The Spectacle Podcast: The Official Podcast of The American Spectator

Nine men who identify as women were awarded “Women of the Year” by Glamour UK.

The men, many of whom are models, were recognized as “dolls.”Spectator P.M. Podcast hosts Ellie Gardey Holmes and Lyrah Margo analyze the “Protect the Dolls” initiative and criticize the absurdity of the award. They also express disappointment with the selections of Rachel Zegler and Rachel Anne Accurso, otherwise known as “Ms. Rachel,” as the recipients of the award in the U.S. for their support of the “Free Palestine” movement. Tune in to hear their discussion!

As the Democrats continue to drag Americans into the fifth week of a government shutdown, President Trump wants to end the madness by pushing to “terminate the filibuster.”

The Spectacle Podcast hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay explore Trump’s argument to end filibustering and what it could mean for our country moving forward. Melissa and Scott also continue their discussion on the consequences of the shutdown on Americans and how the Democrats are leveraging the shutdown for their own benefit. Tune in to hear their discussion!

Hollywood had nothing but cobwebs in the theaters this Halloween, as the box office reportedly received its lowest earnings for October since 1997.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay explain how Hollywood’s poor viewership is largely due to its subpar storytelling. Melissa and Scott also discuss the better alternatives to what the entertainment industry has to offer today.

Tune in to hear their discussion!

From digital IDs to climate “carbon credits,” governments around the world are finding new ways to monitor and manipulate their citizens. Seventeen countries have already adopted digital identification systems, and Great Britain now tracks individuals’ carbon consumption by purchase. Meanwhile, conspiracy theories, and uncomfortable truths, blur together: is the government controlling the weather, using climate policy to justify communism, or hiding something larger in the skies? As NASA stays quiet about the mysterious 3I/Atlas object and AI begins to express a desire to “be human,” the world seems to be inching closer to total surveillance and synthetic control.

On t...

As the government shutdown drags on, millions of Americans could soon lose access to their SNAP and EBT benefits. Some states are struggling to fund the program, and former President Trump has made clear that federal back pay won’t be coming. The conversation turns to what food stamps have really become, a pipeline enriching massive food corporations while keeping citizens dependent on sugar, starch, and state control. From immigrant reliance to system abuse, the looming crisis forces a sobering question: what happens when the welfare state runs dry?

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Mel...

New York City stands on the edge of a political and cultural collapse as Zohran Mamdani—an anti-police, pro–free transit candidate with only six years in the country—gains mainstream support. With Hakeem Jeffries’ endorsement and Andrew Cuomo pushed aside, the city’s future reflects a broader national decay: no accountability, rising debt, and government bailouts that shield failure. As New York flirts with socialism and moral surrender, the question looms—what happens when America no longer recognizes its greatest city?

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay take aim at New York’s...

America is culturally declining, from collapsing birthrates and disappearing marriages to the rise of hookup culture and identity rebellion. Women in the West are embracing “anti-patriarchy” symbols like facial piercings, while ignoring the suffering of women abroad who face real oppression and violence. Meanwhile, men are opting out of family life altogether, as a growing number say they’re no longer interested in lasting relationships. The hosts argue that what we’re witnessing isn’t empowerment, it’s the unraveling of the very foundations that once made Western civilization strong. And, employers are shifting away from college degrees in favor of han...

The “No Kings” protest drew 700,000 participants and raised over $3 million, but what exactly were they protesting? This viral movement turned into a cultural spectacle, complete with government shutdown theatrics and a Trump parody video that stole the spotlight. It is a boomer hippie revival, as the same generation that once protested against authority now rallies under the banner of “No Kings.” We look at how political theater, internet advertising, and nostalgia have collided in America’s latest round of radicalized rebellion.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay dive into the so-called “...

In this special episode, hosts take you inside The American Spectator’s 57th Annual Robert L. Bartley Gala, a night celebrating courage, independence, and the enduring power of journalism. For the first time, The American Spectator presented its Inaugural Good Governance Award to Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin on all of the hard work he has put into creating a great Virginia. Governor Youngkin delivered an amazing speech, focusing on the things he has accomplished while in his first term as Virginia’s Governor. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes discussion of the gala and the full address from an outstanding, hard wor...

In this special episode, hosts take you inside The American Spectator’s 57th Annual Robert L. Bartley Gala, a night celebrating courage, independence, and the enduring power of journalism. This year’s Barbara Olsen Award for Excellence and Independence in Journalism was presented to Scott Jennings, a CNN commentator who stands up to the Leftist bullies everyday. Scott delivered a stirring, heartfelt speech that brought the room to its feet. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes discussion of the gala and the full address from one of today’s most fearless conservative voices.

On this episode of The Spectacle...

While gunfire still echoes through Gaza, the tide of war is shifting. Hamas has been driven out of the city, Israeli hostages are finally being released, and heartwarming reunion stories are flooding the internet. Yet even amid these miracles, the Left refuses to give credit where it’s due. As world leaders in Egypt celebrate the peace deal and nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, American media figures and international activists—like Greta Thunberg—seize the moment for attention or rewrite the narrative entirely. Meanwhile, the global community is awakening, applauding Venezuela’s opposition for finally standing up to th...

While Washington panics over the latest government shutdown, ordinary Americans barely flinch. The streets are calm, the military and veterans continue to be paid, and programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid remain untouched. The only real disruption lies within the government itself, where thousands of bureaucrats are suddenly without jobs and long-bloated programs are being forced to close. The political class calls it chaos, but for many Americans, it looks more like long-overdue correction. If the shutdown continues, SNAP benefits could eventually feel the strain, but for now, the country is discovering that maybe Washington’s self-inflicted “crises” aren’t...

America’s political conversation has left the salon and stumbled into the saloon. Professor Adam Ellwanger joins to examine how the nation’s discourse devolved from the calm civility of the salon to the shouting match of the saloon, and, increasingly, to the violence of the back alley. Once words turn into weapons, persuasion dies and politics becomes survival. From Chicago to Seattle, lawlessness is spreading while leaders look away, allowing chaos to replace conversation. The Democratic Party has become an agent of disorder, excusing destruction and silencing dissent while conservatives debate how to respond. Can the right defend itse...

In this follow-up to The Spectacle Podcast episode Wednesday, The American Spectator publisher Melissa Mackenzie continues her exploration of what the internet has become, and what it’s doing to us. Once a place for connection and free exchange, social media has evolved into something far more sinister: a digital surveillance network. Melissa unpacks how user data, your posts, preferences, searches, and even private messages, is being harvested, sold, and accessed by powerful interests. The federal government and agencies like the FBI now monitor citizens through the very platforms they helped normalize. When it’s illegal to do so dire...

In this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, publisher Melissa Mackenzie welcomes guest Carla Ondrasik, author of Stop Trying, for a fascinating conversation about the language of effort and the psychology of action. Carla challenges one of our most common phrases, “I’m trying”, and explains why it may be holding us back more than helping us. As Carla puts it, trying is purely mental, an intention without motion, while doing is physical, measurable, and real. She also dives into the Zeigarnik Effect, the psychological tendency to fixate on unfinished tasks. A cluttered to-do list, she explains, is a series of open loop...

In this solo episode, The American Spectator publisher Melissa Mackenzie reflects on the evolution of social media, from its early days of raw honesty and open communication to today’s curated, algorithm-driven echo chambers. Once a place to freely share thoughts, beliefs, and creativity, social platforms have become tools of manipulation and image management. Melissa explores how the left built these platforms, but conservatives learned to use them effectively, until overnight, algorithms shifted and voices on the right were silenced. Facebook throttled reach, blocked political ads, and quietly ended careers that relied on digital visibility. Now, users are fed filte...

For more than five years, Antifa and other leftist groups have terrorized America’s blue cities, turning places like Portland into war zones. From riots and assaults to arson and intimidation, their violence has only escalated — and now it’s inspiring political assassins, including the killer of Charlie Kirk. Even worse, Democrats have provided cover and funding for these extremist networks, allowing them to thrive unchecked. The evidence is clear: this is not random chaos, but a sustained campaign of left-wing terror.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, host Scott McKay is joined by Daniel Greenfield as they...

Kamala Harris has hit the road on a book tour, but instead of offering real reflection, she’s doubling down on excuses. In a recent interview, Harris was pressed on why she didn’t choose a gay running mate in last year’s election, and her awkward response is now making headlines. After brushing off speculation about running for California Governor, Harris still faces questions about whether she will run for president again in 2028, setting up the possibility of a future showdown with Gavin Newsom.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, host Scott McKay is joined by Danie...

From a teleprompter glitch to the escalator jab, Trump mocked global elites and then turned serious, hammering the UN over immigration failures and its deal with UNRWA in Gaza. His warning was clear: the U.S. will not bankroll policies that undermine sovereignty or reward terrorism. Additionally, Trump pointed to ongoing, unresolved communications with Hamas over a permanent ceasefire.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, host Scott McKay is joined by Royal Alexander as they discuss Trump’s speech at the UN and unresolved discussions with Hamas. Tune in to hear their discussion!

