The Bulwark Podcast

4,280
News #44Politics #11

Charlie Sykes and guests discuss the latest news from inside Washington and around the world. No shouting, grandstanding, or sloganeering. Truth over tribalism. Principles over partisanship.
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Recent Episodes
  • Tim Miller: Normal v Crazy
    Jun 2, 2023 – 48:52
  • Lordy, There Are Tapes
    Jun 1, 2023 – 51:06
  • Michael Steele: We're Way Past Kumbaya
    May 31, 2023 – 48:21
  • Tom Nichols: Knuckleheads with Flamethrowers
    May 30, 2023 – 52:18
  • Luke Russert: Look for Me There
    May 26, 2023 – 51:44
  • Indictment Time?
    May 25, 2023 – 51:36
  • David Frum: Losing the Dominance Primary
    May 24, 2023 – 41:24
  • Philip Bump: Running Against Reality
    May 23, 2023 – 44:31
  • Will Saletan: Is Tim Scott Running a Potemkin Campaign?
    May 22, 2023 – 59:19
  • The Bulwark: Live from New York
    May 19, 2023 – 48:03
  • Steve Vladeck: The Supreme Court's Shadow Docket
    May 18, 2023 – 48:54
  • Durham's Fizzle
    May 17, 2023 – 47:01
  • Anne Applebaum: The Case for a Complete Ukrainian Victory
    May 16, 2023 – 39:42
  • Will Saletan: We Are Not the Crazy Ones
    May 15, 2023 – 51:01
  • Richard Reeves: The Trouble with Boys
    May 12, 2023 – 48:53
  • Trump vs Law and Order
    May 11, 2023 – 01:00:08
  • The Counteroffensive Against Trump—and Putin
    May 10, 2023 – 39:14
  • Felix Salmon: The New Not Normal Economy
    May 9, 2023 – 46:04
  • Will Saletan: A New American Exceptionalism?
    May 8, 2023 – 54:13
  • Tim Miller: The Thomas Family Grift
    May 5, 2023 – 58:31
  • The Proud Boys: GUILTY
    May 4, 2023 – 52:22
  • Ben Smith: The Rise and Fall of the Social Media News Age
    May 3, 2023 – 44:29
  • A.B. Stoddard: Normalizing Trump Again
    May 2, 2023 – 49:37
  • Will Saletan: The Crassness Is the Point
    May 1, 2023 – 55:25
  • Tim Miller: Trump Has Already Ball-Gagged Them in the Basement
    Apr 28, 2023 – 48:59
  • The Trump Trials
    Apr 27, 2023 – 47:40
  • Benjy Sarlin: The Bud Light Freak-Out
    Apr 26, 2023 – 43:34
  • Brian Stelter: Tucker Thought He Was Invincible
    Apr 25, 2023 – 40:32
  • Will Saletan: How Many Coups Do You Have to Attempt?
    Apr 24, 2023 – 46:49
  • Tim Miller: Our WWE Politics
    Apr 21, 2023 – 59:29
  • Kara Swisher: Musk's Cry for a Giant Hug
    Apr 20, 2023 – 54:52
  • Tina Nguyen: The Cost of Fox’s Lies
    Apr 19, 2023 – 50:00
  • Michael Steele: Confronting the Ugliness
    Apr 18, 2023 – 52:00
  • Will Saletan: What Are You Grooming These Kids to Be?
    Apr 17, 2023 – 54:56
  • Dylan Byers: The Media Trial of the Century?
    Apr 14, 2023 – 46:27
  • Mark Hertling: Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Gamer
    Apr 13, 2023 – 45:13
  • John Harwood: Our Cartoonish Politics
    Apr 12, 2023 – 45:52
  • Peter Wehner: A Grotesque Leader of a Grotesque Party
    Apr 11, 2023 – 48:27
  • Will Saletan: The GOP’s Abortion Quagmire
    Apr 10, 2023 – 01:01:41
  • Tim Miller: Tennessee’s Idiocracy
    Apr 7, 2023 – 59:22
  • Jeff Sharlet: Scenes from a Slow Civil War
    Apr 6, 2023 – 01:01:54
  • Ben Wittes: The Trump Indictment Is Not Trivial
    Apr 5, 2023 – 01:01:43
  • Tim Alberta: Trump Has an Evangelical Problem
    Apr 4, 2023 – 51:26
  • Will Saletan: Individual 1 Gets His Day in Court
    Apr 3, 2023 – 58:21
  • Special Indictment Podcast: Adam Kinzinger, Mona Charen, Will Saletan
    Mar 31, 2023 – 01:00:33
  • Tim Miller: DeSantis Whiffs on Disney
    Mar 30, 2023 – 57:30
  • Ruy Teixeira: More Tough Love for Democrats
    Mar 29, 2023 – 51:46
  • Judge Michael Luttig: A Betrayal of America
    Mar 28, 2023 – 47:04
  • Will Saletan: The Purest Distillation of Trump
    Mar 27, 2023 – 52:02
  • Tim Miller: Ron DeSantis Is Scott Walker
    Mar 24, 2023 – 53:10
Recent Reviews
  • Cimaroon
    President Biden Sykes!
