If you are in the mood for something serious, I very strongly recommend HiPhiNation. A philosophy professor covers current topics in American society. It's first 3 seasons are stand-alone episodes, the fourth one is a series on America's justice system. I am not American, so it's already teaching me a lot but it's great for Americans too, highly topical. Seasons 3 and 4 are the best. The stand-alone episodes vary in quality based on your interests; if you are starting with the first season I would probably start with the second episode.

If you lean right, it probably won't be too appealing because the host is left-leaning as most academics tend to be. I have always felt that he presents a very balanced view, but then I have my own biases.