The Smerconish Podcast

A six-pack of beer could help redefine the Constitution’s ban on excessive fines. Michael breaks down the extraordinary Supreme Court case of an Alaska bush pilot whose $95,000 airplane was seized after alcohol was found aboard a flight to a dry village—and explains why the story is far more complicated than the headline suggests. Then, listeners weigh in on how much punishment is simply too much. Original air date 21 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.

Data centers are becoming one of America’s hottest political fights. Michael talks with Pennsylvania developer Brian O’Neill, who is seeking to build $18 billion worth of data center projects, about Governor Josh Shapiro’s opposition, concerns over power, water, jobs and local communities — and whether resistance to new development could cost the U.S. the AI race against China. Then, listeners from across the country weigh in. Original air date 1 September 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.

In an increasingly fragmented America, could Costco be one of the last places that still brings everyone together? Michael explores how the warehouse giant became an unlikely cultural phenomenon—from $5 rotisserie chickens and $1.50 hot dogs to date nights, marriage proposals and remarkably loyal employees—and asks listeners: What is Costco’s secret sauce? Listen in about how its not just a place to shop - its a place to mingle. Original air date 14 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.

Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada David L. Cohen joins Michael to unpack the escalating U.S.-Canada trade fight, President Trump’s tariffs, and whether Canada has really been taking advantage of the United States. Cohen explains who actually pays the price for tariffs, why he believes America has “wronged” its closest neighbor, and whether the historic alliance can recover. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.

Football season is back—but would you let your kid take the field? Michael weighs the alarming new CTE data, the dangers of youth tackle football, and the social pressure parents face when everyone else is playing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.