I was so upset to see that David and his podcast will be leaving. I could always count on a lively, insightful, conversation with David and his wonderful, knowledgable guests. Boo hoo for me, but I hope David is leaving to do something that he will find fulfilling, challenging, and fun. Good times and good health to you, David!

So sorry to see you go. Yours is the only pod I can listen to that satisfies my need for information without draining me. I actually feel calmer after listening, regardless of who you have interviewed. The state of the country always feels a little less bleak. I know that was your intention—to feature the whole person, vs. their politically charged talking points—and it worked. I look for you on CNN now (if I knew when you would be on, I would set my DVR) because your pointed, dignified, diplomatic style of communication is infinitely refreshing. I can’t think of a runner-up. While there are usually one or two supercharged guests who can’t resist the urge to interrupt when they disagree, it is noticeably rare that they disrespect your contribution to the discussion. They get points for that. Thank you for pouring yourself into these hundreds of interviews, all in the name of enlightenment. New episodes or not, The Axe Files will remain at the top of my list. Thank you.

Thank you David for this podcast. You will be missed! Hope to hear or see you soon!

Regarding IP thieving by China. It is worth noting that the British stole secrets of porcelain manufacturing from them at the beginning of the modern world. What goes around comes around.

My favorite podcast of all time. I’ll miss you.

Good luck in your next endeavor. The Axe Files was my favorite podcast to learn about the background of your guests and how they impact our world in the present. You helped put in perspective the lives of politicians who think differently than me as well as those I closely identify with.

Axe! Deeply saddened to hear The Axe Files has come to an end! Thank you for staying true to the mission of your show. It was wonderful to learn more about so many interesting and influential people. You proved that talking and listening to friend and foe brings us all closer together. Blessings to you and your family this holiday season!

Thank you for this incredible show, David. It was a great public service to engage a diverse array of voices in thoughtful discussions. The ability to disagree without being disagreeable is a skill we all need to hone and you modeled this wonderfully. We need your voice and I hope you continue to stay engaged in the public discourse.

Best to you Axe. PLEASE DONT LEAVE HACKS ON TAP NOW PLEASE!! Take care and Mahalo brother

I listen to almost all episodes. You are so good at asking the questions to draw the interviewee out. I will miss you.

I’m trying to be unselfishly congratulatory as you retire from your podcast. May you be deeply blessed as you more freely spend time with your family & friends. Your experiences and attitude of generous curiosity will keep you engaged. Oh how I will miss you!

Axe is that rare interviewer who listens more than he talks. As a result, we got to know your guests. Kind, gentle, thoughtful, and experienced, you are the whole package. May the next chapter of your life, whichever way you choose to write it, bring you health, happiness, and deep satisfaction. Thank you, Axe.

So sorry to see this podcast end. Wishing Mr.Axelrod and his team all the best in whatever lies ahead. And hoping to hear a lot more from them in another capacity in the not-too-distant future. Be well!

Jennings is everything that is wrong with the media.

Normalizing this smug condescending extremist is finally the last time. I think Axlerod is a nice formerly informed player, but this attempt to make the miserable “ commentator” hman. Goodbye all media, you all just crumbled under the orange menace.

As an Oregonian and a Democrat, I am glad she won. You did a good job extracting information from her about her upbringing, surprising me she chose Reed College. But, boy she needs to improve her communication skills. I lost count of the “like” and the “yeahs” and some other choice words.

The “Anti-Wokeism Coalition” is bigger than the “Anti-Trump Coalition” I voted against Trump twice but not this time. The Progressive Wing of the Party went so far left, they left reality. It looks like the Democratic Party is going to double down on Identity Politics (see Seth Moultan) It’s over for Liberalism. Who knew that the Progressives would get Trump to unite against them?

Hello David, this is Gavin. What are your thoughts on Obama convincing black men to vote for Harris?

I love the show DAVID and wanted to pass along this note. I had to quit listening after 20 minutes because I felt that I was missing at least half of the discussion as Cassie Hunts voice trailed off to being unintelligible frequently. Perhaps your audio engineers could mike up your guests up differently to avoid this. Many thanks again for what is normally a fantastic show.

I loved this episode! The insights shared are priceless. The affection between the Axe & Psaki came through loud & clear. Such a pleasure to listen to this conversation.

Ezra is an insufferable smarty pants who loves the sound of his own voice particularly when he is belching out parenthetical clause after parenthetical clause. If he would eliminate half his sentences and shorten the remaining ones by half he still would be too wordy. He won't do this because of his Narcissism but he would be an intellectual giant if only he could restrain himself.

Found this by accident. So pleased to be catching up with this. I have been angry and thrilled with David through the years, but I have always trusted and respected him. THANKS

I am not a big sports fan nor do I know of Mr Wilbon but thank you for a great interview. What an articulate, warm and engaging man! Love Favid Axelrod and his thorough preparation. I can not stand Dan Crenshaw.

Pete Buttigieg indeed has a reputation for being a strong, articulate speaker with a unique appeal across various demographics. His ability to convey complex ideas clearly and persuasively has made him a significant figure within the Democratic Party. His performance in interviews, including those on conservative platforms like Fox News, has showcased his capability to handle tough questions and present Democratic positions effectively. As the current Secretary of Transportation, Buttigieg has also gained experience in a significant executive role, which could bolster his future political prospects. His potential to unite different factions within the Democratic Party and appeal to both older and younger voters could make him a key player in upcoming elections. The political landscape for the 2024 election is indeed pivotal. If Kamala Harris becomes the Democratic nominee, Buttigieg’s role within the party could be influential, whether as a VP candidate or in another prominent capacity. Conversely, the possibility of Trump winning the 2024 election raises concerns for many about the future of American democracy and governance, especially considering the changes and appointments made during his previous term. The next few years will be crucial in shaping the direction of the United States, and figures like Pete Buttigieg will likely play significant roles in these developments.

axlerod, just shut up as you are not helping.

