The Trey Gowdy Podcast

Trey answers listener questions on the inherent risks of living in a free society and the rise of domestic radicalization. He also discusses the inspiration behind his gripping fiction debut The Color of Death and unpacks some constitutional mysteries surrounding the U.S. Supreme Court — including why you technically don’t need a law degree to serve as Chief Justice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How much does etiquette still matter? Trey is joined by lawyer and White House etiquette expert Alison M. Cheperdak to cross-examine the rules of modern civility. From the "correct" way to handle a close-talker to the high-stakes world of handwritten notes and wedding invites, Alison breaks down her new book, Was It Something I Said? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey answers questions on the complexities of the U.S.-Israel military operation against Iran, explaining why the "intelligence silo" is the key to understanding foreign policy. Plus, he offers his unique (and slightly superstitious) advice for a future law student heading to the University of South Carolina and shares why he’s pinning his March Madness hopes on the NCAA Women’s Basketball bracket this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does "America First" actually mean? Trey breaks down the historical weight of presidential doctrines and challenges those attempting to redefine President Trump’s foreign policy as pure isolationism. After a joint military campaign by the United States and Israel against Iran resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Trey argues that American strength isn't meant for sitting idly by—it’s meant for moral leadership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As February comes to a close, Trey tackles questions on the case that gripped the nation: the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. He discusses the jurisdictional limits of the FBI in local cases and the constitutional necessity of the Grand Jury, breaking down how the justice system actually functions versus how it's often perceived. Plus, Trey shares an exclusive update on the highly-anticipated sequel to his debut novel The Color of Death! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey is joined by Eighth Circuit Solicitor and South Carolina Attorney General Candidate David Stumbo for a candid conversation about the South Carolina legal system. Drawing on their shared experience as prosecutors, they discuss the challenges of managing thousands of cases with limited court time and why "truth in sentencing" is necessary for victims to find closure. They also take a look at the unique way South Carolina selects its judges and why Solicitor Stumbo believes the current process needs to change as he seeks the office of Attorney General. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey answers listener questions on how missing person cases actually work, debunking the "mythical" 24-hour waiting period for investigators. He also shares a lighter look into his life at home, from his passion for college sports to the thematic naming process of his family's dogs. Plus, Trey shares a special birthday tribute to his daughter, Abigail! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Drawing on his experience as a former prosecutor, Trey breaks down why he feels the legal handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case has been "inexplicably bad." He explains the legal mechanics of a criminal conspiracy and why the inclusion of high-profile names in the recent DOJ file release feels more like a calculated "publicity stunt" than a genuine pursuit of justice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey answers questions on the investigative hurdles in the high-profile kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie and explores whether legitimate ransom notes can truly be untraceable in the age of VPNs. He also gives an inside look on the federal grand jury system to explain the long-term impact of serving on such an intense investigative body. Plus, Trey shares his candid—and often humorous—reasons for choosing to watch college sports over the 2026 Winter Olympics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Head Coach of the University of South Carolina Football team Shane Beamer rejoins Trey to discuss the evolving landscape of college athletics, including the challenges of the transfer portal and his hiring process for assistant coaches. Coach Beamer also emphasizes his commitment to building a program with longevity and shares how he navigates media scrutiny and game officiating. Plus, Trey and Coach Beamer applaud the success of former Gamecocks who played in Sunday's Big Game! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey answers questions on the mechanics of Washington, D.C. explaining why the federal government always seems to be on the verge of a shutdown. He also offers a realistic look at the 2026 midterms, sharing why "divided government" is often a historical norm and where voters should focus their attention. Plus, Trey introduces the newest (and most "incorrigible") member of the Gowdy household: a Cavapoo named D.A. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As America’s 250th anniversary looms, Trey steps back from the daily headlines to ask a deeper question: How did a nation that endured so much become so divided? From the coarsening of culture at the Grammys to the way politics and the media operate, he argues we’ve drifted away from basic, timeless values like fairness, honesty, and respect. Trey challenges listeners to move beyond slogans and “lapel-pin politics” and rediscover the shared values needed to preserve the American experiment for the next generation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey answers listener questions on why clashes tied to ICE operations have escalated, pointing to failures in coordination between federal, state, and local law enforcement. He explains how lawful protest differs from criminal conduct, and why unclear missions and political interference can put both officers and civilians at risk. Plus, Trey shares his predictions for next month's Big Game! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey sits down with the man he credits for launching his political career, Dr. David Woodard, Clemson University Professor, political consultant and author of the book Legacy: The Life and Presidency of George W. Bush. Dr. Woodard offers a rare glimpse at the private life of President George W. Bush, from moments of faith following the terror attacks on 9/11 to the decision-making behind selecting Dick Cheney as his running mate and ordering the Iraq surge. Trey also shares a personal story about nearly leaving his first congressional campaign—and the call from Dr. Woodard that changed his mind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey answers questions on why Greenland suddenly matters to U.S. national security, and how President Trump’s negotiating style often relies on what he calls “intentional hyperbole.” Plus, comments on why drawing congressional lines has always been a political exercise, and a candid take on the college football national championship. Trey says the game was outstanding — but the officiating was anything but. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With a pivotal midterm year on the horizon, Trey takes a deep dive into what's defining our next election. Political strategist Karl Rove and Trey discuss the pressures facing leaders on both sides of the aisle as they navigate redistricting and the fight for Congress. They also look toward America’s 250th birthday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What's going to happen with former Special Counsel Jack Smith's judiciary deposition? Trey answers a listener question on the Office of Special Counsel's investigation. He also shares his disappointment in his favorite teams this college football and NFL season. Plus, Trey gives his book recommendations for the new year and shares a glimpse into his sequel of The Color of Death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trey is joined by Former Biden White House Advisor Yemisi Egbewole, a young woman whose path through Washington gives her a rare view of how power, influence, and people truly intersect. From working behind the scenes of the Biden administration to joining notable television networks as a Democratic strategist, Yemisi has seen the political system from angles most never do. Trey and Yemisi dive into how experience shapes perspective, and why having thoughtful conversations with people you don’t always agree with might be one of America’s biggest strengths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A New Year comes with new questions, and there's no shortage of headlines to dominate the early days of 2026. Trey weighs in on the legal road ahead for former Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro, breaking down his legal proceedings and what potential outcomes are on the table. He also reflects on the state of the judicial system and the steps needed to restore public trust. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As 2026 begins, Trey reflects on moments from his past that shaped his understanding of American power, sacrifice, and leadership. He contrasts painful chapters like Iran and Afghanistan with recent operations in Venezuela that showcased careful planning, strong intelligence, and decisive execution. Trey closes by honoring the often-unseen men and women of the intelligence community and military, and explains why they make him feel proud to be an American. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices