Common Sense with Dan Carlin

Loud, fast-talking and deceptively funny, this politically-independent "forward-thinking pragmatist" looks at the events shaping our world through a uniquely American lens. It's smarter than you think, and faster than you expect.

Last refreshed: May 21st, 2026 at 12:48 PM ⓘ

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Episodes

Show 326 - The Water in Which We Swim

This show was never meant to see the light of day, yet here it is.

May 20, 2026•1 hr•Ep. 326

Show 325 - Who's the Boss?

The President is outraged at multiple Democratic lawmakers for reminding members of the military of their constitutional oaths and responsibilities. Dan points out that individual agency among soldiers is a societal firewall protecting all of us.

Nov 24, 2025•40 min•Ep. 325

Show 324 - What's Good for the Goose

Dan Carlin discusses the erosion of American freedoms and the increasing power of the presidency, highlighting historical precedents and potential dangers. He warns against normalizing actions that could lead to autocracy, urging listeners to consider the long-term consequences of unchecked executive authority. The episode explores the responsibilities of voters and political parties in safeguarding the republic.

Mar 23, 2025•1 hr 31 min•Ep. 324

Show 323 - Gas Up the Cold War

In this urgent episode, Dan Carlin shares his anti-war perspective on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, drawing parallels to past conflicts like the Cuban Missile Crisis and critiquing the long-term impact of NATO expansion. He explores the unique dangers of a potential nuclear conflict, Putin's motivations, the remarkable Ukrainian resistance, and President Biden's unprecedented intelligence strategy, concluding with a somber outlook on a new Cold War.

Mar 01, 2022•40 min•Ep. 323

Show 322 - Betting on Long Shots

This episode delves into the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, examining the conflict's long, complex history, from US provocation of the 1979 Soviet invasion to the failures of nation-building. Carlin critiques the hubris of military interventions in places like the "Graveyard of Empires" and draws parallels to Vietnam, highlighting the inevitable human costs and the need to hold leaders accountable for past mistakes. He emphasizes that true lessons from history require re-evaluating advisors and avoiding ground wars in challenging regions.

Sep 01, 2021•55 min•Ep. 322

Show 321 - Garbage In, Garbage Out

In a show recorded before the House impeachment vote, Dan Carlin dissects the recent storming of the U.S. Capitol, comparing it to historical periods of extremism and mob violence, like the 1970s and the Weimar Republic. He critiques the spread of "garbage evidence" amplified by the internet and a uniquely divisive president, highlighting the dangerous cycle of reciprocal extremism. Carlin advocates for unity, truth, and a return to the "middle of the road" to prevent further national conflict, asserting that a "cold civil war" is not a war worth fighting.

Jan 14, 2021•47 min•Ep. 321

Show 320 - Steering Into the Iceberg

Dan Carlin delves into the profound challenges facing American democracy, highlighting the erosion of shared reality and the dangers of a "cult of personality" in leadership. He critiques the current political rhetoric that flirts with civil war and the counterproductive tactics seen in protests. Ultimately, Carlin outlines his vote for Joe Biden as a choice to avoid an authoritarian path and preserve core constitutional principles.

Sep 20, 2020•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 320

Show 319 - A Recipe for Caesar

In this Common Sense episode, Dan Carlin delves into the deep-seated partisan conflict in America, dissecting how profit-driven media amplifies division and creates a "tit-for-tat retribution cycle." He draws historical parallels to the Roman Republic, warns against the rise of a "Caesar" figure, and frames these challenges within the context of an accelerating Information Revolution that strains societal structures. Carlin ultimately calls for greater empathy, accountability, and the pursuit of truth to overcome current societal fragmentation.

Apr 01, 2020•1 hr 26 min•Ep. 319

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