Poll Hub Podcast
Poll Hub goes behind the science to explain how polling works, what polls really show, and what the numbers really mean.
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Apr 17, 2026
Shifting Beliefs, Shifting Democracy
On this week’s Poll Hub: We begin by examining how Americans’ religious beliefs and practices are changing across generations. Findings show that while most U.S. adults were raised with a strong religious identity and regular participation in organized religion, far fewer are maintaining those same levels of practice in adulthood. Next, we turn to how social media is shaping Americans' thinking about democracy itself. A recent study finds that heavy social media users are more likely to feel politically empowered and believe citizens can influence government, but they are also less likely than lighter users to say democracy is the best form of government. And finally, we go way back to the 40s and talk about minimum wage for our fun fact. maristpoll.com/podcast
Apr 10, 2026
Mamdani's Moment
On this week's Poll Hub: 100 days in, new numbers on Mayor Zohran Mamdani from our new NYC poll. A plurality approve of his job performance, and more than half of New York City residents say the city is now headed in the right direction — a major shift from just a few months ago. Then, the latest podcast from Marist comes from the Center for Sports Communication -- "Point Taken" is off to a great start, and we're talking to the Center's Director, Andrew Elrick about it. We finish with a question about movies and food. Which raises a question of its own... maristpoll.com/podcast
Apr 03, 2026
Financial Trust and Foreign Tensions
On this week’s Poll Hub, We kick things off by diving into a new Gallup poll that highlights a global rise in trust in banks and other financial institutions. While the U.S. is part of this upward trend, levels of trust here still lag behind many other countries raising interesting questions about confidence in the financial system at home. Next, we shift gears to explore American public opinion on Iran, tracing how attitudes have evolved over time: from the era of the Shah, through the revolution and periods of heightened tension, to where perceptions stand today. Finally, we finish with a fun fact debating the level of violence in different sports. maristpoll.com/podcast
Mar 27, 2026
War Cracks GOP Coalition
On this week's Poll Hub: Americans are torn over the conflict with Iran, wanting both a quick end and major geopolitical outcomes. While many support stopping Iran’s nuclear program, economic concerns and rising gas prices weigh heavily. Partisan divides are clear: most Republicans support military action, while Democrats and independents largely oppose it. But, there are real cracks showing in Trump's Republican Party for the first time since he won in 2016. Then, grandparents play a bigger role than many realize, both in their families and the economy. From providing financial support and care giving to sharing meals and creating lasting memories, they are essential contributors to daily life. We break down how often grandparents provide care, how much they spend on grandchildren, and the meaningful ways they support the next generation. We also take a look at what people's favorite day was in 1952, and it might look a bit different than today. maristpoll.com/podcast
Mar 20, 2026
The Future of Cancer
On this week's Poll Hub: Cancer remains one of the most widespread diseases in the United States. While treatments have improved and survival rates continue to rise, more Americans are being diagnosed, including younger populations, raising new questions about prevention and risk. At the same time, cancer care is rapidly evolving. Breakthroughs in targeted therapies and immunotherapies are helping patients live longer, and, in many cases, shifting cancer into something that can be managed over time rather than immediately life-threatening. However, progress comes with tradeoffs. Cancer is not a single disease, and its impact goes far beyond treatment, shaping long-term physical, emotional, and financial realities for patients. Joined by Dr. Thomas Blom of Princeton Medical Group and Penn Medicine, we explore where we stand today and where cancer care is headed next. maristpoll.com/podcast
Mar 13, 2026
Perfectionism and Polling
On this week’s Poll Hub: We break down our new national poll with NPR and PBS News. From President Donald Trump’s job approval rating to views on election security, we take a closer look at the numbers and what may be shaping attitudes across the country. Plus: perfectionism. When does striving for excellence become something that holds people back? We explore how perfectionism shows up in everyday life and what it can mean for productivity, expectations, and well-being. And a fun fact that "springs ahead." How are people's sleep schedules affected with the clock change? maristpoll.com/podcast
Mar 06, 2026
College, Careers, and Change
On this week’s Poll Hub: We take a closer look at shifting trust in higher education. What’s driving this change, and how are perceptions evolving across different groups? We also dive into the latest trends in remote and hybrid work, breaking down how workplace flexibility continues to evolve and what it means for productivity, company culture, and the future of where and how Americans work. maristpoll.com/podcast
Feb 27, 2026
High Prices Are the State of the Union
On this week’s Poll Hub: In the aftermath of President Trump's State of the Union Address, we’re breaking down the data about how Americans view Trump’s priorities and the rising disapproval of his administration. What’s driving these opinions, and how do they differ across groups? Also on this week's episode: grocery prices. As costs remain top of mind, we explore how Americans are adjusting their shopping habits, spending, and expectations for the economy. maristpoll.com/podcast
Feb 20, 2026
Dreams and Polling Development
On this week's Poll Hub: We’re excited to welcome Peter Enns, Professor at Cornell University and co-founder of Verasight, to discuss how polling is evolving beyond approval ratings. As a lead researcher on The Breakthrough polling project, Enns is helping redefine how we measure public opinion by using open-ended responses, topic modeling, and sentiment analysis to capture not just what people think, but why they think that way. Also on today’s episode: dreams. From stress to sleep habits, many factors influence the likelihood of having nightmares, and we’re breaking down what the data says. maristpoll.com/podcast
Feb 13, 2026
A Modern Valentine
On this week's Poll Hub: Just in time for Valentine's Day, does a potential partner's politics factor into your romantic intention? For many singles, it does. From abortion to transgender rights, the position a person holds plays a big role in the modern dating scene. Plus, we explore whether Americans think people are given enough time to grieve and what public opinion says about bereavement leave.