Episodes

  • Admiral James Stavridis on The Russia-Ukraine War Turning Point

    Admiral James Stavridis on The Russia-Ukraine War Turning Point
    Jul 11 2025
    Former NATO Supreme Commander Admiral James Stavridis joins Michael to discuss President Trump’s shift on arming Ukraine and whether we’re seeing the beginning of the end for Vladimir Putin. Plus, Stavridis shares his thoughts on what it would really take to eliminate Iran’s nuclear capabilities—and why neither Trump’s nor Netanyahu’s current approaches are likely to work. Original air date 11 July 2025.
    Show more Show less
    27 mins
  • Russian v. Ukraine War: Beginning of the end or End of the beginning?

    Russian v. Ukraine War: Beginning of the end or End of the beginning?
    Jul 11 2025
    Today’s Smerconish.com Daily Poll asks: “Russia vs. Ukraine: Is this the beginning of the end—or the end of the beginning?” Michael dives into this critical moment in the war, examining Trump’s evolving position on arming Ukraine, the political risks he’s navigating, and what Putin’s long game might really be. From shifting GOP views to NATO backchannels, it's a moment that may redefine the conflict. Plus, a quick look back at yesterday’s hot-button poll on the $1000 Trump Accounts for babies. Listen here, then vote, and please rate and review AND share this podcast!
    Show more Show less
    14 mins
  • Half Of America's Murderers Get Away With It

    Half Of America's Murderers Get Away With It
    Jul 10 2025
    Michael is joined by New York Times reporter German Lopez to discuss his jaw-dropping report on America’s crime clearance rates — and the results will stun you. Nearly half of murders in the U.S. go unsolved. Why? From outdated priorities to resource shortages and a lack of public trust, they explore how America stacks up globally and why more technology isn’t translating into more justice. Then, Michael takes audience calls to hear their personal crime stories and reactions. Original air date 10 July 2025.
    Show more Show less
    42 mins
  • $1000 Trump Accounts For Babies? Michael Smerconish Says No

    $1000 Trump Accounts For Babies? Michael Smerconish Says No
    Jul 10 2025
    Should every child born in the U.S. receive a $1,000 government contribution into a tax-free investment account? Michael dives into the new “Trump Account” policy and unpacks its roots in the progressive “baby bonds” idea. With insights from economist Derek Hamilton—who helped originate the concept—Michael explores whether this version helps close the wealth gap or actually makes it worse. A thought-provoking look at wealth inequality, public policy, and how political branding may shape our financial future. Listen to his thoughts here, then go vote at smerconish.com!
    Show more Show less
    18 mins
  • MLB Legend Jim Abbott’s Story Will Break You Open

    MLB Legend Jim Abbott’s Story Will Break You Open
    Jul 9 2025
    In this deeply moving episode, Michael reunites with legendary one-handed MLB pitcher Jim Abbott, whose incredible journey is now the focus of the new ESPN documentary "SOUTHPAW". Abbott shares how he overcame bullying, physical limitations, and public doubt to throw a no-hitter for the New York Yankees—and become an icon of resilience. Hear how he inspired thousands of families, mentored kids with disabilities, and changed the way people think about adversity. Plus, callers share their own remarkable stories of triumph over hardship. A must-listen for anyone in need of some real-life inspiration. Original air date 9 July 2025.
    Show more Show less
    32 mins
  • Should Pastors Pick Presidents? The IRS Just Changed the Rules

    Should Pastors Pick Presidents? The IRS Just Changed the Rules
    Jul 9 2025
    Michael dives into a hot-button issue with today's poll question at Smerconish.com: Should religious leaders be permitted to endorse political candidates in churches and other religious centers without losing their tax-exempt status? The IRS just made a quiet but potentially seismic shift — is this a free speech win or a threat to the separation of church and state? Plus, a look back at yesterday’s poll question results on the alarming study on the decline of children's health in America.
    Show more Show less
    14 mins
  • Inside the Texas Flood Crisis: National Weather Service Failures & Heartbreaking Stories

    Inside the Texas Flood Crisis: National Weather Service Failures & Heartbreaking Stories
    Jul 8 2025
    Michael speaks with New York Times reporter Christopher Flavelle about the tragic Texas floods that have claimed over 100 lives so far. They discuss critical staffing shortages at the National Weather Service that may have impacted warnings and emergency response. Then, Michael connects with Texans on the ground to hear their reactions and personal stories from the disaster. Join us as we explore whether this tragedy was preventable and what it reveals about extreme weather, government preparedness, and climate change. Original air date 7 July 2025.
    Show more Show less
    31 mins
  • U.S. Kids Are Twice as Likely to Die—The Devastating Data No One’s Talking About

    U.S. Kids Are Twice as Likely to Die—The Devastating Data No One’s Talking About
    Jul 8 2025
    A new study conducted by a team at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals a deeply troubling reality: children in the United States are facing worse health outcomes than their peers in other high-income nations—across nearly every indicator. Michael Smerconish breaks down the findings with insight, urgency, and a bit of personal reflection. From chronic conditions and gun violence to mental health, poverty, and policy failures, this episode dives deep into why America is falling short. This is the premise for today's Daily Poll Question at Smerconish.com, which asks: Why do U.S. children have comparatively worse health outcomes? Listen here, then vote there!
    Show more Show less
    15 mins