On Mondays, Jon Stewart hosts The Daily Show, but on Wednesdays, he's back in your ears with The Weekly Show -- a podcast featuring in-depth conversations with a range of special guests. From experts and advocates, to stakeholders and thought leaders, we discuss the challenges, changes, and ideas that are shaping our world.
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As the government shutdown takes effect, Jon is joined by Roosevelt University Professor and contributing writer at The Nation David Faris, and "The Bulwark Podcast" host Tim Miller to examine Democratic strategy. Together, they explore what Democrats are hoping to achieve through the shutdown, discuss whether the party should rethink its resistance tactics and policy priorities, and consider what it would look like if Democrats embraced the hardball precedents Trump and Republicans have set whe...
Jon Stewart hosts Ken Martin, Chair of the Democratic National Committee, for a candid discussion on the party's current challenges. They explore the DNC's role in rebuilding after electoral defeat, the struggle to create a coherent message amidst internal divisions, and the need to connect with working-class voters who feel left behind. Martin emphasizes the importance of a broad economic message and genuine authenticity, while Stewart challenges the party's conventional thinking and perceived lack of a clear, inspiring vision beyond strategic calculations. The conversation highlights the urgent need for Democrats to move from platitudes to specific, relatable policies to regain trust and effectively respond to the current political landscape.
In the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, Jon is joined by Charlie Warzel, staff writer at The Atlantic and author of its "Galaxy Brain" newsletter. Together, they explore how algorithms distort the way we experience these tragic events while rewarding the most extreme reactions, investigate the online ecosystems that can radicalize individuals, and consider whether our responses to violence perpetuate the very cycles we condemn. This podcast episode is brought to you by: FACTOR - Go to ...
As ICE arrives in Chicago under the banner of crime reduction, Jon is joined by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to examine the Trump administration's stated rationale for federal intervention in American cities. They explore what the administration is actually trying to accomplish in Illinois, consider what effective approaches to reducing crime and immigration violations would actually look like, and discuss how Democratic leaders could band together to resist federal overreach. Plus, Jon answers...
As Trump targets the FBI and Justice Department for retribution, Jon is joined by former FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Feinberg and New York Times FBI and DOJ reporter Devlin Barrett. They explore how high-profile cases have damaged these agencies' credibility, discuss the dismantling of their workforces and investigative capacity under Trump's administration, and consider what happens when law enforcement is weaponized for vengeance and power consolidation. Plus, what can Chuck ...
As the world confronts images of the suffering in Gaza, Jon is joined by Pulitzer Prize winning Palestinian poet and author Mosab Abu Toha to hear the human story behind the photos. He shares his experience as a refugee, the voices of those still living through the devastation, and what he hopes for the future of his homeland. Follow The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart on social media for more: > YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@weeklyshowpodcast > Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weekly...
Jon Stewart and Mehdi Hasan discuss the evolving landscape of media and politics, examining Hasan's challenging experience debating far-right conservatives. They delve into how the Republican Party's strategy, particularly under Donald Trump, has abandoned traditional constitutional principles in favor of authoritarianism and how corporate media like Fox News operates as a propaganda arm. The conversation highlights the Democratic Party's perceived timidity and inability to counter these tactics, advocating for a more assertive, principled approach to politics and media engagement to address critical issues like the Gaza crisis and systemic democratic flaws.
Jon Stewart, Preet Bharara, and Dan Pfeiffer dissect how presidents, particularly Donald Trump, use executive power to coerce independent institutions. They explore the historical erosion of democratic guardrails, the legal justifications for executive overreach, and the chilling effect on media and businesses. The discussion also delves into whether a future Democratic administration should adopt a more aggressive approach to counter these vulnerabilities.
In the wake of Trump's sweeping economic legislation, Jon is joined by Clara Mattei, Professor of Economics at The University of Tulsa and author of "The Capital Order," and James Robinson, Professor at the Harris School for Public Policy at the University of Chicago. Together, they explore how the myth of free markets masks government interventions for corporate interests, investigate the limits of economic solutions to political problems, and consider what a worker-focused economy could look l...