    President Biden not Joe Biden
  • 19abb10
    Benjamin Wittes
    Charlie I love your podcasts but not the Thursday podcast with Benjamin Wittes. He may be head of Lawfare but he does not have the chops of Andrew Weissman. Don’t think Wittes’ criticism of other lawyers is appropriate given his lack of experience. You would be better served with Weissman or another prosecutor whose knowledge is more extensive. Wittes acts superior and I am not liking it!
  • JJ62sadface
    DeSantis v Trump
    I get why you say what you say about who is more dangerous…. But please stop!!! He is terrifying too. We need to work against both! I listen to you guys and I totally flash back to 2016 fear. I hope I’m wrong. I just don’t get why your doing the equivalency thing …. you know what your doing right?
  • Martha from Arizona
    Incredible!
    Loved the live from NYC! I’m with you Charlie & I can name each of those songs! Love everything Bulwark!
  • SoloMogwai
    Love the show!
    This quickly became my favorite podcast for political discussion. As someone who leans left but desires to never fall into a tribal team mentality it’s nice to hear Charlie’s take. I’ve been a fan of his witty but concise delivery that menaces no words for a while. The guests are on point as well. Keep up the good work. Spreading the word.
  • Vinny the Fish
    Charlie Sykes!
    Wonderfully guests. Terrific discussions punctuated with humor.
  • JazzgrassChic
    More than talking points
    I really have come to rely on the balance that The Bulwark brings to my news diet. But today’s conversation with Luke Russert was indescribably touching. I saved the episode so I can re-listen. Please keep it up Charlie Sykes. I’m a lefty and wholeheartedly appreciate what you’re doing.
  • 90abcghi
    Luke and Charlie
    Great show. One of the best !
  • VirginAirFryer
    Love this Guest
    “The Potpourri episodes with David Frum hit many nails on the head for me. You cover so much ground while still giving us in-depth responses that are thoughtful and yet to the point. Frum has great analogies too that continue to drive home the points. Of course couldn’t be this good without Charlie’s great questions.”
  • mad overlord
    Still a tool
    Charlie is a low level Republican hit job who has found a new home pretending he really doesn’t like trump and also doesn’t like his incompetence. He’s quite happy to push the incompetence as policy and if you agree with him he has come to his conclusion in a credulous unthoughtful path.
  • OU812666
    David Frumm is not a Military Strategist
    Please don’t embarrass yourself or David Frumm in the future by asking him to weigh in on Strategic military options and their ramifications. Stick to political strategy.
  • Long time Booknotes Lover
    The Bulwark is awesome….
    I love Charlie Sykes. Every podcast is better than the one before!
  • DinaForHill
    One of my favorites
    As a liberal Democrat, one that believes “Defund the Police” is an idiotic and destructive notion, I have found this podcast to be a rational, thoughtful, and enjoyable place to listen to varied thoughts on today’s political turmoil. I particularly enjoyed the interview with Judge Luttig, it gives me hope that there are Republicans who haven’t lost their minds, and still believe in democracy. Charlie is a great host, he manages to bring guests that we wouldn’t normally hear from on cable news. Thank you for doing this, Charlie!
  • A UK fan
    Will Salaten - no change
    This man continues to live in his own universe - wake ip you silly naive man!
  • P.J.Stone
    Say it ain’t so, Shoeless Charlie
    Faithfully listened to Sykes for 20 plus years. I was a huge fan, admirer, and follower of his political and prolife punditry. But when I hear this podcast now, I’ve got to wonder who the heck is the real Sykes? The WTMJ Sykes or the MSNBC Sykes? I am very dishearten by who I now clearly see is a full blown, self-serving phony. I would never have guessed. He fooled so many people for such a long period of time—either than on the radio or he is doing it now in this reincarnated Bul(crud)wark form. Yeah, Trump isn’t the brightest bulb or most ethical man. I voted against him; in part because of your, Charlie, observations on WTMJ. But as I listen to you now (especially your comments on abortion and your blind eye toward the “progressives’” unprecedented, unhinged attacks on our our democratic norms) it’s embarrassing to see how you have become (or have always been) a total and complete phony. I hope we cross paths around town or at the Highland House so I can personally share with you my sense of betrayal. You continue to have a platform (and receive a paycheck), but don’t know how you look in the mirror each morning without turning red with embarrassment. Profoundly disappointed. You lose your integrity, you’ve lost everything. “What’s it profit a man to keep a platform, but lose his soul.”
  • Miller Susan
    Fascinating is right!
    Clear and concise thank you!
  • pat22222
    Extremely informative
    I really enjoy the daily Bulwark webcast. I appreciate Charlie’s ability to clarify the latest political events with a reasonably centrist viewpoint. His daily guests are top notch we really love the episodes with Charlie& Tim Miller. An awesome combo!
  • Ndhorse
    Challenge me
    I love this podcast because it strives to challenge my liberal mind. Of course Trump is dangerous, but it also shows me traditional conservatism without the MAGA crazy and shows me the other side of political ideas in a positive, rational light.
  • tmccaffr
    Trouble with boys
    Great conversation. As a highly educated woman, I am critical of attitudes and policies that prevent women from achieving their goals. But, this conversation is an eye opener. We also need to focus on helping boys succeed educationally and socially. Thank you for exploring this important topic.
  • Noname287
    Multiple viewpoints
    I appreciate the fact that you interview people from both sides of the aisle and bring civil discourse back to the American people because that’s truly what makes our country great.
  • ( Creek Mama )
    Richard Reeves
    Great episode. As a mother of a young man and a young woman I am so grateful for your work. Years ago I read the book Iron John by Robert Bly, and he addressed some of the same things and gave suggestions to help the problems modern men are facing. I’m a center democratic voter, yet I truly agree with you. I support working class men.
  • BibliophileG
    Fair
    Time well spent! I come for a balanced take on current political happenings.
  • PerryBorenstein
    May 11 episode has sound problems
    There is a jazz band playing over the episode,
  • DJ Harry Palmer
    Very much enjoy the pod but…
    …For god’s sake please get a competent audio editor.
  • Susanfriberg
    What’s with the crazy music today?
    Lordy.
  • tsabby
    Todays audio
    I love the show, but today’s audio is covered up by music. Please assist, so I can listen :)
  • CapeGirlx
    Highly recommend
    Thank you speaking with Tim Mak. He is an inspiring brave individual and so greayto know where to follow his reporting on Ukraine.
  • DonCoyoteIV
    A must
    Listening to every Bulwark pod is a must and I’ve been doing it for years. Great way to discover different perspectives and great writers.
  • crap you
    EJ Carroll
    Your guest said ppl given truth drugs would admit Trump committed rape. This guest is out of touch. I’ve had lengthy convos w loyal Trump supporters & they truly believe Trump id being falsely charged, maligned ect.
  • Dem in Bama
    Cliff hanger
    Charlie and Will I am loving Mondays podcast now you going to add something. I can hardly wait!!! Debbie from Alabama
  • pamprev
    Best Podcast Ever
    I listen to this podcast every day. Charlie Syke’s daily review of the political landscape is clear, concise, fair, and compelling. I particularly enjoy his camaraderie with his guests, especially his recurring guests (hi Tim Miller!). He seems to genuinely appreciate their opinions and perspectives and allows them the latitude to express themselves without impunity. When politics are as crazy as they are today, we need people like CS to create context, remind us of our history, and interview folks who can help us make sense of American politics.
  • kajeh
    Cbh
    Tim and Charlie. Read Kevin Philips book, American Theocracy. It will blow you away
  • 😉💙🙃
    28 April 2023
    Charlie introduce Tim to Hamilton, he’ll know it
  • tammany hall
    Charlie, the man!
    everyday I look forward to around 3:00 pm when your podcast hits my IPhone. great conversation, light yet can be serious,at the same time it doesn’t feel heavy. This is truly a 5 star podcast and people!
  • DrRobert299
    Important
    Charlie is doing important work, pushing back at the lunatic fringe that has taken over the Republican Party. The show features intelligent talk from a politically moderate perspective. We need more voices like Charlie’s and his guests.
  • Addictnurse
    Entertaining AND Enlightening
    As a lifelong Democrat, I took my cues from one-sided news, and then nearly had a nervous break down when Trump ran and won. I have never been so happy to find a podcast like The Bulwark. I can see why Charlie was on the radio for as long as he was because he is amazingly up-to-date and smart. Listening to him has open my mind I’m well I doubt I will ever be a Republican. I am willing to engage when it comes to a difference of opinion.
  • Celle la
    Charlie is a total pro.
    Must listen.
  • javs123123
    A Big Thumbs Up!!
