The Nova Society

Dr. Mark George Bound, Dr. Scott Gerschwer, & Dr. Brooklynn Ann Welden

 We address listener questions about the headlines shaping today’s world and the social and political forces behind them. Our mission is to offer clear, unbiased commentary rooted in critical thinking and analytical rigor. Through thoughtful, in‑depth conversations, we examine current events and the challenges facing society, while still keeping space for engaging, enjoyable dialogue. We hold that facts matter, and that misinformation and disinformation remain among the most serious threats to an informed and healthy civic culture. 

  1. 3h ago

    Should We have a Press Secretary in the Era of Trump? S5E128 10.28.2026

    Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! Teshie from Washington, DC writes:   Well, here we go again. After the Gilfoyle fiasco, we now have another entry in the ever‑growing chapter of “let’s hire the incompetent.” Anthony Scaramucci is no longer the shortest‑serving press secretary in American history; Katie Zachariah, the former Newsmax personality and maybe‑lawyer, has claimed the title. Her performance was so disastrous that even Donald Trump, the self‑proclaimed master of personnel decisions, had to concede she wasn’t up to the job. She’s out.   Instead of rehashing all of that, I have a more forward‑looking question. Historically, the press secretary was a crucial position, the public voice of an administration’s policies and priorities. But even under the last officeholder, briefings were sporadic, maybe once a week, a far cry from the daily or near-daily briefings of previous administrations.   In an environment saturated with misinformation and disinformation, is the role still meaningful? And honestly, how does anyone keep a straight face while defending so many contradictions?   Trump loves to promote himself; arguably, no one is a better propagandist for the Trump brand than Trump. So, should he even bother filling the press secretary role?   At this point, is a Trump press secretary more of a distraction than a benefit to Americans who are simply trying to understand what their government is doing?  Are we better off not having a Press Secretary in the era of Trump? Support the show The Nova Society Podcast  In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel Past episodes & read our blog Here. JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes    Spotify  ...

  2. 2d ago

    What does Trump's Endorsement of Netanyahu mean? S5E127 10.26.2026

    Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! Isaac from Haifa, Israel writes: Yesterday, President Trump finally issued a full-throated endorsement of Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s upcoming elections. I know the panel isn’t exactly enthusiastic about our prime minister, and to be honest, neither am I, but this endorsement could still shape the political landscape. I’m hoping for an American perspective on what’s going on here. First, why did Trump make this endorsement now, and why did he wait so long? According to reports, Trump withheld his support for months as the election neared and as the two leaders’ strategies on Iran diverged. Trump’s endorsement is unprecedented, as U.S. presidents typically avoid publicly backing candidates in Israeli elections. Could this be a ploy to keep Netanyahu in place as a partner in the ongoing confrontation with Iran?  Second, is there a political calculation here that we’re missing? Some Israeli experts argue that the endorsement may not dramatically shift votes, but it helps Netanyahu refocus his campaign on national security and Iran, areas where he believes he is strongest. Others suggest Trump wants to avoid a scenario in which Israel elects a leader less willing to act militarily against Iran, potentially leaving the U.S. to shoulder more of the burden. Trump frames Netanyahu as the indispensable partner in confronting Tehran. This is striking, given Netanyahu’s periodic signals that he wants Israel to rely less on American military investment.  Do you see any impact on the U.S. midterms? Analysts haven’t identified a direct link. The endorsement appears aimed more at shaping Israel’s election than at influencing American voters.  Many in Israel, including commentators who normally support Netanyahu, have expressed uncertainty about what this endorsement accomplishes.  Support the show The Nova Society Podcast  In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel Past episodes & read our blog Here. JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes    Spotify  ...

  3. 5d ago

    Should the US assist Saudi Arabia? S5E126 10.23.2026

    Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! Tyrone from Manchester, New Hampshire, writes: The Houthis launched another attack on Saudi Arabia this week, striking a major airport and, according to early reports, killing at least 13 civilians.  Riyadh has responded, but so far the retaliation appears limited. That raises several big questions for us today. First, should the United States step in and assist the Saudis, or does deeper involvement risk widening an already volatile conflict? Second, will President Trump choose to get involved militarily or diplomatically, and what factors inside the administration are likely to shape that decision? And third, does this escalation suggest that the broader U.S.–Iran war is slipping out of control, with regional actors now testing boundaries and exploiting the chaos? Support the show The Nova Society Podcast  In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel Past episodes & read our blog Here. JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes    Spotify  ...

