Reasonably Optimistic

Publicly listed emails

podcasts@washpost.com

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The overlooked businesses making Americans rich

October 09, 2026

The American Dream can feel farther away than ever. Housing is expensive, good jobs seem harder to find and the people getting rich seem to be concentrated in a handful of big cities. But some of America’s biggest fortunes are being built far from the spotlight: by auto dealers, contractors, beverage distributors and the owners of the unglamorous businesses that keep everyday life running. So who are these overlooked millionaires — and what do they tell us about opportunity in America?Host Me...

How America can recover from Trump-era politics

October 07, 2026

There’s a lot to complain about in the American political system: Congress lurches from deadline to deadline, presidents claim more and more power and each side of the aisle treats the other as an existential threat. So how did our political system get this way—and what would it take to make it work again?Host Megan McArdle is joined by Yuval Levin, director of Social, Cultural, and Constitutional Studies at the American Enterprise Institute and editor-in-chief of National Affairs. They discu...

The job interview advice Gen Z needs to hear

October 02, 2026

A viral debate over bringing iced coffee to a job interview may seem trivial. But it points to a bigger divide over what employers are looking for when college degrees, cover letters and résumés reveal less than they used to.Host Megan McArdle explains why workplace norms still matter, why an interview can be one of the few ways applicants can stand out and what Gen Z workers miss when they begin their careers remotely. She also makes the case for giving young people a little grace.Subscribe ...

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How do I get in touch with Reasonably Optimistic?

Reasonably Optimistic is hosted by Megan McArdle. Its publicly listed email is podcasts@washpost.com. For guest bookings, the host or producer is usually the best person to reach. Podseeker helps you find direct host and producer contacts and pitch from your own inbox.

What is the email for Reasonably Optimistic?

The publicly listed email for Reasonably Optimistic: podcasts@washpost.com.

How many listeners does Reasonably Optimistic have?

Podseeker estimates Reasonably Optimistic reaches 1,000 to 10,000 listeners per episode. Only the publisher has exact numbers.

Who is an ideal guest for Reasonably Optimistic?

Reasonably Optimistic typically books well-known public figures. Typical guest background: Established authors, academics, policy researchers, senior fellows, scientists, and other recognized subject-matter experts with authoritative work on major public-interest issues. Common among recent guests: Published books or substantial research; Senior roles at respected universities, think tanks, publications, or research organizations; Recognized expertise in a major policy, scientific, technological, or historical subject. Recent guests include Charles Fain Lehman, Tim Lee, and Dan Jones.

How hard is it to get booked on Reasonably Optimistic?

Medium. Guests usually need solid credentials in the topic and an idea that fits the show.

What topics does Reasonably Optimistic cover?

Recent episodes cover Politics, Public Policy, Artificial Intelligence, Civil Liberties, and Science. Pitch an idea tied to one of these topics and mention a recent episode.