Podcast Summary: PBD Podcast | Ep. 594 Title: Diddy Pardon? Tapper’s Book BOMBS & Woke Culture BACKFIRES w/ Stephen A. Smith
Host: Patrick Bet-David
Guest: Stephen A. Smith
Release Date: June 4, 2025

1. Introduction

In Episode 594 of the PBD Podcast, host Patrick Bet-David engages in a dynamic discussion with renowned sports commentator Stephen A. Smith. The episode delves into a variety of pressing topics, ranging from media credibility and political aspirations to the state of the WNBA and international conflicts.

2. Stephen A. Smith's Career Updates

[01:21] Patrick Bet-David announces Stephen A. Smith's return to SiriusXM:

Stephen A. Smith: "Yeah, you know, does. I'm gonna be returning back to SiriusXM radio... leading into Mad Dog Sports Radio... and then at least once a week, in all likelihood on the POTUS channel, I'll have my own political show."

• Key Points:
  • Stephen A. Smith is resuming his role at SiriusXM with a daily sports show and a weekly political program.
  • His YouTube channel will continue to broadcast his political show, ensuring his content reaches a broader audience.

3. Discussion on Jake Tapper's Book Performance

[06:41] The conversation shifts to Jake Tapper's recent book release and its underwhelming sales compared to other media figures.

Stephen A. Smith: "I think that... there's no way in hell. We believe that you just found that out after the election... we believe you knew it before the election and you didn't tell us."

• Key Points:
  • Jake Tapper's book sold 57,000 units in its first week, significantly fewer than Bob Woodward's "Fear Trump and the White House," which sold 1.1 million copies.
  • Stephen A. Smith critiques the book's lack of resonance due to Tapper's perceived lack of credibility, especially among Democrats.
  • The decline in Jake Tapper's CNN show viewership by 25% is attributed to the timing and content of his book release.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith ([07:00]): "Very few people write books to make money. You write a book because you want to say something. You want to have a legacy."

4. Democratic and Republican Parties & 2028 Presidential Run

[12:48] Patrick Bet-David explores the potential for Stephen A. Smith to run for president in 2028, discussing the current political landscape.

Stephen A. Smith: "The only reason I say that is because I don't think that I'd have a snowball's chance in hell of running as a Republican."

• Key Points:
  • Stephen A. Smith expresses skepticism about his viability as a Republican candidate, citing stronger contenders like J.D. Vance and Ron DeSantis.
  • He considers running as a Democrat or possibly a third-party candidate if the opportunity arises.
  • Discussion on the declining appeal of the Democratic Party as the traditional party of the middle class and the Republican Party regaining that mantle.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith ([16:18]): "The only reason I say that is because I don't think that I'd have a snowball's chance in hell of running as a Republican."

5. WNBA and Sports Discussions

[56:53] The conversation shifts to the WNBA, focusing on player Caitlin Clark and Brittney Griner.

Stephen A. Smith: "First things first. Respectfully, Brittney Griner was in a Russian prison... when she comes back to America on home soil would not have too much to complain about..."

• Key Points:
  • Stephen A. Smith defends Brittney Griner, highlighting her challenges after being imprisoned in Russia.
  • Discussion on Caitlin Clark's impact on WNBA viewership and ticket sales, especially following her injury.
  • Debate on the future of the WNBA, with differing opinions on its profitability and popularity.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith ([59:48]): "The girl is spectacular. It's not like she's... she's a star caliber player who draws this attention."

6. Ukraine-Russia Conflict and International Politics

[93:46] The hosts discuss the escalating conflict between Ukraine and Russia, including recent bombings and international responses.

Stephen A. Smith: "Peace, even a ceasefire, are nowhere in sight."

• Key Points:
  • Analysis of Ukraine's recent offensive actions against Russia and the lack of progress towards peace negotiations.
  • Critique of U.S. political figures like Senator Blumenthal and Mike Pompeo for their roles and affiliations.
  • Concerns about the potential for World War III and the motivations of global adversaries like Putin.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith ([99:07]): "Nothing should come before country."

7. Diddy Pardon Discussion

[129:15] The episode addresses the controversial topic of whether Donald Trump should pardon Diddy amidst his legal troubles.

Stephen A. Smith: "I don't want to hear about pardons from Trump based on who he likes or who's complimentary to him."

• Key Points:
  • Stephen A. Smith emphasizes that pardons should not be influenced by personal relationships or past favors.
  • Discussion on Diddy's legal issues, including allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering.
  • Arguments against the idea of pardoning Diddy, highlighting the severity of his alleged crimes.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith ([131:37]): "If you're gonna make a decision to pardon him, if you're Trump, it needs to be because you think that the case wasn't strong enough."

8. Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reflection on the importance of integrity in both media and politics. Stephen A. Smith underscores his commitment to his community and the values he upholds, despite facing criticism and challenges.

Notable Closing Remarks:

Stephen A. Smith ([149:04]): "So that's how it goes. And I think that's what we're going to finish it on."

Key Takeaways

• Media Credibility: Stephen A. Smith critiques media figures like Jake Tapper for lacking credibility and discusses the implications on viewership and public trust.

• Political Aspirations: Exploration of the potential for independent or Democratic candidacies in the 2028 presidential race, highlighting current political dynamics.

• Sports and Society: Discussions on the WNBA's challenges, player dynamics, and the broader impact of sports on societal issues.

• International Relations: Analysis of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, U.K.'s military readiness, and concerns over global stability.

• Justice and Ethics: Debates on presidential pardons, emphasizing that such decisions should be based on justice rather than personal relationships.

This episode offers a comprehensive look into the intersection of media, politics, sports, and international affairs, providing listeners with insightful commentary and diverse perspectives from two influential figures.