The Best People with Nicolle Wallace
News & Politics
About
Who are The Best People? They’re the most magnetic and engaging people in the room; the ones who know how to get that extra something out of every collaboration, connection, and endeavor. These people are the best at what they do and know how to bring out the best in others. Now, in an era of social and political upheaval, The Best People share lessons that we can all use. Listen as Nicolle Wallace seeks varied perspectives on how to keep reaching for truth, decency, and connection.
Episodes
- Introducing WITHpod: The AI End Game
Chris Hayes hosts "The AI End Game," a miniseries exploring artificial intelligence with experts such as Derek Thompson, Ethan Mollick, Alison Gopnik, Timnit Gebru, David Chalmers, Ed Zitron, and Michael Pollan. The series aims to clarify…
- Sarah Longwell Knows the Cheat Code to Politics
Sarah Longwell, a GOP strategist and pollster, joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss her insights from leading voter focus groups and founding "The Bulwark." She shares her perspective on the state of American politics, the MAGA movement, and s…
- Gov. Mikie Sherrill Runs New Jersey Like a Busy Mom
Governor Mikie Sherrill joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss her leadership lessons from the Navy and her children, her approach to governing New Jersey, and her views on current political issues. She shares her strategy for effective governme…
- Sherrilyn Ifill on Rebuilding Post-Trump: " It's Gotta Come Down to the Studs”
Sherrilyn Ifill joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss the need for a cultural reset post-Trump, addressing threats to democracy, media neutrality, and the role of the Supreme Court. She also reflects on the redefinition of responsible citizensh…
- Kara Swisher on Death and Doritos
Kara Swisher joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss technology, longevity, and current events including Elon Musk and Trumpism. She also shares her perspectives on predicting trends and living well.
- Best of the Best: Yes, Robert De Niro is Talking to You
This rebroadcast features an interview with actor Robert De Niro, who discusses his perspective as a concerned citizen regarding politics and the importance of civic engagement. De Niro also reflects on his career and topics like mobilizat…
- Alex Wagner: Trump’s MAGA Base is "Mad at Daddy"
Journalist Alex Wagner joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss her reporting on the MAGA base and criticisms of the current administration's approach to the conflict in Iran.
- Julie K. Brown Continues to Break Open the Epstein Story
Investigative reporter Julie K. Brown joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss her reporting on the Jeffrey Epstein case, the impact of survivor advocacy, and the release of documents under the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
- Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling Knows Leadership… And When It’s Lacking
Retired Army Lieutenant General Mark Hertling discusses his military career, his book "If I Don’t Return," and his perspectives on leadership and military service in this episode with Nicolle Wallace.
- How Tig Notaro's "Laugh Hang" Got Her to the Oscars
Tig Notaro joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss producing the documentary "Come See Me in the Good Light" about the late poet Andrea Gibson and her legacy. They also cover Notaro’s acting career, her podcast, and the healing power of comedy.
- A Mayor, a Military Pro and a Professor on Affluence, Grievance and Greed
Nicolle Wallace joins Dr. Eddie Glaude, Mitch Landrieu, and Tom Nichols to discuss the current state of American history, addressing themes of grievance, greed, and political challenges. The group explores the promise versus the reality of…
- Yes, Robert De Niro is Talking to You
Actor Robert De Niro joins host Nicolle Wallace to discuss his perspective as a concerned citizen regarding the Trump administration. They cover topics including the role of business leaders, the importance of protecting election integrity…
- Scott Galloway Wants You to Resist and Unsubscribe
Scott Galloway joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss 'Resist and Unsubscribe,' an economic movement using consumer spending and boycotts to target companies enabling the Trump administration. They explore using economic action as a tool to infl…
- Check Out a Preview for “Clock It”
This preview introduces the new podcast "Clock It," hosted by Symone Sanders Townsend and Eugene Daniels. The first episode features guests Tony Goldwyn and Myles Frost discussing art and politics, alongside coverage of the Super Bowl, med…
- Rosie Perez is Still Doing the Right Thing
Rosie Perez joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss her career, advocacy work for causes like AIDS awareness and voting rights, and her personal approach to courage. They also touch on the current political climate and her experiences with canvas…
