“Clipping Is the New Canvassing” | w/Adam Mockler | Shane Smith Has Questions

At 23, Adam Mockler has become one of the most prominent young voices in liberal political media, building an audience of millions through rapid-response videos, debates and viral clips. Adam joins Shane Smith to explain why Republicans dominated the online attention economy—and why Democrats are still struggling to catch up. They discuss the failures of the 2024 Democratic campaign, Kamala Harris’s risk-averse media strategy, the growing appeal of anti-establishment candidates and what the party must do differently before the midterms. Adam also takes Shane behind the scenes of his viral confrontation with Scott Jennings, explains why he believes the Iran war has failed to achieve its stated objectives and examines the role independent media plays in challenging wartime narratives. The conversation moves from young men’s isolation and political radicalization to housing, AI, money in politics and a generation that no longer feels the economic system is working for them. Adam also explains his plans to build a new, youth-driven media organization combining debates, political commentary and gonzo-style reporting. Topics include: Why “clipping is the new canvassing” How Republicans captured the online attention economy Why Democrats have become too scripted and risk-averse Young men, social isolation and online radicalization Adam’s viral clash with Scott Jennings The Iran war and the Strait of Hormuz Biden, Harris and the Democrats’ loss of public trust Housing, cost of living and young people’s lack of capital Political corruption, lobbying and campaign money AI, disappearing jobs and the case for universal basic income The future of Mockler Media Subscribe to Shane Smith Has Questions for candid conversations about politics, media, misinformation and the forces reshaping the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices