The Axe Files with David Axelrod

There’s a particular kind of conversation that happens when the interviewer has been in the room where decisions are made. The Axe Files with David Axelrod is built on that premise. Axelrod, the longtime political strategist and founder of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics, sits down with the people shaping our national conversation, but the goal isn’t just headline fodder. These are extended, personal dialogues that trace the paths that led his guests into public life, exploring the motivations, pivotal moments, and sometimes the regrets that define their careers. You’ll hear from elected officials, journalists, activists, and insiders across the spectrum, all through a lens of genuine curiosity rather than partisan debate. Produced by The Institute of Politics & CNN Podcasts, this podcast peels back the polished exterior of politics to reveal the human stories underneath. It’s for anyone tired of the noise and interested in the quieter, more substantive narratives that actually explain how power and policy unfold. In each episode, the focus is on depth and context, offering a long-form understanding that daily news coverage simply can’t provide.