    Being a Lefty Liberal...I enjoy hearing the thoughts and positions of Charlie & his guests...especially Bill Kristol. People who can actually make sense and discuss topics from the center right point of view. You know....we are Not that far apart. It wasn’t until Trump sold “crazy & stupid” to your party. Jan
  • khrissbliss
    my favorite daily podcast
    it took me a while to realize how consistent this show is. Sometimes he has the perfect guest like Kara Swisher when Elon bought Twitter, or Brian Stelter when Tucker got fired. But his rotation of regular guests like Tim Miller & Tom Nichols & Kristol always means an episode worth hearing. Charlie communicates so clearly in plain colorful language. And as an extra added bonus, he's had Amanda Carpenter fill in for him when he gets a day off. So yeah, I look forward to this show every day
  • Artemisia the OG
    The Bulwark is a stellar podcast.
    This Never Trumper has been a regular listener of the Bulwark podcast almost since the beginning. The guests and the content of this podcast is always first rate. I really appreciate the intelligent deep dives on the current state of politics, public policy and their impact on our society with a little humor thrown in for good measure. Keep up the good work, Charlie!
  • biblio-addict
    My Never Miss it Podcast
    Always fun and insightful. Thanks, Charlie for attempting to expand the cultural hotizons of Tim. While he is a political savant, he is often quite callow. As a New Orleanean and a gay man Tim might be intrigued by not only, "Street Car Named Desire," which is often performed at Le Petite Theatre in the French Quarter; but the life and work of its author, Tennessee Williams. Williams, a gay man, is considered one of the greatest American playwrights (quite likely teaching his work is now banned in Florida schools). The Tennessee Wiiliams Literary Festival is held every year in New Orleans French Quarter. It is a major event, including major authors from many genres; master classes, panel discussions, theatre events, and more. Tim, as a journalist and author, would doubtless be a desired participant. An entire segment of the literary festival celebrates and focuses on emerging gay authors. There are French Quarter walking tours featuring Tennessee Williams' French Quarter homes, and haunts (its a bit of a pub crawl. Keep up the fight for democracy! I love you guys.
  • "Guys, guys, guys!"
    The Kara Swisher Podcast
    The pod was a great listen but not long enough! Had to listen to it twice.
  • Dave & Jane in N America
    One of my very favorite podcasts.
    I have learned so much from Charlie and his guests.
  • Nuclear_Dog
    Chairman Steele vs
    Charlie, I would like to recommend you invite Professor Glenn Loury as a guest to discuss a different perspective to the status of unwhite citizens in the U.S. I have great admiration for Chairman Steele. He's a clear, incisive thinker and fearless actor. He and people like him, such as yourself and all your guests, provide vital insight and viewpoints into the conditions, potential, and options that exist in our society. However, Chairman Steele on this particular podcast seemed to be espousing victimhood, which both the 'woke' left and 'woke MAGA' always do. Professor Loury might be able to provide he, and others who listen, a viewpoint that recognizes victimhood, but also offers a more proactive mindset that, coming from someone like the chairman if he were eo adopt it, could lead to better opportunities for disadvantaged communities, which in turn could improve upon the culture of our country as a whole.
  • The Big Earl DE
    Great
    As an independent this show is great
  • Mex-Cali Mom
    Michael Steele
    You & Michael are funny because you said your surprised democrats are still around. But crazy it’s your party that’s gone CRAZY - Trump Crazy. I guess democrats are smarter than you think, plus they continue to win the popular vote!
  • Bolo6360
    4-17-23
    Great Podcast listen every AM. One thing you guys need to bring up about Mace, she’s in a horribly gerrymandered district, really the only reason she’s elected. The SC Supreme Court said her district is racially gerrymandered. The case will probably end up at the SCOTUS.
  • BostonIrishRules
    Never miss a Bulwark
    Charlie’s Pod is the best at asking and answering the questions we all have and no one else is answering. …. So why do we bother saying everyone is equal under US law if a pimple faced serviceman traitor is in jail within 24 hours of discovery and Trump is still golfing and able to flush top secret documents down his golden toilets 2 years later ? Same charges.
  • Denise Sy
    Women Love Football
    My only beefs are: Saleten hasn’t seen an NFL crowd apparently. There are lots of women who love watching football. Myself included. Please update yourself. And I can’t forgive you for not using the Julie Andrews version of the ‘Climb Every Mountain’ song to troll Tim Miller with. Of course he hated it! But, I love sane, real, actual Conservatives. You give me hope as a moderate Democrat crying about the Republican Party’s demise. Tim Miller is your secret sauce. I listen every day.
  • La Unica Lobaluna
    Tim Miller, really?
    Come on, this was not an obscure musical or song, but I guess you are a political junkie and have no time for musicals.
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