The Lincoln Project podcast cover art

The Lincoln Project

ByThe Lincoln Project
497 episodes

Podcast Summary

The creators of the most watched and talked-about ad content in the political/cultural sphere, THE LINCOLN PROJECT, and co-founder/host Rick Wilson, have a reputation for saying the things others are afraid to say. Headed up by LP's notorious creative team, THE LINCOLN PROJECT podcast features a range of special guests, from leading political minds to the hottest pop-culture icons. Broadening the subject matter beyond politics and making the conversation more relatable to everyone, The Lincoln Project podcast’s mission is to reignite the political flame in every American and break down the biggest topics of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

#1

Unpacking Trump, the Degenerate, with The New York Times

Jonah Bromwich, who's a criminal justice reporter at The New York Times and author of his new book Dragon on Centre Street, joins Rick to drill down to what the Stormy Daniels case actually meant for the American people. The book focuses on Donald Trump’s criminal trial, but it’s also about the way that our institutions have failed to keep up with the 21st century. At heart, this case wasn't about hush money payments or hooking up with a porn star, it was about defrauding the American public during one of the most consequential elections of our lifetime. Trump ultimately won the campaign because he covered up the truth -- a pattern of lying and cover-ups that would shape his political operations to this day. Peek behind the scenes, hear from the reporter who witnessed it all, and listen to what made this case more significant than it was ever covered at the time. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Please check out Jonah's new book, "Dragon on Centre Street," and follow him on X at @Jonesiemanand on Bluesky at @jonesieman.bsky.social‬. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-06-0337mins
#2

You Might Also Like: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Introducing Sleep Expert Matthew Walker: Do THIS to Sleep Through The Night And Never Wake Up Tired Again from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay ShettyHow well did you sleep last night? Do you wake up feeling rested? Today, Jay welcomes renowned neuroscientist, sleep expert, and bestselling author Dr. Matthew Walker to unpack the profound importance of sleep and how it shapes every facet of our health and wellbeing. Bestselling author of Why We Sleep, Dr. Matthew Walker brings scientific rigor and heartfelt clarity to one of the most misunderstood and underestimated aspects of our lives. Matthew opens the discussion by challenging the myth of the 'eight-hour rule.' While the average adult does best with seven to nine hours of sleep, the focus quickly shifts beyond just duration. Instead, Matthew introduces a more holistic four part framework—Quantity, Quality, Regularity, and Timing, or QQRT. This framework highlights how sleep is not simply about how long one sleeps, but also how deeply, how consistently, and how well it aligns with our natural biological rhythms. Jay and Matthew's conversation also tackles common disruptors of restorative sleep, including caffeine, alcohol, and excessive exposure to artificial light. Dr. Walker discusses how these elements can interfere with the brain’s ability to enter deep and REM sleep, the latter being especially important for emotional processing, hormonal regulation, and memory consolidation. Sleep, it turns out, influences far more than individual health. In this interview, you'll learn: How to Know If You’re Getting Enough Sleep How to Improve Sleep Using the QQRT Formula How to Align Your Sleep With Your Body’s Internal Clock How to Avoid Waking Up Tired Every Morning How to Optimize Your Evening Routine for Better Sleep How to Fall Back Asleep After Waking Up at Night How to Diagnose Sleep Apnea at Home With scientific insight and practical wisdom, the episode paints a vivid picture of ho...

2025-06-031hr 48mins
#3

TACO: Trump Always Chickens Out

This week, Rick's Elephant in the Room unpacks TACO Trump. (And, kudos to the Wall Street Bros who coined the "perfect" term -- "Trump Always Chickens Out.") As the anthropologist on Donald Trump, Rick (who has studied this man for over ten years -- thank you for your service!) sheds light on how TACO applies to all aspects of Trump. This flacid, feeble, fatuous fool is not the strong man he *thinks* he portrays. Completely inept, played by dictators, confused by intelligent people, and obsessively corrupt, Trump has always been a weak, small, stupid man in politics, in business, and in his personal life. Regardless of the news cycle, there's one thing we can always count on -- Trump Always Chickens Out, no matter the stakes. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ You can check out Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-3026mins
#4

John Bolton on America's Isolationism

Former UN Ambassador, attorney, and foreign affairs expert Mr. John Bolton stops by the studio to talk with Rick about America's status on the global stage. Bolton articulates all of the complicated moving pieces of how America impacts the world and sheds light on threats toward the U.S., the effect of tariffs on our U.S. allies, Russia and Ukraine, and local security. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ You can check out Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-2738mins
#5

Trump, a Doddering Old Fool

This week, Rick's Elephant in the Room is Trump's mental decline. With the White House decidedly halting transcripts of Trump's speeches, and a rise of extreme political sharks circling the Oval Office, what's left of Trump's mental cognition has also apparently been deported without a court hearing. On a strict diet of Big Macs and Adderall, Trump's last "cognition test" -- 'Person. Woman. Man. Camera. TV.' -- seems to be a high point for our drooling Dear Leader. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ You can check out Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-2317mins
#6

From Baller to Senator: The G.O.A.T. of Virginia's Government

Fighting for Virginia, Senator Aaron Rouse -- born and raised in Virginia Beach and from area code 757 -- has risen in politics from the local level to statewide office. In 2025, Aaron is excited to run for Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, being a person of and for the people. A former safety for the NFL's Green Bay Packers, Aaron brings a team approach to politics -- we're all on the same team. Virginia is in a uniquely dire situation -- with many Virginians out of work and numerous government programs having been slashed -- due to DOGE. Coming from 757, Aaron understands the value of hard work and the need for a more holistic approach when governing the Commonwealth of Virginia. Unlike many politicians, Aaron is meeting people where they are, wherever that may be. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ You can learn more about Aaron in his latest ad --> Feel free to follow and support his campaign at Rouseforvirginia.com/donate, on X at @AaronRouseVA, and on Bluesky at ‪@aaronrouse.bsky.social‬. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-2037mins
#7

Exhausted AF But, Still, We Persist (and Resist)

This week's Elephant in the Room is exhaustion. You're feeling it, we're feeling it, and Trump and his administration are feeling it. Trump is falling asleep during meetings, and for his staffers, living in fear is draining. Overthrowing a democracy consumes a lot of energy from all sides. We knew another Trump term would mean another serious bout of adrenal fatigue, but this time, the array of high-stakes, stressful headlines is on another level. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ You can follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com where he writes several pieces every week and hosts live chats with the top political minds. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-1620mins
#8

Jared Moskowitz on Why He Yells (to Get Through to the Dumb-Dumbs)!

This week, Jared Moskowitz -- the U.S. representative for Florida's 23rd congressional district -- joins Rick to shed light on why he whispers, i.e., yells, at James Comer. Unraveling the threads of the Trump administration's biggest headlines, Jared and Rick touch on Trump's vandalization of the American economy, the insanely stupid idea to roll back FEMA (something that will impact deeply-held Republican states), and how to get anything done with the current GOP sh*tshow in the House. One of the Democrats who actually walks the talk and meets the fight where it's at, Jared Moscowitz's approach is a learning lesson for those democrats who are still training in the gym, learning how to fight back. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rep. Moskowitz @JaredEMoskowitz on X and @repmoskowitz.bsky.social on Bluesky! Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-1336mins

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#9

The Trump Crime Family

This week's Elephant in the Room is the Trump Crime Family. 'Nuff said. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-0912mins
#10

