The Smerconish Podcast

When a U.S. F-15 is shot down deep inside Iran, what follows is a high-risk, high-stakes rescue mission that showcases the full power—and complexity—of the American military. Michael is joined by Lt. General David Deptula (Ret.) to break down how elite SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) training prepares pilots for the unthinkable—and how those skills played a critical role in this real-world crisis. From CIA deception tactics to massive coordinated airpower, the operation raises big questions: How much should the public know about sensitive missions? And does sharing these details strengthen—or weaken—national security? Plus, callers weigh in with firsthand SERE training experiences and debate the cost, risks, and ethics behind America’s “leave no one behind” doctrine. A gripping look inside modern warfare, survival training, and the stories we tell about both. Listen in, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Original air date 6 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should the U.S. target Iran's power generating facilities and bridges if they help support its war machine? As tensions escalate and a presidential deadline looms, Michael examines whether striking Iran’s infrastructure would be a legitimate military tactic or a dangerous escalation with humanitarian consequences. He breaks down the legal gray areas under international law, including when dual-use targets like power plants and bridges become fair game. With voters already split on prior Iran-related questions, this latest poll probes the line between strategic necessity and potential war crimes—while raising concerns about unintended consequences. Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Michael sits down with Dr. Brian Rosenwald, author of "Talk Radio’s America", to break down the rapidly evolving world of conservative media. Rosenwald—whose work was once praised by Rush Limbaugh himself—explains how talk radio helped pave the way for Donald Trump’s 2016 victory. But today’s media landscape looks nothing like it did then. From legacy voices like Sean Hannity to the rise of Joe Rogan and the “manosphere,” Rosenwald maps out eight distinct factions shaping conservative media in 2026. He explores the influence of viral social media personalities, MAGA loyalists, conspiracy-driven figures, and a new wave of lifestyle influencers targeting younger audiences. The conversation also tackles a key question: Has conservative media become too fragmented for any single voice to dominate—and what does that mean for future elections? If you want to understand the forces driving political discourse today—and where it’s headed next—this is a must-listen. Original air date 3 April 2026 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Do you feel more drawn to organized religion, less drawn, or about the same? As Easter, Passover, and Ramadan converge, Michael explores whether America is experiencing a quiet return to organized faith—or continuing its long secular drift. New data shows declining religious affiliation overall, yet a surprising increase in Catholic and Orthodox conversions. What’s driving this contradiction? From post-COVID isolation to technology’s grip on daily life, Michael examines whether a hunger for community, structure, and human connection is pulling people back toward churches, synagogues, and mosques—and asks listeners where they stand. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Is organized religion making a comeback? Michael explores a surprising trend: growing interest in faith—especially among Gen Z men. Joined by SiriusXM Catholic Channel 129 host Katie McGrady, the conversation dives into why young people are returning to church after decades of decline. Is it a search for community in an increasingly isolated, screen-driven world? A response to anxiety, uncertainty, and global instability? Or something deeper? From rising conversion numbers to the role of technology, this episode examines the cultural forces reshaping faith in America. Original air date 2 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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