Episodes
Following last week’s headline-making revelations about the complex relationship between Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump, Michael and James return for a special bonus episode with a powerful follow-up. In this discussion, Michael dives deeper into his decision to release these recordings now, revealing additional behind-the-scenes conversations with Epstein that offer a candid look at Trump’s tactics, ambitions, and the dark dynamics of their friendship. See omnystudio.com/listener for...
Published 11/04/24
Published 11/04/24
In this episode, Michael reveals a key source for his reporting on Donald Trump: Jeffrey Epstein. Through behind-the-scenes stories and never-before-heard recordings, Michael recounts Epstein's candid insights into Trump’s rise, revealing a world of power plays, unsettling competitions, and twisted allegiances. The conversation unearths Epstein’s perspective on Trump’s character, ambition, and his relentless pursuit of power. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 10/31/24
In this episode, Michael and James examine the fractured dynamics of Trump’s campaign, uncovering the tension between Trump’s outward confidence and the unease simmering within his inner circle. They explore Elon Musk’s unpredictable influence and the tactical breakdowns that have left the campaign on edge. With ambitions and anxieties colliding in the final days, is Trump truly steering his own destiny, or is his campaign unraveling from within? Have a question for Michael and James? Email...
Published 10/25/24
In this bonus episode, Michael and James welcome special guests Matt Kelly and Matt D'Ancona, hosts of The Two Matts podcast. Kelly, founder of The New European, and D'Ancona, a journalist and former editor of The Spectator, offer a European perspective on the ripple effects of Donald Trump’s campaign. They delve into how Trump’s populism resonates across the Atlantic, its potential impact on the 2024 election and global politics, and the lessons Europe can teach us about navigating the Trump...
Published 10/21/24
In this episode, Michael and James assess the volatile dynamics of the Trump campaign as the 2024 race narrows. They delve into the shifting momentum, Trump’s erratic behavior during his Pennsylvania rally, and Kamala Harris’ disciplined yet cautious approach. Jared Kushner’s calculated influence behind the scenes also comes under scrutiny, as Michael and James explore how these contrasting strategies may shape the final stretch of the election. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy...
Published 10/17/24
In this special bonus episode of Fire and Fury, Michael and James sit down with Barry Diller, an iconic figure in the media industry and former head of Paramount Pictures and Fox TV. Diller shares his candid perspective on the current political landscape, including his views on Donald Trump, the dangers of a close election, and how Trump’s reality-TV persona has reshaped American politics. They also explore the role of wealth and the future of technology in shaping public discourse.  See...
Published 10/14/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James discuss Donald Trump’s focus on side ventures, from NFTs to picture books, during the most critical phase of his campaign. They explore Kamala Harris’ empathy-driven media strategy and Elon Musk’s surprising alignment with Trump, raising questions about the role of billionaires in politics. Plus, reactions to Melania Trump’s new book and what does Trump’s return to Butler, Pennsylvania, signify for the 2024 race? See omnystudio.com/listener for...
Published 10/10/24
In this special bonus episode of Fire and Fury, Michael and James are joined by Sam Nunberg, one of Donald Trump’s earliest political advisors. Nunberg, known for his candid takes, discusses his long and tumultuous history with Trump, providing behind-the-scenes insights into Trump’s mentality, his influence over his base, and his impact on the Republican Party.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 10/07/24
In this week's episode, Michael and James debrief on Tuesday’s VP debate and break down the final stretch of the 2024 election. With just over 30 days to go, they explore Trump's closing strategy, comparing it to his surprise 2016 victory and discuss whether his campaign can once again capitalize on his reputation as a "strong closer." Will Trump’s unconventional tactics prove effective in 2024, or has the political landscape shifted beyond his control? Have a question or want to share your...
Published 10/03/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James confront a pivotal moment in the Trump campaign as the final days before the election loom large. With Trump publicly hinting at not running again if defeated, they explore whether this signals a rare moment of vulnerability—or simply another calculated move. Can politics ever return to normal without Trump in the spotlight? And what might a post-Trump political landscape look like? Plus, we’ll be answering listener questions—email us at...
Published 09/26/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James explore the surreal intersection of comedy and calamity in the era of Trump. Following the former president’s near-assassination, they unpack the increasingly violent, and even absurd nature of modern politics. Meanwhile, with the latest twist in Rupert Murdoch's ongoing legal battle over the future of his media empire, Michael explains how this power struggle might reshape the conservative media landscape that Trump relies on. Next week, we’ll be...
Published 09/18/24
Last week, Michael appeared on The Middle alongside former Facebook exec, Katie Harbath for a conversation about how the changing media landscape has contributed to political fragmentation. Here is an excerpt from that conversation. For the full episode, head over and listen to The Middle with Jeremy Hobson. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 09/16/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James dissect Donald Trump’s chaotic debate performance, with insights from Michael’s firsthand reporting from the spin room. They explore why Trump’s core supporters stay loyal despite his missteps. With the campaign facing internal strife and unexpected figures like Corey Lewandowski causing further disruption, can Trump keep his base energized? And what are the implications as election day approaches? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 09/12/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James dive into Donald Trump’s latest campaign chaos, focusing on his sudden flip on abortion and IVF. As Trump’s risky moves send shockwaves through his base and create internal conflict within the GOP, they explore whether these unorthodox strategies will help or hurt him in the final sprint to election day. How is the Trump campaign navigating this backlash, and what does it mean for the broader race? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 09/05/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James delve into the pivotal moment for Donald Trump’s campaign as it grapples with escalating legal battles and internal upheaval. They explore how Trump is navigating the looming threat of jail time, the unexpected return of Corey Lewandowski to the campaign, and the surprising role of RFK Jr. in Trump's evolving political strategy See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 08/30/24
In this special bonus episode of Fire and Fury, Michael and James speak with Christoph Amend, editorial director of ZEIT, a leading German newspaper. They explore how Donald Trump is perceived across Europe, unraveling the continent's complex reactions to his presidency and the broader implications of the rise of right-wing extremism.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 08/27/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James discuss the heightened drama surrounding Donald Trump's campaign. Amid rumors of his mental state and refusal to follow his advisors' strategies, they explore whether the former president’s behavior indicates a breakdown or a calculated move. They also examine the media and the Democratic Party's reactions to Trump’s unpredictability and its implications. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 08/23/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James examine Trump’s precarious campaign predicament as he struggles to devise a response to Kamala Harris. With the Democratic National Convention looming and debates drawing near, can Trump regain his footing, or is his campaign on the brink? Plus, Michael shares his thoughts on the personal impact last month's assassination attempt had on the former president. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 08/15/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James delve into the rise of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Kamala Harris's running mate. How did this relatively unknown figure make his way to the top of the Democratic ticket? What impact does his candidacy have on Trump's campaign? And how does this reshape the Democrats' strategy? Plus, Michael reveals who he believes is at risk of being ousted from the top levels of the Trump campaign. Tune in to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy...
Published 08/08/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James dive into the complex and often tumultuous relationship between Rupert Murdoch and Donald Trump. How did Murdoch, a media titan, come to detest the very president he helped elevate? What are the latest developments in the Murdoch family saga, including the ongoing court case and shifting political alliances? And what is Trump thinking about his VP pick? Tune in to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 08/01/24
In this week's episode, Michael and James discuss the seismic shift in the 2024 election landscape as Joe Biden exits and Kamala Harris takes center stage. How did Biden's sudden departure reshape the Democratic strategy? What challenges and opportunities lie ahead for Harris as she faces off against Trump? And how is the Trump campaign adjusting to this unexpected twist? Tune in to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 07/26/24
In this week’s episode, Michael reports from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. He and James discuss the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Has the shooting transformed the former president’s image within the GOP? What does this mean for the trajectory of his campaign? What else did Michael witness on the convention floor? Tune in to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 07/19/24
In this week’s episode, Michael and James explore the Democratic Party's internal turmoil as Joe Biden's future as the 2024 nominee comes under intense scrutiny. They explore the strategic silence from Donald Trump's camp and the unexpected spotlight on Biden's campaign struggles. What are the implications of Biden's continued candidacy for the Democratic Party? How is Trump leveraging this moment to his advantage? And what is Michael looking out for at the RNC? Tune in to find out. See...
Published 07/12/24
In this week’s episode, Michael shares his reporting from the spin room of last week’s presidential debate in Atlanta. He and James unpack the fallout from Biden’s shockingly poor performance. Was even Donald Trump surprised by what he saw? What does this mean for the future of both campaigns? And which potential Biden-replacement candidate caught Michael’s eye in Atlanta? Tune in to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Published 07/03/24