Best The Open Mind on PBS Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 32: Stop Calling It Loss, Start Seeing It as Growth! The Truth About Change No One Talks About” 40:23

3d ago40:23

40:23

Growth is beautiful—but it can feel brutally lonely. In this episode of Full Circle Podcast, we explore personal growth, self-improvement, and what really happens when you start outgrowing people, spaces, and habits.Why does leveling up feel isolating? How do you navigate friendships that no longer align, leave behind environments that hold you bac…

1
Episode 31: Trump Extends Martial Law, Silences PBS, and Guts the Smithsonian, Prager U Downplays Slavery 40:49

5d ago40:49

40:49

In this episode of Full Circle Podcast, Joseph takes a deep dive into Donald Trump’s federal takeover of Washington, D.C.—a move raising alarms about executive overreach, selective “law and order” politics, and the erosion of local authority under the Home Rule Act. Joseph breaks down why crime data contradicts Trump’s narrative, why National Guard…

1
Episode 30: Parts of Constitution Vanish, Trump Seizes Control of DC, Women's Rights Face Threats from Within 1:28:21

12d ago1:28:21

1:28:21

Trump’s latest power moves are shaking the foundations of American democracy. In this 8/13/25 episode we discuss: The Constitution “glitch” that deleted key sections like habeas corpus and limits on federal power — and why it’s more than a coding error. Trump’s federalization of D.C. policing, National Guard patrols, and the legal pushback against …

1
Episode 29: Sydney Sweeney Jeans Controversy Explodes, July Jobs Report Alarms, Trump Fires Labor Stats Chief 26:54

19d ago26:54

26:54

Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad goes viral—but not in a good way. Accusations of eugenics-coded messaging and racism ignite fierce backlash online. At the same time, July’s jobs report comes in way below expectations, signaling a stalling U.S. economy. In response, Trump fires the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner who released the numbers.…

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The Vagina Business 28:15

28d ago28:15

28:15

"The Vagina Business" author Marina Gerner discusses long overdue innovation in women's reproductive health.By The Open Mind on PBS

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Episode 28: Is Trump’s Treason Claim Against Obama Legit? & How to Stay Informed Without Losing Your Mind 40:46

1M ago40:46

40:46

President Trump has just accused former President Obama of treason—alleging a 2016 coup orchestrated at the highest levels of government. A deepfake video of Obama’s “arrest” goes viral. Tulsi Gabbard backs parts of the claim. Is this a reckoning… or something else entirely?As the noise grows louder and the headlines more chaotic, how do we keep ou…

1
Tokyo Vice and Virtue 28:29

1M ago28:29

28:29

Investigative reporter Jake Adelstein discusses the Japanese government, yakuza, and fight against corruption.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 27: The "Big, Beautiful Bill" Fiasco Unfolds, Epstein Files Fallout Deepens, and Superman Soars 42:23

1M ago42:23

42:23

On this episode, we break down Trump’s first legislative action in his second term—a massive, headline-grabbing economic package dubbed the "One Big Beautiful Bill." But is it really a win for Americans, or a polished pitch for the rich? Joseph breaks down what's inside, who benefits, and who’s being left behind. Next, the conversation shifts to th…

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The Ruins of Winner-Take-All Governance and the Democratic Party's Dark Age 28:22

1M ago28:22

28:22

"Breaking the Two-Party Doom Loop" author Lee Drutman discusses the urgency of electoral reform.By The Open Mind on PBS

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The Future of American Education 27:43

2M ago27:43

27:43

GWU president emeritus Stephen Trachtenberg discusses the future of American education.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
The Big Bang and Us 27:37

2M ago27:37

27:37

Science journalist Dan Levitt discusses his book "What's Gotten Into You: The Story of Your Body's Atoms, from the Big Bang Through Last Night's Dinner."By The Open Mind on PBS

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Episode 26: "What the Hell is Going On?" Trump's First 100+ Days (Part 2) 39:48

2M ago39:48

39:48

In this urgent follow-up to our earlier breakdown, Joseph dives deeper into the chaos of Trump’s second term — focusing on the aftermath of his first 135 days. From unchecked executive orders and the erosion of DEI protections to ICE raids ramping up under Project Homecoming and habeas corpus coming under threat, this episode unpacks the spiraling …

1
The Threat to Discovery 28:28

2M ago28:28

28:28

University of Wisconsin Institute for Discovery director Jo Handelsman discusses threats to scientific research.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Cures and Shams 27:56

2M ago27:56

27:56

Investigative journalist Charles Piller discusses his new book "Doctored: Fraud, Arrogance, and Tragedy in the Quest to Cure Alzheimer’s.”By The Open Mind on PBS

1
The Sleeping in Humanity 28:14

3M ago28:14

28:14

Science writer Lynne Peeples discusses her book "The Inner Clock: Living in Sync with Our Circadian Rhythms."By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 25: Is "Sinners" film worth the hype?" 1:40:31

3M ago1:40:31

1:40:31

On this special episode of the Full Circle Podcast, Joseph is joined by a dynamic group of five guests—all actors, artists, comedians, and creators—for a deep, unfiltered conversation about the groundbreaking film Sinners and how movies like it are shifting the landscape and trends in Hollywood. Together, they explore the movie’s powerful themes of…

1
Episode 24: "What the Hell Is Going On?" Trump's First 100+ Days (Part 1) 47:47

3M ago47:47

47:47

What the hell is going on in America? That’s the question Joseph unpacks in Part 1 of the Full Circle breakdown of Donald Trump’s first 135 days back in office. From the gutting of DEI programs, to a record 140+ executive orders, intensified immigration crackdowns, rising cost projections due to reckless tariffs, and foreign policy fumbles from Ukr…

1
The Rehabilitated Citizen 28:24

3M ago28:24

28:24

Full Citizens Coalition James Jeter discusses the voting rights of system-impacted people.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Full Circle Thoughts: The Comfort Lies Within the Challenge (Bonus Episode) 17:35

3M ago17:35

17:35

On this special episode of Full Circle Thoughts, Joseph returns with a personal reflection on the unexpected connection between comfort and challenge. Through a vulnerable story about relearning basketball after injury and years of doubt, he explores how growth, confidence, and true belonging are often found not in ease—but in the very spaces we re…

1
American Redemption 27:52

3M ago27:52

27:52

Redemption Project of Washington legal counsel Jeffrey Ellis discusses sentencing reform.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 23: How to Serve Your Purpose - Until It Serves You 25:38

3M ago25:38

25:38

After a brief hiatus, Joseph returns with an inspiring solo episode diving deep into the idea of purpose—not as a distant destination, but as something you're actively building even when no one’s watching. Sparked by a heartfelt conversation with a friend, this episode unpacks the phrase: “Serve the purpose until the purpose serves you.” Joseph ref…

1
Deep in the Heart of Texas 27:34

3M ago27:34

27:34

Texas Defender Service executive director Burke Butler discusses the legal system in the second most populous state.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Knowing the Nocturnal 28:02

4M ago28:02

28:02

New York Times bestselling author Leigh Ann Henion discusses her book "Night Magic: Adventures Among Glowworms, Moon Gardens, and Other Marvels of the Dark."By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Demonetizing the Prison Industry 27:30

4M ago27:30

27:30

Worth Rises founder Bianca Tylek discusses the campaign to demonetize the prison industrial complex.By The Open Mind on PBS

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Episode 22: NBA Playoff Eliminations/Predictions, Preview of "Sinners" Film Conversation 31:16

4M ago31:16

31:16

On this episode, Joseph deep dives into the thrilling and unpredictable NBA playoffs, where a "changing of the guard" is underway. From the Warriors' tough loss to the Rockets and the Lakers' potential elimination by the Timberwolves to the Nuggets-Clippers showdown and the dominance of teams like the Celtics and Cavaliers, Joseph breaks down all t…

1
Life Beyond Us 27:51

4M ago27:51

27:51

Science journalist Jaime Green discusses her book "The Possibility of Life: Science, Imagination, and Our Quest for Kinship in the Cosmos."By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 21: NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Matchups 26:03

4M ago26:03

26:03

On this sports-focused episode, Joseph takes you courtside for a deep dive into the NBA Eastern Conference playoffs. With sharp commentary and authentic takes, he explores what’s working, what’s falling apart, and what each team needs to advance. Whether you’re a casual fan or a basketball junkie, this breakdown hits every angle with insight and he…

1
A Memory of Political Violence 28:28

4M ago28:28

28:28

Chicago Project on Security & Threats founder Robert Pape discusses January 6th's legacy.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 20: Trump Admin Defies Court Orders, NBA Playoffs Western Conference Matchups 25:36

4M ago25:36

25:36

On this latest episode of Full Circle Podcast, Joseph returns with a double-header: a deep dive into a chilling case of deportation defying due process and some hot takes on the NBA Playoffs. First, Joseph unpacks the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident wrongfully deported under the Trump administration using the Alien Enemies Act of …

1
The Politicization of Everything 28:31

4M ago28:31

28:31

TYT Network CEO Cenk Uygur discusses the second Trump administration, Democratic Party, and future of populism.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 19: NBA Playoffs Heat Up, Trump’s Tariffs Shake Markets, and Films to Watch 31:43

5M ago31:43

31:43

On this episode of Full Circle, Joseph goes full analyst mode as he breaks down the 2025 NBA playoff landscape with insight, passion, and bold predictions. From the shocking trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers to Jimmy Butler’s impact on the Warriors’ late-season resurgence, he dissects matchups in the East and West, pre-playoff momentum shif…

1
The Case for Bipartisan Justice Reform 28:22

5M ago28:22

28:22

FWD.us executive director Zoë Towns discusses the path to bipartisan justice reform.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 18: The Rhythm of Rest 46:06

5M ago46:06

46:06

In a world that constantly celebrates hustle, ambition, and the endless grind, rest is often relegated to the sidelines—as something to be squeezed in only when there’s nothing left to do. But what if rest isn’t just a break from progress, but an essential part of it? In this episode of Full Circle, Joseph explores the powerful rhythm of rest, and …

1
Demolishing the Monopoly to Inflation Complex 27:49

5M ago27:49

27:49

Economic Security Project president Natalie Foster discusses antitrust policies.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 17: The Courage to Grow: Rewiring Your Mind for Change 51:37

5M ago51:37

51:37

Growth is one of the greatest challenges we face in life, and it requires great courage. In this episode of Full Circle Podcast, Joseph dives deep into the psychology and neuroscience behind personal growth, habit formation, and breaking cycles that hold us back. Today we discuss: 🔥 The habit loop—how your brain forms and keeps habits (good or bad)…

1
The Great Climate Migrations and Fortifications 28:12

5M ago28:12

28:12

Author Abrahm Lustgarten discusses how future environmental conditions will impact U.S. states and cities.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 16: Life Cycles: Why You Keep Reliving the Same Story—and How to Change It 46:54

5M ago46:54

46:54

Ever feel like you’re stuck in the same cycles—repeating old habits, relationships, or struggles no matter how hard you try to change? In this episode of Full Circle Podcast, we dive into the subconscious patterns shaping your life, why your brain clings to familiarity, and how to break free from limiting loops. Joseph unpacks the science behind li…

1
Stopping Nuclear Inevitability 28:00

5M ago28:00

28:00

Counterproliferation leader Emma Belcher discusses reversing the likelihood of nuclear war.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 15: Welcome to America? The Immigration Paradox (Part 2) 1:00:14