Michigan's Jocelyn Benson is 100% Salt of the Earth

Removing partisan political rhetoric from state government, Michigan's Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson sits down with Rick to discuss her no-holds-barred style regarding local government. Married into the military, Jocelyn is a no-nonsense leader who isn't shaken by political threats on her life, campaign attacks from the far right, or the pressure to cave to Trump's "stolen election" claims during 2020. Jocelyn never blinked then, and is now running for Governor in 2026. Jocelyn's book, "The Purposeful Warrior: Standing Up for What's Right When the Stakes Are High," is a mantra of how she lives and leads. Delivering on things that will actually improve Michiganders' lives from Detroit to the UP for the long term, Jocelyn remains locked in on her state and hopes to be able to "fight for a stronger Michigan." ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ You can check out Jocelyn's new book, "The Purposeful Warrior: Standing Up for What's Right When the Stakes Are High," at fine booksellers everywhere. Feel free to follow her campaign at on X at @JocelynBenson, and on Bluesky at @jocelynbenson.bsky.social‬. Jocelyn is surely one to watch! Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-0631mins
#11

The Worst First 100 Days

In this week's Friday episode of the Elephant in the Room, Rick recaps Trump's first 100 days in office. From the corruption to the chaos to the skyrocketing costs to the coercion to the cruelty to casting aside the constitution, Trump's damage to our country is utterly unbelievable. And we are only 100 days in. What do the next 100 days look like? ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-05-0221mins
#12

Shock and Awe is NOT a Governing Strategy

Author, journalist, documentarian, and television producer, Chris Whipple, is an expert on the political game and is always VERY plugged into DC's rumor mill. This week, Chris joins Rick to discuss everything from Trump's governing chaos to the formidable Susie Wiles, to a peek behind the curtains about what was happening in the White House at the end of Biden's term and how everything transpired when the Harris campaign took over (coming from a highly reputable source). ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Please check out Chris's new book, "Uncharted: How Trump Beat Biden, Harris, and the Odds in the Wildest Campaign in History," and follow Chris on X at @ccwhip and on Bluesky at @whipplc.bsky.social. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-2936mins
#13

Numbers Don't Lie

This week's Elephant in the Room is all about the numbers. Rick explains how the one thing that Trump cannot fake could be the lynchpin to his unraveling and, ultimately, his downfall. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-2517mins
#14

Sheldon Whitehouse on Trump’s Flying Monkeys, Cosplaying Billionaires, & his Festival of Corruption

Rick is delighted to sit down with Senator-meets-influencer Sheldon Whitehouse, who is fed up and is "not going to take it anymore!" Chatting about Trump's flying monkey followers in the House, Senate, and in his administration, Sheldon and Rick unpack the three C's -- Cost, Chaos, and Corruption -- that are hurting Americans and will challenge Republicans in the upcoming 2026 race. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Sheldon Whitehouse @SenWhitehouse on X and @whitehouse.senate.gov on Bluesky. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-2235mins
#15

The Tipping Point

In this week's Elephant in the Room, Rick details the constitutional tipping point we find ourselves in as a democratic republic. If Trump and his administration continue to defy court orders, what can be done about this, and who else could they soon target? ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-1825mins
#16

Democrats Getting Their Sh*t Together While Leopards Eat MAGA's Face

Rick Wilson reconnects with fiery, down-the-middle Congresswoman Julie Johnson of Texas's 32nd congressional district (i.e., the greater Dallas region) to discuss how Dems are trying to get their sh*t together as the face-eating leopards finally turn their gazes to MAGA. (Yes, Trump's actions impact EVERYONE, not just "the other side.") ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Please follow Julie Johnson at @RepJulieJohnson and @juliejohnsonTX on X and @juliejohnsontx.bsky.social on Bluesky. You can check out Julie's fiery personality during her upcoming town hall event on April 21st -- you can purchase tickets here: Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-1534mins
#17

Madness and Zero Method

Rick Wilson breaks down the events of the week — including the chaos caused by his 18th century and immediate financial evaporation — caused by Agent Orange in the White House. Navarro, Lutnick, and Trump couldn’t successfully run a Dollar Store let alone America’s complicated and robust economy. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-1122mins
#18

“Losing Our Asses” with Barry Ritholtz

Financial and Business Jedi Barry Ritholtz stops by to discuss Trump’s recklessness when it comes to America’s economy and our position in the global supply chain. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Barry Ritholtz @Ritholtz on X and @Rithotlz on Bluesky, and please pick up a copy of Barry's latest book, “How Not to Invest” (2025) wherever fine books are sold. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-1042mins
#19

Re-Release: RFK Jr. Will Kill Americans Sure As Death

After a second child dies of measles in Texas, we are re-releasing this episode from Rick. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-0823mins
#20

Having the Courage to "Make Good Trouble"

The Elephant in the Room this week is a welcome one -- it's courage. Rick reflects on the positive events of this week, highlighting Cory Booker's strength, courage, and conviction as he rewrote history by beating Strom Thurmond's record while sharing stories about what America has become under the current Trump administration. In the absence of fear, courage would not exist. Cory beating out a racist's former filibuster record is risky, but it's the kind of courage Americans need right now. To shake things up and to find the courage to make "good trouble." John Lewis would be so proud. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-0423mins
#21

Michael Wolff Spills the Tea About the White House

Responsible for writing the hit bestselling book “Fire and Fury” and setting off Trump during his first term, journalist and bestselling author Michael Wolff joins Rick to share everything he’s been hearing about the White House. On a book tour for his new book, “All Or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America,” Michael convenes with Rick to share their latest WH stories — and spill the tea — from how Trump ran his 2024 campaign to the discipline of political shark Susie Wiles to Elon Musk (enough said) to Trump's fear-inducing "call cycle" to the inevitable leakers in the White House to Trump treating AG Pam Bondi like his personal secretary to Boris Epshteyn to Signalgate to WH Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and Steven Cheung...this episode sheds light on what's really happening inside the White House. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Please pick up a copy of Michael's latest book, “All Or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America” (2025) wherever fine books are sold. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with the Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow LP on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue our critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-04-0136mins
#22

Hegseth F*cks the Troops on Signal

In this week's episode of The Elephant in the Room, Rick addresses Pete Hegseth's ignorant, cavalier, and callous actions by taking communications about military special operations to a F*CKING Signal group chat. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-03-2826mins
#23

Mark Cuban is Independent AF

Mark Cuban joins Rick to chat about his journey into politics, what it's like dunking on Big Pharma with transparency and his company, CostPlus Drugs, and how America must "get smart" and position itself at the forefront of the robotics frontier. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Mark Cuban at @mcuban on X and @mcuban.bsky.social ob Bluesky. Check out Mark's prescription medication company, CostPlus Drugs, at @costplusdrugs on X and costplusdrugs.com. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-03-2543mins

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#24

Law and F*cking Disorder

In this week's episode of The Elephant in the Room, Rick interprets Trump's pushback against courts and judges who do not rule in his favor and what that could mean for now, for judges, and for the future of the country. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-03-2118mins
#25

Jamie Raskin is a Democrat Who Fights Back

Maryland’s All-Star Congressman Jamie Raskin joins Rick on the podcast this week. A constitutional law expert and key leader in the January 6th Investigation, Congressman Raskin shares his insights on how Trump & Elon are dismantling the government, Trump’s clear desire to be a King, and how Democrats need to stick together and get tough if they expect to beat back the crazy. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Find Congressman Jamie Raskin on X @RepRaskin and at Raskin.house.gov Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-03-1834mins
#26

American Impotence

Seven weeks in, Trump has a laundry list of failures. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-03-1417mins
#27

"Slava Ukraini!" and How America Can't Be Trusted RN

In a special double-header episode, Rick Wilson sits down with Alexander Vindman and Kenneth Harbaugh to discuss everything "Ukraine." Given Trump's unbelievable utter disrespect toward Zelensky and Ukraine during his recent Oval Office meeting and Trump's ongoing salivation over his man-crush and wannabe penpal Putin, this episode features THE experts who understand the lay of the land in Ukraine -- and, more importantly, where to go from here -- better than anyone else. RUN to go and purchase Alexander Vindman's new book, The Folly of Realism: How the West Deceived Itself About Russia and Betrayed Ukraine, here: -- it is F*CKING brilliant and couldn't be more topical. ...Then drop everything and check out Kenneth Harbaugh's badass organization, VALOR MEDIA NETWORK, at You can get a sense of WHO they are and what they're doing in their brand new trailer here: Please like, follow, and subscribe to their YouTube channel at for more manly, yet engaging, content. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Alexander Vindman at @AVindman on X and/or @avindman .bsky.social on Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at avindman.com. Follow Kenneth personally @Team_Harbaugh on X and/or @thekenharbaughshow.bsky.social on Bluesky, and please do watch his incredible film work in his award-winning documentary, Against All Enemies, here: Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-03-1135mins
#28

We Only Have So Many F*cks To Give

As Rick points out this week, we are operating in an Attention Economy. Let's stop being junkies and focus on what matters long-term for our nation. From Marco Rubio's small D moment on the couch to Trump's dinner theatre speech, we need to remain focused on what we CAN do while this sh*tshow continues... ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-03-0722mins
#29

Ian Bremmer on Why We're Fucked

Political scientist, author, and entrepreneur Ian Bremmer -- who's also the founder and president of Eurasia Group and the founder of GZERO Media -- stops by to chat with Rick about how we're fucked, and why we're fucked. There is nothing like sitting down with a good ole expert friend at the beginning of a potential World War to discuss the American economy, AI, global politics, and the growing dangers inside and outside the U.S. democratic government. ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Ian Bremmer at @ianbremmer on X & @ianbremmer.com on Bluesky Check out more of Ian's work at @eurasiagroup.net and @gzeromedia.com Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X & @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky. Subscribe to Rick's weekly writings on his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us & follow us @ProjectLincoln on X & @lincolnproject.us on Bluesky. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-03-0437mins
#30

Trump's Kabuki "Playtime" Whitehouse

This week, Rick breaks down the Kabuki dance that Trump and his puppets are acting out in Washington. "Playing house" is cute; "playing whitehouse" is NOT. There are real-world consequences for these dumb dumbs' "playtime." ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-2816mins
#31

"Do Your Hands Have Calluses?" with Colorado's Working-Class Congressman Jason Crow

Jason Crow, a working-man representative from Colorado's 6th Congressional District, a J6 hero, and an Army Ranger, sits down with Rick to explain how he flipped a historically red district blue. A big proponent of talking to and for everyday working people, Jason prepares for his first town hall of the year by shedding light on how the Democrats must reassess their identity and messaging to reconnect with the working class and how Trump's escapades with Putin jeopardize America's National Security and global political position. ・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Jason Crow at @RepJasonCrow on X & @crow.house.gov on Bluesky Join Jason Crow's Town Hall virtually on Thursday, 2/27, by following his social accounts above! Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X & @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky. Subscribe to Rick's weekly writings on his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us & follow us @ProjectLincoln on X & @lincolnproject.us on Bluesky. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-2740mins
#32

Alex Gibney's Documentary Work is Proof that "Truth is Always Stranger than Fiction"

Prolific and multi-award-winning documentarian Alex Gibney, who's responsible for the most impactful documentaries of our time -- i.e., Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief, The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley, Totally Under Control, and MANY more --sits down with Rick Wilson to discuss his portfolio of work and how it reflects on the American character. Alex's most recent project, The Bibi Files, uses never-seen-before interrogation footage to tell the story of an investigation into Benjamin Netanyahu and his inner circle and provides an unflinching gaze into the private world behind the headlines. Petty vanity and a sense of entitlement lead to corruption and the unwillingness of the Netanyahus to give up power. The extreme right senses opportunity in Bibi’s weakness, and the dominos fall. ・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Alex Gibney at @alexgibneyfilm on X & @alexgibneyfilm.bsky.social on Bluesky Stream Alex's most recent project, The Bibi Files, on Jolt.Film Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X & @therickwilson.bsky.social on Bluesky. Subscribe to Rick's weekly writings on his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us & follow us @ProjectLincoln on X & @lincolnproject.us on Bluesky. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-2531mins
#33

