The Untold Ted Turner Story the Media Ignored

Michael explores the overlooked conversation surrounding Ted Turner’s bipolar disorder and asks whether mental illness can sometimes contribute to extraordinary leadership, creativity, and resilience. Drawing on the work of psychiatrist Dr. Nassir Ghaemi — author of A "First-Rate Madness" — Smerconish examines historical figures like Churchill, Lincoln, MLK Jr., and Turner himself through the lens of mental health. The episode also dives into Ben Sasse’s warning about AI, loneliness, declining trust, and the erosion of human connection in modern America. From shrinking conversations to algorithm-driven lives, Smerconish reflects on what’s being lost — and how we might reclaim it. A wide-ranging discussion about mental health, technology, politics, culture, and the future of human relationships. Original air date 11 May 2026.