Live from the LBJ Library with Mark Updegrove

Historian Peniel Joseph discusses his book, Freedom Season, which delves into 1963 as an inflection point for civil rights—exploring the Birmingham campaign, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s evolving leadership, and John F. Kennedy’s seminal framing of civil rights as a “moral issue.”

Veteran journalist Jonathan Alter reflects on interviewing nine presidents and turning points in American history—offering insight on power, policy, and how history ultimately judges our leaders.

CNN anchor Jake Tapper discusses his unconventional path to journalism, his experience moderating the pivotal 2024 presidential debate, and what readers can glean from his best-selling book “Original Sin” on the presidency of Joe Biden.

Journalist Ali Velshi shares the inspiring story of his family’s journey from India to Canada, their ties to Mahatma Gandhi, and his mission to protect democracy through civic engagement.

Activist David Hogg talks about surviving the Parkland school shooting, founding March for Our Lives, and the challenging fight for sensible gun reform while reflecting on why Gen Z refuses to give up on democracy.

Lawrence Wright offers his insights into the political challenges in the Middle East— exploring US policy toward Israel, Iran’s role in the Israel-Hamas War, and whether peace might be achieved in the region.

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Lawrence Wright discusses his novel The Human Scale, a timely exploration of the nuances and complexities of the Middle East as the war between Israel and Hamas continues to rage.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer talks about her rise in politics, the story behind her campaign slogan “Fix the Damn Roads,” and her emotional quest for reproductive rights—sharing insights on bipartisanship and leadership.

Doris Kearns Goodwin discusses her book, An Unfinished Love Story, on her relationship with her husband Richard Goodwin, whose soaring speechwriting for JFK, LBJ, and RFK helped to shape the idealism of the 1960s.

Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin discusses her path to documenting history—from childhood baseball scorekeeping to definitive works on the lives of Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt[MOU1] , FDR, and LBJ—and what makes compelling historical storytelling.

Ambassador Andrew Young reflects on his legendary life, from the lessons he learned from his father while growing up in New Orleans to those he derived on the front lines of the civil rights movement working alongside Martin Luther King, Jr., while offering his take on race in America today.

Emmy and Tony-winning actor Bryan Cranston discusses his journey from modest Hollywood beginnings to TV icon; his portrayal of Walter White in Breaking Bad and LBJ in the Broadway play and film, All the Way; and how he has navigated the complexities of fame.