F*ck Trump Back + Freeze the Line

Rick breaks down Trump's major f*ck-ups this week on local, national, and international stages and explains what average Americans can do to band together and hold the line. ・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-2116mins
#34

It's Principles First for Heath Mayo

Principles First Founder Heath Mayo previews their upcoming conference and explains how their center-right organization offers an alternative choice -- maintaining American values without drinking the GOP's toxic Kool-Aid. ・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Heath Mayo at @HeathMayo and Principles First @Principles_1st on X and various other socials. Check out Principles First at and join the Principles First conference from 2/21-2/23. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-2032mins
#35

David Cross on the Intersection of Comedy and Politics

Award-winning actor, writer, comedian, and super dad David Cross -- who we all know and love from Mr. Show, Arrested Development, his brilliant observational comedy and narrative standup shows, and Tenacious D -- joins Rick Wilson to discuss everything from growing up in Georgia to the best moments of his career thus far to folding American politics into his set. David is currently traveling the globe on his "The End of the Beginning of the End" comedy tour, continuing to record his podcast and constantly creating and writing. ・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow David Cross at @davidcross on X, stream David's newest special, WORST DADDY IN THE WORLD, at and subscribe to his latest podcast, "Senses Working Overtime with David Cross Podcast," at You can purchase tickets for "The End of the Beginning of the End" tour on David's website at Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-1833mins
#36

Pledging Allegiance to Whom?

Rick breaks down the events of this past week and what particular confirmations mean for the U.S. as they relate to the war in Ukraine, China, Russia, our tried-and-true European allies, and others around the globe. This was a bleak week for the US on the world stage, folks. ・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-1424mins
#37

Kiss the Ring, B*tch

Lawyer and author Jeffrey Toobin joins Rick Wilson to discuss the new era of presidential (and transactional) pardons and shed light on his new book, "The Pardon: The Politics of Presidential Mercy." ・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to help us continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-1139mins
#38

CHAOS MONKEY ADDICTION

Rick depicts the ACTUAL national crisis and what tools Dems need to use to beat the boundless Chaos Monkey. ・・・・・・・・・・・ Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. If you'd like to expand our reach and continue this critical work, visit to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-0725mins
#39

The Growing White Boy Problem

Rick and extremism expert Dr. Peter Simi break down the news of this past week -- highlighting Trump's/GOP's surging white nationalist pandemic. ・・・・・・・・・・・ Dr. Peter Simi is understandably NOT on Twitter/X, but you can reach out to him at his Chapman University email on his page Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. And please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast. If you believe in this mission, help us expand our reach and continue this critical work. Visit action.lincolnproject.us/fuelinglpcomms to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-02-0430mins
#40

RFK Jr. Will Kill Americans Sure As Death

Rick addresses the most dangerous man on Trump’s lineup… RFK Jr. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and all the other social media platforms, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-3119mins
#41

MAGA Granny Refuses J6 Pardon

Rick dissects "MAGA Granny" Pamela Hemphill's journey on J6 and with the MAGA cult, exploring what led her to join the group and what ultimately opened her eyes and prompted her exit. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X or at at Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-2831mins
#42

Re-Release: Dr. Peter Simi on White Nationalist Extremism

Rick talks to Peter Simi, a sociology professor and expert in extremism, about the alarming rise of white supremacy in the US, where the movement has evolved from the overt image of the Klan to a slick, social media-driven force. Simi highlights how figures like Donald Trump and his talking heads amplify these ideologies and how followers are being recruited online. He emphasizes the need for intervention programs to help individuals leave the movement and combat its growing influence. Buy Peter Simi’s book – “Out of Hiding: Extremist White Supremacy and How It Can be Stopped” – at fine bookstores everywhere. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X or at at Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-2335mins
#43

Re-release of Robert Kagan on Trump 2.0: A Global Nightmare?

