Politics! I love it. And I love listening to these progressive liberal talk shows. Before Air America launched, I actually had no idea that there were liberal or progressive talk shows on the air. The ones that existed before Air America were mostly small, local shows as far as I can tell. Now, everyone has at least heard of a few of these shows – even conservatives.
I’ve selected my 9 favorite talk shows and included links so you can check them out. Let me know, in the comments below, what shows you like!
Top 9 Liberal Radio Talk Shows
1. Thom Hartmann – One of my three favorite shows, Thom Hartmann Nationwide is one of the largest progressive liberal talk shows in the nation. The depth of his knowledge is impressive and he really describes things in a way that’s digestible for everyone. Thom has written a vast array of books and even helped create a Discovery Channel documentary on the JFK assassination. [Thom Hartmann Nationwide]
2. Ed Schultz – The self-described “big fat red head from Fargo”, Ed Schultz, is the most entertaining progressive talker to listen to. Ed serves up a large helping of common sense to political discussions. Schultz is easily one of the most passionate radio hosts, uncovering the lies of the right with humor, insight and great sports analogies. [The Ed Schultz Show]
He’s a straight talking, no-nonsense voice of reason in unreasonable times. While others preen and pontificate, Ed Schultz keeps the lines wide open for his listeners-making good on his boast that The Ed Schultz Show is Where America Comes to Talk. No radio talk show is as accessible. [About Ed]
3. Randi Rhodes – Funny, feisty, yet down to earth, Randi is the best female liberal talk show host on the radio and one of the best in the biz across the board. Randi was named “Woman of the Year” by Talkers Magazine in 2007. It’s a well deserved award. Randi fights for women, the rights of homosexuals in the military, and all other Americans. [The Randi Rhodes Show]
It should be noted that after all their bluster, Senate Republicans managed to hold up the bill with frivolous amendments for exactly 21 hours. Every dog has his day, but these dogs didn’t even manage a full day. [Randi's Blog]
4. Norman Goldman – Widely known as Ed Schultz’s Senior Legal Analyst, Nor-man Gold-man is a strong character in his own right and I was stoked when I heard he’d earned his own show! Norm is the most independent of the bunch, he’ll swing at liberals just as hard as conservatives if they’re not acting right. When it comes to legal issues, Norm breaks down legalese like a bull in a china shop. [The Norman Goldman Show]
5. Carl and Christine – This is a local duo in Portland, Oregon, frequently collaborate with Thom Hartmann, and they bring a lot of local coverage and humorous commentary to the air waves. [KPOJ Mornings]
6. Stephanie Miller – According to her site, “Miller’s fresh voice and political satire have been cultivated over years of experience as a media personality and comedienne.” Stephanie’s show is a big ball of fun. Her comedy skills are always on display as she skewers loony right-wingers. Her co-hosts are an enjoyable bunch but Stephanie is the light of the show. [The Stephanie Miller Show]
7. Ring of Fire – Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Mike Papintonio, and David Bender are three political activists who have had impressive careers outside of radio. Together, on air, these three bring a lot of history, legal expertise and laser sharp intellect to the political issues of the day. These gentlemen host very insightful interviews with lawmakers and topical experts. [Ring of Fire Radio]
8. Jack Rice – Jack is a former CIA Officer, so his insight is a rarity on radio programs. No one on right-wing radio has this kind of experience to share. Jack’s expertise is sought on other shows too – Ed Schultz being one of them. [Jack Rice: In the Cross Hairs]
As an award winning journalist and correspondent, he has chased stories around the world. He is a former CIA Special Agent and Field Operations Officer as well as a former prosecuting attorney and columnist. [About Jack Rice]
9. Bill Press – Author, Columnist and TV show host, Bill Press has worked in every media format. Bill is an interesting guy and his four-Emmy Awards demonstrate the quality of his work. Reasonable, smart and laid back, The Bill Press Show is the latest addition to my play lists. [The Bill Press Show]
The former co-host of MSNBC’s Buchanan and Press, CNN’s Crossfire and The Spin Room, Press has built a national reputation on thought-provoking and humorous insights from the left side of the political aisle. [About Bill Press]
Image by Paul Schultz
