Main Line Speaker Series

Our Main Line Speaker Series is back and better than ever. Join the first program of the 2022-23 series on November 17 with Michael Smerconish.

Michael Smerconish

It’s Time to Change the Channel

Thursday, November 17, 2022
7:30 pm at Main Line Reform Temple

Michael Smerconish is an acclaimed SiriusXM radio host, CNN television host, author, and public speaker. Smerconish has extensive experience speaking to live audiences and his remarks usually touch upon the political issues of the day. A registered Independent and passionate centrist, Smerconish has the rare ability to address audiences of all political persuasion without alienating anyone in the room. Smerconish hosts a daily radio program on SiriusXM’s POTUS Channel, 124, from 9a.m. to Noon ET. His eponymous CNN program airs internationally at 9:00 am ET on Saturday mornings, and he offers opinion and analysis on CNN programming throughout the week. Prior to joining CNN, Smerconish was an MSNBC contributor who served as guest-host for Hardball with Chris Matthews, and he guest-hosted the Radio Factor for Bill O’Reilly. His presentations provide audiences with a balanced, thought-provoking and entertaining analysis of the political arena.

In addition to his acclaimed work as national radio talk show host and television personality, Smerconish is the subject of a recently released full-length film: “Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Talking” where he reflects on his three decades in the media. Smerconish shares funny anecdotes from his time behind a microphone and explains the connection between a partisan media and the increasing divide in Washington. CNN aired portions of this performance worldwide as a one-hour special on July 11, 2020. The full-length version is now available on Hulu.

This Speaker made possible through the generosity of The Ginsburg Family Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the lecture start and end?
The lecture promptly starts at 7:30 pm.  Main Line Reform Temple will be open for seating beginning at 6:00 pm.  The lecture will conclude between 8:45 – 9:00 pm.

Can I select the specific seat(s) I want?
Yes! Picking your own VIP, Premier and Deluxe seat is easy and only takes a few steps. After you review all the details about the event, just click “Buy on Map” to view the venue map for the venue. All you have to do is click or tap on a seat to purchase it!

Where is General Admission seating?
General Admission seats are immediately behind the Deluxe seating and are unreserved. Seats will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. Click here for a view from back of the General Admission section.

Can I attend the dessert reception that follows the lecture?
Only Premier & VIP tickets include the dessert reception. The reception will be held in the lower level of the building which is accessible by stairs or elevator.

Is MLRT wheelchair accessible?
Our entire facility is wheelchair accessible. There are wheelchair accessible seats in both the Premier and Deluxe seating sections and all General Admission seats are wheelchair accessible.

What is the format of the evening?
After brief welcoming remarks and introduction from an MLRT representative and the presenting sponsor, the speaker will speak until approximately 8:30 pm.  The speaker will respond to the audience’s questions during a short question and answer session that will be moderated by an MLRT representative.

Do you have assistive listening devises?
T-Coil equipped hearing aid users will be able to take advantage of the Loop system that is installed in the event space. Hearing impaired attendees without a T-Coil equipped hearing aid may request an assistive listening device from an usher

How are tickets distributed?
Tickets are available to purchase online only.  Upon successful completion of payment, you will immediately receive an email confirmation of your order.  You will have the choice to print your ticket or email it to yourself.  You must present your tickets to gain entrance to the event.

What if I cannot attend a lecture?
If you are unable to attend a lecture, we recommend that you offer your ticket(s) to a friend, neighbor or business colleague and encourage them to enjoy the lecture in your place. No refunds will be offered.

Where will the lecture take place?
Main Line Reform Temple
410 Montgomery Avenue
Wynnewood, PA 19096

What are the parking options at MLRT?
There are a VERY limited number of spaces in MLRT’s parking lot and street parking in the vicinity. We highly recommend Uber/Lyft for easiest access. VIP tickets include reserved parking in the MLRT lot.

Will I be able to see and hear if I purchase a General Admission seat?
Yes!

Am I able to ask a question of the speaker?
Yes, upon entrance to the auditorium, a question card will be available with your program. Quietly during the lecture ushers will walk down the aisles to collect the questions from the audience.  Please note the moderator may not have time to ask all questions submitted.

Am I able to provide my feedback after a lecture?
Yes.  If your email address is on file with us, you will receive a short survey following the lecture. If you choose to participate, you will have the opportunity to offer comments about the evening.

Is it possible to get a video or transcription of a speaker’s lecture?
Unfortunately, the contracts with the speakers do not allow for recording and dissemination of the speakers comments.

Will there be future opportunities to purchase the Series rather than individual tickets?
We will evaluate this year and make determination as to how best to handle scheduled lectures in the future.  Everyone who attends one of this year’s lectures will receive an advance notice about upcoming lectures before the general public is notified.