Michael Pickering received his Ph.D. in Comparative Politics with a focus in democratization from the University of New Orleans. He also focuses on U.S. Behavioral Politics. His research interests involve how media, the judiciary, and equitable economic growth affect trends in democratization across the world. Additionally, he is the creator-host of the global news show the Lofi Poli Sci Podcast, which focuses on bringing students 'what's going on in the world today.'