracy

Author and professor Daniel Markovits relates the thesis of his book, "The Meritocracy Trap: How America's Foundational Myth Feeds Inequality, Dismantles the Middle Class, and Devours the Elite" to the politics of today. Original air date 12 September 2019. The book was published on 10 September 2019.
8/7/202315 minutes, 28 seconds
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Michael Mann: "The Madhouse Effect"

Michael speaks with Dr. Michael Mann, co-author (with Tom Toles) of "The Madhouse Effect: How Climate Change Denial Is Threatening Our Planet, Destroying Our Politics, and Driving Us Crazy." Original air date 26 October 2016. The book was published on 27 September 2016.
8/4/202316 minutes
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Peter Feaver: "Thanks For Your Service"

A definitive study on the decades-long run of high public confidence in the military and why it may rest on some shaky foundations. Listen to Michael's conversation with Duke University Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, Peter D. Feaver, author of "Thanks for Your Service: The Causes and Consequences of Public Confidence in the US Military." Original air date 27 July 2023. The book was published on 7 July 2023.
7/31/202330 minutes, 16 seconds
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Avi Loeb: "Extraterrestrial"

In late 2017, scientists at a Hawaiian observatory glimpsed an object soaring through our inner solar system, moving so quickly that it could only have come from another star. Dr. Avi Loeb, the Frank B. Baird Jr. Professor of Science at Harvard University says there was only one conceivable explanation: the object was a piece of advanced technology created by a distant alien civilization. Hear the New York Times bestselling author's conversation with Michael on "Extraterrestrial: The First Sign of Intelligent Life Beyond Earth." Original air date 26 January 2021. The book was published on 26 January 2021.
7/27/202321 minutes, 53 seconds
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Henry & Thomas Bloch: "Many Happy Returns"

Michael's conversation with Thomas M. Bloch, the co-founder of the H&R Block tax preparation company, he is the subject of the book written by his son, "Many Happy Returns: The Story of Henry Bloch, America's Tax Man." Original air date 23 June 2015. Thomas Bloch passed away in 2019 at 96 years old. The book was published on 9 November 2010.
7/24/202321 minutes, 50 seconds
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Ken Smukler: "The JailBird Diet"

Shaped by the unique stories of his time in federal custody, Ken Smukler's "The JailBird Diet: Losing 100 Pounds and Finding Myself Behind Bars" takes the reader into the world of incarceration that challenges the mind, body, and spirit at every turn. A long time friend of Michael's, Smukler sits down in studio for a conversation on this book on his year in prison. Original air date 21 July 2023. The book was published on 23 June 2023.
7/21/202321 minutes, 39 seconds
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D.L. Hughley: "Surrender, White People!"

Michael's conversation with actor, comedian and activist D.L. Hughley on his book "Surrender, White People!: Our Unconditional Terms for Peace." Original air date 14 July 2020. The book was published on 30 June 2020. Check out two other interviews with D.L. Hughley, Episode #5 "How To Survive America" and Episode #219 "How Not To Get Shot."
7/19/202318 minutes, 45 seconds
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Femi Ayanbadejo: "The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional"

"Before I was 10 years old, I was sexually assaulted, twice." So begins Former NFL Star Femi Ayanbadejo's chapter that he wrote for Camille L. Miller's "The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies for Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business." Hear Michael's conversation about his Femi's, an excerpt of which was shared at Smerconish.com. Original air date 13 July 2023. The book was published on 9 July 2023.
7/17/202318 minutes, 16 seconds
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Jake Tapper: "All The Demons Are Here"

Prepare to be transported to the 1970s underground world of cults, celebrities, tabloid journalism, serial killers, disco, and UFOs. Bestselling author and CNN Anchor Jake Tapper joins Michael with his new book "All the Demons Are Here: A Thriller." Original air date 12 July 2023. The book was published on 11 July 2023.
7/14/202316 minutes, 27 seconds
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Jim Davis: The Great Dechurching

When is the last time you attended a worship service? For 40 million of us, the answer is, not in quite some time. Listen to Pastor Jim Davis, co-author of "The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back?" Davis is teaching pastor at Orlando Grace Church. Original air date 10 July 2023. The book will be published on 22 August 2023.
7/12/202316 minutes, 47 seconds
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Richard Dreyfuss: "One Thought Scares Me"

Academy Award winning actor and activist Richard Dreyfuss is now very interested in civics, and is worried that civics is not taught in America much anymore - he joins Michael to talk about his latest book "One Thought Scares Me...: We Teach Our Children What We Wish Them to Know; We Don't Teach Our Children What We Don't Wish Them to Know." Original air date 6 July 2023. The book was published on 18 October 2022.
7/10/202341 minutes, 16 seconds
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Kay Redfield Jamison: "Fires In The Dark"

The acclaimed author of An Unquiet Mind considers the age-old quest for relief from psychological pain and the role of the exceptional healer in the journey back to health. Hear Michael's conversation with Kay Redfield Jamison on her book "Fires in the Dark: Healing the Unquiet Mind."
7/7/202318 minutes, 48 seconds
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Brian Muraresku: The Immortality Key

"A groundbreaking dive into the role psychedelics have played in the origins of Western civilization, and a real-life quest for the Holy Grail." Michael's conversation with attorney and author Brian Muraresku, on "The Immortality Key: The Secret History of the Religion with No Name." Original air date 9 October 2020. The book was published on 29 September 2020.
6/30/202325 minutes, 23 seconds
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Bill Browder: "Red Notice"

Bill Browder is the man responsible for the Magnitsky Act. With Russia in turmoil in 2023, Michael sits down with Browder on the news of the day of uprisings in Russia, all while the war in Ukraine continues - all themes that bring his 2015 book back to the forefront, "Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man's Fight for Justice." Original air date 27 June 2023. The book was published on 3 February 2023.
6/28/202316 minutes, 18 seconds
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Christine Porath: "Mastering Civility"

During a particularly heated week in the news where the dialogue became increasingly harsh, Michael spoke with Georgetown University Professor Christine Porath, on her book "Mastering Civility: A Manifesto for the Workplace." Original air date 21 June 2018. The book was published on 27 December 2016.
6/26/202318 minutes, 26 seconds
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Del Quentin Wilber: "A Good Month For Murder"

Longtime journalist and bestselling author Del Quentin Wilber tells the inside story of how a homicide squad - a dedicated, colorful team of detectives just outside Washington, DC in Prince George's County, MD - does its almost impossible job. Listen to his conversation with Michael on "A Good Month for Murder: The Inside Story of a Homicide Squad." Original air date 16 June 2016. The book was published on 7 June 2016.
6/21/202316 minutes, 56 seconds
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Kate Andersen Brower: "First In Line"

Michael's conversation with bestselling author Kate Andersen Brower on "First in Line: Presidents, Vice Presidents, and the Pursuit of Power." Original air date 15 June 2018. The book was published on 5 June 2018.
6/17/202316 minutes, 45 seconds
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John Gotti, Jr: "Shadow of My Father"

Michael goes in-depth with John A. Gotti Jr, the former head of the Gambino Crime Family in the 1990s, a position he took over when his father, mobster John Gotti Sr was sent to prison. His book is "Shadow of My Father." Original air date 6 March 2015. The book was published on 27 February 2015.
6/14/202346 minutes, 51 seconds
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Alexis Coe: "You Never Forget Your First"

Michael's conversation with Alexis Coe, author of "You Never Forget Your First: A Biography of George Washington." Original air date 11 May 2020. The book was published on 4 February 2020.
6/12/202316 minutes, 38 seconds
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Brett Forrest: "Lost Son"

This story is the result of incredible reporting, and it is written like a thriller: "A young American lost in Russia. An FBI-cover up. A mystery leading from Washington to the heart of the Kremlin's war in Ukraine." Listen to Michael's conversation with Wall Street Journal National Security Reporter Brett Forrest, author of "Lost Son: An American Family Trapped Inside the FBI's Secret Wars." Original air date 7 June 2023. The book was published on 23 May 2023.
6/9/202316 minutes, 20 seconds
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Thomas Patterson: "Is the Republican Party Destroying Itself?"

Michael's conversation with Harvard Kennedy School Professor Thomas E. Patterson, author of "Is the Republican Party Destroying Itself? And why it needs to reclaim its conservative ideals." Original air date 10 July 2020. The book was published on 24 January 2020.
6/7/202320 minutes, 3 seconds
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Jeffrey Archer: "Tell Tale"

New York Times Bestselling Author Lord Jeffrey Archer talks with Michael about his collection of short stories, "Tell Tale: Stories." Listen for a great conversation and learn about the insight into the people he has met, the stories he has come across and the countries he has visited. Original air date 10 November 2017. The book was published on 24 October 2017.
6/6/202319 minutes, 19 seconds
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Matt Bai: "All the Truth Is Out"

Amidst a current conversation on how Florida Governor Ron DeSantis pronounces his name, and how some celebrities change their names, brings back the memory of this conversation about former presidential candidate Gary Hart, who shortened his last name from Hartpence. Michael spoke to Matt Bai in 2014 about his book "All the Truth Is Out: The Week Politics Went Tabloid." Original air date 2 October 2014. The book was published on 30 September 2014.
6/2/202322 minutes, 9 seconds
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Vincent Bugliosi: "Divinity of Doubt"

Michael talks with the attorney who prosecuted Charles Manson among many others, Vincent Bugliosi, author of "Divinity of Doubt: The God Question." Mr. Bugliosi passed away in 2015. He was the Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles County from 1964-1972. Original air date April 2011. The book was published in April 2011.
5/31/202317 minutes, 29 seconds
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Howard Fishman: "To Anyone Who Ever Asks"

A mysterious, true story about a New York City singer-songwriter. Connie Converse is someone you've likely never heard of, but you need to hear her story. Michael gets it in conversation with Howard Fishman, author of "To Anyone Who Ever Asks: The Life, Music, and Mystery of Connie Converse." Original air date 4 May 2023. The book was published on 2 May 2023.
5/26/202312 minutes, 31 seconds
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Steven Brill: "America's Bitter Pill"

Michael talks with Court TV founder, journalist and author Steven Brill about "America's Bitter Pill: Money, Politics, Backroom Deals, and the Fight to Fix Our Broken Healthcare System." Original air date 9 January 2015. The book was published on 5 January 2015.
5/25/202318 minutes, 32 seconds
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David Grann: "Killers of the Flower Moon"

With the news that Martin Scorcese's "Killers of the Flower Moon" made a huge splash at the Cannes Film Festival, it's a good time to hear Michael's conversation with the author of the book that the movie - due in theatres in October 2023 - is based on. Listen here to David Grann, New York Times Bestselling author of "Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI." Original air date 28 May 2017. The book was published on 18 April 2017.
5/22/202316 minutes, 20 seconds
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George Papadopoulos: Deep State Target

Hillary Clinton's emails, Spygate, Mueller Investigation....he was a target of it all. Former Trump Advisor George Papadopoulos tells his story in "Deep State Target: How I Got Caught in the Crosshairs of the Plot to Bring Down President Trump." Original air date 6 May 2019. The book was published on 26 March 2019.
5/17/202325 minutes, 5 seconds
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Richard Clarke: "Pinnacle Event"

"Pinnacle Event" is the Pentagon code for a nuclear threat - who better to write a fiction bestseller with that same title than Richard Clarke, the longtime national security and counterterrorism official. Listen to his conversation with Michael about this international thriller. Original air date 20 May 2015. The book was published on 19 May 2015.
5/15/202317 minutes, 2 seconds
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Jeffrey Toobin: "Homegrown"

Timothy McVeigh's legacy begins at the 1995 Oklahoma City Bombing, and goes all the way through the January 6th insurrection at the US Capitol. Listen to Michael with New York Times Bestselling author Jeffrey Toobin on his new book, "Homegrown: Timothy McVeigh and the Rise of Right-Wing Extremism." Original air date 12 May 2023. The book was published on 2 May 2023.
5/12/202321 minutes, 59 seconds
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David Grann: "The Wager"

#1 New York Times Bestselling Author David Grann is back with a new book - an incredible, thrilling story of a shipwreck in the 18th century. Listen to his conversation with Michael on "The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder." Original air date 8 May 2023. The book was published on 18 April 2023.
5/10/202321 minutes, 57 seconds
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David Grann: "The Lost City of Z"

Michael's conversation with David Grann, author of "The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon." Original air date 4 March 2009. The book was published on 24 February 2009
5/8/202319 minutes, 17 seconds
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Dr. Jean Twenge: "Generations"

A groundbreaking, revelatory portrait of the six generations that currently live in the United States and how they connect, conflict, and compete with one another—from the acclaimed author of Generation Me and iGen.The United States is currently home to six generations of people:-the Silents, born 1925–1945-Baby Boomers, born 1946–1964-Gen X, born 1965–1979-Millennials, born 1980–1994-Gen Z, born 1995–2012-and the still-to-be-named cohorts born after 2012.They have had vastly different life experiences and thus, one assumes, they must have vastly diverging beliefs and behaviors. But what are those differences, what causes them, and how deep do they actually run?(Courtesy: Simon & Shuster)
5/3/202319 minutes, 23 seconds
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Peter Schweizer: "Clinton Cash"

Bestselling author Peter Schweizer, on his book "Clinton Cash: The Untold Story of How and Why Foreign Governments and Businesses Helped Make Bill and Hillary Rich." Original air date 8 May 2015. The book was published on 5 May 2015.
5/1/202315 minutes, 28 seconds
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Seth Stephens-Davidowitz: "Everybody Lies"

Data scientist and best-selling author Seth Stephens-Davidowitz on "Everybody Lies: Big Data, New Data, and What the Internet Can Tell Us About Who We Really Are." Original air date 10 May 2017. The book was published on 9 May 2017.
4/26/202318 minutes, 12 seconds
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Brian Stelter: "Hoax"

Michael's conversation with former CNN Reliable Sources Host (at the time of this interview and the book's publishing) Brian Stelter on his book "Hoax: Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth." Original air date 20 August 2020. The book was published on 25 August 2020.
4/24/202315 minutes, 13 seconds
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Neil King, Jr: "American Ramble"

Michael welcomes former Wall Street Journal reporter and editor Neil King, Jr., author of "American Ramble: A Walk of Memory and Renewal." A story of his 330-mile walk from Washington DC to New York City, via Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey. Original aid date 19 April 2023. The book was published on 4 April 2023.
4/21/202315 minutes, 14 seconds
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Pat Cunnane: "West Winging It"

Pat Cunnane pulls back the curtain on the most famous and exclusive building and house in the United States, plus, on his close access to the nation's 44th President, from his time serving as President Barack Obama’s Senior Writer and Deputy Director of Messaging at the White House. Listen to his conversation with Michael on his book "West Winging It: An Un-presidential Memoir." Original air date 17 April 2018. The book was published on 17 April 2018.
4/19/202319 minutes, 17 seconds
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Sally Kohn: "The Opposite of Hate"

It is time to practice emotional, not political, correctness. And, it is time to bridge divides, and here is how to do it. So says writer Sally Kohn in "The Opposite of Hate: A Field Guide to Repairing Our Humanity." Listen to this engaging conversation with Michael and her in this episode. Original air date 12 April 2018. The book was published on 10 April 2018.
4/17/202319 minutes, 36 seconds
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Phil Mudd: "The HEAD Game"

Phil Mudd, former senior executive at the FBI, CIA, and National Security Council, with his book "The HEAD Game: High-Efficiency Analytic Decision Making and the Art of Solving Complex Problems Quickly." Original air date 21 April 2015. The Book was published on 6 April 2015.
4/12/202319 minutes
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Geoffrey Stone: "National Security, Leaks and Freedom of the Press"

First Amendment scholar and University Chicago Law School Professor Geoffrey R. Stone, co-writer/editor of "National Security, Leaks and Freedom of the Press: The Pentagon Papers Fifty Years On." Original air date 16 April 2021. The book was published on 1 April 2021.
4/10/202317 minutes, 18 seconds
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William McRaven: "The Wisdom Of The Bullfrog"

Michael speaks with bestselling author, retired Admiral William McRaven, out with his new book "The Wisdom of the Bullfrog: Leadership Made Simple (But Not Easy)." Original air date 7 April 2023. The book was published on 4 April 2023.
4/7/202318 minutes, 5 seconds
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Michael Bamberger: "Ball In The Air"

Just in time for The Masters, a great read from bestselling author Michael Bamberger, "The Ball in the Air: A Golfing Adventure." Original air date 31 March 2023. The book was published on 28 March 2023.
4/5/202320 minutes, 16 seconds
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Barney Frank: "Frank"

Former Congressman Barney Frank (D-MA) joins Michael with his memoir, "Frank: A Life in Politics from the Great Society to Same-Sex Marriage." Original air date 9 April 2015. The book was published on 17 March 2015.
4/3/202323 minutes, 4 seconds
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James Steele: "America: What Went Wrong? The Crisis Deepens"

James Steele, co-author (with Donald Barlett) of ""America: What Went Wrong? The Crisis Deepens." This is the followup to their groundbreaking "America: What Went Wrong?" book that came out in 1992. Original air date 19 June 2020. The book was published on 2 June 2020.
3/31/202321 minutes, 54 seconds
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Frank Bruni: "Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be"

A conversation with New York Times columnist Frank Bruni, on his book "Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania." Original air date 18 March 2015. The book was published on 17 March 2015.
3/29/202320 minutes, 50 seconds
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Arthur Brooks: "Love Your Enemies"

Being angry all the time, when others are too and the world is not getting along, is not a good recipe for success. Listen to social scientist Arthur Brooks talk about his book "Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from the Culture of Contempt." Original air date 19 March 2019. The book was released on 19 March 2019.
3/28/202314 minutes, 58 seconds
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Dave Daley: "Ratf**ked"

The title of Dave Daley's book is not censored in this conversation - hear him with Michael talking about "Ratf**ked: The True Story Behind the Secret Plan to Steal America's Democracy." Original air date 22 March 2017. The book was published on 14 June 2016.
3/24/202322 minutes, 27 seconds
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John Leland: "Happiness Is A Choice You Make"

They are the "oldest old" - New York Times reporter John Leland spend time with six people age 85 and up to gain wisdom on what it means to grow old and create a heartening guide to well being. Listen to his conversation with Michael on "Happiness Is a Choice You Make: Lessons from a Year Among the Oldest Old." Original air date 4 January 2018. The book was published on 23 January 2018.
3/23/202313 minutes, 27 seconds
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Jonathan Allen & Amie Parnes: "HRC"

Michael's conversation with Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes upon the release of their bestseller "HRC: State Secrets and the Rebirth of Hillary Clinton." Original air date 19 February 2014. The book was published on 11 February 2014.
3/21/202322 minutes, 8 seconds
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Gerald Posner: "Pharma"

Michael's conversation with Gerald Posner, when his book was released right at the start of the pandemic, "Pharma: Greed, Lies, and the Poisoning of America." Original air date 13 March 2020. The book was published on 10 March 2020.
3/17/202324 minutes, 4 seconds
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Scott Kupor: "Secrets of Sand Hill Road"

Michael speaks with venture capitalist Scott Kupor, author of "Secrets of Sand Hill Road: Venture Capital and How to Get It." Original air date 17 June 2019. The book was published on 4 June 2019.
3/15/202315 minutes, 57 seconds
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Jim Cramer: "Get Rich Carefully"

"Get Rich Carefully." Good advice from CNBC host Jim Cramer who joined Michael for a special in-studio appearance in New York City with his book. Original air date 9 January 2014. The book was published on 31 December 2013.
3/13/202323 minutes, 7 seconds
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D.L. Hughley: "How Not To Get Shot"

Michael welcomes comedian, actor, activist and New York Times-bestselling author D.L. Hughley with his book "How Not to Get Shot: And Other Advice From White People." Original air date 3 July 2018. The book was published on 26 June 2018.
3/10/202320 minutes, 7 seconds
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Ginni Rometty: "Good Power"

Michael welcomes former IBM CEO Ginni Rometty with her new book "Good Power: Leading Positive Change in Our Lives, Work, and World." Original air date 7 March 2023. The book was published on 7 March 2023.
3/8/202321 minutes, 37 seconds
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Michael Moss: "Salt Sugar Fat"

Michael speaks with Pulitzer Prize winner Michael Moss upon the release of the paperback version of "Salt Sugar Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us." Original air date 13 February 2014. The paperback version was released on 18 February 2014, the book was originally published on 26 February 2013.
3/6/202316 minutes, 34 seconds
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Joby Warrick: "Black Flags: The Rise of ISIS"

Michael talks with Joby Warrick, who won a Pulitzer Prize for his book "Black Flags: The Rise of ISIS." Original air date 7 October 2015. The book was published on 29 September 2015.
3/2/202318 minutes, 20 seconds
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Amy Chua & Jed Rubenfeld: "The Triple Package"

"The Triple Package: How Three Unlikely Traits Explain the Rise and Fall of Cultural Groups in America" by Yale Professors Amy Chua "The Tiger Mom" and her husband Jed Rubenfeld. Original air date 6 February 2014. The book was published on 4 February 2014.
2/27/202316 minutes, 9 seconds
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Gerald Posner: "God's Bankers"

An expose of the Vatican using what the New York Times called "exhaustive research techniques," - "God's Bankers: A History of Money and Power at the Vatican" by Gerald Posner. Michael talks to him about his powerful book on a powerful institution. Original air date 3 February 2023. The book was published on 3 February 2023.
2/24/202319 minutes, 32 seconds
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Dr. Nassir Ghaemi: "A First-Rate Madness"

Does having a mental illness make a more effective leader? Michael talks with Tufts University's Dr. Nassir Ghaemi, author of "A First-Rate Madness: Uncovering the Links Between Leadership and Mental Illness." Original air date 25 August 2016. The book was published on 4 August 2011.
2/22/202320 minutes, 57 seconds
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Douglas Schoen: "Power"

This is the definitive insider's guide - hear Michael speak with political strategist Doug Schoen, on his book "Power: The 50 Truths." Stories of working for Presidents from Clinton to Trump, to Israeli prime ministers, and everything in between, including connections to the mafia. The book was published on 14 February 2023. Original air date 16 February 2023.
2/17/202318 minutes, 56 seconds
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James Patterson: "Walk The Blue Line"

He's the co-author of the #1 bestseller "Walk in My Combat Boots" - James Patterson joins Michael today with his new book, co-authored with Matt Eversmann, "Walk the Blue Line: No right, no left―just cops telling their true stories to James Patterson." Original air date 14 February 2023. The book was published on 6 February 2023.
2/15/202318 minutes, 16 seconds
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Brigid Schulte: "Overwhelmed"

A great conversation from the archives when one thinks about topics on "love" and Valentine's Day, listen to Brigid Schulte, author of "Overwhelmed: Work, Love, and Play When No One Has the Time." Original aid date 19 March 2014. The book was published on 11 March 2014.
2/14/202320 minutes, 33 seconds
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David Litt: "Thanks, Obama"

Michael's conversation with former presidential speechwriter David Litt, on his book "Thanks, Obama: My Hopey, Changey White House Years." Original air date 19 September 2017. The book was published on 19 September 2017.
2/10/202324 minutes, 15 seconds
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Keith Payne: "The Broken Ladder"

Michael's conversation with UNC Chapel Hill Professor of Psychology Keith Payne, author of "The Broken Ladder: How Inequality Affects the Way We Think, Live, and Die." Original air date 13 May 2019. The book was published on 2 May 2017.
2/8/202312 minutes, 33 seconds
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Elie Honig: "Untouchable"

National bestselling author Elie Honig (author of 'Hatchet Man', listen to Episode 7 for that conversation) is back with "Untouchable: How Powerful People Get Away with It." Original air date 2 February 2023. The book was published on 31 January 2023.
2/6/202319 minutes, 19 seconds
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Dr. Robert Waldinger: "The Good Life"

Time to create a more meaningful and satisfying life: Michael talks with Harvard University's Dr. Robert Waldinger, co-author (with Dr. Marc Schulz) of "The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness." Original air date 2 February 2023. The book was published on 10 January 2023.
2/3/202316 minutes, 33 seconds
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Charlie Brandt: "I Heard You Paint Houses"

When "The Irishman" hit theatres, Michael caught up with the author of the book that the movie is based on, Charlie Brandt, "I Heard You Paint Houses: Frank "The Irishman" Sheeran & Closing the Case on Jimmy Hoffa." Original air date 22 November 2019. The book was published in 2004.
2/1/202320 minutes, 32 seconds
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Jack Goldsmith: "In Hoffa's Shadow"

Jimmy Hoffa's associate Chuckie O'Brien's stepson, Jack Goldsmith, tells the moving story of reuniting with his stepfather, and many others, in "In Hoffa's Shadow: A Stepfather, a Disappearance in Detroit, and My Search for the Truth," Original air date 16 October 2019. The book was published on 24 September 2019.
1/30/202318 minutes, 36 seconds
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Chris Whipple: "The Fight Of His Life"

Amid Chief of Staff Ron Klain leaving the White House and President Biden deciding on a 2024 reelection run, Michael welcomes Chris Whipple, author of "The Fight of His Life: Inside Joe Biden's White House." Original air date 23 January 2023. The book was published on 17 January 2023.
1/25/202313 minutes, 51 seconds
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Matt Katz: "American Governor"

Remember "Bridgegate" and Former NJ Governor Chris Christie's 2016 presidential campaign? Matt Katz was the reporter who had the inside story - hear his conversation with Michael on "American Governor: Chris Christie's Bridge to Redemption." Original air date 29 January 2016. The book was published on 19 January 2016.
1/23/202315 minutes, 1 second
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George Mitchell: "The Negotiator"

Michael's conversation with former Senator George Mitchell of Maine, author of "The Negotiator: A Memoir." Original air date 14 May 2015. The book was published on 5 May 2015.
1/20/202322 minutes, 37 seconds
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Keith Ellison: "My Country, 'Tis of Thee"

Michael's conversation with then-Congressman Keith Ellison (D-MN) on his book "My Country, 'Tis of Thee: My Faith, My Family, Our Future." Since 2019, he has been serving as Attorney General of Minnesota. Original air date 17 January 2014. The book was published on 14 January 2014.
1/19/202321 minutes, 16 seconds
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Adrian Maher: "Uninvited"

Michael talks with Adrian Maher, author of "Uninvited: Confessions of a Hollywood Party Crasher." Original air date 7 February 2020. The book was published on 5 November 2019.
1/16/202312 minutes, 35 seconds
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Mo Rocca: "Mobituaries"

Michael has always loved reading obituaries, particularly those of people who passed who he never knew. They offer some incredible stories - ones that are worth sharing. Therefore, Michael was thrilled to be in conversation with American humorist and CBS Sunday Morning correspondent Mo Rocca, on his book "Mobituaries: Great Lives Worth Reliving." Original air date 7 November 2019. The book was published on 5 November 2019.
1/11/202323 minutes, 17 seconds
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Elizabeth Schneider: "Wine For Normal People"

Cheers! Hear Michael chat with Elizabeth Schneider - a listener of the program, sommelier, wine specialist and author of "Wine for Normal People: A Guide for Real People Who Like Wine, but Not the Snobbery That Goes with It." Original air date 24 January 2020. The book was published
1/9/202319 minutes, 19 seconds
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Charles Duhigg: "The Power of Habit"

Michael welcomes New York Times Reporter Charles Duhigg on the paperback release of "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business." Original air date 8 January 2014. The paperback was published on 7 January 2014, the book was originally released on 28 February 2012.
1/6/202316 minutes, 6 seconds
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Dr. David Agus: "The Lucky Years"

Doctors have never before been able to help you take control of your health - but now they can. Michael's conversation with bestselling author Dr. David Agus, on his then-new book "The Lucky Years: How to Thrive in the Brave New World of Health." Original air date 6 January 2016. The book was published on 5 January 2016.
1/4/202317 minutes, 38 seconds
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Peter Bergen: "Trump and His Generals"

Michael talks with national security analyst Peter Bergen about his book "Trump And His Generals: The Cost of Chaos." Original air date 10 December 2019. The book was published on 10 December 2019.
12/21/202218 minutes, 47 seconds
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Karl Rove: "The Triumph of William McKinley"

Michael's conversation with former adviser to President George W. Bush, Karl Rove, on his book "The Triumph of William McKinley: Why the Election of 1896 Still Matters." Original air date 7 December 2015. The book was published on 24 November 2015.
12/19/202218 minutes, 24 seconds
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Kate Andersen Brower: "Elizabeth Taylor"

New York Times bestselling author (The Residence, First Women) Kate Andersen Brower, with her new book "Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit & Glamour of an Icon." Original air date 12 December 2022. The book was published on 6 December 2022.
12/14/202216 minutes, 5 seconds
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Tom Dreesen: "Still Standing"

Michael talks with long-time friend of and opening act for Frank Sinatra, Tom Dreesen, on his book "Still Standing...: My Journey from Streets and Saloons to the Stage, and Sinatra." Original air date 4 December 2020. The book was published on 9 June 2020.
12/12/202235 minutes, 2 seconds
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Jeff Nussbaum: "Undelivered"

Presidential speechwriter Jeff Nussbaum, author of "Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches That Would Have Rewritten History." Original air date 7 December 2022. The book was published on 10 May 2022.
12/9/202219 minutes, 26 seconds
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Doris Kears Goodwin: "The Bully Pulpit"

Michael's conversation with Pulitzer Prize-winning presidential historian and bestselling author Doris Kearns Goodwin, on "The Bully Pulpit: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, and the Golden Age of Journalism." Original air date 25 November 2013. The book was published on 1 January 2013.
12/7/202217 minutes, 18 seconds
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Kate Andersen Brower: "Exploring The White House"

Michael's conversation with bestselling author Kate Andersen Brower at the end of President Trump's time in the White House, her book "Exploring the White House: Inside America's Most Famous Home." Original air date 11 December 2020. The book was published on 8 December 2020.
12/5/202218 minutes, 3 seconds
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Douglas Brinkley: "Silent Spring Revolution"

Michael welcomes presidential historian Douglas Brinkley, author of "Silent Spring Revolution: John F. Kennedy, Rachel Carson, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, and the Great Environmental Awakening." Original air date 1 December 2022. The book was published on 15 November 2022.
12/2/202219 minutes, 33 seconds
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Darrell West: "Billionaires"

Michael's conversation with Darrell West of Brookings, author of "Billionaires: Reflections on the Upper Crust." Original air date 14 November 2014. The book was published on 28 September 2014.
11/30/202217 minutes, 19 seconds
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Annie Duke: "How To Decide"

Michael talks with world poker champion and bestselling author Annie Duke about her book "How to Decide: Simple Tools for Making Better Choices." Original air date 16 October 2020. The book was published on 13 October 2022.
11/28/202223 minutes, 3 seconds
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William Frey: "Diversity Explosion"

Michael talks with Brookings Institute Senior Fellow William H. Frey, author of "Diversity Explosion: How New Racial Demographics are Remaking America." Original air date 26 November 2014. The book was published on 19 November 2014.
11/22/202216 minutes, 31 seconds
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Sarah Palin: "Sweet Freedom"

Michael chats with former Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin on her spirituality-focused book "Sweet Freedom: A Devotion." The book was published on 16 November 2015. Original air date 2 December 2015.
11/18/202225 minutes, 13 seconds
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Philip Rucker: "A Very Stable Genius"

Michael's conversation with Washington Post reporter Phil Rucker upon the paperback release of "A Very Stable Genius: Donald J. Trump's Testing of America", which he co-authored with Carol Leonnig. The paperback was released on 23 February 2021. Original air date 23 February 2021.
11/16/202212 minutes, 47 seconds
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Dr. Anna Lembke: "Dopamine Nation"

Michael's conversation with Dr. Anna Lembke, professor of psychiatry and the Stanford University School of Medicine, on her book "Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence." Original air date 11 November 2022. The book was published on 24 august 2021.
11/14/202226 minutes, 2 seconds
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Scott Adams: "Win Bigly"

Michael's conversation with 'Dilbert' creator Scott Adams on his book "Win Bigly: Persuasion in a World Where Facts Don't Matter." Original air date 9 November 2017. The book was published on 31 October 2017.
11/11/202219 minutes, 4 seconds
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Natasha Lance Rogoff: "Muppets in Moscow"

