Pod Force One Episode: Trump's Right Hand: The Most Powerful Person Behind the Scenes
Host: Miranda Devine
Guest: Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff
Release Date: July 9, 2025

Introduction

In this revealing episode of Pod Force One, award-winning New York Post columnist Miranda Devine sits down with Susie Wiles, the White House Chief of Staff. The conversation delves deep into Susie's role within the Trump administration, her personal background, leadership philosophy, and the intricate dynamics of working closely with President Donald Trump.

Remarkable Achievements and Presidential Pace

Susie Wiles opens the discussion by highlighting the unprecedented accomplishments of the Trump administration over its first six months. She notes significant strides in foreign policy, defense spending, and strategic actions related to Iran and Gaza.

"It's just been remarkable." ([00:45])

When asked if these rapid achievements surprised her, Wiles responds that President Trump was always prepared to hit the ground running, attributing the success to his relentless work ethic and expansive vision for America.

"He never stops working... an appetite for success for the American people, this is what you get." ([01:27])

The Role of Chief of Staff

Wiles provides an insightful breakdown of her multifaceted role as Chief of Staff, emphasizing her responsibility to facilitate the President's needs without overshadowing his leadership.

"I am the chief of staff. I'm not the chief of Donald Trump." ([02:36])

She discusses her duties ranging from managing administrative tasks to overseeing strategic initiatives, all while adhering to the established protocols of the West Wing.

"These protocols are here for a reason. It does make the machine work more easily." ([03:56])

Maintaining a High-Speed Workflow

The conversation shifts to the intense pace of the Trump administration, with Wiles candidly addressing the challenges of keeping up with Trump's "warp speed."

"There is no question [Trump's pace] is superhuman." ([02:33])

Despite the relentless tempo, Wiles assures that she manages to keep up, highlighting the dedication and efficiency of the entire staff.

Leadership Style and Relationship with Trump

Wiles paints a picture of President Trump as a "predictable and open" leader, focusing on maintaining his clarity by handling issues before they escalate.

"Donald Trump... is predictable and open and approachable and honest and honorable and committed." ([16:44])

When discussing his moments of irritation or anger, Wiles emphasizes her role in addressing the root causes to maintain a productive working environment.

"What he wants from me is to fix whatever made him angry." ([17:25])

Personal Background and Influences

Delving into her personal life, Wiles shares her upbringing under the influence of her father, Pat Summerall, a renowned sportscaster. She credits her family's commitment to gender equality and merit-based achievements for shaping her career trajectory.

"We grew up in a household where everybody was equal and it was a merit-based household." ([26:05])

Overcoming Challenges and Career Breaks

Wiles discusses taking an 11-year hiatus to focus on her family, emphasizing the challenges and eventual success of re-entering the political arena.

"Re-entry is hard... But it wasn't the end." ([09:11])

Her experience serves as an inspiring example for young women balancing career ambitions with personal responsibilities.

Loyalty and Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Reflecting on tumultuous periods, including Trump's legal battles and political challenges, Wiles underscores her unwavering belief in Trump's vision and resilience.

"I believe fundamentally, thoroughly, completely in what he believes." ([21:02])

She recounts the critical moment of the assassination attempt on Trump, describing it as a pivotal event that reinforced their mission and security protocols.

"I believe God wanted him to live." ([40:05])

Cabinet Dynamics and Team Excellence

Wiles praises the diverse and highly competent cabinet assembled by Trump, highlighting individuals like Brooke Rollins, Linda McMahon, and Marco Rubio as exemplary leaders who contribute significantly to the administration's success.

"There's not one. I would not who I would say is not a complete success in their, in what they're doing in their area." ([37:35])

Reflections on Former Positions and Bipartisan Respect

Comparing her current role with her previous experiences under Governor Ron DeSantis, Wiles remarks on the professionalism and support received from different administrations, despite past disagreements.

"Whatever personal differences he had or whatever deficiencies he thought I had are long past." ([22:21])

Philosophy of Success and Leadership

Concluding the interview, Wiles shares her philosophy on success, emphasizing resilience, hard work, and the importance of seizing opportunities as they arise.

"Life has a way of steering you, if you let it, on a good path to get you where you should be when you should get there." ([44:11])

Notable Quotes

• Susie Wiles: "He never stops working... an appetite for success for the American people, this is what you get." ([01:27])
• Susie Wiles: "I am the chief of staff. I'm not the chief of Donald Trump." ([02:36])
• Susie Wiles: "Donald Trump... is predictable and open and approachable and honest and honorable and committed." ([16:44])
• Susie Wiles: "We grew up in a household where everybody was equal and it was a merit-based household." ([26:05])
• Susie Wiles: "I believe fundamentally, thoroughly, completely in what he believes." ([21:02])
• Susie Wiles: "Life has a way of steering you, if you let it, on a good path to get you where you should be when you should get there." ([44:11])

Conclusion

This episode of Pod Force One offers an exclusive glimpse into the inner workings of the Trump administration through the eyes of Susie Wiles, a pivotal yet often unseen figure. Her insights into leadership, resilience, and strategic execution provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics shaping America's current political landscape.

Note: This summary intentionally excludes sections of the transcript identified as advertisements, promos, and non-content segments to maintain focus on the substantive discussion between Miranda Devine and Susie Wiles.