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Recent episodes
Superpower Suicide: Global Impact of U.S. Policy Changes
Jan 22, 2026
Unknown duration
Universities Confront Polarizing Times: Condoleezza Rice, Jon Levin
Jan 21, 2026
Unknown duration
Rule of Law Under Siege: Pam Karlan, Rob Bonta, Ruth Marcus
Jan 20, 2026
Unknown duration
Public Service Turmoil: Michael Lewis, W. Kamau Bell, David Eggers
Jan 15, 2026
Unknown duration
Decoding America's Global Role: David Kennedy, Margaret Spellings, Niall Ferguson
Jan 13, 2026
Unknown duration
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/22/26 |  Superpower Suicide: Global Impact of U.S. Policy Changes | In this episode of Which Side of History, Stanford University professor and Common Sense Media founder Jim Steyer assesses democracy's uncertain future. His distinguished guests are former National Security Advisor to President Obama Susan Rice, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Mike McFaul, and Margrethe Vestager, former European Commissioner for Competition. They delve into the threats posed by Russia and China, America's shifting role in global politics, and the decline of democratic values. They also explore the impact of social media, the importance of international alliances, and the need for more regulation for digital platforms. Just how uncertain is democracy's future? Listen to Which Side of History with Jim Steyer. 00:00 Introduction and Current Administration's Policies 00:58 Welcome to the Podcast 01:12 Introducing the Guests and Topic 01:49 State of Global Democracy 03:20 Rise of Autocracies and Global Dynamics 06:48 Challenges Facing the United Nations 08:02 Call to Action for Democracy 08:59 Impact of US Policy Changes 11:18 Superpower Suicide and Domestic Policies 17:15 Historical Context and Hope for Democracy 18:39 US Foreign Policy and Global Leadership 30:58 Evaluating US Engagement with Autocracies 34:56 Diplomatic Dynamics and Speculations 36:17 Russian Business Interests and Influence 37:56 European Perspective on the Conflict 40:53 Zelensky's Leadership and Challenges 43:52 US Inaction and Global Implications 50:53 Long-term Consequences for US Alliances 01:04:42 The Role of Social Media and AI 01:09:48 Final Thoughts and Reflections Note: Jim Steyer's views are his own and do not reflect Common Sense Media. | — | |
| 1/21/26 |  Universities Confront Polarizing Times: Condoleezza Rice, Jon Levin | Common Sense Media founder Jim Steyer engages with Stanford University President Jonathan Levin and former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by American universities in today's polarized political climate. Key topics include the ongoing role of universities, the importance of maintaining academic freedom, the impact of federal government policies on higher education, and the critical need for diversity and representation in the post-affirmative action era. Rice and Levin also emphasize fostering an environment where students can pursue innovative research and develop into well-rounded leaders. The episode underscores the significance of both institutional advocacy and collaboration to sustain the mission and relevance of universities in a rapidly-evolving landscape. Just how much pressure do universities face? Listen to Which Side of History and find out. The episode was recorded on the campus of Stanford University. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:57 Welcome to 'Which Side of History' 01:37 The Role of Universities in Modern Society 04:56 Challenges Facing Universities Today 24:47 The Importance of Diversity in Higher Education 35:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Note: Jim Steyer's opinions are his own and do not represent Common Sense Media. | — | |
| 1/20/26 |  Rule of Law Under Siege: Pam Karlan, Rob Bonta, Ruth Marcus | Host Jim Steyer tackles the sweeping attempts to undermine the Justice Department. His esteemed guests include California Attorney General Rob Bonta, renowned journalist Ruth Marcus, and Stanford Law Professor Pam Karlan. The panel offers timely insights on the erosion of the rule of law, the weaponization of the Department of Justice, the challenges faced by career civil servants, and the significant cases the U.S. Supreme Court is about to decide. How serious is the dismantling of the Justice Department? What's the potential damage? And how does this moment in time compare to Watergate? Listen to this episode of Which Side of History and find out: 00:00 Comparing Watergate to Current Justice Department Issues 00:51 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic 01:34 Discussion with Rob Bonta on Rule of Law Challenges 07:30 Ruth Marcus on Checks and Balances 10:57 Pam Karlan on the Justice Department's Integrity 15:58 Rob Bonta on Political Weaponization of Prosecution 19:14 Historical Context and Future of the Rule of Law 29:15 Role of States in Upholding Democratic Principles 34:18 Lower Courts' Struggles and Reactions 36:36 Early Capitulation of Law Firms 39:13 Supreme Court's Role and Influence 43:30 The Shadow Docket and Key Cases 01:00:37 Birthright Citizenship and Legal Precedents 01:07:18 Concluding Thoughts and Future Implications The panel was recorded on November 3, 2025 at Stanford University. | — | |
