The John Batchelor Show

 THE LEGACY OF THE GREAT COMMUNICATOR Colleague Max Boot. Boot reflects on Reagan's legacy, noting his "genial and aloof" personality rooted in childhood trauma. He discusses the superficial nature of Reagan's diaries, his economic record aided by Paul Volcker, and his unassuming nature, exemplified by a story about an uncomfortable chair he refused to complain about. NUMBER 8 1927

COLD WAR DIPLOMACY AND ADMINISTRATIVE SCANDALS Colleague Max Boot. Focusing on foreign policy, Boot details Reagan's shift from "Evil Empire" rhetoric to a constructive partnership with Gorbachev to end the Cold War. He also addresses the administration's failures, including the chaotic tenure of Don Regan, the Iran-Contrascandal caused by Reagan's disengagement, and weak responses to apartheid. NUMBER 7 1984 PONT DU HOC

ASSASSINATION SURVIVAL AND THE FIRST TERM AGENDA Colleague Max Boot. Boot describes Reagan'ssurvival of the 1981 assassination attempt as his "finest hour," boosting his popularity and legislative agenda. He explains the power dynamics of the White House "Troika," specifically James Baker's influence, the implementation of tax cuts despite deficits, and the historic appointment of Sandra Day O'Connor. NUMBER 1981 INAUGURAL BALL

THE ROAD TO THE WHITE HOUSE: CAMPAIGNS OF 1976 AND 1980 Colleague Max Boot. Discussing the path to the presidency, Boot analyzes Reagan's close 1976 loss to Gerald Ford and his victorious 1980 campaign. He highlights the firing of campaign manager John Sears, Bill Casey's role in the potential "October Surprise" regarding Iranian hostages, and Reagan's decisive debate performance against Jimmy Carter. NUMBER 5 1971 GOVERNOR'S BALL

THE SHIFT TO CONSERVATISM AND THE GOVERNOR'S MANSION Colleague Max Boot. Boot traces Reagan's political evolution from New Deal Democrat to conservative icon while hosting General Electric Theater. He covers Reagan's breakout 1964 speech for Goldwater, his election as California governor, his confrontational handling of student protests, and his complex relationship with President Nixon before the Watergate scandal. NUMBER 4 1952