Rick talks with author Robert Kagan about anti-liberalism and its resurgence in the United States. They explore the historical resistance to individual rights, the rise of white Christian nationalism, and the potential global implications of a second Trump administration. You can read Robert Kagan’s columns in The Washington Post and you can buy his book “Rebellion: How Antiiberalism Is Tearing America Apart – Again” at fine bookstores everywhere. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X or at at Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-2132mins
#44

Re-release of Brian Tyler Cohen

Rick dives deep with Brian Tyler Cohen about his explosive new book, ‘Shameless: Republicans’ Deliberate Dysfunction and the Battle to Preserve Democracy.’ Together, they unpack the glaring hypocrisy between the GOP’s ‘patriotic’ talk and their counterintuitive actions, while also stressing the urgent need for Democrats to stay focused and secure the necessary votes to preserve democracy. Follow Brian Tyler Cohen on X @BrianTylerCohen, check out his YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/briantylercohen, and buy his book - ‘Shameless: Republicans’ Deliberate Dysfunction and the Battle to Preserve Democracy’ - at briantylercohen.com/book or at fine bookstores everywhere. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-1729mins
#45

Senator Ron Wyden’s Hutzpah!

Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon joins Rick to discuss bipartisanship and getting sh*t done. Follow Senator Wyden on X at @RonWyden and buy his book “It Takes Chutzpah: How to Fight Fearlessly for Progressive Change” at fine bookstores everywhere. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X or at at Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-1430mins
#46

Trump Fought the Law and the Law Won

Rick breaks down the news from today regarding the Supreme Court's ruling on Trump's sentencing. Follow Rick Wilson at on X and subscribe to his substack at Join the fight with Lincoln Project at and follow us on X at Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-118mins
#47

RFK Jr.’s No Vax Quacks

Pediatric immunologist Dr. Paul Offit unpacks what RFK Jr.’s radical vaccine reversal could mean for public health and our children. Follow Paul Offit on X at @DrPaulOffit on X, subscribe to his Substack at pauloffit.substack.com, and buy his book “Tell Me When It’s Over” at fine bookstores everywhere. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X or at at Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. And please subscribe, rate and review this podcast, thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-0935mins
#48

"From the bottom of my heart to the GOP, GO F*CK YOURSELVES."

For those GOP folks who thought Rick would shut up or go away, he has a special message for you at the end of this episode. For those who stand alongside us as we forge ahead, don't obey in advance -- keep on keeping on with us. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X or at at Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. And please subscribe, rate and review this podcast, thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-0722mins
#49

The Imperial Presidency

Timothy Naftali, presidential historian for the Nixon Presidential Library, Columbia Scholar, and prolific writer/author, sits down with host Rick Wilson to discuss the possibility of an imperial presidency and what that means for the US on the world stage. Follow Timothy Naftali on X at @TimNaftali and read the article Rick mentions in this episode here: Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X or at at Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. And please subscribe, rate and review this podcast, thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025-01-0135mins
#50

Doris Kearns Goodwin & Her Marriage to a Presidential Speechwriter

Presidential historian, author, and former sports journalist Doris Kearns Goodwin goes on the record with host Rick Wilson and gives an inside look at what it was like to be behind the scenes at the Whitehouse during Kennedy's aspirational "Camelot Era" and into LBJ's "Great Society" period. As the wife of the late Dick Goodwin, the speechwriter who penned LBJ's "We Shall Overcome" speech, Doris remains deeply involved in American politics and served as a fellow for LBJ's administration. Follow Doris Kearns Goodwin on X at @DorisKGoodwin and buy her book “An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s” at her website – doriskearnsgoodwin.com – or at fine bookstores everywhere. Follow Rick Wilson at @TheRickWilson on X or at at Bluesky, and subscribe to his Substack at therickwilson.substack.com. Join the fight with Lincoln Project at www.lincolnproject.us and follow us on X at @ProjectLincoln. And please subscribe, rate and review this podcast, thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2024-12-3030mins

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