Award-winning television producer Natasha Lance Rogoff on her book "Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia." Original air date 02 November 2022. The book was published on 17 October 2022.
11/9/202219 minutes, 27 seconds
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Matthew Ball: "The Metaverse"

Michael talks with Matthew Ball, author of "The Metaverse: And How It Will Revolutionize Everything." Original air date 1 November 2022. The book was published on 19 July 2022.
11/7/202217 minutes, 50 seconds
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Eric Motley: "Madison Park"

A conversation on achieving the American Dream, thanks to having hope and learning life lessons in the town from where he came - hear Eric Motley join Michael with his book "Madison Park: A Place of Hope." Original air date 9 February 2018. The book was published on 14 November 2017.
11/4/202225 minutes, 17 seconds
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Brian Greene: "Until t he End of Time"

How did we get here? Where might we be going? Michael welcomes Dr. Brian Greene, world-renowned physicist, to answer these questions and many more - his book is "Until the End of Time: Mind, Matter, and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe." Original air date 6 March 2020. The book was published on 18 February 2020.
11/2/202217 minutes, 5 seconds
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Richard Reeves: "Of Boys and Men"

Michael welcomes Richard Reeves, senior fellow in economic studies at the Brookings Institute, where is the director of the Men and Boys Project. His new book is "Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do about It." Original air date 25 October 2022. The book was published on 27 September 2022.
10/31/202233 minutes, 12 seconds
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Neil deGrasse Tyson: "Starry Messenger"

Michael talks with astrophysicist and bestselling author Neil deGrasse Tyson, author of the new book "Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization." Original air date 27 October 2022. The book was published on 20 September 2022.
10/28/202218 minutes, 3 seconds
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James Carville & Mary Matalin: "Love & War"

In Michael's first year at SiriusXM, he hosted a Book Club event at the SiriusXM NYC Studios in front of a live audience, with James Carville and Mary Matalin, on their book "Love & War: Twenty Years, Three Presidents, Two Daughters and One Louisiana Home." Original air date 9 January 2014. The book was published on 7 January 2014.
10/26/202246 minutes, 22 seconds
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Jon Meacham: " And There Was Light"

Michael welcomes author and historian Jon Meacham with his new book, "And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle." Original air date 19 October 2022. The book was published on 18 October 2022.
10/24/202220 minutes, 6 seconds
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Angela Duckworth: "Grit"

Psychologist Angela Duckworth on her New York Times bestseller, "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance." Original air date 13 June 2016. The book was published on 3 May 2016.
10/21/202245 minutes, 32 seconds
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Annie Duke: "Quit"

She mastered the skill of quitting to achieve greater success. Bestselling author Annie Duke joins Michael with her book "Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away." Original air date 18 October 2022. The book was published on 4 October 2022.
10/19/202220 minutes, 25 seconds
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Bradley Tusk: "The Fixer"

This book is a look at the intersection of politics, tech, and business, written by someone who stood there and worked hard. Michael talks with Bradley Tusk, author of "The Fixer: My Adventures Saving Startups from Death by Politics." Original air date 10-05-18. The book was published on 18 September 2018.
10/18/202220 minutes, 41 seconds
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Tanya Hernandez: "Racial Innocence"

In the wake of Latino members of the Los Angeles City Council getting caught on video making racist remarks about the black community, Michael talks with Tanya Kateri Hernandez, author of "Racial Innocence: Unmasking Latino Anti-Black Bias and the Struggle for Equality." Original air date 17 October 2022. The book was published on 23 August 2022.
10/17/202229 minutes, 43 seconds
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Nelson DeMille: "The Maze"

New York Times bestselling author Nelson DeMille is back with a brand new novel, "The Maze." It is the 8th book in his popular John Corey series, which chronicles the character of NYPD Homicide Detective John Corey. He joined Michael on the day the book went on sale - this episode is a must-listen, for a must-read book. Original air date 11 October 2022. The book was published on 11 October 2022.
10/12/202216 minutes, 52 seconds
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Ed Stack: "It's How We Play The Game"

Ed Stack, the son of the founder of Dick's Sporting Goods, joins Michael with his powerful memoir, "It's How We Play the Game: Build a Business. Take a Stand. Make a Difference." From his helping youth sports programs, to his controversial move of removing certain types of guns from stores, an incredible story. Original air date 9 October 2019. The book was published on 8 October 2019.
10/11/202216 minutes, 59 seconds
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Brian Muraresku: "The Immortality Key"

A quest for the holy grail - from the Ancient Greeks through today - a fascinating read on religion. Hear Michael's conversation with Brian Muraresku, author of "The Immortality Key: The Secret History of the Religion with No Name." Original air date 9 October 2020. The book was published on 29 September 2020.
10/5/202225 minutes, 55 seconds
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Mike Rinder: "A Billion Years"

Michael talks with Mike Rinder, on his book "A Billion Years: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientology." Rinder was Scientology’s international spokesperson, head of its Office of Special Affairs, and a member of the Board of Directors of Church of Scientology International, until he left the organization in 2007. Original air date 3 October 2022. The book was published on 27 September 2022.
10/3/202223 minutes, 31 seconds
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Scott Galloway: "Adrift"

Michael talks with NYU Business Professor Scott Galloway, author of "Adrift: America in 100 Charts." Original air date 30 September 2022. The book was published on 27 September 2022.
9/30/202218 minutes, 25 seconds
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Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman: "Here, Right Matters"

Michael's conversation with US Army Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman (Ret.), who also served on the National Security Council, on his book "Here, Right Matters: An American Story." He is the one who decided to report a phone call that eventually led to the impeachment of President Donald Trump. Original air date 17 September 2021. The book was published on 3 August 2021.
9/28/202219 minutes, 46 seconds
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Nina Totenberg: "Dinners with Ruth"

Michael invites NPR Legal Affairs Correspondent Nina Totenberg to the program to discuses her book, "Dinners with Ruth: A Memoir on the Power of Friendships." The book is filled to the brim with funny and personal stories of the late, great Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Totenberg reminisces on some of those stories with Michael. Original air date 23 September 2022. The book was publish on 13 September 2022.
9/26/202226 minutes, 42 seconds
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Nicholas Eberstadt: "Men Without Work: Post-Pandemic Edition"

Michael talks to Nicholas Eberstadt, who first wrote "Men Without Work" in 2016. He talks about the updated edition, "Men Without Work: Post-Pandemic Edition." Original air date 20 September 2022. The book was published on 19 September 2022.
9/23/202219 minutes, 37 seconds
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Buzz Bissinger: "The Mosquito Bowl"

This is one of the greatest stories you've never heard. Michael welcomes bestselling author Buzz Bissinger, author of "The Mosquito Bowl: A Game of Life and Death in World War II." Original air date 20 September 2022. The book was published on 13 September 2022.
9/21/202216 minutes, 55 seconds
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Gabriel Debenedetti: "The Long Alliance"

Michael talks with New York Magazine's Gabriel DeBenedetti, author of "The Long Alliance: The Imperfect Union of Joe Biden and Barack Obama." Original air date 19 September 2022. The book was published on 13 September 2022.
9/19/202217 minutes, 39 seconds
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Rabia Chaudry: "Adnan's Story"

As the case of Adnan Syed comes back into the news with Baltimore, MD prosecutors signaling they will vacate his conviction for a new trial, we offer up this interview from Michael's archives, with Rabia Chaudry, author of "Adnan's Story: The Search for Truth and Justice After Serial." Original air date 10 August 2016. The book was published on 9 August 2016.
9/16/202231 minutes
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Andrew Morton: "Meghan: A Hollywood Princess"

Michael talks with Andrew Morton, on his book "Meghan: A Hollywood Princess." Morton is also the author of the bestselling book "Diana: Her True Story." Original air date 20 April 2018. The book was published on 17 April 2018.
9/14/202217 minutes, 48 seconds
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Gary Schroen: "First In"

Gary Schroen, the former Central Intelligence Agency field officer in charge of the US' initial CIA incursion into Afghanistan in 2001, passed away on 1 August 2022. From Michael's archives, this is a rare interview with Schroen, on his then-new book, "First In: An Insider's Account of How the CIA Spearheaded the War on Terror in Afghanistan." Original air date 12 May 2005. The book was published on 10 May 2005.
9/12/202223 minutes, 11 seconds
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Mónica Guzmán: "I Never Thought Of It That Way"

Mónica Guzmán, Senior Fellow for Public Practice at Braver Angels, on her book "I Never Thought Of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations In Dangerously Divided Times." Original air date 8 September 2022. The book was published on 8 March 2022.
9/9/202222 minutes, 1 second
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Tim Donaghy: "Personal Foul"

A new Netflix documentary. "Untold: Operation Flagrant Foul" looks at an NBA betting scandal from 15 years ago, involving then-referee Tim Donaghy. He wrote the book "Personal Foul: A First-Person Account of the Scandal That Rocked the NBA" and spoke with Michael about it. Original air date 19 February 2010. The book was published on 27 November 2009.
9/7/202219 minutes, 40 seconds
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David Epstein: "Range"

Michael's conversation with David Epstein, author of "Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World." Original air date 29 August 2019. The book was published on 28 May 2019.
8/31/202217 minutes, 36 seconds
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Senator Patrick Leahy: "The Road Taken"

Michael speaks with Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT), currently Senate President Pro Tempore, and the upper chamber's longest-serving member. His new book is "The Road Taken: A Memoir." Original air date 29 August 2022. The book was published on 23 August 2022.
8/29/202224 minutes, 59 seconds
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Charlie Crist: "The Party's Over"

Michael's conversation, then in front of a studio audience, with former FL Governor Charlie Crist, author of "The Party's Over: How the Extreme Right Hijacked the GOP and I Became a Democrat." Original air date 6 February 2014. The book was published on 4 February 2014.
8/26/202246 minutes, 40 seconds
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Shaylyn Romney Garrett: "The Upswing"

Shaylyn Romney Garrett, co-author (with Robert Putnam) of "The Upswing: How America Came Together a Century Ago and How We Can Do It Again." Original air date 24 August 2022. The book was published on 13 October 2020.
8/24/202223 minutes, 30 seconds
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Danny Zelisko: "All Excess"

Michael's conversation with longtime concert promoter Danny Zelisko, author of "All Exce$$: Occupation Concert Promoter." Original air date 7 May 2021. The book was published on 1 January 2021.
8/22/202222 minutes, 35 seconds
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Michael D'Antonio: "The Shadow President"

Michael's conversation with Michael D'Antonio, co-author (with Peter Eisner) of "The Shadow President: The Truth About Mike Pence." Original air date 28 August 2018. The book was published on 28 August 2018.
8/19/202218 minutes, 14 seconds
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Erin Brockovich: "Superman's Not Coming"

Michael's conversation with activist Erin Brockovich on her book "Superman's Not Coming: Our National Water Crisis and What We the People Can Do About It." Original air date 9 September 2020. The book was published on 25 August 2020.
8/17/202218 minutes, 5 seconds
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John Bowe: "I Have Something to Say"

