Detailed Summary of "The Stephen A. Smith Show" Episode Featuring Megyn Kelly
Release Date: April 23, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Guest: Megyn Kelly
1. Introduction to the Special Interview
Stephen A. Smith introduces Megyn Kelly as a prominent figure in journalism, highlighting her extensive career across major networks such as Fox News and NBC. He emphasizes her growing influence, noting her "over 3 million subscribers" on YouTube and her evolving role as a thought leader. Smith sets the tone for an unfiltered and candid conversation, aiming to explore Kelly's perspectives on various societal and political issues.
"She is a monolith. She is the truth and a half."
— Stephen A. Smith [09:18]
2. Megyn Kelly’s Perspective on Accolades
The conversation begins with Megyn Kelly addressing her recent inclusion in Time's 100 Most Influential People list for the second time. Contrary to expectations, Kelly expresses ambivalence about the recognition.
"When they called, I was like, whatever. All these people hate me and everything I stand for, and they're very annoying."
— Megyn Kelly [09:55]
Smith shares his own disinterest in accolades, aligning with Kelly's sentiment that genuine respect outweighs public recognition.
"I'm not in this business to be celebrated. I want to be respected."
— Stephen A. Smith [10:25]
3. Political Transformation and Support for Donald Trump
A significant portion of the interview delves into Megyn Kelly's political evolution. Initially raised as a Democrat, Kelly discusses her gradual shift towards conservatism, citing the rise of "wokeism" and political correctness as pivotal factors.
"I'm a registered independent. I was raised a Democrat... I started drifting rightward."
— Megyn Kelly [13:09]
Kelly elaborates on her support for Donald Trump, outlining the reasons behind her endorsement despite previous tensions.
"Professionally, I fell in love with Trump because I believed him that he would close the border... fight back against the gender madness."
— Megyn Kelly [28:36]
Smith expresses his agreement on certain matters but hints at areas of disagreement, setting the stage for a robust debate.
4. Critique of 'Wokeism' and DEI
Kelly provides a detailed critique of wokeism and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, arguing that they promote identity obsession and undermine meritocracy.
"Equity means you have the right to end up in the same place irrespective of how much effort goes into it. That is not an American value."
— Megyn Kelly [32:28]
Smith counters by highlighting the original intent behind DEI, questioning Kelly's dismissal of its foundational purposes.
"If this nation was exercising fairness and truly looking for the best candidates... there would never have been any need for DEI."
— Stephen A. Smith [31:00]
The discussion underscores the ideological divides surrounding DEI and its implementation in corporate and educational institutions.
5. Defense Department and Pete Hegseth’s Qualifications
Transitioning to national security, Smith questions Kelly’s support for Pete Hegseth, the Secretary of Defense, focusing on his qualifications beyond his media background.
"When we talk about DEI... does that qualify?"
— Stephen A. Smith [37:58]
Kelly defends Hegseth by highlighting his military service and leadership roles, contrasting him with former officials like Barack Obama.
"Pete was hired because of his military service and his years devoting himself to helping vets."
— Megyn Kelly [38:20]
Smith acknowledges Hegseth's military background but remains skeptical about the adequacy of his administrative experience for leading the Department of Defense.
6. Future Endeavors and Personal Life
In the latter part of the interview, Megyn Kelly shares her vision for her podcast network, emphasizing a commitment to factual reporting amidst widespread misinformation. She also touches upon her work-life balance, expressing satisfaction with her current professional and personal arrangements.
"My goal on the show is to remain relentlessly factual in a sea of misinformation."
— Megyn Kelly [46:03]
Kelly also highlights her dedication to family, contrasting it with her previous demanding roles in cable and broadcast news.
"Life's never been better. I finally gotten things to the place where I can work, which I love and fulfills me."
— Megyn Kelly [46:20]
7. Concluding Reflections and Mutual Respect
Stephen A. Smith concludes the interview by expressing his respect for Megyn Kelly’s thoroughness and clarity in her viewpoints, despite some disagreements. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with diverse opinions to foster personal growth and understanding.
"Her opinions are profoundly respected, and I understand where she's coming from. I walked away smarter after listening to her."
— Stephen A. Smith [48:48]
Kelly reciprocates the respect, affirming her commitment to factual journalism and her contentment with her current professional path.
"I love what I'm doing, and I wouldn't change a thing."
— Megyn Kelly [48:51]
Key Takeaways and Insights
- Political Shift: Megyn Kelly's transition from Democrat to a more conservative stance is influenced by her opposition to wokeism and political correctness.
- Support for Trump: Her endorsement of Donald Trump is rooted in specific policy advocacies, including immigration control and opposition to DEI initiatives.
- Critique of DEI: Kelly argues that DEI undermines meritocracy by promoting equity over equality, which she believes conflicts with American values.
- Defense Department Leadership: Kelly defends Pete Hegseth’s qualifications for his role as Secretary of Defense, emphasizing his military experience.
- Commitment to Factual Reporting: Kelly highlights her dedication to providing factual information in her podcast network amidst prevalent misinformation.
- Work-Life Balance: She expresses satisfaction with her ability to balance professional ambitions with family life, contrasting it with her previous high-pressure roles.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Megyn Kelly on Wokeism:
"It's an obsession with identity... race essentialism and gender radicalism."
— Megyn Kelly [15:34] -
Stephen A. Smith on Respect over Accolades:
"I'm not in this business to be celebrated. I want to be respected."
— Stephen A. Smith [10:25] -
Megyn Kelly on DEI:
"Equity means you have the right to end up in the same place irrespective of how much effort goes into it."
— Megyn Kelly [32:28] -
Megyn Kelly Defending Pete Hegseth:
"Pete was hired because of his military service and his years devoting himself to helping vets."
— Megyn Kelly [38:20] -
Stephen A. Smith on Learning from Diverse Opinions:
"We don't learn by just getting people to agree with you... you learn by hearing those who dissent."
— Stephen A. Smith [51:30]
Conclusion
The episode offers an in-depth exploration of Megyn Kelly's political beliefs, her critique of contemporary social movements, and her professional trajectory post-Cable News. Stephen A. Smith facilitates a balanced dialogue, allowing for both agreement and contention, ultimately emphasizing the value of engaging with diverse perspectives to enhance understanding and personal growth.