Lunch with Jamie

Former Chicago mayor and U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel joins the podcast to discuss one of the most dangerous geopolitical questions right now: what happens if the United States goes to war with Iran?In this conversation, Rahm breaks down why talk of “regime change” is often misunderstood, the risks of military escalation in the Middle East, and why history shows that no country has ever successfully carried out regime change from the air alone.Rahm also discusses the broader challenges facing the United States — from political instability at home to global leadership abroad — and why he believes these difficult times require serious leadership and national unity.Topics covered in this episode include:• What a U.S.–Iran conflict could look like• Why “regime change from the air” doesn’t work• The risks of escalation in the Middle East• American leadership and global strategy• Why the American dream feels increasingly out of reachRahm Emanuel previously served as Mayor of Chicago, White House Chief of Staff, and U.S. Ambassador to Japan.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgrade

Are we still going to be one country in 20 years?In this episode, Jamie sits down with investor, political strategist, and author Bradley Tusk to unpack the forces reshaping America — from political extremism and wealth inequality to AI-driven job displacement and the future of democracy itself.Bradley is the founder of Tusk Ventures, creator of the Mobile Voting Project, former Deputy Governor of Illinois, and author of Vote With Your Phone. He’s worked with leaders like Michael Bloomberg, Andrew Yang, and Chuck Schumer — and has spent decades operating at the intersection of politics, technology, and power.This conversation covers:Why low primary turnout empowers political extremistsHow mobile voting could change the structure of American democracyThe rise of the “Radical Rest” — and why our institutions are failing most AmericansWhy 1% controlling 31% of the wealth is unsustainableWhether we’re “asking for a French Revolution”How AI could double U.S. energy consumptionWhy data centers may raise your electricity billThe coming wave of job displacementUniversal Basic Income (UBI) as a response to automationWhether AI will concentrate power and wealth even furtherFrom the future of elections to the future of work, this episode asks the uncomfortable question:Are our institutions serving the public — or themselves?If you care about democracy reform, wealth inequality, AI policy, UBI, mobile voting, climate solutions, or the future of American governance, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgrade

In this episode of Lunch w/ Jamie, Jamie Patricof sits down with Jessica Tarlov, co-host of The Five and Raging Moderates, for a wide-ranging conversation on American politics, media, and the road ahead.They break down the state of the Democratic Party, the 2026 midterm elections, and early thinking around potential 2028 presidential candidates—including Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris, Jon Stewart, and emerging political voices. Jessica shares her perspective on why Democrats struggle to communicate economic wins, how tariffs and cost-of-living issues are shaping voter sentiment, and what actually moves undecided voters today.The discussion also covers the State of the Union’s declining impact, the role of independent media, political polarization, civil discourse, and the challenges of being the lone Democratic voice on Fox News. Plus, Jessica weighs in on protests, political activism, and where real leverage still exists in American democracy.This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in U.S. politics, media dynamics, elections, and the future of the Democratic Party.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgrade

In this conversation from February 2024, Jamie Patricof sits down with Sharon Brous, author of The Amen Effect, to explore what it truly means to show up for one another in a fractured and polarized world.They discuss the growing loneliness crisis, the mental and physical toll of isolation, and why community and compassion are essential tools for healing—not just individually, but societally. Sharon Brous shares powerful stories from her book and lived experience about grief, bearing witness, staying present in discomfort, and why “fixing” is often the wrong instinct when someone is hurting.This conversation also explores:- Why loneliness threatens both mental health and democracy- How to support people through grief without trying to solve it- The importance of staying at the table with those you disagree with- Faith as compassion, not ideology- How sacred presence can transform families, friendships, and communitiesThis episode will challenge how you think about grief, disagreement, community, and what it really means to be human—while offering practical wisdom you can apply immediately in your own relationships.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgrade

In this episode of Lunch w/ Jamie, Jamie sits down with Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic and former Editor-in-Chief of WIRED, for a wide-ranging conversation on journalism, AI, media economics, and the future of truth in a rapidly changing world.They unpack one of the biggest moments in modern media — SignalGate — including how the White House responded, the legal risks involved, and what it was like inside The Atlantic as the story broke. Nicholas also explains how The Atlantic went from losing money to becoming one of the most profitable and influential publications in the world, sharing insights on subscriptions, paywalls, and why chasing video and podcasts too early nearly sank legacy media.The conversation goes deep on artificial intelligence: how AI will reshape journalism, healthcare, education, and elections, why Google may be winning the AI arms race, and what skills matter most for young people entering the workforce today. Nicholas also opens up about his book The Running Ground, surviving cancer, post-traumatic growth, and how running has shaped his life, leadership, and mindset.Topics covered include:- SignalGate and press freedom in the modern era- The Atlantic’s business turnaround and media strategy- AI’s impact on journalism, education, healthcare, and democracy- Deepfakes, misinformation, and the future of trust- Career advice for the next generation in an AI-driven world- Running, resilience, and personal growthIf you’re interested in media, technology, AI, leadership, or the future of information, this episode offers rare, behind-the-scenes insight from one of the most thoughtful voices in modern journalism.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgrade

In this episode of Lunch with Jamie, Jamie Patricof sits down with Scott Galloway to break down his powerful “Resist & Unsubscribe” movement—a form of protest designed to hit where it actually hurts: money, attention, and corporate influence.Scott explains why unsubscribing from products, platforms, streaming services, banks, and brands you no longer align with may be more effective than outrage or performative activism. From the attention economy to corporate accountability, this conversation explores how economic pressure can drive real change.Jamie and Scott also discuss:- Why “Resist & Unsubscribe” is one of the smartest protest strategies today- How consumer dollars shape politics, media, and power- The challenge of letting go of conveniences we think we can’t live without- Privilege, responsibility, and doing what you can instead of doing nothing- Why economic protest may outlast outrage cyclesIf you’re feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure how to take meaningful action, this episode offers a clear, practical framework for reclaiming your agency—one unsubscribe at a time.👉 Learn more about the movement and take action today - https://www.resistandunsubscribe.com/Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgradeTopics: Scott Galloway, Resist and Unsubscribe, economic protest, consumer activism, attention economy, corporate accountability, politics and money, media influence, modern protest strategies, unsubscribing movement, social change.

What happens when the global system that’s kept relative peace for 80 years begins to unravel?In this episode, Jamie sits down with Richard Haass, one of the most respected voices in American foreign policy, to unpack why the post-World War II world order may be over — and why there’s “zero chance” of going back to the way things were.They discuss:- Why Richard Haass believes Trump ended an 80-year era- The real meaning behind Trump’s comments on Greenland- Whether Europe could “call Trump’s bluff”- NATO, alliances, and the collapse of predictability- Ukraine, Russia, Iran, and rising global instability- Why trust — once broken — doesn’t reset after elections- What comes after the U.S.-led world orderThis is a clear, sober conversation about power, alliances, democracy, and why the world feels more unstable than it has in decades.If you’re trying to understand what actually changed — and why it matters — this conversation is essential listening.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgrade

This week we are re-releasing our conversation with Bryan Stevenson from 2020. Bryan Stevenson is the founder of the Equal Justice Initiative and one of the most influential voices on justice, race, and moral reckoning in America today.Stevenson traces his personal journey from growing up in the Jim Crow South to defending individuals on death row, unpacking how America’s legal system has long treated people “better if you’re rich and guilty than if you’re poor and innocent.” He explains why true justice requires more than laws—it requires truth-telling, proximity to suffering, narrative change, hope, and the courage to do uncomfortable things.This conversation explores:Why America has never fully confronted the legacy of slavery, lynching, segregation, and racial terrorHow storytelling, film, and culture shape — and can repair — our collective moral narrativeThe difference between policy fixes and moral repairWhy hopelessness is the enemy of justiceWhat real accountability and repair could look like in AmericaThe role creators, artists, and leaders play in shaping the future of justiceStevenson also shares unforgettable personal stories—from confronting racial humiliation in courtrooms to moments of unexpected reconciliation at lynching sites—that illuminate what justice looks like when truth is finally acknowledged.This is not a conversation about politics.It’s a conversation about moral responsibility, historical truth, and the future we are choosing to build.If you care about justice, storytelling, leadership, or the soul of America—this is an essential listen.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgrade

In this episode from December 2025, Jamie Patricof sits down with Anthony Scaramucci for a wide-ranging, unfiltered conversation about power, politics, and personal reckoning. Scaramucci reflects on his infamous 11-day stint as White House Communications Director under Donald Trump, tracing his journey from Wall Street to the center of American politics — and the lessons learned from ambition, ego, and loyalty.The discussion explores Scaramucci’s long history within the Republican Party, his role in the 2016 Trump campaign, and why he ultimately broke with Trump publicly. They dive into themes of political identity, Trumpism, media outrage, cancel culture, money in politics, and the growing divide in American democracy. Scaramucci also shares insights on populism, gerrymandering, social media radicalization, and why he believes the U.S. is approaching a critical moment of political reckoning.Later in the conversation, Scaramucci addresses the crisis facing young men in America, drawing from his work on the Lost Boys podcast, and discusses leadership, accountability, and what meaningful reform could look like heading into 2026 and 2028.This episode offers a rare insider perspective on the Trump White House, modern American politics, and the personal cost of power — from someone who lived it.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/upgrade

In the wake of the Brown University shooting, Senator Mark Kelly joins the conversation to address the reality of gun violence in America and why these tragedies have become so common.Drawing from personal experience—including the 2011 shooting of his wife, former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords—Senator Kelly explains how mass shootings, school shootings, and everyday gun violence continue to traumatize communities across the United States. He discusses why America stands out globally for gun violence, the long-term psychological impact on young people, and what meaningful gun reform could look like moving forward.This episode explores why gun violence has become normalized in American life, the policy failures that allow it to persist, and what accountability and action could change the trajectory.This is not a partisan debate—it’s a conversation about public safety, children’s lives, and whether the United States is willing to confront a crisis that affects everyone.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership

Why do Democrats keep losing people they actually agree with?In this conversation, Jamie Patricof sits down with Congresswoman Sarah McBride to break down one of the most overlooked forces in American politics: why persuadable voters walk away from the Democratic Party even when they share the same values.Sarah explains the psychology of voters who feel pushed out, why “imperfect allies” matter, how coalition-building really works, and how Democrats unintentionally shrink their own tent. She also lays out the stakes of the current healthcare crisis, why affordability is becoming the defining issue for 2025, and what it will take to build a durable majority that can actually govern.If you’re interested in political strategy, voter behavior, democracy reform, or understanding why elections are won and lost in the middle—this is a must-watch episode.What we cover:– Why so many voters feel rejected by Democrats– How moral purity tests shrink the coalition– The danger of pushing away imperfect allies– Voter psychology and political identity– Affordability, healthcare, and the 2025 landscape– The “$1 trillion healthcare bomb”– How Democrats can actually win again– Why listening matters more than lecturing– Building a bigger, stronger, more curious political movement– What Sarah McBride believes the Democratic Party must do nextAbout Jamie’s List:Jamie Patricof hosts candid political conversations centered on democracy, common sense, affordability, and real solutions. Each episode highlights voices shaping the future of our country — without the noise, outrage, or partisanship.If you enjoy this conversation, consider subscribing. We have more big guests coming.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership

Congressman Jake Auchincloss joins Jamie to break down the Epstein files, fractures inside MAGA, the future of Democratic strategy, rising healthcare costs, and his bold vision for building America’s next cities. They also discuss digital dopamine, Big Tech, the coming Alzheimer’s crisis, and why education and trade schools will shape the country’s future.Topics: Epstein files, MAGA dynamics, Democratic strategy, healthcare, Big Tech & digital dopamine, Alzheimer’s crisis, education reform, trade schools, new cities & urban planning.Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership

Beto O’Rourke joins Jamie Patricof for an unfiltered conversation about the future of Texas, the state of American democracy, and why he believes Texas could save America.In this powerful interview, Beto explains why, in his words, “America has bent the knee to Donald Trump,” and what needs to change for the country to fight back. He shares his firsthand view of how Texas politics, gerrymandering, and voter suppression have shaped national elections — and how his organization, Powered by People, is working to turn the tide before 2026.This episode dives into:The fight for democracy and what’s at stake in 2026How Texas became the front line of America’s political divideThe role of leadership, unity, and courage in an age of fearWhy local action and grassroots organizing still matterBeto’s message for Americans who feel powerless to create changeWhether you follow U.S. politics, care about Texas elections, or just want to understand how Donald Trump’s influence continues to shape the country, this conversation with Beto O’Rourke is essential listening.Guest: Beto O’RourkeHost: Jamie Patricof – Lunch with Jamie PodcastWatch the full interview to hear why Beto says, “Our knees don’t bend — especially not in Texas.”Only members of Jamie's List get to join me on zoom to get exclusive access during these conversations. You can apply here - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership

In this episode of Lunch with Jamie, we sit down with Representative Jasmine Crockett for a candid and unfiltered conversation on the future of American politics.We discuss the challenges facing Democrats in 2025, the ongoing fight for voting rights, the impact of redistricting in Texas, and what it really takes to be an effective leader in today’s polarized political environment. Jasmine opens up about her journey, her frustrations with dysfunction in Washington, and what she believes Democrats must do to reconnect with voters before 2026.Topics Discussed:The realities of serving in today’s CongressHow Texas redistricting could shape the next electionThe future of the Voting Rights ActBuilding back trust between Democrats and working-class votersJasmine’s thoughts on leadership and accountability in WashingtonSubscribe to Jamie’s List for behind-the-scenes access and live audience Q&A: https://www.jamieslist.com/membership

In this Lunch with Jamie conversation, Congressman Richie Torres (NY-15) sits down with Jamie to discuss the most pressing political and moral questions facing America today. Raised in public housing in the Bronx by a single mother, Torres shares how his upbringing shaped his fight for affordable housing, healthcare, and social services—and why he believes the Democratic Party must stand for something, not just against Trump.We dive into:The human cost of the government shutdown and expiring ACA premium creditsHow the affordability crisis threatens American democracyWhy Democrats need a clear, affirmative agenda to win back trustThe danger of losing Voting Rights Act protections and what it means for representationHis stance on Israel, free speech, and rising antisemitismWhy local politics and new media matter more than everTorres’s remarkable journey from the Bronx to the House of RepresentativesThis episode reveals the values and leadership style of one of the most thoughtful and independent voices in Congress.Subscribe to Jamie’s List for behind-the-scenes access and live audience Q&A: https://www.jamieslist.com/membership

This week we are re-sharing our conversation with former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder joined Jamie in 2020 for a powerful conversation about justice, democracy, and the future of America.From his time serving under President Barack Obama to his ongoing fight for voting rights and fair elections, Holder reflects on the challenges facing our legal system, the politicization of the Supreme Court, and what it will take to restore trust in America’s institutions.Holder discusses the battle over democracy, why protecting the rule of law is more critical than ever, and how everyday citizens can help strengthen the foundations of our republic.What you’ll learn in this episode:Eric Holder on the state of American democracyWhy voting rights remain under threat — and how to defend themThe role of the Supreme Court in shaping justiceLessons from his time in the Obama administrationHow we rebuild faith in our political and legal systemsIf you care about justice, leadership, and the future of democracy, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.Subscribe to Jamie’s List for behind-the-scenes access and live audience Q&A - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership?utm_source=Youtube&utm_medium=Description&utm_campaign=Eric_Holder_AO

In this episode of Lunch with Jamie, veteran journalist Stephen Sackur joins Jamie to reflect on nearly 20 years of HARDtalk, why the BBC shut it down, and what its end says about the state of truth, journalism, and democracy today.From grilling presidents and dictators, to navigating the collapse of shared facts in our politics, Sackur shares what he’s learned about power, free speech, and the future of investigative reporting. Known for his rigorous but empathetic style, Sackur pulls back the curtain on why journalism is struggling to survive — and why our democracies may not survive without it.This conversation dives deep into the decline of fact-based reporting, the dangers of misinformation, and the question at the heart of our time: can truth still win?What you’ll learn in this episode: • Why the BBC cancelled HARDtalk after nearly 20 years • How Stephen Sackur became one of the world’s toughest interviewers • Why journalism is in crisis across the globe • The connection between misinformation, polarization, and democracy’s decline • Why free speech — even speech you hate — still matters • Sackur’s next project: a book on the rise and fall of investigative journalismIf you care about truth, journalism, and the future of democracy, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.Subscribe to Jamie’s List for behind-the-scenes access and live audience Q&A - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership?utm_source=Youtube&utm_medium=Description&utm_campaign=Stephen_Sackur_AO

In February, Jamie sat down with Eric K. Ward—civil-rights leader and EVP at Race Forward—and Rachel Carroll Rivas—interim director of the SPLC Intelligence Project. Known for their on-the-ground work tracking extremism and building resilient communities, Eric and Rachel dig into the rise of hate in America and how we move forward together.From the January 6 pardons and what they signal, to why antisemitism sits at the core of modern white nationalism, they trace the roots of militia movements, Charlottesville’s wake-up call, and how online ecosystems recruit young people—often starting as “jokes.” They also get practical: curiosity over combat, local organizing over cable-news theater, and “desegregating” our daily lives so we actually talk—and listen—across differences. Eric shares lessons from his punk rock days and why targeted, universal solutions beat zero-sum politics.Whether you care about democracy, public safety, or bridging the red/blue divide, this conversation is candid, nuanced, and focused on solutions.What you’ll hear in this episode:  •  The ripple effects of the January 6 pardons and what comes next  •  Why antisemitism animates today’s white nationalist movement  •  How militias evolved from the 1980s to present—and why that matters now  •  Charlottesville as a turning point (and what we learned—and forgot)  •  Practical ways to build trust locally and talk across political lines  •  How youth get pulled into hate online—and how adults can interrupt it  •  Eric’s punk-rock to civil-rights journey and what it teaches about community👉 If you care about democracy, community safety, and finding common ground, you won’t want to miss this episode.Subscribe to Jamie’s List for behind-the-scenes access and live audience Q&A - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Description&utm_campaign=eric_K_ward

In this episode of Lunch with Jamie, Jamie sits down with Kara Swisher — tech journalist, author, and one of the most influential voices in tech and media. Known for her sharp takes and fearless reporting, Kara dives into the intersection of politics, technology, and journalism in today’s chaotic landscape.From Donald Trump and the role of media in politics, to the future of AI regulation, Hollywood consolidation, and the decline of legacy journalism, Kara doesn’t hold back. She also reflects on her career covering Silicon Valley, why she believes tech companies will own entertainment, and how she thinks media must evolve to survive.Whether you’re interested in big tech, political power, or the future of news, this conversation is as unfiltered as it gets.What you’ll hear in this episode:Kara Swisher on Trump, politics, and media accountabilityWhy she thinks Hollywood will be owned by big techThe future of AI regulation (and why Ted Cruz may play a role)How journalism has changed in the age of disinformationHer take on the decline of legacy media and what comes nextStories from her career covering Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C.👉 If you care about technology, politics, and the future of media, you won’t want to miss this episode.Subscribe to Jamie’s List for behind-the-scenes access and live audience Q&A - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Description&utm_campaign=Kara_Swisher

In this episode of Lunch with Jamie, Jamie sits down with Ben Meiselas, co-founder of Midas Touch and one of the most outspoken voices in progressive media, to talk about the state of American politics, the media’s failures, and the fight for democracy.From Donald Trump’s health and the rise of authoritarianism, to JD Vance’s role in the MAGA movement, to the future of the Democratic Party in 2028 and beyond — nothing is off the table. What you’ll hear in this episode:Trump’s health, JD Vance, and the authoritarian threat aheadHow Republicans use power vs. how Democrats often hesitateWhy mainstream media is failing — and how Midas Touch is fighting backThe danger of clickbait and disinformation in a polarized nationWhat the Democratic Party must do to win in 2028 and beyondThe real issues voters care about: affordability, healthcare, and global conflictsSubscribe to Jamie’s List for behind-the-scenes access and live audience Q&A - https://www.jamieslist.com/membership?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Description&utm_campaign=Ben_Meiselas