Award-winning journalist John Bowe on his book, "I Have Something to Say: Mastering the Art of Public Speaking in an Age of Disconnection." Original air date 11 August 2020. The book was published on 11 August 2020.
8/15/202217 minutes, 31 seconds
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Kyle Petty: "Swerve Or Die"

Racing superstar Kyle Petty with his memoir "Swerve or Die: Life at My Speed in the First Family of NASCAR Racing." Original air date 10 August 2022. The book was published on 9 August 2022.
8/12/202218 minutes, 57 seconds
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Morton Kondracke: "Jack Kemp"

Michael's conversation with Morton Kondracke, co-author of "Jack Kemp: The Bleeding-Heart Conservative Who Changed America." Original air date 30 September 2015. The book was published on 29 September 2015.
8/10/202224 minutes, 37 seconds
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Beck Dorey-Stein: "From The Corner Of The Oval"

Michael's conversation with Beck Dorey-Stein, former stenographer to President Obama. Her book is "From the Corner of the Oval: A Memoir." Original air date 28 July 2018. The book was published on 10 July 2018.
8/8/202218 minutes, 59 seconds
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Karl Alexander: "The Long Shadow"

Michael's conversation on research presented by Dr. Karl Alexander in his new book "The Long Shadow: Family Background, Disadvantaged Urban Youth, and the Transition to Adulthood." The research focuses on children growing up in West Baltimore, MD, 850 of them were tracked for 25 years. Original air date 12 August 2014. The book was published on 15 April 2014.
8/5/202223 minutes, 34 seconds
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Sari Horwitz: "American Cartel"

Four-Time Pulitzer Price winning investigator for the Washington Post Sari Horwitz speaks on her book, co-authored with Scott Higham, titled "American Cartel: Inside the Battle to Bring Down the Opioid Industry." Original air date 03 August 2022. The book was published on 12 July 2022.
8/3/202215 minutes, 34 seconds
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David Jolly & Patrick Murphy: "A Divided Union"

Former Congressmen David Jolly & Patrick Murphy, on their book "A Divided Union-Structural Challenges to Bipartisanship in America." Original air date 14 January 2021. The book was published on 27 October 2020.
8/1/202227 minutes, 32 seconds
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Margot Machol Bisnow: "Raising An Entrepreneur"

Michael speaks with Margot Machol Bisnow, author of "Raising an Entrepreneur: How to Help Your Children Achieve Their Dreams - 99 Stories from Families Who Did." Original air date 28 July 2022. The book was published on 18 May 2022.
7/28/202214 minutes, 36 seconds
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Jeff Flake: "Conscience of a Conservative"

Michael's conversation with then-Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ), on his book "Conscience of a Conservative: A Rejection of Destructive Politics and a Return to Principle." Original air date 7 August 2017. The book was published on 1 August 2017.
7/27/202218 minutes, 16 seconds
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Mitch Prinstein: "Popular: The Power of Likeability in a Status-Obsessed World"

Michael has a conversation with Mitch Prinstein, the American Psychological Association's Chief Science Officer, on his book "Popular: The Power of Likability in a Status-Obsessed World." Original air date 07 June 2017. The book was published on 06 June 2017.
7/25/202212 minutes, 39 seconds
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Ted Olson & David Boies: "Redeeming The Dream"

Michael's conversation with attorneys David Boies and Theodore Olson, who argued the California Prop 8 case in court together (and were on opposite sides of the 2000 Bush V Gore legal challenges), on their book "Redeeming the Dream: The Case for Marriage Equality." Original air date 24 June 2014. The book was published on 17 June 2014.
7/22/202220 minutes, 2 seconds
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Wes Moore: "The Other Wes Moore"

Wes Moore is running for Governor in Maryland in the 2022 race. This is Michael's conversation with him from 7 May 2010 on his then-new book "The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates." The book was published on 27 April 2010.
7/20/202213 minutes, 10 seconds
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Julian Zelizer: "Fault Lines"

Michael's conversation with Princeton University Professor Julian Zelizer, author of "Fault Lines: A History of the United States Since 1974."
7/18/202222 minutes, 31 seconds
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Warren Littlefield: "Top Of The Rock"

Former NBC News President of Entertainment Warren Littlefield, author of "Top of the Rock: Inside the Rise and Fall of Must See TV." Original air date 25 May 2012. The book was published on 1 May 2012
7/15/202219 minutes, 42 seconds
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Ran Abramitzky: "Streets of Gold"

Professor of Economics and the Senior Associate Dean of the Social Sciences at Stanford University, Dr. Ran Abramitzky, is a co-author with Leah P. Boustan for the book "Streets of Gold: Immigration and the American Dream Over Two Centuries." Original air date 12 July 2022. The book was published on 31 May 2022.
7/13/202227 minutes, 9 seconds
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Pat Buchanan: "The Greatest Comeback"

Former presidential adviser, presidential candidate, commentator and author, Pat Buchanan, on his book "The Greatest Comeback: How Richard Nixon Rose from Defeat to Create the New Majority." Original air date 8 July 2014. The book was published on 8 July 2014.
7/11/202220 minutes, 31 seconds
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Bob Graham: "America: The Owner's Manual"

Michael's conversation with former Senator Bob Graham, on his book (co-authored with Chris Hand), "America: The Owner's Manual - You Can Fight City Hall And Win." Original air date 26 July 2016. The book was published on 16 August 2016.
7/8/202213 minutes, 37 seconds
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Andy Cowan: "Banging My Head Against the Wall"

Michael's conversation with comedy writer Andy Cowan, who wrote the Seinfeld "The Opposite" episode, on his book "Banging My Head Against the Wall: A Comedy Writer's Guide to Seeing Stars." Original air date 6 July 2018. The book was published on 28 June 2018.
7/6/202214 minutes, 49 seconds
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Benjamin Lorr: "The Secret Life of Groceries"

Michael's conversation with Benjamin Lorr, author of "The Secret Life of Groceries: The Dark Miracle of the American Supermarket." Original air date 26 September 2020. The book was published on 8 September 2020.
7/2/202218 minutes, 36 seconds
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Carol Leonnig: "Zero Fail"

Michael talks with Washington Post reporter Carol Leonnig, about her book "Zero Fail: The Rise and Fall of the Secret Service." Original air date 25 May 2021. The book was published on 18 May 2021.
6/29/202224 minutes, 32 seconds
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Billy Baker: "We Need To Hang Out"

Michael speaks with Billy Baker, author of "We Need to Hang Out: A Memoir of Making Friends." Original air date 17 February 2021. The book was published on 26 January 2021.
6/27/202220 minutes, 43 seconds
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James Barrat: "Our Final Invention"

On the heels of Google placing an employee on leave after raising red flags about an Artificial Intelligence robot the company created, Michael talks to James Barrat, author of "Our Final Invention: Artificial Intelligence and the End of the Human Era." Original air date 23 June 2022. The book was published on 1 October 2013.
6/24/202218 minutes, 35 seconds
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James Patterson: "The Stories Of My Life"

Michael talks with bestselling author James Patterson on his new autobiography, "James Patterson by James Patterson: The Stories of My Life." Original air date 21 June 2022. The book was published on 6 June 2022.
6/22/202218 minutes, 49 seconds
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Kate Andersen Brower: "The Residence"

Michael talks with New York Times bestselling author Kate Andersen Brower on her book "The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House." Original air date 16 April 2015. The book was published on 7 April 2015.
6/17/202219 minutes, 49 seconds
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Sharyl Attkisson: "Stonewalled"

Michael talks with five-time Emmy Award winning journalist Sharyl Attkisson about her book "Stonewalled: My Fight for Truth Against the Forces of Obstruction, Intimidation, and Harassment in Obama's Washington." Original air date 04 November 2014. The book was published on 04 November 2014.
6/15/202219 minutes, 7 seconds
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Martha McSally: "Dare To Fly"

Michael talks with (Then-) Senator Martha McSally (R-AZ) about her book "Dare to Fly: Simple Lessons in Never Giving Up." Original air date 27 May 2020. The book was published on 26 May 2020.
6/13/202218 minutes, 34 seconds
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Katherine Schweit: "Stop The Killing"

Michael speaks with retired FBI agent Katherine Schweit about her book "Stop the Killing: How to End the Mass Shooting Crisis." Original air date 9 June 2022. The book was published on 15 August 2021.
6/10/202219 minutes, 26 seconds
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Kellyanne Conway: "Here's The Deal"

Michael speaks with former advisor to President Trump, Kellyanne Conway, on her book "Here's The Deal: A Memoir." Original air date 8 June 2022. The book was published on 24 May 2022.
6/8/202218 minutes, 51 seconds
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Tina Brown: "The Palace Papers"

Michael welcomes Tina Brown, former editor-in-chief of Vanity Fair & The New Yorker and founder of The Daily Beast, with her book "The Palace Papers: Inside the House of Windsor--the Truth and the Turmoil." Original air date 20 May 2022. The book was published on 26 April 2022.
6/6/202219 minutes, 29 seconds
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James Stavridis: "To Risk It All"

Michael's conversation with Retired Navy Admiral James Stavridis, on "To Risk It All: Nine Conflicts and the Crucible of Decision." Original air date 2 June 2022. The book was published on 24 May 2022.
6/3/202221 minutes, 34 seconds
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Jeff Kosseff: "The Twenty-Six Words That Created the Internet"

Michael speaks with US Naval Academy Professor Jeff Kosseff, about his nonfiction narrative history of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, titled "The Twenty-Six Words That Created the Internet." Original air date 29 May 2020. The book was published on 15 April 2019.
6/1/202218 minutes, 40 seconds
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Anthony Mazzarelli: "Wonder Drug"

Michael chats with Dr. Anthony Mazzarelli about his book "Wonder Drug: 7 Scientifically Proven Ways That Serving Others Is the Best Medicine for Yourself." Originial air date 25 May 2022. The book publication date is 21 June 2022.
5/27/202221 minutes, 47 seconds
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Jon Meacham: "The Soul of America"

Michael's conversation with presidential historian Jon Meacham on his book "The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels." Original air date 7 May 2018. The book was published on 8 May 2018.
5/25/202214 minutes, 39 seconds
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Jane Mayer: "Dark Money"

Jane Mayer on her book "Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right." Original air date 27 January 2016. The book was published on 19 January 2016.
5/23/202218 minutes, 18 seconds
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Michael Shellenberger: "San Fransicko"

Michael speaks with California gubernatorial candidate Michael Shellenberger on his book "San Fransicko: Why Progressives Ruin Cities." Original air date 16 May 2022. The book was published on October 12, 2021.
5/20/202217 minutes, 27 seconds
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Tom Manion: "Brothers Forever"

Michael speaks with Tom Manion, co-author of "Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond between a Marine and a Navy SEAL that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice." Original air date 20 May 2014. The book was published on 13 May 2014.
5/18/202222 minutes, 42 seconds
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Alan Shipnuck: "Phil"

Michael welcomes Alan Shipnuck, author of "Phil: The Rip-Roaring (and Unauthorized!) Biography of Golf's Most Colorful Superstar." Original air date 13 May 2022. The book was published on 17 May 2022.
5/16/202217 minutes, 38 seconds
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Seth Stephens-Davidowitz: "Don't Trust Your Gut"

Michael welcomes data scientist Seth Stephens-Davidowitz, author of "Don't Trust Your Gut: Using Data to Get What You Really Want in Life." Original air date 10 May 2022. The book was published on 10 May 2022.
5/13/202219 minutes, 46 seconds
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Steven Levitt: "Freakonomics"

In 2005, Michael ran a week-long series with University of Chicago professor Steven Levitt, co-author of "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" which was published 12 April 2005. Michael hosted him for a segment each day that week, highlighting different concepts from the book. Enjoy all five segments in this one podcast.
5/11/202247 minutes, 54 seconds
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Chris Matthews: "Life's A Campaign"

Part of The National Constitution Center's "Author Series Programs," Michael sat down in front of a live audience with Chris Matthews for his book "Life's A Campaign: What Politics Has Taught Be About Friendship, Rivalry, Reputation and Success." The program was recorded on 23 October 2007. The Book was published on 2 October 2007.
5/9/202240 minutes, 41 seconds
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Tim Russert: "Wisdom of Our Fathers"

Michael's conversation with Tim Russert on his book "Wisdom of Our Fathers: Lessons and Letters from Daughters and Sons." Russert, best known for hosting NBC's "Meet The Press" passed away in June 2008. This interview is being released on the podcast this week, as May 7th, 1950 was his birthday, he would have been 72 this weekend. Original air date 11 June 2007. The book was released on 6 May 2006.
5/6/20227 minutes, 48 seconds
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Jonah Goldberg: "Suicide of the West"

Michael talks with Jonah Goldberg about his book "Suicide of the West: How the Rebirth of Tribalism, Populism, Nationalism, and Identity Politics is Destroying American Democracy." At the time of the interview, Goldberg was Founding Editor at the National Review. Now, he is an LA Times columnist and editor-in-chief at The Dispatch. Original air date 4 May 2018. The book was published on 24 April 2018.
5/4/202214 minutes, 13 seconds
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Juliette Kayyem: "The Devil Never Sleeps"

Former homeland security official, now Belfer Senior Lecturer in International Security at Harvard Kennedy School, Professor Juliette Kayyem, author of "The Devil Never Sleeps: Learning to Live in an Age of Disasters." Original air date 29 April 2022. The book was published on 29 March 2022.
5/3/202214 minutes, 48 seconds
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Rodney King: "The Riot Within"

Michael's conversation with the late Rodney King, on his memoir "The Riot Within: My Journey from Rebellion to Redemption." Original air date 27 April 2012. The book was published on 24 April 2012. Mr. King passed away on 17 June 2012.
4/29/202215 minutes, 2 seconds
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Alan Dershowitz: "Taking The Stand"

Michael welcomed Harvard Law Professor Alan Dershowitz into the SiriusXM Studios to talk about his memoir, "Taking the Stand: My Life in the Law." Original air date 27 November 2013. The book was published on 15 October 2013.
4/27/202225 minutes, 2 seconds
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Michael Smerconish: "American Life in Columns"

A special edition today, for the 100th Episode of Book Club with Michael Smerconish! The author featured is....Michael himself. This is his commentary talking about his most recent book, "Clowns to the Left of Me, Jokers to the Right: American Life in Columns." Original air date 31 May 2018. The book was published on 30 May 2018. Thank you for subscribing to this podcast - share it with a friend.
4/25/202221 minutes, 37 seconds
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Christine Emba: "Rethinking Sex"

Washington Post Opinions Columnist Christine Emba, with her new book "Rethinking Sex: A Provocation." Original air date 12 April 2022. The book was published on 22 March 2022.
4/22/202217 minutes, 48 seconds
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Valerie Biden Owens: "Growing Up Biden"

Michael welcomes Valerie Biden Owens in studio, sister of President Joe Biden. Her new book is "Growing Up Biden: A Memoir." Original air date 18 April 2022. The book was published on 12 April 2022.
4/20/202241 minutes, 52 seconds
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Noah Oppenheim: "The Intellectual Devotional Modern Culture"

Michael's conversation with Noah Oppenheim, who is now President of NBC News. He spoke to him in 2008 on his then-new book, co-authored with David S. Kidder, "The Intellectual Devotional Modern Culture: Revive Your Mind, Complete Your Education, and Converse Confidently with the Culturati." At the time, Oppenheim was a senior producer at The Today Show and moved over to work at the production company Revelle for two years. Original air date 14 October 2008. The book was published on 14 October 2008.
4/18/20229 minutes, 58 seconds
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Richard Clarke: "Artificial Intelligencia"

Former Counterterrorism Czar Richard Clarke, author of the novel "Artificial Intelligencia." Original air date 14 April 2022. The book was published on 12 April 2022.
4/15/202218 minutes, 6 seconds
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Dr. Anthony Mazzarelli: "Compassionomics"

Dr. Anthony Mazzarelli, Co-President/CEO of Cooper University Healthcare and associate dean of clinical affairs for Cooper Medical School at Rowan University, with Michael on his book (co-authored by Dr. Stephen Trzeciak), "Compassionomics: The Revolutionary Scientific Evidence that Caring Makes a Difference." Fun fact: "Mazz" was Michael's first ever intern. Original air date 17 April 2019. The book was published on 30 April 2019.
4/13/202223 minutes, 51 seconds
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Nelson DeMille: "The Cuban Affair"

Bestselling author Nelson DeMille, who has been a guest of Michael's many times over the years, today on his book "The Cuban Affair: A Novel." Original air date 20 September 2017. The book was published on 19 September 2017.
4/11/202217 minutes, 2 seconds
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Richard Hasen: "Cheap Speech"

Michael speaks with University of California-Irvine Law Professor Rick Hasen, author of "Cheap Speech: How Disinformation Poisons Our Politics―and How to Cure It." Original air date 5 April 2022. The book was published on 8 March 2022.
4/8/202213 minutes, 6 seconds
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Jeff Benedict: "Tiger Woods"

Just in time for his reappearance at The Masters, Listen to Michael's 2018 interview with Jeff Benedict, co-author (with Armen Keteyian) of "Tiger Woods." The book became a NY Times bestseller. Original air date 28 March 2018. The book was published on 27 March 2018.
4/6/202219 minutes, 6 seconds
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Conn Iggulden: "The Dangerous Book for Boys"

Michael's conversation with British author Conn Iggulden, co-author of "The Dangerous Book for Boys" from 2012. The book was published in 2005 and again in 2012.
4/4/202218 minutes, 24 seconds
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Greg Bluestein: "Flipped"

Michael talks with Atlanta Journal Constitution Reporter Greg Bluestein, author of "Flipped: How Georgia Turned Purple and Broke the Monopoly on Republican Power." Original air date 24 March 2022. The book was published on 22 March 2022.
4/1/202216 minutes, 20 seconds
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Michael Bamberger: "The Second Life of Tiger Woods"

Michael's conversation with sportswriter Michael Bamberger, author of "The Second Life of Tiger Woods." Original air date 26 March 2020. The book was published on 31 March 2020.
3/30/202223 minutes, 22 seconds
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Dr. Mehmet Oz: "You: The Owners Manual"

Michael spoke with Dr. Mehmet Oz in 2008, for the released of an updated version of his 2005 book "YOU: The Owner's Manual: An Insider’s Guide to the Body That Will Make You Healthier and Younger."
3/28/202210 minutes, 10 seconds
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Madeleine Albright: "Fascism: A Warning"

Michael's conversation with the late Secretary of State Madeleine Albright on her New York Times Best Seller, "Facism: A Warning." Albright passed away on 23 March 2022. Original air date 17 April 2018. The book was published on 10 April 2018.
3/25/202213 minutes, 9 seconds
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Joan Biskupic: "The Chief"

The book came out three years ago this week - hear Michael's conversation with Joan Biskupic, author of "The Chief: The Life and Turbulent Times of Chief Justice John Roberts." Original air date 2 April 2019. The book was published on 26 March 2019.
3/23/202217 minutes, 22 seconds
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Reggie Love: "Power Forward"

Seven years ago this month, former personal aide to President Barack Obama, Reggie Love, released "Power Forward: My Presidential Education." Michael spoke with the Duke and Wharton graduate, who worked in the White House from 2009-2011, on 2 March 2015. Today, Mr. Love is a senior advisor at Apollo Global Management. The book was published on 2 February 2015.
3/21/202222 minutes, 10 seconds
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Brad Meltzer: "The Lightning Rod"

Michael welcomes best-selling author Brad Meltzer, with his new book "The Lightning Rod: A Zig and Nola Novel. Original air date 10 March 2022. The book was published on 8 March 2022.
3/18/202218 minutes, 22 seconds
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Michael Isikoff: "Russian Roulette: The Inside Story of Putin's War on America"

Michael's conversation with investigative reporter Michael Isikoff, co-author (with David Corn) of "Russian Roulette: The Inside Story of Putin's War on America and the Election of Donald Trump." Original air date 16 March 2018. The book was released on 13 March 2018.
3/16/202219 minutes, 21 seconds
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Mary Tillman: "Boots on the Ground by Dusk"

Michael's conversation with Mary Tillman, author of "Boots on the Ground by Dusk: My Tribute to Pat Tillman." Original air date April 2008, the book was published on 29 April 2008.
3/14/202227 minutes, 24 seconds
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Jessie Singer: "There Are No Accidents"

Michael talks with Jessie Singer, author of "There Are No Accidents: The Deadly Rise of Injury and Disaster—Who Profits and Who Pays the Price." Original air date 10 March 2022. The book was published on 15 February 2022.
3/11/202218 minutes, 34 seconds
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Tom Brokaw: "Boom! Voices of the Sixties"

Michael's conversation with newsman Tom Brokaw on his book "Boom!: Voices of the Sixties - Personal Reflections on the '60s and Today." Original air date 27 November 2007. The book was published on 6 November 2007.
3/9/20229 minutes, 51 seconds
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David Carr: "The Night Of The Gun"

Michael's conversation with David Carr, author of "The Night of the Gun A reporter investigates the darkest story of his life. His own." Original air date 9 September 2008. The book was published on 5 August 2008. Mr. Carr passed away in 2015.
3/7/202218 minutes, 20 seconds
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Bill Bishop: "The Big Sort"

Even though he wrote this book 14 years ago, "The Big Sort: Why the Clustering of Like-Minded America is Tearing Us Apart" by Bill Bishop remains more relevant than ever. He joined Michael to talk about it. Original air date 28 February 2022. The book was published on 7 May 2008.
3/4/202217 minutes, 22 seconds
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Joe Petro: "Standing Next To History"