So, Axe encouraged Vance to get into politics? Great job Axe! Now we have MAGA in our future in perpetuity!

He is a very respectful interviewer. He asks great questions and the conversions are so smooth. You can tell the guests really respect him as well - from republicans to dems or even actors. My favorite political pundit.

Axe and Favs, starting to feel like you are holding a grudge. Get over it.

David Axelrod sounds like a jilted lover. He offers no nuanced analysis. He simply sounds like someone who hit his highest highs with President Obama but no one has wanted him since do he does nothing but bash Democrats. Pathetic.

I used to like this podcast. They would have a wide variety of guests with a terrific interview. Now it’s just pearl clutching and wanking. Especially the Jon Faverau interview. Nothing but anti-Biden talk and typical Democrat bed wetting. While neither the host nor the guest are pro-Trump, their endless whining will only make listeners want to stay home to not vote which will help Trump.

This was a fantastic interview. Love the options and insights shared. You both are so talented in the way you express what many of us can’t! Kudos!

It felt like this podcast flew by in 5 minutes. DKG is excellent, with keen insights to American history.

Whether you are a politics junkie like me or you have an interest in personalities and movers and shakers David Axelrod is a fantastic interviewer! I appreciate David Axelrod modeling Americans as we used to be and still can be where we we work across the aisle to continue to make our country a more perfect union. He has really broadened my perspective and introduced to me to a world that I never really knew and many different world views from fascinating people. Check out his wide variety of guests and you will be sure to find several people you want to hear from then look for interviews with people that you have never heard of or you think you might not like and you will find the most wonderful and unexpected life lessons! David Axelrod, thank you for your service to our country and for helping me be a more informed and more compassionate person, not to mention a more informed voter!

Always informative. Never miss it. David Axelrod knows current politics like no other; great interviewer.

The interview was good, not excellent. How you did not ask, nor did Panetta mention, about the fact that Israel is not just trying to prevent Oct 7 from recurring, but they simultaneously are trying to rescue 200+ hostages. This was and continues to be a race against time. I write this after four hostages were just rescued from civilian quarters, held by civilians in Gaza. To say Israel should simply be more targeted and avoid moving aggressively to save the hostages is to ignore the very core of what transpired on Oct 7. The horrific acts of Hamas was only exacerbated by the kidnapping of civilians of all ages from child to elderly. Israel was in an untenable situation. So let’s talk about that when we speak of the post Oct 7 events. Is some of Israel’s strategy flawed, absolutely. But too many pundits, journalists and experts simply ignore the hostages over and over. That is shameful.

I enjoyed the podcast and I found Mr Habib inspiring. The conversation left me with a desire to hear much more about his mother. I’d love to hear her on the podcast.

Dear David, I love your podcast. I learn so much about the people you interview, while my garden gets cleaned up. Your interview of Sister Simone was fantastic. I had never heard of her before; what a kick!

Consider an interview with Anthony T. Ironman.🦉

The podcast with Pfauff and Rove had all commercials for big oil group. All of them, the entire podcast. Way too much. Must have been 5-6 of the same ad touting oil use for American consumers.

What a delight it is to hear three political professionals discus the basics of campaigns with such insight and respect. Thank you!

David’s recent interview with Michael Crow was one of the most interesting and inspiring guests I’ve heard. I wish more university presidents would step up and follow his lead. Education is the key.

Mr. Friedman and Axe, I also have no connection to any platform, social media, etc. this is why I can listen to all my podcast, read the New York Times as well as Washington Post,Wall Street Journal, and the Financial Times. So like you, I am unencumbered and I feel very healthy in my 70s and I’m thankful that we have a healthy democracy . For my mental health I watched two nights ago Jimmy Kimmel, interview with George Bush discuss his portrait book, which included a portrait of Madeline Albright, and all these lovely paintings of people who have immigrated here. I followed with watching his discussion with Barack Obama about his book followed by Michelle and it was wonderful to hear her talking about the girls. It was so essential to remembering that this time really did exist time when we all funded our wonderful politicians our statesman. This happened to be the day that Angel Chao died the sister of Elaine Chao, our former secretary of transportation , wife of Senator McConnell. All these great American's, all these great immigrants., and it was all pre Trump, pre Citizens united. Thank you for your weekly podcast. It helps me every week to keep on having faith in America.

You hurt the Dems just about every time you open your mouth. I think you secretly love Trump. Can’t stand when networks give you a platform. Just retire!

Andrew Gillum’s life story is an inspiration to me. I was a fan before, I'm a bigger fan after listening especially because I’m also 1 of seven kids. I’m the compassionate sister who does the same as his only sister with the important dates in the family. David, you are awesome.

Love the insight. Too bad more are not getting the message. 4 more years of T will kill us all

If you simp for not prosecuting TFG in ANY way, your credibility immediately goes to zero for the remainder of your pathetic career

Such a pleasure to listen to these interviews. Always respectful and thoughtful, even personal while still maintaining professionalism. . Axe goes back to his reporting roots.

I love her novels. I was very impressed with the interview. Thank you for having such diverse guests on your podcast.

How about interview with Yuval Noah Harari?

I have tremendously enjoyed many of David’s podcast episodes and would like to comment on Ep 558 with W. Massey: As I scientist (Ph.D. in physics) I see a need for increased communication from the science community on general interest and topics relevant to public discourse and politics. This episode is an outstanding example of communicating science topics as well as the human aspect of the people doing science and taking leadership roles at the intersection between science, business and politics. I was deeply moved by the story of Walter Massey’s life, overcoming so many challenges in his distinguished career as a physicist and serving in many roles well beyond it.