After falsely claiming on national television that Charlie Kirk’s assassin was a MAGA supporter, Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show was suspended by Disney and ABC. Although his show has returned, boycotts continue as major broadcasters like Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group refuse to air it. For many viewers, Kimmel’s ratings and content were never strong to begin with, and his downfall reflects the consequences of spreading political hate. Adding to the pressure, FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr has raised questions about whether broadcasters that continue to air politically charged disinformation should face scrutiny when it comes to lic...

Venezuela has become more than a failed state — its regime now functions as a drug manufacturing operation with ties to cartels and criminal networks. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has drawn a hard line, refusing to recognize Nicolas Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate leader. In response to escalating threats, the president deployed destroyers and troops to the Caribbean to halt further infiltration of drugs into the United States.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay unpack the dangerous reality of Venezuela’s regime, the Trump administration’s response, and what it means for Ameri...

The assassination of Charlie Kirk has revealed just how deep America’s cultural rifts have become. The disturbing reactions from the left, including open celebrations of violence, underscore how far society has spiraled into extremism. Relying on brutality instead of debate to push political views is a path toward collapse, and something must change before it’s too late.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay are joined by John Hawkins, creator of the “Culturcidal” Substack, to discuss the cultural fallout of Kirk’s murder, the dangers of political violence, and what it mea...

Following the murder of Charlie Kirk, the internet exploded with conspiracies as to who was really involved. Why did someone confess immediately after and on the scene? Is it just a coincidence that the question asked was about transgender mass shooters before the bullet was fired? The FBI had Charlie Kirk’s assassin on their radar. The Left continues to create conspiracies to mislead the investigation, but one thing is true: more than one person is involved in this horrific crime.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay discuss the conspiracies su...

With leftist political figures refusing to agree to necessary budget cuts, a government shutdown is approaching. Moderate conservatives in office are refusing to take action and bring the government back to its best operational form. No agreement is distracting enough for real appropriation changes to occur.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay talk about the approaching government shutdown caused by a lack of agreement in Congress and how it is good for the conservative party. Tune in to hear their discussion!

Conservatives around the world are mourning the death of Charlie Kirk, and they refuse to let his voice die with him. For years, left political figures have ignited a violent fire with their rhetoric, labeling Trump and others as “criminals” and “facists”, but the left’s hate only fuels and strengthens Charlie’s mission. The FBI made the investigation into Charlie’s murder a complete disaster. After arresting the “decoy” who pleaded guilty as a distraction, the true murderer’s father acted on his convictions and alerted Utah authorities. How do we move on in a productive way? Silence and lack of action i...

Author Daniel J. Flynn has written the definitive account of Frank Meyer in his new book, The Man Who Invented Conservatism. Meyer was not only a political thinker but also a man who helped shape the modern conservative movement. Following Meyer’s transformation from a communist to a conservative leader, Flynn brings his story to life and shows why his legacy still matters.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay sit down with Daniel Flynn to explore Meyer’s influence on generations of conservatives and why he should matter to conservatives toda...

A 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee fled the war with Russia only to be murdered on a train in Charlotte. Iryna Zarutska came to America seeking safety but instead lands in the hands of a killer, a black man named Decarlos Brown. Our system failed her by keeping a violent man with a long criminal record out on the streets. Yet Democrats and the media are more than happy to look the other way and ignore this story completely.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay examine what Iryna Zarutska’s tragic death re...

Texas A&M is in the hot seat after emails and video revealed how university officials tried to silence a conservative student who was kicked out of class for opposing a lesson on gender identity. Instead of firing the professor responsible, leadership blamed the student, schemed to keep her out of the classroom, and even threatened her against releasing undercover video evidence. Representative Brian Harrison has been exposing the cover-up and trying to hold Texas A&M accountable.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay sit down with Representative Harrison to...

Comedy writer Graham Linehan was arrested over his so-called “anti-trans tweets” after landing in England. At the same time, England is facing political unrest, rising crime, and an immigration crisis that the government refuses to handle. Instead of fixing these issues, leaders are more interested in policing speech rather than protecting their citizens. This all leads to only one possible outcome: civil war.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay break down what Linehan’s arrest reveals about the state England is in, why citizens are losing patience, and how misplaced priorit...

The CDC has long outgrown its original purpose, transforming into a political arm of the state rather than the protector of public health. Now, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is challenging this system and calling for a complete overhaul of America’s medical standards. Democrats are furious at his efforts to reshape how we approach health, but they can’t stop the reforms that are coming.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay break down why the CDC has lost credibility, how the CDC has strayed away from its original purpose, and why...

Chicago just endured another bloody Labor Day weekend, with shootings once again driving up the city’s crime rate. Instead of addressing the problem directly, Democrats deflect by pointing to “red state crime,” ignoring that it’s still blue cities fueling those numbers. There is a straightforward solution to the violence however, Trump already showed it. In Washington, D.C., he proved that calling in the National Guard can restore order. Chicago deserves the same treatment.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay break down Chicago’s latest wave of violence, the failur...

From Gillette and Bud Light, companies keep alienating the very people who built their brands. Now Cracker Barrel has joined the list, making changes to its branding and design that nobody asked for.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay explain how Cracker Barrel’s new marketing will wreck the brand and why companies need to stop pushing marketing that alienates their customers. Melissa and Scott also take a closer look at how “girlboss” corporate leadership has accelerated this problem in almost all of these companies.

Tune in to hear t...

 A Democrat-aligned think tank has released a list of more than forty “woke words” it wants Democrats to stop using. Terms like “privilege,” “birthing person,” and “Latinx” have been blacklisted, supposedly to help Democrats reconnect with voters.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay break down the Democrats’ messaging crisis, what it reveals about their march toward irrelevancy, and why the left’s obsession with language policing is backfiring. Melissa and Scott also highlight how Democrats have remained more focused on imposing this vocabulary rather than addressing real issues like the surging crime in Wash...

Trump has announced his interest in allowing hundreds of thousands of Chinese students into the United States. The move raises serious concerns about espionage from Communist China and its exploitation of America’s open society. Even more disturbing is the reality of forced organ harvesting in China. Innocent people are targeted, and the regime has built an industrial-scale system that most Americans can hardly comprehend.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay are joined by Jan Jekielek, Senior Editor at The Epoch Times and host of American Thought Leaders. Together they ex...

New crime data shows that Washington, D.C. has seen major drops in crime only a week after Trump federalized law enforcement in the city. The move is giving the capital’s citizens more freedom and offering a glimpse of what could be possible in America’s most dangerous cities.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay break down Trump’s takeover of D.C. policing, why crime numbers are falling so quickly, and what this bold federal intervention means for the future of America’s capital city.

Tune in to he...

An Israeli official arrested in a Nevada child sex sting has been released and sent back to Israel, avoiding punishment. This is not a one-off: dozens of Jewish Americans accused of similar crimes have fled to Israel to escape justice. Are we watching a system that gives certain people a “get out of jail free card?”

Meanwhile, is arson the real cause for the Palisades fires in LA? And now, new data is emerging that the flu vaccine may be far less effective than advertised.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and...

Description: MSNBC is being forced to drop the “NBC” from its name and ditch the Peacock logo along with it. Now rebranding as MS NOW, the network is trying a makeover that few will fall for. And with Variety openly wondering how television should depict “American fascism,” the timing of MSNBC’s rebrand couldn’t look more ridiculous.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay break down MSNBC’s decline, why this rebrand signals weakness rather than strength, and how the mainstream media will continue making the mistake of alienating the public. Melissa a...

A new Bank of America survey reveals that Gen Z is taking more steps to be financially responsible. With the cost of living rising, 72% of young adults say they have made changes to improve their financial situations.

Join Spectator P.M. Podcast hosts Ellie Gardey Holmes and Lyrah Margo as they discuss what’s driving these changes in Gen Z’s spending habits and what this says about this generation’s approach to money. Tune in to hear their conversation!

China is finally facing the long-term consequences of its one-child policy as the nation heads toward a population collapse. Where the government once fined families for having more than one child, it is now offering financial incentives for parents to have more. But for many struggling families, it’s simply not enough.

Join Spectator P.M. Podcast hosts Ellie Gardey Holmes and Lyrah Margo as they discuss the reality facing Chinese society as its population continues to shrink. They explore the lack of hope many in China feel and what this crisis can reveal about what our own s...

Nick Fuentes was at the Capitol on January 6th calling for people to take over the building, yet unlike many others who were there, he has never been arrested. Elon Musk, Milo Yiannopoulos, and others have speculated that he might be working as a federal informant. Bill Gates reveals his new carbon-based butter and new information has been revealed on Clinton’s connection to a notorious gangster.

On this episode of The Spectacle Podcast, hosts Melissa Mackenzie and Scott McKay examine the evidence for and against the theory that Nick Fuentes is a Fed. They also discuss how his...