Jim Baer talks with Francis Fukuyama — author of The End of History and the Last Man — about the fragility of liberal democracy in an age of rising authoritarianism and deepening polarization. They discuss political decay in the U.S., geopolitical threats from Russia and China, and the outsized influence of social media. Fukuyama also shares a practical vision for rebuilding effective governance through an “abundance agenda” that cuts through gridlock and proves democracy can still deliver.
In this episode of The Puck, Jim Baer sits down with acclaimed author and journalist Oliver Burkeman, whose books Four Thousand Weeks and The Antidote have reshaped how we think about time, productivity, and perfectionism. Oliver introduces ideas from his forthcoming book Meditations for Mortals, exploring how embracing our human limitations—rather than denying them—opens the path to deeper meaning and accomplishment. From the illusion of “getting on top of everything,” to the paradox of slowing down in a productivity-obsessed culture, Oliver offers insights drawn from philosophy, spirituality, and his own journey. Together, Jim and Oliver reflect on mortality, imperfectionism, and how practices like patience, Sabbath rest, and journaling can help us live saner, more fulfilling lives.
Musician turned therapist Dan Koch joins The Puck: Venture Capital & Beyond to share his remarkable journey from touring in a rock band to pioneering research on spiritual abuse. We explore how faith and psychology intersect, why polarization is so hard to overcome, and why Dan believes ‘reality itself can be the medicine.’ A conversation about healing, curiosity, and hope in a divided world.
As violence flares in Gaza and the Middle East teeters on the edge of a wider crisis, The Puck turns to Aaron David Miller — a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace; a former State department analyst and negotiator in Republican and Democratic Administrations — for an unflinching look at the road ahead. In this urgent conversation, we explore the hard lessons of history, the role of U.S. leverage, the realities of Israeli and Palestinian leadership, and whether there’s any realistic path to a lasting peace after October 7th. A candid, deeply informed discussion that cuts through political soundbites to the heart of one of the world’s most intractable conflicts.
Stanford professor and financial reform advocate Anat Admati joins Jim to unpack the growing fragility in our financial system and the dangerous myths still shaping public policy. From shadow banking and corporate debt subsidies to crypto hype and post-crisis denial, Admati pulls no punches in exposing the deep structural flaws threatening American capitalism. They discuss why financial regulations continue to fall short and what real reform would look like. Admati explains how public anger after 2008 was hijacked by dangerous narratives, why crypto's promise is largely a mirage, and how shadow banking adds new layers of systemic risk. She makes the case for genuine accountability—in both government and the private sector—and warns of the moral cost of allowing “profitable misconduct” to persist. This is a candid conversation about fragility, power, truth—and what it will take to rebuild a system that actually serves society.
Journalist and author John B. Judis joins Jim to unpack the political chaos of our time—from Trump and Sanders to shifting class loyalties, cultural divides, and the fragile state of democracy. Is a new political order emerging—or are we just stuck in a dangerous loop?
David French returns to The Puck for a wide-ranging, deeply thoughtful conversation about the state of American democracy, the risks of authoritarianism, and the spiritual costs of political polarization. A New York Times columnist and former National Review editor, French unpacks the dangerous allure of strongman politics, reflects on Israel’s evolving strategy in the Middle East, and explores how each of us can preserve trust and truth in chaotic times. We talk about why institutions feel broken, how Trump uses public spectacle as a shield against accountability, and what it means to live with faith and courage in a disorienting moment. From LA protests to global power shifts, from misinformation to moral resilience—this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
To mark our 100th episode and launch of Season 9, Jim Baer sits down with Jeffrey Rosen—President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, host of We the People, and author of The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America. In this rich and timely conversation, Rosen explores how ancient moral philosophy shaped the Founders' vision of happiness—not as pleasure, but as virtue. Together, we examine how this wisdom can help us navigate today’s polarized world, restore purpose to leadership, and reconnect with practices of self-mastery, deep reading, and spiritual discipline. Rosen also shares his personal journey, the impact of Stoic philosophy, and his unexpected path into songwriting. A profound and inspiring dialogue for anyone seeking meaning, clarity, and civic renewal.
Stanford psychology professor Greg Walton returns for his second appearance on The Puck to discuss his new book, Ordinary Magic: The Science of How We Can Achieve Big Change with Small Acts. Three years after our first conversation, Greg rejoins the show to reflect on how our world has changed—and how subtle, science-backed interventions can help us find common ground and foster belonging. From reducing recidivism among formerly incarcerated youth to encouraging empathy across political divides, Greg explores how grace, discomfort, and deep listening can drive meaningful transformation.
On this episode of The Puck: Venture Capital & Beyond, Jim Baer sits down with Kristian Rönn—climate tech founder, AI ethicist, and author of The Darwinian Trap—to explore how humanity can escape destructive evolutionary forces and build a future rooted in shared values, long-term thinking, and spiritual renewal. A conversation about risk, responsibility, and hope at the edge of history.
In this powerful episode of The Puck, Jim Baer sits down with Michelle Goldberg—New York Times columnist, author, and longtime voice of progressive political commentary—for a deep and timely conversation. They explore how the Trump era reshaped institutional norms, the growing influence of conspiracy thinking, and the failures of both political parties to inspire and govern effectively. From Goldberg’s early activism to her critiques of Gavin Newsom’s media strategy, this discussion pulls no punches. They dive into the crisis of civic trust, the role of the media and social platforms in fueling division, and what it might take to inspire a new generation of political leadership. Whether you’re left, right, or somewhere in between, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity in a chaotic time.
What if the strongest case for Christianity’s role in democracy came from an atheist? Jim Baer sits down with Jonathan Rauch to discuss Cross Purposes: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy, and why America needs the moral backbone that Christian virtues once provided. Rauch—Jewish, gay, and secular—argues that courage, equality, and forgiveness are essential civic values we’re losing. They talk fear, demagogues, pseudo-religions, and how a more humble, and forbearing approach could help save both faith and democracy. Plus, a look at aging and purpose from The Happiness Curve. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
In this thought-provoking episode, Jim Baer sits down with political scientist Steven Teles, professor at Johns Hopkins University and co-author of The Captured Economy and Never Trump. Together, they explore the shifting class dynamics fueling America’s political polarization and the deepening distrust in institutions—from higher education to public health. Teles unpacks the realignment of the Democratic and Republican parties, the decline of union-based class identity, and why our government struggles to get big things done. With sharp insight and a rare ability to speak across ideological lines, Teles highlights the paradox of an economy that protects the powerful while making life harder for the working class. If you care about the future of democracy, the role of universities, or how we might rebuild public trust—this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Navigating a New World with Michael Lind In this episode of The Puck, Jim Baer sits down with acclaimed writer and policy thinker Michael Lind, co-founder of New America and author of Hell to Pay: How the Suppression of Wages is Destroying America. Together, they explore the global economic shifts, the U.S. political realignment, the dangers of intellectual gridlock, and the implications of Cold War II with China. Lind offers a wide-ranging, provocative analysis—from the future of the middle class and productivity growth to the challenges facing both major political parties. If you're looking for sharp insight into where the world—and America—might be headed, this is a must-listen.
On this episode of The Puck, host Jim Baer sits down with Aswath Damodaran, renowned NYU finance professor and the “Dean of Valuation,” for a deep dive into the current economic landscape. Damodaran breaks down the market’s recent volatility, the looming risk of a recession, and why the U.S. has been able to defy macroeconomic gravity for so long. He explores the impact of globalization’s decline, the role of risk capital, and the evolving influence of AI and Big Tech on markets. From the challenges of government inefficiency to the realities of investing in turbulent times, this episode offers a sharp, data-driven perspective on what lies ahead. Is the U.S. government running an unsustainable economic experiment? Can AI and technology continue to carry the economy? And what should investors do in a world of increased volatility? Tune in to hear Damodaran’s take on where we’re headed—and why adaptability is more crucial than ever. 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and SoundCloud.
On this episode of The Puck: Venture Capital and Beyond, host Jim Baer sits down with Republican pollster and political strategist Patrick Ruffini, co-founder of Echelon Insights and author of The Party of the People: Inside the Multiracial Populist Coalition Remaking the GOP. Ruffini shares his insights on the shifting political landscape, the rise of a multiracial working-class coalition within the Republican Party, and what this realignment means for future elections. They discuss why Trump’s economic populism has resonated with minority voters, how the GOP has become the party of the working class, and what both parties must do to stay competitive in an evolving electorate. Looking ahead to 2028, they explore whether figures like J.D. Vance can carry the torch and how policy, bureaucracy, and economic realities will shape the next four years. Tune in for a data-driven, big-picture look at where American politics is heading. 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and SoundCloud.
On this week’s episode, Jim sits down with Gary Gerstle, author, professor, and historian with a focus on “Political Orders.” His most recent book, “The Rise and Fall of the Neoliberal Order,” came out in 2022, and explores the larger trends in political thinking which make up a consensus, oftentimes a consensus we take for granted. Their conversation covers classical liberalism, neoliberalism, and… where we are right now. You don’t want to miss this clarifying discussion.
On this week’s episode, Jim sits down with Frank Furedi, author, social commentator, and Emeritus Professor of Sociology at the University of Kent. Frank is a free speech absolutist and has been a longtime critic of what he and others call “The Culture Wars.” They discuss Frank’s background, his academic work, and how he formed his worldview.
On this week’s episode, Jim sits down with Jai Das, President and Partner at Sapphire Ventures. They cover Jai’s history as a developer, the Sapphire origin story, and Jai’s current read of the financial landscape. Their conversation explores what sets successful companies apart, and what’s next for Sapphire, including their groundbreaking AI investment initiative. A fascinating conversation you don’t want to miss!
In this illuminating episode of The Puck, Jim sits down with Greg McKeown, the bestselling author of "Essentialism" and "Effortless." McKeown shares his journey from London law student to influential thought leader, revealing his groundbreaking philosophy of achieving more by doing less. Through engaging stories—ranging from Silicon Valley successes to Norwegian polar expeditions—McKeown explains how success often leads to "the undisciplined pursuit of more," and offers practical tools for moving from chaos to clarity. The conversation weaves together practical productivity advice with deeper insights about limitlessness, the power of true listening, and the art of making extraordinary progress without extraordinary strain