American Angst 101

About American Angst 101

American Angst is a podcast where political scientist Dr. Michael Bailey unpacks the founding ideals and present tensions of American democracy with clarity, depth, and concern. Hosted and produced by his longtime friend Dale McConkey, the show blends serious civic reflection with honest, good-humored conversation for anyone trying to make sense of this American moment.

Publisher

Michael Bailey with Dale McConkey

Category

government · news · news

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

31 May 2025

Latest episode

2 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

35 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Jul 2026

   USA 250: "Dear America," - Letters from Mike's Friends

   What happens when you invite dozens of thoughtful people to write a letter to America on its 250th birthday? The responses are heartfelt, surprising, hopeful, grateful, critical, deeply personal—and unmistakably American. In this special episode of American Angst, Dr. Michael Bailey steps back from the usual conversation to listen to the voices of friends, former students, colleagues, immigrants, veterans, educators, scientists, public servants, faith leaders, and everyday citizens. More than...

2. 

   25 Jun 2026

   USA 250: 25 Things Mike Loves About America

   As America approaches its 250th birthday, Michael Bailey sets aside his angst and offers a thoughtful, humorous, and deeply personal celebration of the United States. Hosted by Dale McConkey, this special episode counts down 25 things Michael loves about America—from the profound to the delightfully unexpected. The conversation spans everything from America's founding ideals, history, government, and innovation to its culture, geography, food, language, music, literature, and natural wo...

3. 

   15 Apr 2026

   Filibustered: When Debate Damages Democracy

   In this episode of American Angst, political philosopher Michael Bailey offers a clear, engaging, and deeply informed exploration of the filibuster—what it is, how it has evolved, and why its modern use may be undermining democratic governance in the United States. Moving beyond the familiar image of marathon speeches, Bailey explains how today’s “silent filibuster” functions as a routine tool of obstruction, effectively requiring a supermajority for most legislation and raising serious quest...

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.6 / 5

18 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 37 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

54

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

51

Contact American Angst 101

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.