6M ago1:00:14

1:00:14

The conversation on immigration isn’t just about laws—it’s about people, policies, and power. In Part 2 of this special series on Full Circle Podcast, Joseph takes a deeper dive into the realities of America’s immigration system. From the bureaucratic red tape that keeps families apart for decades to the economic forces that rely on immigrant labor…

1
The Future of Human Rights – Part II 28:11

6M ago28:11

28:11

"Liberty Paradox" author David Kinley discusses the pursuit and meaning of liberty.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 14: Welcome to America? The Immigration Paradox (Part 1) 1:03:29

6M ago1:03:29

1:03:29

America has always had a complicated relationship with immigration—welcoming workers when it’s convenient, then blaming them when times get tough. But how did we get here? And why does our system seem so broken? In Part 1 of this two-part series on Full Circle Podcast, host Joseph unpacks the long history of immigration in America, from past polici…

1
The Future of Human Rights – Part I 28:32

6M ago28:32

28:32

"Liberty Paradox" author David Kinley discusses the pursuit and meaning of liberty.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Full Circle Thoughts: Don't Quit: The Power of Pushing Thru (Bonus Episode) 20:46

6M ago20:46

20:46

Send us a text This special edition of Full Circle Thoughts is all about perseverance in the face of challenges. In this short but impactful episode, Joseph shares personal insights on what it means to push through difficult moments, whether in the gym, career, or life. Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to keep going? Joseph breaks down three key ste…

1
Episode 13: Check Your Circle 23:23

6M ago23:23

23:23

Your circle can make or break your growth. In this episode of Full Circle Podcast, Joseph dives deep into the power of the people around you. Are your friends holding you accountable or just keeping you comfortable? Are they pushing you forward or keeping you stuck in the same routines? Joseph explores the difference between real friends and fans, …

1
Episode 12: DAMN: The Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl Halftime Show 39:00

6M ago39:00

39:00

Kendrick Lamar just delivered one of the most electrifying Super Bowl halftime performances in history, and Full Circle Podcast is here to break it all down. Joseph dives deep into the cultural significance, the layered symbolism, and the sheer impact of Kendrick’s set—unpacking the artistic statements, the shots fired, and the way this performance…

1
Full Circle Thoughts: Lean In, Lock In (Bonus Episode) 7:33

7M ago7:33

7:33

Send us a text In this special bonus episode of Full Circle Podcast, we introduce Full Circle Thoughts—a collection of bite-sized reflections designed to inspire and challenge you. Whether you're on a walk, a drive, or just need a moment of motivation, this episode is for you. Inspired by a powerful conversation with a CEO, we explore the importanc…

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Episode 11: What's Next? 17:39

7M ago17:39

17:39

Join Joseph for another insightful episode of the Full Circle Podcast! This week, he discusses what's next on the pod; upcoming guests, diving into pressing current events, including political shifts, the new Administration and immigration issues, and the impact of legislation on our everyday life. Joseph also explores the importance of open conver…

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Episode 10: Do It For The Plot: Living Outside of Your Comfort Zone 35:51

7M ago35:51

35:51

In this episode, Joseph keeps it real about why life can start feeling boring and repetitive—and how to change that. He talks about getting stuck in routines, feeling like every day is the same, and why sometimes the best thing you can do is just say yes to something new. Whether it’s taking a last-minute trip, trying something that scares you, or …

1
Compassion and Renewal 28:14

7M ago28:14

28:14

The Omowale Project leader Emani Davis discusses healing system-impacted people.By The Open Mind on PBS

1
Episode 9: Tired of Being Tired: Finding Rest and Letting Go 23:05

7M ago23:05

23:05

On this episode, Joseph keeps it real about something we all feel but don’t always talk about—exhaustion. Whether it’s chasing dreams, trying to meet everyone’s expectations, or just feeling stuck in life, Joseph opens up about his own struggles and invites you to think about what’s been wearing you out. He talks about the power of slowing down, th…

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