The Smerconish Podcast

CBS News Chief Washington Analyst Robert Costa joins Michael to examine the growing imbalance of power in Washington. They discuss why Congress has steadily surrendered authority to the presidency, the rise of executive orders under recent administrations, and why lawmakers seem unable—or unwilling—to tackle America's biggest challenges, from immigration to the national debt. Is Congress in institutional decline, and what does that mean for the future of American democracy? Original air date 20 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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When President Trump requested a primetime address on election integrity, several major networks declined to air it live. Should they have? Michael argues that Americans deserve to hear a president's remarks firsthand—even when they're controversial—and explains why he believes the media should air the speech, then fact-check and debate it afterward. Plus, callers weigh in on where journalism, free speech, and presidential responsibility collide. Original air date 20 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which is more valuable to you: the benefits of artificial intelligence or your privacy?
Michael explores a provocative new way of thinking about artificial intelligence after reading "The Problem with Personalization" by media scholar Joseph Turow. While most AI debates focus on privacy and surveillance, this conversation examines a deeper concern: whether hyper-personalization is creating entirely different realities for each of us, weakening the shared experiences that hold communities together. Is AI's greatest cost the information it collects—or the social fabric it quietly unravels? Cast your vote on today's poll and hear why this emerging issue deserves far more attention. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Agree or disagree: Schools need less technology and more pencils and books."
Michael examines the growing backlash against classroom technology, inspired by neuroscientist Dr. Jared Horvath's bestselling book "The Digital Delusion" (hear that interview on The Book Club with Michael Smerconish Podcast!). Has America's decades-long experiment with laptops and tablets in the classroom undermined reading comprehension and academic performance, or are critics confusing correlation with causation? Michael explores the evidence, the sharp decline in student achievement, international trends like Sweden's return to printed textbooks, and why even supporters of educational technology are questioning whether schools have gone too far. Cast your vote at Smerconish.com and join the conversation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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What if everything Americans believe about youth sports is backwards? Michael Smerconish talks with Wall Street Journal columnist Ben Cohen about Norway's remarkably successful approach to developing young athletes—a system built on fun, participation, delayed specialization, and minimal parental pressure. Inspired by the hometown of soccer superstar Erling Haaland, they explore why Norway is producing elite talent while keeping kids engaged, and whether America's billion-dollar youth sports culture has lost its way. Michael also reflects on why he's changed his own views about participation trophies, competition, and what youth sports should really be about. Original air date 13 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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