Normally is the podcast for normal people, by normal people. We’re going to limit the hysteria, tone down the crazy, and talk about what really matters. Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz have been in the political commentary world a long time. Both are known for being funny, and a bit irreverent, but also serious and thoughtful about the issues that are important to the country. Catch Normally every Tuesday & Thursday on the iHeartRadio App, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Anthony Fauci returns to Capitol Hill—but refuses to answer key questions. Mary Katharine Ham is joined by Lauren Stewart to break down Fauci's Fifth Amendment testimony, the explosive revelations from his reported COVID-era diaries, and what the controversy could mean for government accountability moving forward. The conversation then shifts to New York City, where Mayor Zohran Mamdani's latest policies—including taxpayer-funded grocery stores, controversial property tax proposals, and rising concerns over public safety and antisemitism—continue to generate heated debate. Finally, they discuss WNBA star Sophie Cunningham's comments defending women's sports, why the issue continues to dominate headlines, and how the conversation around fairness and biological sex in athletics is evolving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Anthony Fauci's newly released COVID-era diary entries are making headlines after Senator Rand Paul released more than 1,000 pages from his congressional investigation. Mary Katharine Ham and Bethany Mandel break down what Fauci's private writings reveal about his media obsession, COVID lockdown policies, school closures, masking, and the growing distrust of public health institutions. The conversation then shifts to former Senator Ben Sasse's deeply moving reflections on living—and dying—with pancreatic cancer. Mary Katharine and Bethany discuss mortality, faith, family, parenting, and why Sasse's public honesty offers an important reminder about what truly matters in life. They wrap up by examining the latest media criticism of Usha Vance, Karoline Leavitt, and other conservative women over pregnancy fashion, exploring the broader cultural debate surrounding motherhood, pronatalism, feminism, and family values. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With the 2026 midterm elections rapidly approaching, Mary Katharine Ham is joined by political strategist Kelly Maher for a wide-ranging look at the battle for control of Congress. They break down the latest House and Senate forecasts, why competitive races are shrinking, and whether Republicans can overcome historical midterm trends. The conversation also explores the growing influence of Democratic Socialists within the Democratic Party, the divide between establishment Democrats and the DSA movement, Colorado's political landscape, and what recent primary results could signal for November. They examine new polling, voter enthusiasm, fundraising advantages, and why both parties may be misreading the electorate. Finally, they discuss President Trump's latest remarks on election security, concerns over foreign influence, the SAVE Act, and the controversy surrounding New Jersey's acknowledgment that thousands of non-citizens were mistakenly registered to vote, including hundreds who cast ballots. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham is joined by Nicki Neily , founder and president of Defending Education , for an in-depth conversation about the growing crisis in American education. The discussion examines the American Federation of Teachers convention, Randi Weingarten's re-election, and ongoing criticism of teachers unions over school closures, declining student achievement, and accountability. Mary Katharine and Nicki also dive into the national debate surrounding homeschooling, school choice, public education funding, and why more families are leaving traditional public schools. They also explore higher education's growing ideological divide, the lack of viewpoint diversity on college campuses, and how public confidence in universities continues to decline. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are America's Supreme Court justices facing an unprecedented wave of political intimidation? On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz examine the growing security threats against Supreme Court justices, including the swatting of Justice Amy Coney Barrett and renewed calls for increased protection after years of escalating political violence. They discuss whether threats against public officials are becoming normalized and why stronger enforcement may be needed. The conversation then shifts to New York's controversial decision to halt new AI data center development. Is the Empire State driving away billions in investment, high-paying jobs, and America's AI future? Mary Katharine and Karol break down the debate over data centers, electricity, water usage, and why they believe the U.S. can't afford to fall behind China in the AI race. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Senator Lindsey Graham's sudden passing at age 71 has sent shockwaves through Washington. Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz reflect on Graham's legacy, his decades of public service, his influence on U.S. foreign policy, and the political battle now brewing over his South Carolina Senate seat. The conversation then shifts to Ro Khanna , his controversial trip to the West Bank, accusations surrounding his political motivations, media coverage from The New York Times , and the growing debate over Israel, activism, and the 2028 Democratic presidential field. Finally, they examine a new report criticizing the Smithsonian Institution , discussing claims of ideological bias, the portrayal of America's founding, the omission of key historical figures, and the broader fight over how American history should be taught and remembered. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is the Iran ceasefire officially over? Karol Markowicz and Mary Katharine Ham break down President Trump's latest comments on Iran after renewed attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating U.S. military strikes, and the growing debate over selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey. The hosts also discuss the mystery surrounding Senator Mitch McConnell's extended absence from the Senate, why his health has become a national political story, and what elected officials owe the public when they're unable to serve. Plus, the Graham Platner controversy continues to spiral as new allegations emerge, Democrats struggle with the fallout, and questions mount about why the party ignored warning signs for months. Karol and Mary Katharine examine Platner's leverage, the media's delayed reporting, and the growing divide between mainstream and conservative coverage. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this breaking episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz react to the escalating controversy surrounding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner as new allegations emerge and prominent Democrats begin calling for him to leave the race. Mary Katharine and Karol discuss the latest reporting, the political fallout, and why earlier accusations against Platner were dismissed by many of his supporters. They examine how media outlets handled the story, the standards used to judge political scandals, and the questions now facing Democratic leaders as they decide whether to continue backing him. Plus, they break down what the controversy reveals about candidate vetting, political loyalty, the future direction of the Democratic Party, and why the Maine Senate race could become one of the most important battles for control of Washington See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz break down a packed Independence Day weekend as America celebrates its 250th birthday. From President Trump’s patriotic message and Zohran Mamdani’s competing vision for America to the growing influence of Democratic Socialists across the country, they examine the cultural and political battles shaping America’s future. Mary Katharine and Karol discuss why socialism is gaining momentum among younger voters, the Democratic Party’s internal fight over its future, and what recent primary victories could mean heading into upcoming elections. They also dive into the debate over American exceptionalism, immigration, citizenship, and the importance of preserving the values that built the country. Plus, they react to the latest culture moments — including Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s headline-making wedding, America’s soccer controversy with FIFA, and the renewed debate over universities dropping SAT requirements and whether lowering standards hurts the students it claims to help. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this 'Ask Us Anything' episode of Normally, Mary Katharine and Karol share insights on their long-standing friendship, political conspiracy theories, entertainment preferences, and the current political landscape in New York City. They also discuss the implications of banning cell phones in schools and share nostalgic anecdotes from their school days. Normally is part of the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network - new episodes debut every Tuesday & Thursday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz examine the growing influence of democratic socialism across the country and ask whether New York City's political shift could spread nationwide. The conversation explores the rise of Zohran Mamdani and other Democratic Socialist candidates, the economic consequences of rent control, the importance of free-market principles, and why understanding America's founding ideals matters more than ever. They also discuss escalating political extremism, antisemitism on the far left, and the viral confrontation involving California State Senator Scott Wiener. MK & Karol wrap with a patriotic discussion on America's 250th anniversary, sharing the historic moments each host wishes they could have witnessed—from the Revolutionary War to Ronald Reagan's historic 1984 landslide victory. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz break down the political shockwaves from New York’s latest primary elections, where candidates backed by Zohran Mamdani and the Democratic Socialists of America scored major victories. Is this the future of the Democratic Party—or a warning sign for the country? The also examine the rise of democratic socialism, the growing influence of anti-establishment progressive candidates, and the broader implications for New York, national Democrats, and the 2026 midterm elections. They also discuss whether mainstream Democrats are equipped to stop the party’s leftward shift. Plus, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson declares a “transfemicide” state of emergency despite no reported transgender murders in the city over the past year, reigniting debates over public safety priorities in one of America’s most violent cities. And later, MK & Karol dive into Rep. Ro Khanna’s attacks on Elon Musk, the politics of wealth creation, economic literacy, entrepreneurship, and why America’s innovators increasingly find themselves in the political crosshairs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz break down the latest developments in the Trump administration's negotiations with Iran as Vice President JD Vance leads high-stakes talks in Switzerland amid renewed tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, nuclear inspections, and questions about Tehran's willingness to honor any agreement. They also tackle a shocking new report out of the United Kingdom estimating that hundreds of thousands of young girls may have been victims of organized grooming gangs over decades. They discuss the political failures, cultural taboos, and institutional breakdowns that allowed the scandal to continue for years. Plus, a look at the New York Times' controversial Father's Day coverage, the debate over gender and fatherhood, and a conversation about parenting, family, and why having children later in life has become such a flashpoint online. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz break down the growing conservative backlash to President Trump's proposed Iran agreement, including concerns over sanctions relief, frozen assets, and whether the administration is giving away leverage after major military victories. As details remain scarce, they examine what the deal could mean for U.S. deterrence, Middle East stability, and the 2026 midterm elections. They also discuss the shocking FBI disruption of an alleged terror plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 celebration at the White House, where suspects reportedly planned a coordinated drone attack, sniper assault, and mass-casualty event. Why isn't this story receiving more national attention? Plus, they explore a new study linking smartphones to America's declining birth rate, falling marriage rates, and growing social isolation. Is technology quietly reshaping the future of family formation? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz opens this episode with a deep dive into the emerging U.S.-Iran agreement and the intense debate surrounding President Trump's reported deal with Tehran. Is this a breakthrough for peace, or a dangerous repeat of past mistakes? The hosts examine the lack of transparency, concerns from conservatives, and what the deal could mean for Israel, America's credibility, and the future of the Middle East. They then shift to a packed week in sports, including the New York Knicks winning their first NBA championship in more than five decades, the viral reaction of European soccer fans discovering America during the World Cup, and the UFC's unprecedented event on the White House lawn. The conversation explores patriotism, sports culture, celebrity reactions, and why these events have captured so much attention. Finally, Mary Katharine and Karol discuss Elon Musk becoming the world's first trillionaire on paper following SpaceX's blockbuster public debut. They examine the debate over wealth creation, innovation, government spending, and why Musk's success continues to spark strong reactions across the political spectrum. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Karol Markowicz is joined by guest co-host Stephen L. Miller or a wide-ranging conversation on politics, media narratives, immigration, and culture. The pair break down Democrat Senate nominee Graham Platner’s growing controversies, including questions surrounding his background, past statements, and the strategy behind his candidacy. They also discuss Texas Democrat James Talarico, whether Democrats are rebranding candidates without changing policies, and what these races reveal about the party’s future. Later, Karol and Stephen examine violent incidents in the United Kingdom, growing public frustration over immigration and policing, and the political backlash facing leaders across Europe. They explore how media coverage shapes public perception and why voters increasingly distrust establishment narratives. The episode closes on a lighter note with the viral phenomenon of “Happy Europeans” discovering America—from Buc-ee’s and ranch dressing to air conditioning and 24-hour breakfasts—and what their reactions reveal about American culture and exceptionalism. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Karol Markowicz is joined by Gates Garcia, host of We the People , for a wide-ranging discussion on some of the biggest political and cultural stories making headlines. They break down the controversial Los Angeles mayoral race, where late vote counting pushed Nithya Raman ahead of Spencer Pratt, raising fresh questions about election transparency, voter confidence, and California's election system. Karol and Gates discuss whether the issue is fraud, incompetence, or simply a process that has lost public trust. The conversation then turns to Democrat Senate candidate Graham Platner, whose campaign continues to face mounting scrutiny over past statements, allegations, personal conduct, and a growing list of controversies. Why are Democrats still standing by him, and what does it say about the direction of the party? Finally, Karol and Gates discuss the viral story of YouTuber Jesse Ridgway and his wife, who publicly shared their decision to terminate a pregnancy after receiving a possible Down syndrome diagnosis. The discussion explores parenthood, disability, medical uncertainty, and the broader cultural implications of turning deeply personal decisions into online content. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz break down a surprising election night that could signal major political shifts in California and beyond. From Steve Hilton's strong performance in California's gubernatorial primary to Spencer Pratt's unexpected surge in the Los Angeles mayoral race, they discuss why outsider candidates are gaining traction and what it says about voter frustration with the status quo. MK & Karol also examine a controversial congressional primary in New Jersey, discuss an Iowa gubernatorial upset that defied expectations, and explore what these races reveal about the future of both political parties. Plus, they dive into the fallout from the firing of longtime 60 Minutes figure Scott Pelley, the battle over the future of legacy media, and a shocking update on a widely reported Canadian mass-grave story that generated years of headlines despite a lack of supporting evidence. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz break down the latest developments surrounding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner as new controversies continue to emerge and Democrats struggle to answer questions about the party's rising star. The hosts discuss the growing scrutiny over Platner’s personal conduct, military service claims, campaign response, and what the saga reveals about modern political vetting. They also examine the rocky rollout of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, the challenges facing the Freedom 250 and America250 initiatives, and the broader debate over patriotism, national identity, and whether Americans still know how to celebrate their country. Plus, Mary Katharine and Karol share practical advice for parents heading into summer break, discussing the benefits of reducing screen time, encouraging boredom-driven creativity, and creating meaningful offline experiences for kids and families. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Normally , Mary Katharine Ham and Karol Markowicz break down the political fallout from Ken Paxton’s decisive Texas primary win over John Cornyn and what it means for Democrats hoping to flip Texas blue. They examine James Talarico’s candidacy, the challenge Democrats face balancing “normal” branding with progressive policies, and why candidate quality still matters in modern politics. The conversation then shifts to the growing obsession with optimization culture, sparked by viral debates over alcohol, sleep trackers, biohacking, and whether modern life is becoming too focused on metrics and self-improvement. From wine with friends to Brian Johnson’s extreme longevity experiments, Mary Katharine and Karol discuss the trade-offs between health optimization and actually enjoying life. Plus, they react to the controversy surrounding recent comedy roast jokes aimed at Kevin Hart and other celebrities, debating whether modern audiences — and parts of the media — have forgotten what a roast is supposed to be. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