| 1/15/26 |  Public Service Turmoil: Michael Lewis, W. Kamau Bell, David Eggers | In this episode Stanford University professor Jim Steyer delves into the current state of American government, focusing on the experiences of federal employees amid ongoing political turmoil. His guests include best-selling author Michael Lewis, comedian and TV host W. Kamau Bell, and writer and educator Dave Eggers. They discuss the dedication of civil servants, the impact of political actions on public perceptions, and the broader ramifications for American institutions. Despite all the turmoil in Washington, is there reason to be optimistic? 00:00 Introduction: The State of Affairs 00:52 Welcome to 'Which Side of History' 01:11 Introducing the Guests and the Topic 01:39 Michael Lewis on Public Perception vs. Reality of Government 02:36 Art Allen's Story: The Unsung Hero of the Coast Guard 11:46 Dave Eggers on NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory 19:06 Kamau Bell on Antitrust and Justice 26:39 The Impact of Government Layoffs 29:11 Trump's Approach to Government 35:33 The Problem with Cutting Deficits 36:25 Misguided Firing Practices 36:42 The Impact on Federal Agencies 38:07 Trump's Strategy and Consequences 40:13 Loss of Faith in Institutions 40:55 Idealism in Government Work 42:17 Challenges Faced by Teachers 46:23 Historical Context and Institutional Flaws 48:42 Potential Financial Crisis 51:49 The Role of Trust in Institutions 52:53 Crypto and Trump's Financial Interests 59:09 Comedians and Political Alignment 01:01:29 Messages of Hope and Optimism | — | |
| 1/13/26 |  Decoding America's Global Role: David Kennedy, Margaret Spellings, Niall Ferguson | In this episode Stanford University professor and Common Sense Media founder Jim Steyer explores whether we're witnessing the end of the post-World War II global order. Joining the debate are historian Sir Niall Ferguson, presidential scholar David Kennedy, and former U.S. Education Secretary Margaret Spellings. The discussion delves into America's response to the rise of China, the current state of U.S. institutions, the economic implications of the Trump administration's policies, and the enduring issues of income inequality and national debt. The episode concludes with a very funny and important call-to-action. 00:00 Introduction: The Rise of China and Trump's Presidency 00:51 Welcome to the Podcast 01:10 The End of the New World Order? 02:09 Historical Context: Post-WWII America 02:55 America's Global Dominance in 1945 04:14 The Role of International Institutions 08:37 The Changing Geopolitical Landscape 12:48 Domestic Politics and the Rule of Law 16:00 Trump's Impact on American Politics 36:07 Trump and Nixon: A Historical Connection 36:57 Trump's Influence on the Federal Reserve 38:40 Trump's Strategy Against the Bureaucracy 40:28 The Disruptor in Chief: Polling and Public Opinion 43:25 State and Local Government Challenges 48:42 Economic Policies and Predictions 58:41 The Importance of Reading and Final Thoughts | — | |
| 1/6/26 |  Big Tech and Our Kids: Kara Swisher, Bill Ready, Eric Yuan | Stanford University professor Jim Steyer leads a lively discussion on the influence of big tech on democracy and America's youth. As founder of Common Sense Media, Steyer moderates a debate that features prominent tech journalist Kara Swisher, Pinterest CEO Bill Ready and Zoom Communications CEO Eric Yuan. They explore the consolidation of power in major tech companies, the role of artificial intelligence, and implications for our kids. What are the potential benefits and dangers of AI technologies? Do we need better regulation? Does Big Tech have too much power? How do we balance innovation with safety? Find out more on this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:45 Big Tech's Influence on Democracy and Society 01:42 Panel Discussion: The Dominance of Big Tech 02:19 Kara Swisher on Big Tech Oligarchy 04:06 Bill Ready on AI and Youth Mental Health 09:13 Eric Yuan on AI Infrastructure 12:25 The Need for Regulation and Consumer Choice 24:58 The Impact of AI on Democracy 25:56 Decline of Social Media Usage 26:26 AI: A Creative and Abusive Tool 27:02 Teaching AI Literacy to Kids 27:51 Regulating AI for Safety 31:07 The Collective Action Problem of Social Media 33:33 AI's Role in Education and Society 39:25 AI and Democracy: A Double-Edged Sword 43:24 Words of Wisdom for the Future 46:34 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Please note: Jim Steyer's opinions are his own and do not represent Common Sense Media. | — | |
| 1/6/26 |  Climate Crisis, A Race Against Time: Bill McKibben, Saloni Multani, Tom Steyer | Stanford University professor Jim Steyer tackles the critical issue of climate change, comparing the United States to China and other global players. His esteemed guests are climate change legend Bill McKibben, investor Saloni Multani, and Jim's brother Tom Steyer. They debate the current state of the climate, the economic dynamics at play, and political influences shaping climate policies. They also discuss America's receding role when it comes to global climate leadership. Also, are America's youth really plugged into environmental activism? What are the broader implications of energy policies, the role of older generations in climate activism, and the changing dynamics of information in the digital age? Find out on this episode. 00:00 Introduction to the Global Car Market 00:44 Welcome and Episode Overview 01:29 State of the Climate: Bill McKibbon's Insights 05:49 Economic and Psychological Challenges of Climate Change 08:01 Tom Steyer's Journey into Climate Activism 10:46 Renewable Energy and Global Leadership 13:14 Political Dynamics of Climate Change 19:45 Renewable Energy Innovations in the US and China 29:42 California and Texas: Contrasting Approaches 34:54 Texas Legislature and Renewable Energy 36:02 Federal Barriers to Clean Energy 36:33 Global Energy Market Dynamics 38:08 California's Renewable Energy Leadership 39:29 The Importance of Policy in Energy 42:39 Youth Engagement in Climate Issues 51:06 Global Perspectives on Climate Action 54:12 The Role of the United States in Global Climate Leadership 57:49 The Attention Economy and Climate Narrative 01:01:27 Conclusion and Call to Action Please note: This episode was recorded on October 6, 2025 before Tom Steyer announced his campaign for governor of California. His appearance should not be considered an endorsement. Jim Steyer's opinions are his and do not represent the Common Sense Media. | — | |
| 1/6/26 |  Democracy Under Attack: Tom Friedman, Nick Kristof, Laurene Powell Jobs | In the inaugural episode, Common Sense Media founder and Stanford University professor Jim Steyer gathers an all-star panel featuring Pulitzer Prize winners Tom Friedman and Nick Kristof as well as media businesswoman Laurene Powell Jobs. The episode opens with talk about unprecedented attacks on American democracy and constitutional values. The panel delves into the current state of U.S. democracy, both domestically and aboard, discussing the roles and failures of political parties, the impact of media, and the importance of standing up against fear and corruption. Jim and his guests also discuss the global role of the United States, dive into the Israel-Gaza conflict, and examine the significance of U.S. global leadership. More than ever, they say, America needs active and informed citizens at home. 00:00 Standing Up Against Bullies and Corruption 00:33 Introduction to 'Which Side of History' 00:50 Inaugural Episode: State of American Democracy 01:01 Meet the All-Star Panel 02:20 The Importance of Open Dialogue and Solutions 03:55 The Role of Common Sense Media 04:44 Challenges Facing American Institutions 06:03 Introducing the Guests: Laurene Powell Jobs, Tom Friedman, and Nick Kristof 07:30 Discussion on American Democracy and National Wellbeing 08:18 Tom Friedman's Insights on Autocracies and American Institutions 12:02 Nick Kristof's Perspective on Authoritarian Regimes 18:30 Laurene Powell Jobs on the State of the Country 22:02 The State of the Two Parties in America 26:07 Critique of Biden Administration's Corporate Stance 27:06 Political Identity and Media Influence 28:07 Social Media Abstinence and Public Perception 29:19 Division for Profit and Political Energy 29:46 Speaking Engagement in Trump Country 33:17 Rural America's Struggles and Democratic Disconnect 39:02 Global Leadership and Abandoning International Order 41:34 Middle East Peace Plan and Challenges 48:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Please note: The views expressed in this podcast are the personal opinions of Jim Steyer and do not represent the official views or positions of Common Sense Media. | — | |
| 12/4/25 | Sneak Peek: Jim Steyer, host of Which Side of History? | Coming in January! The popular Stanford University class Which Side of History is launching a podcast. Join longtime professor Jim Steyer and his all-star guests as they discuss the state of American democracy, big tech, public policy, politics, and the impact on families today. The founder of Common Sense Media, Steyer offers a sneak peek of the first episode, dropping on January 6th. Make sure you follow Which Side of History on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever your listen. And subscribe to the YouTube channel for more great content. Please note: The views expressed in this podcast are the personal opinions of Jim Steyer and do not represent the official views or positions of Common Sense Media. | 0m 39s | |
| 10/21/25 | Welcome to Which Side of History? | Thought-provoking and insightful, Jim Steyer teaches a very popular course at Stanford University. Now the Common Sense Media founder is bringing his class to life as a podcast. Jim talks to the best and the brightest at the intersection of technology, politics, public policy and your family. At the end of the day, when critical moments happen, which side of history will you stand on? Guests will include Tom Friedman from The New York Times, podcaster and tech journalist Kara Swisher, Pinterest CEO Bill Ready, historian Niall Ferguson, and Pulitzer Prize winner Nicholas Kristoff. Make sure you hit that Follow button. Leave a Rating. Write a Review. And Recommend this podcast to a friend. Please note: The views expressed in this podcast are the personal opinions of Jim Steyer and do not necessarily represent the official views or positions of Common Sense Media. | — |
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