- MS NOW Presents: Clock It with Symone and Eugene
Symone Sanders Townsend and Eugene Daniels debut their new show, MS NOW Presents: Clock It, which explores the intersections of politics and culture. New episodes of the show, which serves as an extension of their off-air professional conv…
- Eric Holder: Institutions Have Failed Us, the American People Have Not
Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder joins host Nicolle Wallace to discuss the weaponization of government institutions, the Democratic Party's approach to power, and the importance of civic engagement in the context of the upcoming mi…
- Amb. Susan Rice on Trump’s “Grand Theft Larceny"
Ambassador Susan Rice joins host Nicolle Wallace to discuss her analysis of the Trump administration's foreign policy and domestic actions. They cover topics including the administration's authoritarianism and the approach to international…
- Oliver Darcy on the Effects of a Steady Fox News Diet
Media reporter Oliver Darcy joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss the current state of the U.S. media landscape, the influence of MAGA media, and the impact of corporate decisions on news coverage. They also explore potential signs of optimism…
- Heather Cox Richardson: "This is Americans vs. Dictators"
Historian Heather Cox Richardson joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss the current geopolitical climate, the challenges to the international order, and the state of American politics, including concerns regarding the Republican Party and Congre…
- Get Insider Access to MS NOW Podcasts
Rachel Maddow invites listeners to sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts, which offers an ad-free experience, exclusive bonus content, and early access to podcasts including The Best People with Nicolle Wallace. A 3-month free trial…
- Best of The Best: Joan Baez is Calculating How Much She’s Willing to Risk
In this episode of The Best People, Nicolle Wallace revisits a conversation with folk singer and activist Joan Baez. Baez discusses her approach to social change, her career, and how her perspective on taking risks has evolved over time.
- Best of The Best: Rosie O'Donnell Did Not Become an Artist to be Liked
Host Nicolle Wallace shares a conversation with her friend and former co-host, Rosie O'Donnell. They discuss O'Donnell's career, her perspectives on politics, her time on The View, and the importance of finding community.
- Marc Elias Urges Dems to Replace Nostalgia with Forward Progress
Elections attorney Marc Elias joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss his efforts in defending voting rights and challenging Republican election strategies. Elias offers advice for the Democratic Party and discusses his views on the current polit…
- Leslie Jones Asks MAGA: Why Do You Want America to Suck?
Comedian Leslie Jones joins host Nicolle Wallace to discuss her comedy special, "Life: Part Two," and share her perspectives on the current American political landscape and political absurdity.
- Rachel Maddow Has Some Advice for Those Who Capitulate
Rachel Maddow discusses her podcast "Rachel Maddow Presents: Burn Order," which covers the U.S. government's internment of Japanese Americans during WWII. She and Nicolle Wallace draw parallels to contemporary politics and Maddow encourage…
- Claire Danes is “Tough and Nervous"
Claire Danes reflects on her acting journey, starting from childhood and including roles in "My So-Called Life" and "Homeland." She also discusses her role in Netflix's "The Beast in Me," navigating public life, and raising children in New…
- Introducing "Rachel Maddow Presents: Burn Order"
The trailer for "Rachel Maddow Presents: Burn Order" introduces a six-episode podcast examining the World War II executive order that led to the internment of Japanese Americans. The series explores the policy's creation, opposition, and t…
- Best of the Best: Jess Michaels Survived Epstein. Now She’s Speaking Up
This episode features Jess Michaels, a survivor of sexual assault by Jeffrey Epstein, who discusses her healing journey and advocacy for accountability. Originally recorded September 9th, the episode gained renewed relevance following the…
- Heather Cox Richardson: "People are Starved for Facts"
Historian Heather Cox Richardson discusses the application of historical lessons to contemporary American politics, observing a trend towards aristocracy in the executive branch and a growing citizen movement pushing back.
- Scott Galloway Wants to Make America America Again
Scott Galloway discusses the challenges facing young men in America, such as lack of economic viability and social connection, as detailed in his book 'Notes on Being a Man'. He analyzes issues like social media's isolating effects and gen…
- “Pod Save America” Co-Hosts: Re-Humanization Needs to be a Goal Now
Jon Favreau and Tommy Vietor, co-founders of Crooked Media and hosts of "Pod Save America," discuss their approach to political communication, the upcoming election, and insights from their time working for President Obama.
- JB Pritzker on ICE Raids in Chicago: “People are Traumatized”
Governor JB Pritzker addresses the impact of ICE raids in Chicago, describing the trauma experienced by residents and his efforts to hold the Trump administration accountable. He also warns about potential election interference and urges c…
- Charlamagne Tha God: “We The People” Hasn’t Failed Us Yet
Charlamagne Tha God shares his perspective on "We The People," critiques political figures, and expresses concerns about the rule of law and the Constitution, while finding hope in the citizenry.
- Preview of “The Blueprint” Season 2
This episode previews Season 2 of Jen Psaki's podcast, 'The Blueprint,' where she interviews figures reshaping the Democratic party. The preview features Texas Congressman Greg Casar, Chair of the Progressive Caucus.
- Martin Sheen is the Most Presidential Man in the Room
Actor Martin Sheen discusses his extensive career, centering on his lifelong commitment to activism and social justice. He shares his perspective on faith, civil disobedience, and a desire to bring joy back to politics, with a special ment…
- Anthony Scaramucci Thinks Trump Has "Lost a Step"
Former Trump advisor Anthony Scaramucci discusses his past support for Trump and Trump's perceived decline. He also shares his views on Republican party unity and expresses optimism for the future of American democracy.
- Rosie O'Donnell Did Not Become an Artist to be Liked
Rosie O'Donnell shares her reasons for moving to Ireland, reflects on her time co-hosting 'The View,' and discusses Donald Trump. She emphasizes the importance of finding community for those feeling lost.
- Joan Baez is Calculating How Much She’s Willing to Risk
Joan Baez reflects on her activism, noting that while arrests are scarier now than 58 years ago, social change requires people to take risks. She discusses maintaining joy through activities like performing in a circus and dancing with dra…
- Jess Michaels Survived Epstein. Now She’s Speaking Up
Jess Michaels, who was sexually assaulted by Jeffrey Epstein in 1991, discusses her experience and her ongoing advocacy for accountability alongside other survivors. Speaking with Nicolle Wallace, she emphasizes that survivors are seeking…
- Stacey Abrams’ Steps to Freedom and Power
In this episode, voting rights activist and novelist Stacey Abrams discusses the state of the Democratic party, countering political opposition, and finding strength while in the minority.
- Ken Burns Believes in our American Experiment
Filmmaker Ken Burns discusses his new documentary series on the American Revolution, noting that democracy was not initially present when the fighting began. Burns believes the tensions of that era mirror those of today, framing the Americ…
- Phil Rosenthal is Hungry… And Subversive
Phil Rosenthal, known for 'Everybody Loves Raymond' and 'Somebody Feed Phil,' shares his unlikely 'hero's journey' from a picky eater to a global food explorer with Nicolle Wallace. He reflects on his show's premise, comparing himself to A…
- Jon Lovett: “This is not Policy Making. This is Vandalism”
Jon Lovett discusses his time as a speechwriter, his take on American institutional politics, and challenges facing the Democratic Party. He also shares perspectives on the Trump administration and addressed the Epstein scandal.
- Melissa Murray is the JLo of Law
Constitutional law professor Melissa Murray joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss the state of the legal system, Justice Sotomayor's dissents, and the significance of Black women voters. Murray, a former clerk for Justice Sotomayor and co-host…
- Jacob Soboroff: “The American People Are Being Lied To”
Jacob Soboroff discusses the human impact of Trump's immigration policies, highlighting the viral incident involving Narciso Barranco. He has previously covered family separations at the Southern border.
- Tim Miller is Ready to Fight Fire with Fire
Tim Miller discusses his extensive political career, from his early involvement in the Republican party to becoming a "Never Trumper" and host of The Bulwark podcast. He shares insights on community within the GOP, the manosphere, and dism…
- Jeff Daniels on the Enemy Within
Nicolle Wallace speaks with actor Jeff Daniels about his diverse career, his decision to live in Michigan, and the current political landscape. Daniels also performs an acoustic song.
- BONUS: The Youth Baseball Coach Who Fended Off ICE
Youman Wilder, a youth baseball coach, recounts an incident where he alleges armed ICE agents questioned his players during practice. An ICE spokesperson has since denied any recent enforcement activity in the area.
- Jimmy Jam on Prince, Janet, and a Nation Finding Its Rhythm
Jimmy Jam, a multi-Grammy winner and producer known for hits with Janet Jackson and his connection to Prince, shares career memories and insights on music's unifying power with Nicolle Wallace.