
Jonathan Van Ness and Melissa Murray discuss the U.S. Constitution, its evolution, and its impact on democracy and individual rights.
The U.S. Constitution can feel intimidating—but what if understanding it is one of the most empowering things you can do? This week, JVN sits down with constitutional law professor, legal scholar, and Strict Scrutiny co-host Melissa Murray to unpack what the Constitution actually says, how it’s evolved over time, and what it does to shape our daily lives here in the U.S. Together, they break down the myths, the amendments, and the big debates that continue to define U.S. democracy. From the origins of Prohibition to the long fight for women’s rights, Melissa explains why the Constitution was designed to change—and why “We the People” have always been central to that process. They also explore what rights the Constitution does (and doesn’t) guarantee, how constitutional amendments come to be, and what power ordinary people have to shape the country’s future. Get your copy of THE U.S. CONSTITUTION: AN ANNOTATED GUIDE FOR THE MODERN READER here Catch Strict Scrutiny wherever you get your podcasts! . Wanna see JVN on stage? Get tix to the Hot & Healed Comedy Tour here. Full Video Episodes now available on YouTube. Follow Melissa Murray on Instagram @profmmurray Follow Strict Scrutiny…
Host: Jonathan Van Ness
Guest: Melissa Murray
Organizations: Strict Scrutiny
Books & works: THE U.S. CONSTITUTION: AN ANNOTATED GUIDE FOR THE MODERN READER
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Getting Better with Jonathan Van Ness podcast page.