Michael's December 2004 conversation with Joe Petro, author of "Standing Next to History: An Agent's Life Inside the Secret Service." The book was published on 23 December 2004.
3/2/202214 minutes, 59 seconds
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Tom Wolfe: "I Am Charlotte Simmons"

Michael's conversation from 2004 with author Tom Wolfe, on his then new book "I Am Charlotte Simmons: A Novel." The book was published on 9 November 2004.
2/28/202217 minutes, 42 seconds
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Jim Sciutto: "The Shadow War"

Michael's conversation with CNN's Jim Sciutto, author of "The Shadow War: Inside Russia's and China's Secret Operations to Defeat America." Original air date 28 May 2019. The book was published on 14 May 2019.
2/25/202212 minutes, 2 seconds
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Lord Jeffrey Archer: "False Impression"

Michael's conversation with Lord Jeffrey Archer, author of the novel "False Impression." Original air date 15 March 2005. The book was published in February 2005.
2/23/202215 minutes, 20 seconds
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Garrett Graff: "Watergate: A New History"

Michael sits down with CNN contributor and best selling author Garrett Graff, with his book "Watergate: A New History." Original air date 17 February 2022. The book was published on 15 February 2022.
2/18/202219 minutes, 32 seconds
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Alan Sepinwall: "The Sopranos Sessions"

Michael's conversation with Alan Sepinwall, co-author of "The Sopranos Sessions." Original air date 11 January 2019. The book was published on 8 January 2019.
2/16/202216 minutes, 54 seconds
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Joanna Coles: "Love Rules"

Fitting for Valentine's Day - Michael's conversation with Joanna Coles, author of "Love Rules: How to Find a Real Relationship in a Digital World." She is the chief content officer for Hearst Magazines. Original air date 12 April 2018. The book was published on 10 April 2018.
2/14/202215 minutes, 32 seconds
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Erica Komisar: "Chicken Little the Sky Isn't Falling"

Michael speaks with Erica Komisar, LCSW, author of "Chicken Little the Sky Isn't Falling: Raising Resilient Adolescents in the New Age of Anxiety." Original air date 27 January 2022. The book was published on 2 November 2021.
2/11/202214 minutes, 10 seconds
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Dr. Leana Wen: "Lifelines"

Michael's conversation with Dr. Leana Wen, author of "Lifelines: A Doctor's Journey in the Fight for Public Health." She is the former Baltimore, MD health commissioner and a CNN and Washington Post contributor. Original air date 10 August 2021. The book was published on 27 July 2021.
2/9/202219 minutes, 14 seconds
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Pete Hamill: "North River"

Michael's conversation with Pete Hamill, on "North River: A Novel." Original air date June 2007. The book was published 11 June 2007.
2/7/202215 minutes, 48 seconds
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Mark Bowden: "The Steal"

Michael speaks with author Mark Bowden, with his book "The Steal: The Attempt to Overturn the 2020 Election and the People Who Stopped It." Original air date 26 January 2022. The book was published on 4 January 2022.
2/4/202218 minutes, 27 seconds
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Carlos Eire: "Waiting for Snow in Havana"

Michael's conversation with Carlos Eire, author of "Waiting for Snow in Havana: Confessions of a Cuban Boy." Original air date was in 2003, when the book was published.
2/2/202216 minutes, 45 seconds
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Sir Martin Gilbert: "Auschwitz and the Allies"

Sir Martin Gilbert joined Michael after Michael took a trip to Auschwitz with his book club friends, after reading "“The Holocaust A History of the Jews of Europe during WWII” and “Auschwitz and the Allies." Original air date 30 November 2006. The books were published in the 1980s.
1/31/202216 minutes, 39 seconds
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Laura Coates: "Just Pursuit"

Michael's conversation with Laura Coates, colleague at SiriusXM and CNN, and author of "Just Pursuit: A Black Prosecutor's Fight for Fairness." Original air date 25 January 2022. The book was published on 18 January 2022.
1/28/202222 minutes, 41 seconds
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Taylor Branch: "The Clinton Tapes"

Michael's conversation with Taylor Branch, author of "The Clinton Tapes: Wrestling History with the President." Original air date 6 October 2009. The book was published on 29 September 2009.
1/26/202219 minutes, 6 seconds
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Jerry Blavat: "You Only Rock Once"

Michael's conversation from 2011 with Jerry Blavat, author of "You Only Rock Once: My Life In Music." The book was published on 26 July 2011.
1/24/202219 minutes, 35 seconds
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Indra Nooyi: "My Life In Full"

Former CEO of PepsiCo Indra Nooyi with Michael on her book "My Life in Full: Work, Family, and Our Future." Original air date 19 January 2022. The book was published on 21 September 2021
1/21/202220 minutes, 18 seconds
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Boris Johnson: "The Churchill Factor"

Michael's conversation with then-Mayor of London, Boris Johnson (now UK Prime Minister) on his book "The Churchill Factor: How One Man Made History." Original air date 14 November 2014. The book was published on 23 October 2014.
1/19/202218 minutes, 47 seconds
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Harris Wofford: "Of Kennedys and Kings"

Michael's interview with Senator Harris Wofford, author of "Of Kennedys And Kings: Making Sense of the Sixties." The late Senator passed away in January 2019. This interview was conducted on 5 June 2008. The book was published in 1980.
1/17/202219 minutes, 26 seconds
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Mike Sielski: "The Rise"

Michael's conversation with Philadelphia Inquirer Columnist Mike Sielski, on his book "The Rise: Kobe Bryant and the Pursuit of Immortality." Original air date 12 January 2022. The book was published on 11 January 2022.
1/14/202217 minutes, 50 seconds
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Stephanie Land: "Maid"

Michael's conversation with Stephanie Land, author of "Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother's Will to Survive." The book is the basis for a Netflix series that launched in the Fall of 2021. Original Air Date 6 February 2019. The book was published on 22 January 2019.
1/12/202219 minutes
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Brian Rosenwald: "Talk Radio's America"

Michael talks with UPenn's Dr. Brian Rosenwald, author of "Talk Radio’s America: How an Industry Took Over a Political Party That Took Over the United States." Original air date 13 August 2019. The book was published on 13 August 2019.
1/10/202244 minutes, 15 seconds
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Stephen Marche: "The Next Civil War"

Michael speaks with Stephen Marche, on his book "The Next Civil War: Dispatches from the American Future." Original air date 6 January 2022. The book was published on 4 January 2022.
1/7/202219 minutes, 7 seconds
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Senator Harry Reid: "The Good Fight"

Michael's conversation with the late Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) with his then new book "The Good Fight: Hard Lessons from Searchlight to Washington." Original air date 8 May 2008. The book was published on 1 May 2008.
1/4/202212 minutes, 49 seconds
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Danny Goldberg: "Bloody Crossroads 2020"

Michael sits down with Danny Goldberg with his new book "Bloody Crossroads 2020: Art, Entertainment, and Resistance to Trump." Original air date 22 December 2021. The book was published on 2 November 2021.
12/24/202116 minutes, 53 seconds
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Janny Scott: "The Beneficiary"

Michael's conversation with Janny Scott on her book "The Beneficiary: Fortune, Misfortune, and the Story of My Father." Original air date 3 October 2019. The book was published on 16 April 2019.
12/21/202123 minutes, 21 seconds
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Hillary Clinton: "State of Terror"

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, on her new novel, "State of Terror" co-written with Louise Penny. Original air date 16 December 2021. The book was published on 12 October 2021.
12/17/202117 minutes, 25 seconds
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Jon Meacham: "Destiny & Power"

Michael's conversation with historian Jon Meacham, on his book "Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush." Original airdate 11 November 2015. The book was published on 10 November 2015.
12/14/202113 minutes, 52 seconds
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James Andrew Miller: "Tinderbox"

Michael sits down with James Andrew Miller, author of "Tinderbox: HBO's Ruthless Pursuit of New Frontiers." Original air date 3 December 2021. The book was published on 23 November 2021.
12/10/202115 minutes, 6 seconds
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Larry Kane: "Ticket To Ride"

Michael spoke with longtime Philadelphia news anchor Larry Kane in 2007 on the re-release of his book "Ticket To Ride: Inside the Beatles' 1964 and 1965 Tours That Changed the World" the same week Kane interviewed Yoko Ono, widow of John Lennon. The book was originally published in 2003.
12/7/202114 minutes, 54 seconds
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James Patterson: "Fear No Evil

Best-selling author James Patterson speaks about his latest Alex Cross Thriller, "Fear No Evil" with Michael. Original air date 1 December 2021. The book was published on 22 November 2021.
12/3/202117 minutes, 8 seconds
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Joe Biden: "Promises to Keep"

Michael's conversation with then-Senator Joe Biden, who was on the presidential campaign trail when his memoir "Promises to Keep" was released on 31 July 2007. This Interview aired in August 2007.
11/30/202113 minutes, 43 seconds
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Alexandra Zapruder: "26 Seconds"

Michael's conversation with Alexandra Zapruder, granddaughter of Abraham Zapruder, who caught the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on tape on 22 November 1963. Her book is "Twenty-Six Seconds: A Personal History of the Zapruder Film." Original air date 19 December 2016. The book was published on 15 November 2016.
11/23/202125 minutes, 17 seconds
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John Vandemoer: "Rigged Justice"

John Vandemoer, former Stanford University sailing coach, with Michael Smerconish, on his book "Rigged Justice: How the College Admissions Scandal Ruined an Innocent Man's Life." Original air date 29 October 2021. The book was published on 28 September 2021.
11/19/202118 minutes, 2 seconds
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Peter Berg & Buzz Bissinger: "Friday Night Lights"

Michael's conversation with Buzz Bizzinger, author of "Friday Night Lights" and Peter Berg, director of the movie by the same title. This aired on WPHT on 1 October 2004, one week before the movie was released. Michael's late father was also a part of this conversation, one not to miss.
11/16/202127 minutes, 33 seconds
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Cappy McGarr: "The Man Who Made Mark Twain Famous"

Michael sits down with Cappy McGarr, co-creator of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, author of the new book "The Man Who Made Mark Twain Famous: Stories from the Kennedy Center, the White House, and Other Comedy Venues." Original air date 9 November 2021. The book was published on 28 September 2021.
11/12/202119 minutes, 16 seconds
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Steven Levy: "Facebook: The Inside Story"

Michael's conversation with WIRED Editor Steven Levy. This conversation about his book "Facebook: The Inside Story" was recorded in front of an audience at the Philadelphia Free Library on 26 February, 2020. The book was published on 25 February, 2020.
11/9/202142 minutes, 54 seconds
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Liara Roux: "Whore Of New York: A Confession"

Liara Roux, a sex worker and advocate for the profession in New York City, joins Michael with her memoir, "Whore of New York." Original air date 1 November 2021. The book was published on 12 October 2021.
11/5/202118 minutes, 17 seconds
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Joe Namath: "Namath"

