Skip to page content

The Policy Minded Podcast, cover art by Haley Okuley/RAND

Policy Minded

On Policy Minded, we pick the brains of the world's top policy experts, so you can get even smarter about the issues that shape the world.

Latest Episode

If China appeared ready to attack Taiwan, could economic pressure help stop a conflict before it starts? RAND’s Howard Shatz and Naoko Aoki discuss how sanctions and other economic tools could influence Beijing’s calculus and where they might face limitations.

More about this episode

Recent Episodes

33:27
How Societies Can Succeed in the AI Era
What will it really take to win in the AI age? The answer goes beyond technology, says RAND’s Michael Mazarr. The nations that thrive may be the ones best able to handle AI’s social shocks—and turn disruption into advantage.
Jun 25, 2026
31:56
Psychedelics Policy Is Changing. Now What?
As federal and state decisionmakers weigh changes to psychedelics policy, what should they know about how Americans use these substances—and how the public views them? RAND’s Beau Kilmer breaks down the evidence.
May 20, 2026
25:35
Young and Disconnected in America
At any given time, one in seven young people in the United States is “disconnected”—out of school, out of work, and not in career training. Who are these young people and what will it take to help them reconnect and thrive?
Apr 23, 2026
38:48
Youth Are Using Chatbots as Therapists. What Are the Risks?
Young people are increasingly turning to AI for mental health support—even in moments of crisis. Ryan McBain discusses this trend, the risks it poses, and how to make using AI tools safer for those seeking help.
Mar 18, 2026
34:17
Breaking Down the Federal Budget: New Tools from RAND
Economist Jeffrey Wenger explains how the RAND Budget Model works, ways it can be used to gain new insights into the federal budget, and why it matters to all Americans.
Feb 27, 2026

See all episodes on YouTube