Interviews

Conversations with Sharon McMahon

On The Preamble Podcast, you get to hear from thought leaders, journalists, politicians, authors, and advocates. And maybe an actor thrown in too. From Heather Cox Richardson, to Mitt Romney, and Adam Grant, you'll feel smarter, and maybe even a bit more optimistic about the future after listening to these interviews.

A Personal History of the 1960s with Doris Kearns Goodwin

Pulitzer Prize–winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin joins us to share how she and her husband, Richard (Dick) Goodwin, finally explored more than 300 boxes he had kept since his service in the 1960s. Their journey offers fresh insights into key historical figures and the enduring role of young people in shaping history.

America’s Constitution with Akhil Reed Amar

Sharon sits down with Yale constitutional law professor Akhil Reed Amar to talk about the importance of treasuring the U.S. Constitution. What we have in common as Americans is our Constitution and the historical events and documents that shaped the nation.

Amending the Constitution with Russ Feingold

Sharon sits down with former Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold to examine how the Constitution could be changed, and whether a Constitutional Convention could fix our democracy or fatally undermine it.

The Supreme Court’s Shadow Docket with Stephen Vladeck

Law Professor Stephen Vladeck dives into the elusive behind-the-scenes “shadow docket,” and how 99% of what the court does is in the shadows – without public hearings, and without explanation.

Unforgettable Encounters During Life's Final Moments with Hadley Vlahos

Hospice nurse and bestselling author Hadley Vlahos joins Sharon to explore the mysteries of passing on, how we can compassionately support loved ones at the end of life, and find meaning in the in-between.

Poverty In America with Matthew Desmond

Sharon talks with Princeton Sociologist Matthew Desmond to examine why poverty endures in America, and how reframing the way we see it could lead to real change.

Modern Democracy with Daniel Ziblatt and Steven Levitsky

American democracy is at a crossroads, and Harvard professors Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt reveal how outdated constitutional rules and minority power put it at risk.

The Hate Next Door with Matson and Tawni Browning

A look inside the world of white supremacist extremism, as an undercover agent and his wife expose how hate spreads and who it targets.

Book Bans and Free Speech with Suzanne Nossel

Over 4,000 books have been banned across the U.S.—but what’s really behind the push to censor diverse voices in schools?

Growing Up In Public with Devorah Heitner

Sharon talks with Dr. Devorah Heitner about how parents, teachers, and mentors can support kids as they navigate the digital world.

How Animals Senses Reveal Hidden Realms with Ed Yong

Pulitzer Prize winner Ed Yong uncovers the secret sensory lives of animals, and what they can teach us about our world.

The Extraordinary Women Who Helped Win WWII with Lena Andrews

Sharon is joined by CIA military analyst, WWII expert, and debut author, Lena Andrews, to unveil the scale and scope of what women in uniform contributed during WWII.

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