
Walter Russell Mead, a historian, pundit, and popular author, is encyclopedic about politics, culture, and history. On What Really Matters, Mead and Tablet deputy editor Jeremy Stern help you understand the news, decide what news matters and what doesn’t, and enjoy following the story of America and the world more than you do now. Check out Walter Russell Mead’s Tablet column at www.tablet... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 142 | Founded | 3 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | PoliticsNewsSociety & Culture | |||

This week, Walter and Jeremy discuss challenges to Zelensky's power, the Pentagon's ultimatum to US universities with ties to China, the Turkish-Israeli standoff in Syria, and the fate of China's Christians.
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This week, Walter and Jeremy discuss Abdul El-Sayed's primary victory in Michigan, updates from the Persian Gulf, New York rabbis' meeting with Mayor Mamdani, and the global backlash to immigration.
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Walter and Jeremy are on the road this week, so please enjoy Walter's recent appearance at the Aspen Ideas Festival.
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This week, Walter and Jeremy discuss new sanctions on Russia, why America is entering a golden age of small-business creation, China's ability to shut down oil imports, and why Iran is the hedgehog to Trump's fox.
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Every episode is gold.
…used to really appreciate this podcast. I have read much of WRM’s historical work and believe him to be knowledgeable and clear-thinking.
However, over the last several months it appears he believes it useful to respond to various topics in an overly animated way; perhaps someone told him an interjection of exaggerated vocal intonations would improve his following; I suspect this directional change is having the opposite effect; it certainly has in my case.
His voice is grating to begin with,... more
Walter Russell Meade’s scope of knowledge, wisdom, and respect for humanity brings together a level of reporting an information that I have grown to rely upon. He is a true gem.
WRM provides excellent analysis of current domestic and international affairs, with an unusual degree of Wisdom. A rare combination among today’s American pundits.
Definitely worth an honest (and regular) listen. I've recommended it to friends and family who lean right, left, and elsewhere. Layered analysis, unique perspectives, and compelling insights to be found.
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Apple Podcasts | #209 |
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Long-form conversations centered on geopolitics, public policy, and history led by a well-connected analyst and a seasoned host. Episodes frequently explore US foreign policy, great-power dynamics, and the interplay between media narratives and elite decision-making, often weaving in historical context and long-range strategic thinking. The format tends toward deep-dive analysis with a focus on credibility, incentives, and the practical implications of global events for domestic politics. A recurring strength is synthesizing complex topics—ranging from Iran and Ukraine to immigration and civic virtue—into accessible, thought-provoking discourse. A notable hook is pairing rigorous geopolitical analysis with literary and cultural touches to b... more
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What Really Matters launched 3 years ago and published 142 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on What Really Matters include:
1. David French
2. Jane Kamensky
3. Walter Russell Mead
4. Volodymyr Zelensky
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