Michael's conversation with legendary NFL quarterback Joe Namath, on his then-new book "Namath." Original air date 22 November 2006. The book was published on 24 October 2006.
11/3/202111 minutes, 46 seconds
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Ron Brownstein: "Rock Me On The Water"

Michael sits down with Atlantic Senior Editor Ron Brownstein, author of "Rock Me on the Water: 1974-The Year Los Angeles Transformed Movies, Music, Television, and Politics." Original air date 23 March 2021. The book was published on 23 March 2021.
10/29/202120 minutes, 49 seconds
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Admiral William McRaven: "Make Your Bed"

Michael's conversation with Retired Admiral William McRaven, on his then-new book "Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World." Original air date 10 October 2017. The book was published on 4 April 2017.
10/26/202118 minutes, 9 seconds
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Andrew Yang: "Forward: Notes on the Future of Our Democracy"

Former presidential candidate, former NYC mayoral candidate, and now former democrat (newly independent) Andrew Yang with his new book "Forward: Notes on the Future of Our Democracy." Original air date 15 October 2021. The book was published on 5 October 2021.
10/22/202118 minutes, 33 seconds
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Erik Larson: "The Splendid and the Vile"

Michael's conversation with best-selling author Eric Larson, author of "The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz." Original air date 9 July 2020. The book was published on 25 February 2020.
10/19/202121 minutes, 19 seconds
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Stevie Van Zandt: "Unrequited Infatuations"

Michael speaks with E Street Band Member (and fellow SiriusXM host) Stevie Van Zandt, with his new book "Unrequited Infatuations: A Memoir." Original air date 14 October 2021. The book was published on 28 September 2021.
10/15/202128 minutes, 30 seconds
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James Mitchell: "Enhanced Interrogation"

Michael's conversation with James Mitchell, author of "Enhanced Interrogation: Inside the Minds and Motives of the Islamic Terrorists Trying To Destroy America." Original air date 13 December 16. The book was published on 29 November 2016.
10/12/202123 minutes, 13 seconds
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Stephanie Grisham: "I'll Take Your Questions Now"

Michael speaks with former White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham, author of "I'll Take Your Questions Now: What I Saw In The Trump White House." Original air date 6 October 2021. The book was published on 5 October 2021.
10/8/202124 minutes, 25 seconds
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John Hickenlooper: "The Opposite of Woe"

While on the presidential campaign trail in 2018, Former CO Gov. John Hickenlooper stopped by to speak with Michael in Philadelphia, about his memoir, "The Opposite of Woe: My Life in Beer and Politics." Original Air Date 30 November 2018. The book was published on 24 May 2016.
10/5/202130 minutes, 13 seconds
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Robert Costa: "Peril"

Robert Costa, co-author (with Bob Woodward) of "PERIL" with Michael Smerconish. Original air date 29 September 2021. The book was published on 21 September 2021.
10/1/202117 minutes, 59 seconds
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Mark Weinberg - "Movie Night with the Reagans"

Michael Smerconish with Mark Weinberg, author of "Movie Night with the Reagans." Original air date 28 February 2018. The book was published on 27 February 2018.
9/28/202117 minutes, 37 seconds
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David Philipps - "Alpha"

New York Times Pulitzer Prize Winner David Phillips with his book "Alpha: Eddie Gallagher and the War for the Soul of the Navy SEALs." Original air date 22 September 2021. The book was published on 24 September 2021.
9/24/202116 minutes, 35 seconds
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Dr. Jean Twenge - "iGen"

Dr. Jean Twenge speaks with Michael about her book "iGen: Why Today's Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy--and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood--and What That Means for the Rest of Us." Original air date 28 August 2017. The book was published on 22 August 2017.
9/21/202118 minutes, 9 seconds
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George Will: "American Happiness and Discontents"

Washington Post columbist George Will with Michael on his book "American Happiness and Discontents: The Unruly Torrent, 2008-2020." Original air date 16 September 2021.
9/17/202117 minutes, 17 seconds
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Tal Ben-Shahar: "Happiness Studies"

Cofounder of Happiness Studies Academy Tal Ben-Shahar with Michael on his new book "Happiness Studies: An Introduction." Originally aired 3 September 2021. Book published on 5 July 2021.
9/14/202110 minutes, 28 seconds
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Rob O'Neill: "The Operator"

Michael's conversation with Rob O'Neill on his book "The Operator: Firing the Shots that Killed Osama Bin Laden and My Years as a SEAL Team Warrior." Original air date 5 May 2017. The book was published on 25 April 2017.
9/10/202124 minutes, 37 seconds
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Michael Sandel: "The Tyranny of Merit"

Harvard University Professor Michael Sandel, author of "The Tyranny of Merit: What's Become of the Common Good?" with Michael Smerconish. Original Air Date 24 September 2020. The book was published on 15 September 2020
9/7/202121 minutes, 41 seconds
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Roger Bennett: "Reborn in the USA"

Michael sits down with culture and soccer commentator Roger Bennett, author of "Reborn in the USA: An Englishman's Love Letter to His Chosen Home." Original air date 25 August 2021. The book was published on 29 June 2021.
9/3/202117 minutes, 54 seconds
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David McCullough: "1776"

Michael's conversation with Pulitzer Prize winning author David McCullough, with his then-new book "1776." Original air date May 2005. The book was published on 24 May 2005.
8/31/202123 minutes, 56 seconds
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Gary Ginsberg: "First Friends"

Michael sits down with Gary Ginsberg, author of "First Friends: The Powerful, Unsung (And Unelected) People Who Shaped Our Presidents." Original air date 19 August 2021. The book was published on 6 July 2021.
8/27/202117 minutes, 27 seconds
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Pat Buchanan: "Nixon's White House Wars"

In this trip to the archives, Pat Buchanan, White House speechwriter and advisor for presidents Nixon, Ford, and Reagan, joins Michael for a conversation about his book "Nixon's White House Wars: The Battles That Made and Broke a President and Divided America Forever." Original air date and book publication date 9 May 2017.
8/24/202127 minutes, 25 seconds
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Jon Dorenbos: "Life is Magic"

This is a special one. Former Philadelphia Eagles long snapper and magician Jon Dorenbos joins Michael Smerconish for a deep dive into forgiveness, healing, and a room full of decks of cards. Original air date 17 August 2021.
8/20/202129 minutes, 6 seconds
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Roger Stone: "Stone's Rules: How to Win at Politics, Business, and Style"

Michael Smerconish talks with the one and only Roger Stone about his book "Stone's Rules," his guiding principles during a truly singular career. Original air date 5 May 2018. Book published 8 May 2018.
8/17/202117 minutes, 22 seconds
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Chris Matthews: "This Country"

Former MSNBC Hardball Host Chris Matthews with his new book "This Country: My Life in Politics and History" speaking with Michael Smerconish. Original air date 12 August 2021. Book published 1 June 2021.
8/13/202117 minutes, 31 seconds
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J.D. Vance: "Hillbilly Elegy"

JD Vance with his book "Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis" with Michael Smerconish. Original Air Date 15 July 2016. The book was published on 28 June 2016.
8/10/202115 minutes, 6 seconds
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Peter Bergen: "The Rise & Fall of Osama Bin Laden: The Biography"

Michael speaks with CNN National Security Analyst Peter Bergen, author of "The Rise and Fall of Osama Bin Laden: The Biography." Original air date 4 August 2021. The book was published on 3 August 2021.
8/6/202122 minutes, 59 seconds
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Jeffrey Archer: "Heads You Win: A Novel"

Michael's conversation with Lord Jeffrey Archer, author of the best seller "Heads You Win: A Novel." Original airdate 8 November 2018. Book published on 6 November 2018.
8/3/202111 minutes, 43 seconds
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Jake Tapper: "The Devil May Dance"

Michael speaks with CNN's Jake Tapper about his novel "The Devil May Dance." Original air date 28 May 2021. The book was published on 11 May 2021.
7/30/202112 minutes, 31 seconds
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David Axelrod: "Believer: My Forty Years in Politics"

Former top aide to President Obama, David Axelrod with Michael Smerconish. Original air date 19 February 2015. The book was published on 10 February 2015.
7/27/202118 minutes, 36 seconds
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Carol Leonnig & Philip Rucker: "I Alone Can Fix It"

Michael sits down with Washington Post reporters Carol D. Leonnig & Philip Rucker on their book "I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trump's Catastrophic Final Year." Original air date 21 July 2021. The book was published on 20 July 2021.
7/23/202121 minutes, 20 seconds
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Edward Isaac Dovere: "Battle For The Soul"

Michael's conversation with The Atlantic's Edward Isaac Dovere, author of "Battle for the Soul: Inside the Democrats' Campaigns to Defeat Trump." This interview is a bit...different than others, not for clean ears! Original air date 11 June 2021. The book was published on 25 May, 2021.
7/20/202120 minutes, 58 seconds
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Kitty Kelley: "Oprah: A Biography"

Michael speaks with Kitty Kelley, on her book "Oprah: A Biography. Original air date 15 April 2010, the book was published on 13 April 2010.
7/16/202113 minutes, 50 seconds
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Elie Honig: Hatchet Man

Michael talks with former prosecutor, CNN Senior Legal Analyst Elie Honig, author of "Hatchet Man: How Bill Barr Broke the Prosecutor's Code and Corrupted the Justice Department." Original air date 9 July 2021. The book was published on 6 July 2021.
7/13/202115 minutes, 42 seconds
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Jean Becker: The Man I Knew

Jean Becker, former Chief of Staff to President George H.W. Bush, with Michael Smerconish on her book "The Man I Knew: The Amazing Story of George H. W. Bush's Post-Presidency". Original air date 2 June 2021. The book was published on 1 June 2021.
7/9/202125 minutes, 9 seconds
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D.L. Hughley: How To Survive America

Michael Smerconish sat down with comedian D.L. Hughley with his then-new book "How To Survive America" on June 17th, 2021. The book, co-authored by Doug Moe, was published on June 15th, 2021
7/6/202119 minutes, 54 seconds
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Jack Bogle: Enough (November 20, 2008)

Enough was published in November 2008. Jack Bogle passed away in January 2019.
7/1/202130 minutes, 21 seconds
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John McCain: Character Is Destiny (December 2, 2005)

Character Is Destiny was published in 2005, Senator John McCain (R-AZ) passed away in 2018.
7/1/202146 minutes, 30 seconds
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Nelson DeMille: Night Fall (January 4, 2005)

Night Fall, A John Corey Novel, was published in November 2004. It was a New York Times Best Seller.
7/1/202119 minutes, 1 second
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Phil Knight: Shoe Dog (May 20, 2016)

Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, founder of Nike.
7/1/202115 minutes, 38 seconds
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Coming Soon!

Coming Soon from Michael Smerconish and SiriusXM: One-on-one author interviews covering a wide variety of subjects, including politics, memoirs, social/economic class issues, personal finance, the military, decision-making, and sports.
6/24/20211 minute, 28 seconds