The Smerconish Podcast

Happy hour used to be where careers were shaped, friendships were formed, and mentors emerged. Now, it’s disappearing. In this episode, Michael explores a Wall Street Journal report on the decline of workplace happy hours—and what that loss means for young professionals, workplace culture, mental health, and social connection. From listener stories to generational insights, Smerconish makes the case that mingling isn’t just fun—it’s essential. Are we trading human connection for convenience, and at what cost? Original air date 7 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael takes a deep dive into the Minneapolis ICE shooting that has ignited fierce debate across media and politics. Instead of partisan talking points, he examines the case through the actual federal standards governing use of deadly force — including ICE, CBP, and DHS policy memos spanning more than a decade. Today's Smerconish.com poll question asks: "Did the ICE agent reasonably believe the woman in the SUV posed to him a significant threat of death or serious physical harm?" Michael walks through the video evidence, explains what “reasonable belief” legally means, and breaks down when — and when not — law enforcement is authorized to shoot at a moving vehicle. If you want less outrage and more clarity, this episode is essential listening. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis reignites the national debate over immigration enforcement and police use of force. Michael Smerconish examines the video, the law, and the rarely discussed federal policies governing when ICE agents may fire their weapons. Joined by former Boston police lieutenant and DHS advisor Dr. Thomas Nolan, Smerconish breaks down why this case may fail the legal standard—and how a local sheriff’s race in Pennsylvania foreshadowed this exact moment. Original air date 8 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish unpacks today’s Smerconish.com poll question: "Is there less chaos and more purpose in the decision making process of President Trump than is commonly portrayed in the media?" Drawing on insights from political analyst Mark Halperin, Michael explores whether what looks like disorder may actually be “controlled chaos" - weigh in at Smerconish.com after listening, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is Donald Trump finally “doomed,” or is that a familiar storyline playing on repeat? Michael Smerconish sits down with political analyst Mark Halperin to examine why predictions of Trump’s political collapse keep falling short. From foreign policy flashpoints like Greenland, Ukraine, and Venezuela to tariffs, media bias, and what Halperin calls “controlled chaos,” the conversation explores whether Trump’s leadership style is reckless—or deliberately disruptive. A sharp, candid discussion about power, perception, and why Trump continues to dominate American politics, for better or worse. Original air date 7 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.