Politicians, pundits, and the media spend a lot of time talking about the problems our country faces but not enough time on how to solve them. Each week, John Avlon and his guests hash out sensible and attainable solutions for some of the most vexing issues confronting our democracy—solutions that will likely emerge from the political center.
S2 Ep21: History’s Blueprint for Rescue with Mark Updegrove
May 18, 2025
Show notes
John Avlon and Historian Mark Updegrove discuss how lessons from past presidents can help us confront today’s political threats. They highlight the importance of character in leadership, the dangers of normalized corruption, and the urgent need to defend democracy. Drawing on history, they argue that citizens must stay engaged, learn from past reform movements, and organize to protect the future.
S2 Ep20: JD Vance Is a Moron When It Comes to India-Pakistan
May 12, 2025
Show notes
Vice President J.D. Vance downplayed rising nuclear tensions between India and Pakistan, calling it “none of our business,” only to backtrack after alarming intelligence reports. His careless comments and isolationist stance highlight a troubling lack of understanding and responsibility during a potential global crisis.
S2 Ep19: Matt Yglesias: Stop Being Scared of Voters
May 11, 2025
Show notes
John Avlon and Matt Yglesias break down why Democrats need to focus on popular, practical ideas—like growth, safety, and common sense—to win voters and fix what’s broken.
S2 Ep18: Trump’s Power Grab Is The Real Danger To America (w/ Sen. Angus King)
May 04, 2025
Show notes
John Avlon talks with Senator Angus King about the growing threat of authoritarianism under Trump. King warns that Congress is failing to uphold the Constitution and urges lawmakers—especially Republicans—to reclaim their power. The fix? Reasserting checks and balances, restoring trust, and putting country over party.
S2 Ep17: Reclaiming Patriotism from Trump’s America (with Ted Johnson)
Apr 27, 2025
Show notes
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, deep polarization and partisan battles are threatening the very idea of patriotism. John Avlon and Ted Johnson break down how American pride has been weaponized, why civic education has crumbled, and how citizens can reclaim a more inclusive, aspirational patriotism. They explore the urgent need for national service, real civic engagement, and a renewed commitment to American ideals before it's too late to fix the damage.
S2 Ep16: Troops Against Americans? Is This Trump’s Next Terrifying Move?
Apr 20, 2025
Show notes
Trump is openly challenging America's constitutional order. John Avlon and Michael Waldman dive deep into Trump's alarming defiance of court rulings, threats to civil liberties, and potential abuse of emergency powers. Is American democracy at a breaking point?
S2 Ep15: Trump’s Economic Wreckage with Jon Corzine
Apr 13, 2025
Show notes
Former NJ Governor and Goldman Sachs CEO Jon Corzine joins host John Avlon to unpack the devastating consequences of Trump’s chaotic trade policies. From the collapse of trust in U.S. markets to the looming threat of losing the dollar as the world’s reserve currency, this episode dives deep into the economic, geopolitical, and institutional risks facing America. Corzine draws on his unique expertise to explore what happens when partisanship undermines the rule of law, and whether there’s a way to fix it.
S2 Ep14: The Real Cost of Trump’s Tariffs Around The World!
Apr 06, 2025
Show notes
Kori Schake from the American Enterprise Institute discusses how Trump's administration is damaging U.S. alliances and national security through protectionism and erratic diplomacy. Exploring tariffs, NATO tensions, China's global influence through TikTok, and the erosion of democratic norms, Schake outlines the urgent need for patriotic civic action to restore America's role in the world.
S2 Ep13: The Death of Debate: How Power Is Killing Free Speech in America
Mar 30, 2025
Show notes
What happens when universities stop defending debate—and politicians start punishing dissent? John Avlon interviews Greg Lukianoff, President of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) and co-author of The Coddling of the American Mind. They unpack the escalating war over free speech—from college campuses to the courtroom—and explore how institutions meant to protect liberty are now leading the charge to suppress it.
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