In an era that can feel like a tinderbox, Jon is joined by Tony Gilroy, creator of "Andor" and Oscar nominee, and Mike Duncan, bestselling author and creator of the "History of Rome" and "Revolutions" podcasts. Together, they examine what draws ordinary people into extraordinary historical moments, explore the catalysts that spark revolutions, and consider how both fictional narratives and historical analysis illuminate our present. This podcast episode is brought to you by: GROUND NEWS - Go to ...
With the US now directly engaged in the Israel-Iran conflict, Jon is joined by Maziar Bahari, publisher of iranwire.com and author of “Then They Came for Me,” a memoir that served as the basis for Jon’s 2014 film “Rosewater.” Together, they explore the reality of life under Iran's current government, discuss the complex challenges of regime change both in Iran and elsewhere, and consider what ordinary Iranians actually want: peace and the freedom to live their lives. This podcast episode is brou...
Amid growing fears about where the Israel-Iran conflict leads, Jon is joined by Ben Rhodes, co-host of "Pod Save the World" and former Deputy National Security Advisor, and Christiane Amanpour, CNN's Chief International Anchor and host of "Christiane and The Ex Files with Jamie Rubin." Together, they trace the complex history that brought us to this moment, examine Trump's response to the escalation, and explore why achieving peace remains far more challenging than waging war. This podcast episo...
This week, with the military deployed to LA and readying to parade in DC, Jon is joined by Jill Lepore, Professor of History and Law at Harvard University, and Kevin M. Kruse, Professor of History at Princeton University. Together, they consider what history reveals about moments when presidential power tests democratic limits, and discuss ways that institutions might resist. Plus, hear new insights on the Trump vs Musk quarrel, as well as surprising parallels between Jurassic Park and Trump’s f...
With the Trump administration generating headlines at breakneck speed, Jon is joined by CNN's Kaitlan Collins, anchor of "The Source with Kaitlan Collins" and Chief White House Correspondent. Together, they examine how to cut through the noise and ask the right questions, discuss the ins and outs of covering the White House, and explore what goes into producing effective journalism in an era of information overload. Plus, learn all about “Floribama” and what journalists could stand to learn from...
As Democrats seek to reestablish their credibility, Jon is joined by Crooked Media founders and "Pod Save America" hosts Jon Favreau and Jon Lovett. Together, they dissect the political and media environment that shields established leaders from accountability, debate how Democrats should position themselves during Trump's second term, and explore what qualities might help future Democratic candidates break through. This podcast is brought to you by: Smalls: For a limited time only, get 35% off ...
As concerns mount over presidential profiteering, Jon is joined by Susan Glasser, New Yorker staff writer and co-author of "The Divider: Trump in the White House, 2017-2021," and Eric Lipton, investigative reporter for The New York Times. Together, they explore the scope of Trump’s business entanglements, discuss the challenges of covering these ethical breaches, and examine the legal and historical precedents that laid the groundwork for Trump’s unprecedented abuses of power. This podcast is br...
In this era of executive overreach, Jon is joined by Representatives Tom Suozzi (D-NY) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), co-chairs of the Problem Solvers Caucus, to examine how bipartisanship might still be possible. Together, they explore the caucus's approach to building consensus across party lines, discuss what leverage remains with the legislative branch, and consider what reforms could help Congress better serve the American people. This podcast is brought to you by Fast Growing Trees, America...
In a political landscape defined by polarization, Jon is joined by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to discuss his success as a Democrat in a deeply conservative state. Together, they explore his approach to revitalizing Kentucky communities, examine his blueprint for winning in Trump country, and consider how he plans to lead his state through a second Trump administration while staying true to his values. Plus, hear from a surprise guest (woof!) --- This podcast is brought to you by: Ground News...
As Trump's actions and rhetoric rock the global economy, Jon is joined by Rory Stewart, former British Cabinet Minister and current co-host of “ The Rest is Politics .” Together, they examine the rapidly shifting relationships between the U.S. and its traditional allies, discuss the opportunities these shifts create for China, explore which policies and failures have contributed to the rise of populist leaders worldwide, and consider what these developments mean for the future of the West. Follo...
As the Trump administration’s attacks on diversity initiatives intensify, we’re joined by Heather McGhee, author of "The Sum of Us”. Together, they explore the myths fueling anti-DEI sentiment, examine how the Trump administration weaponizes racial grievance to protect powerful interests, and discuss how a truly inclusive society benefits everyone, not just those historically excluded. Follow The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart on social media for more: > YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@weekly...
As the economy reels from Trump's sweeping tariffs, Jon is joined by former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to examine the fallout. Together, they explore what Trump's levies mean for everyday Americans, discuss how to bridge the divide between politicians and the people they serve, and consider how a new generation of leadership might rebuild in the years ahead. Follow The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart on social media for more: > YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@weeklyshowpodcast >...
As the Trump administration targets the federal workforce, we're joined by Michael Lewis, editor of and contributor to The New York Times bestselling collection "WHO IS GOVERNMENT?: The Untold Story of Public Service.” Together, they explore the vital yet uncelebrated work of civil servants, discuss why negative perceptions of them persist, and consider what we may lose amid DOGE’s chainsawing. Plus, learn what your relationship with your mother says about your relationship with government. Foll...
Jon Stewart and Ezra Klein discuss the difficulties in turning progressive visions into reality, exploring bureaucratic obstacles and governmental inefficiencies. They analyze why government initiatives often fail to deliver expected results, using examples like broadband deployment and infrastructure projects. Klein emphasizes the need for government reform and a focus on outcomes over processes, while Stewart highlights the challenges of balancing government oversight with effective action.
As the Trump administration pursues a dramatic economic realignment, we're joined by Adam Tooze, author of Chartbook on Substack, and Sohrab Ahmari, US Editor of UnHerd and author of Tyranny, Inc ., to examine the feasibility and implications of an American industrial revival. We analyze the administration's strategy for reshoring manufacturing, debate whether reversing globalization is possible or desirable, and consider what economic nationalism would accomplish for a workforce that has largel...
Jon Stewart and Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa explore the parallels between the Philippines' democratic decline and the current political climate in the United States, focusing on the weaponization of digital platforms against truth and the erosion of democratic institutions. They discuss the rise of authoritarianism, the role of technology, and strategies for resistance to protect democracy. Ressa emphasizes the importance of facts, law, and individual action in combating manipulation and preserving a shared reality.
Jon Stewart and Nick Gillespie explore libertarian principles, discussing where they align with and diverge from contemporary political approaches. They debate the role of government in free markets, individual freedom, and the public good, while also considering the potential impacts of current political trends.
Jon Stewart and Jen Psaki discuss the Democratic Party's current challenges, including messaging failures, policy issues, and the need to reconnect with working-class voters. They analyze Trump's appeal, media dynamics, and potential paths forward for Democrats, emphasizing the importance of economic populism and a clear diagnosis of systemic problems.
Amid the disarray in Washington, we're joined by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries to discuss leading the opposition during Trump's second term. We examine his strategy for countering Republican overreach, explore what resistance looks like this time around, and consider how Democrats might harness this moment to forge a more responsive and effective party. Follow The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart on social media for more: > YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@weeklyshowpodcast > Instag...
The second Trump administration is off to a chaotic start. To better understand the President’s mindset and motivations, we’re joined this week by Trump friend-turned-foe, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. Plus, we delve into issues like DEI and meritocracy, and consider how both parties might evolve in a new Trump era. Follow The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart on social media for more: > YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@weeklyshowpodcast > Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/week...
As Trump returns to the White House, backed by a coalition of billionaires and blue-collar workers alike, we’re joined by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). Together, we confront the growing disconnect between Democrats and their working class roots, discuss strategies for advancing progressive priorities in a resistant Congress, and explore what it would take to rebuild a party that actually delivers for working people. Follow The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart on social media for mo...
