Book Club with Michael Smerconish

Michael Smerconish sits down with veteran pollster Douglas Schoen and political strategist Carly Cooperman to discuss their book, "America: Unite or Die: How to Save Our Democracy." They examine the growing political polarization threatening America's democratic institutions, debate the responsibilities of both the left and the right, and outline practical reforms—including ranked-choice voting, redistricting changes, and empowering political moderates—that they believe can help restore trust, compromise, and national unity. Original air date 25 October 2021. The book was published on 2 November 2021. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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In this 2018 conversation, Michael sits down with journalist Salena Zito to discuss "The Great Revolt: Inside the Populist Coalition Reshaping American Politics", her bestselling book exploring the voters who propelled Donald Trump to the White House. Zito explains the seven voter archetypes she identified across key Rust Belt states, why so many political analysts misunderstood Trump's coalition, and what the 2016 election revealed about populism, localism, and the growing disconnect between America's political class and its voters. Recorded during Trump's first term, this conversation offers a fascinating snapshot of the political landscape at that pivotal moment. Original air date 9 May 2018. The book was published on 8 May 2018. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Marine Corps veteran and social entrepreneur Rye Barcott joins Michael to talk about his new book "Courage Can Save Us: Ten Extraordinary Americans and the Fight for Our Future." Hear them discuss why courage, service, and principled leadership are more important than ever. Drawing on the stories of ten veterans who have put country before party, Barcott explains how military service fosters bipartisan cooperation, why veterans are often more effective lawmakers, and what America can learn from leaders willing to put the common good first. A thoughtful conversation about courage, polarization, and the future of American democracy. Original air date 30 June 2026. The book was published on 9 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Michael sits down with former White House Social Secretary Jeremy Bernard to discuss "Treating People Well: The Extraordinary Power of Civility at Work and in Life", co-written with fellow former Social Secretary Lee Berman. Bernard shares behind-the-scenes stories from the Obama White House, including state dinners, holiday receptions, the night Osama bin Laden’s death was announced, and lessons learned from some of the world’s most influential people. Along the way, he explains why civility, kindness, and attention to detail can be powerful tools for success in both work and life. Original air date 13 February 20 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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In this archived conversation, Michael Smerconish sits down with renowned pediatric neurosurgeon and bestselling author Dr. Ben Carson to discuss his 2014 book "One Nation: What We Can All Do to Save America's Future". Carson reflects on his upbringing in Detroit, the influence of his mother, the power of education and reading, and his views on the American Dream. The discussion also explores government, fiscal policy, political polarization, higher education, and the major headlines of the day—including the Bowe Bergdahl prisoner exchange. A candid look at the ideas that helped make One Nation a national bestseller. Original air date 4 June 2014. The book was published on 20 May 2014. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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