  4. Oct 21

    The Kimberly Gilfoyle Debacle S5E125 10.21.2026

    Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! Sonnie from the University of Georgia writes:  So, another Trump pseudo-family scandal with Kimberly Gilfoyle.  In my opinion, the questions extend beyond how this looks.   What does it say about U.S. diplomatic integrity when an ambassador is accused of soliciting a $100,000 payment from a political donor in exchange for access to senior administration officials?   If the allegations are true, does Guilfoyle’s conduct represent an isolated lapse, or a broader culture of influence‑peddling within the Trump administration?   How should the State Department’s Inspector General respond when an ambassador is accused of quid‑pro‑quo behavior involving personal debt relief? At what point does alleged ‘access‑for‑payment’ cross from ethical misconduct into criminal corruption?   What factors should President Trump and Secretary Rubio weigh as they consider whether to fire Guilfoyle, and how might their decision shape public trust in the administration?   Does the administration’s hesitation to comment reflect due diligence, political calculation, or internal disarray?   How does Fox News’ near‑silence on the scandal influence public understanding, and what does it reveal about partisan media ecosystems? How might allegations of influence‑trading and luxury travel funded by Greek businessmen affect U.S.–Greece relations and perceptions of American diplomatic integrity?   What does Guilfoyle’s alleged promise to be a donor’s ‘ride or die in Trump world’ reveal about the blurred lines between personal loyalty and public duty? Support the show The Nova Society Podcast  In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel Past episodes & read our blog Here. JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes    Spotify  ...

  5. Oct 19

    Should we hold a public execution? S5E124 10.19.2026

    Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! Todd, from Texas Christian University, writes: What does it mean for American justice, and American society, that the Pentagon will publicly livestream the first U.S. military firing squad execution since World War II?”  Does livestreaming an execution serve transparency, or does it risk turning capital punishment into a public spectacle?  Could broadcasting Hasan’s execution create unintended risks, such as martyrdom or radicalization, despite DHS officials insisting ‘no one has to watch’? Why is the U.S. returning to a firing squad, an execution method unused by the military since 1945, and what does that say about the state of capital punishment today? Is livestreaming an execution a step toward greater transparency, or a step backward toward public executions last seen in America in 1936?  What message is the Pentagon sending by executing Hasan at Fort Hood, at the same time of day the 2009 shooting began, and broadcasting it live? I know there is a lot here, but I really wanted the panel's take.  Support the show The Nova Society Podcast  In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel Past episodes & read our blog Here. JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes    Spotify  ...

  6. Oct 16

    More conversations with Eva Posner S5E123 10.16.2026

    Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! Today we again welcome back one of our favorite guests Eva Posner. Eva Posner is a sought-after podcast guest known for her insightful, direct, and often humorous takes on Democratic politics, campaigns, and ideology. She fearlessly pulls back the curtain on the political industrial complex, offering a candid perspective on its implications for the future of democracy. In 2026, Eva marks ten years of powerful movement building with Evinco Strategies, leading a dedicated team with over 110 combined years of political experience. Her firm is committed to transforming the political landscape by supporting progressive causes and candidates. Beyond her work with Evinco, Eva offers free presentations and trainings to political operatives nationwide, sharing her expertise across the country. She champions local politics at a national scale, having successfully supported staff, candidates, and organizations across 17 states. Support the show The Nova Society Podcast  In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel Past episodes & read our blog Here. JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes    Spotify  ...

  7. Oct 14

    A Conversation with Eva Posner S5E122 10.14.2026

    Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! Today we again welcome back one of our favorite guests Eva Posner. Eva Posner is a sought-after podcast guest known for her insightful, direct, and often humorous takes on Democratic politics, campaigns, and ideology. She fearlessly pulls back the curtain on the political industrial complex, offering a candid perspective on its implications for the future of democracy. In 2026, Eva marks ten years of powerful movement building with Evinco Strategies, leading a dedicated team with over 110 combined years of political experience. Her firm is committed to transforming the political landscape by supporting progressive causes and candidates. Beyond her work with Evinco, Eva offers free presentations and trainings to political operatives nationwide, sharing her expertise across the country. She champions local politics at a national scale, having successfully supported staff, candidates, and organizations across 17 states. Support the show The Nova Society Podcast  In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel Past episodes & read our blog Here. JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes    Spotify  ...

  8. Oct 12

    Polls or Prediction Markets. Which is closer to being correct? S5E121 10.12.2026

    Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! James from SUNY Albany writes: I’m studying Political Science, and I fully admit I’m a political nerd. I can’t get enough of polling, and I love watching the electoral map shift almost daily.  From what I’m seeing, it’s not just looking rough for Republicans; it’s starting to resemble a potential electoral disaster. It's remarkable that states like Kansas, Texas, Iowa, Ohio, North Carolina, and even South Carolina are being discussed as competitive. I know the panel doesn’t put much faith in polling, and I understand why. Historically, polls tend to underestimate Republican support and overestimate Democratic strength. But maybe this cycle is different. It’s also interesting that mainstream outlets are giving more attention to prediction markets, treating them as potentially meaningful indicators of how races might unfold. So here are my questions: does the panel think polling might be more accurate this time around? Have pollsters actually learned anything from the last few cycles where their models missed the mark? And what about prediction markets, are they a potentially reliable source for understanding the direction of these races? Support the show The Nova Society Podcast  In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects, where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel Past episodes & read our blog Here. JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes    Spotify  ...

Ratings & Reviews

2
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

 We address listener questions about the headlines shaping today’s world and the social and political forces behind them. Our mission is to offer clear, unbiased commentary rooted in critical thinking and analytical rigor. Through thoughtful, in‑depth conversations, we examine current events and the challenges facing society, while still keeping space for engaging, enjoyable dialogue. We hold that facts matter, and that misinformation and disinformation remain among the most serious threats to an informed and healthy civic culture.