Pod Save the World
Crooked Media
“Pod Save America” cohost Tommy Vietor thought foreign policy was boring and complicated until he got the education of a lifetime working for President Obama’s National Security Council. On “Pod Save the World,” he and former deputy national security adviser Ben Rhodes break down the latest global developments and bring you behind the scenes with the people who were there. New episodes every Wednesday.
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Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Pod Save America and Pod Save the World, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 30min
Israel Bombs Hamas Leaders in Qatar
The hosts react to Israel's airstrikes on Hamas leaders in Qatar, sparking discussions on the implications for peace talks and regional politics. They illustrate how these strikes hinder normalization efforts in the Arab world. The conversation shifts to bombings in Tunisia and the terrorist attack in Jerusalem. Special guest Susan Rice shares insights into the military's weaponization under Trump. The podcast also covers political upheaval in the UK, global protest movements, and the risks of U.S. involvement in Venezuela.
120 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 1h 54min
Trump Is Humiliated by China
Journalist Jasper Nathaniel, who covers the West Bank on his Substack, Infinite Jaz, shares profound insights about the daily realities for Palestinians under occupation. He discusses the far-right’s ambitions for full annexation and elaborates on the dwindling viability of a two-state solution amid increasing settlement expansions. The conversation also touches on international perceptions of Israeli policies and the urgent need for action to address human rights issues. Jasper's observations provide a critical lens on a complex and pressing humanitarian crisis.
67 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 40min
Trump's Military and Intelligence Purge
Franklin Nossiter, a Sahel Analyst at the International Crisis Group in Senegal, sheds light on the intricate geopolitical dynamics of the Sahel region. He discusses the implications of recent military coups and the influence of foreign powers amidst rising terrorism. Nossiter highlights the local grievances that fuel recruitment by jihadist groups and critiques military strategies that overlook the necessity of dialogue. This compelling conversation unpacks the complex interplay between history, politics, and regional stability.
108 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 43min
How Putin Dominated Trump, and Can Ukraine Survive
Tommy and Ben dive into the complex geopolitical landscape following recent meetings on Ukraine, including insights from an iconic figure, Donald Trump. They examine Putin's subtle manipulation of Trump and its implications for Ukraine's sovereignty. The conversation covers the challenges of ceasefires in the Israel-Hamas conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, critiquing media narratives. Representative Ro Khanna discusses the future of Democratic foreign policy, advocating for a more humane approach to international relations.
75 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 36min
Trump's Strongman Summit Is a Gift to Putin
Yalda Hakim, Lead World News Presenter at Sky News, and Michael C. Horowitz, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, dive into heavy global issues. They analyze Trump's meeting with Putin and its implications for Ukraine, discussing Trump's Nobel aspirations and Europe's struggle with the crisis. The duo also confronts Israel's military actions in Gaza and the tragic losses of journalists. Lastly, they explore how drone warfare is reshaping military strategies, highlighting the need for ethical considerations in this new age of conflict.
41 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 46min
Trump Torches Every Ally
Elly Schlein, leader of Italy's Democratic Party and a key opposition figure against Giorgia Meloni, dives into the current political climate in Italy. She addresses the challenges facing progressives, emphasizing the need for collaboration to combat rising far-right nationalism. Schlein shares insights on social justice issues like wage disparities and energy costs while discussing the disconnect between government messaging and citizens' realities. The conversation offers a compelling look at revitalizing progressive values in a shifting political landscape.
53 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 52min
Netanyahu Gaslights While Gaza Starves
Mstyslav Chernov, a Ukrainian director known for his impactful documentaries, joins the discussion to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the political maneuvering surrounding it. He shares insights about his film, '2000 Meters to Andriivka,' which captures the harrowing experiences of soldiers in Ukraine. The conversation also explores Netanyahu's controversial policies, the evolving U.S. stance on Israel, and the implications of recognizing Palestinian statehood. Chernov's unique perspective underscores the personal stories behind geopolitical conflicts.
63 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 37min
Trump Accuses Obama of Treason
Nerima Wako-Ojiwa, a Kenyan political analyst and Executive Director of Siasa Place, shares her insights on the recent protests in Kenya against police violence and corruption. She highlights the tragic story of Alfred Ojuang, which has mobilized young people to demand accountability before the 2027 elections. Wako-Ojiwa discusses the historical roots of activism in Kenya and the role of millennials and Gen Z in fighting for change, addressing the challenges they face, such as unemployment and education costs.
68 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 33min
Was Jeffrey Epstein an Israeli Asset?
Matt Duss, executive vice president of the Center for International Policy and a former foreign policy advisor to Bernie Sanders, joins the discussion. He explores the need for Democrats to reshape their foreign policy for the Trump era, criticizing unqualified ambassador appointments and their implications. The conversation also delves into the conspiracy theories connecting Jeffrey Epstein to Israeli intelligence and highlights systemic violence against Palestinians. Duss advocates for a foreign policy rooted in security and humanitarian interests, prioritizing diplomacy over military action.
63 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 34min
Trump’s Shocking Ukraine Reversal
In this engaging discussion, Congressman Jason Crow, a veteran and member of the Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, shares insights on the impact of Trump's shifting stance on Ukraine and the implications for U.S. foreign policy. He highlights the potential fallout from the 'Big Beautiful Bill' on America's global standing and the importance of a cohesive Democratic approach to international relations. Crow also addresses pressing issues like military funding and the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for renewed Congressional oversight.
