Pod Save the World
Pod Save the World
“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
57 snips
Jan 28, 2026 • 1h 40min
504: Has the World Finally Decided To Stand up to Trump?
Kenneth R. Rosen, author and foreign correspondent who wrote Polar War, discusses the Arctic and Greenland. He outlines why Greenland matters strategically. He explains how a melting Arctic is creating new economic and military stakes. He compares Russia and China’s Arctic moves and why the U.S. relies on partners. He highlights Indigenous impacts and dangers of reporting in the region.
92 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 1h 36min
503: Greenland Prepares for Trump Invasion
Yousra Elbagir, a Sky News Africa correspondent based in Kampala, shares her insights on Uganda’s contested election amidst a tense atmosphere. She highlights the internet blackout and the violent military response to protests over disputed tallies. Elbagir discusses President Museveni's questionable victory claims and hints at potential family succession plans. The conversation also touches on the discontent among Uganda's youth, exemplified by the challenges faced by opposition leader Bobby Wine, reflecting the broader trend of authoritarianism in Africa.
76 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 1h 49min
502: Iranian Regime Massacres Protesters, Will Trump Respond?
Jason Rezaian, the Director of Press Freedom Initiatives at The Washington Post, shares his gripping insights as a former political prisoner in Iran. He discusses the severe crackdown on recent protests and stresses the importance of internet access for Iranian citizens. Rezaian cautions against foreign military interventions, highlighting the risks to civilians, and contemplates potential leadership in a post-regime Iran. His experiences reveal a deep connection to the struggles faced by journalists and the Iranian people, advocating for diplomacy and press freedom.
116 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 1h 39min
501: Where Will Trump Invade Next?
Joaquín Castro, a U.S. Representative from Texas, offers keen insights into Trump’s controversial strike on Venezuela. He highlights the lack of congressional transparency regarding military actions and criticizes the significant costs to American taxpayers. The conversation delves into a proposed war powers resolution to better regulate future interventions. Castro also discusses concerns from military families and the Latinx community, addressing the potential ramifications of U.S. operations across the region.
141 snips
Jan 3, 2026 • 51min
Breaking: Trump Invades Venezuela
The podcast dives into the shocking U.S. military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. It discusses Trump's audacious statement about America 'running' the country and explores the implications of prioritizing oil interests. Legal concerns over this regime change are examined, alongside potential regional threats to Cuba and Colombia. The hosts analyze the risks of occupation and how this sets a concerning precedent for global strongmen. They also consider international reactions from major players like China and Russia.
98 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 1h 46min
500: ISIS Terror in Australia
Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, joins the conversation to explore significant global trends shaping 2026. She discusses the rise of populist-right parties in Europe and their impact on European security, especially regarding Ukraine. Beddoes also delves into the evolving international order, emphasizing the need to adapt trade and alliances. Additionally, she reflects on the potential risks of an economic bubble driven by AI, advocating for regulatory measures to ensure stability. A compelling look at the future of geopolitics and economics!
122 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 1h 24min
499: Trump Forfeits AI Race to China
Annika Wells, Australia's Minister for Communications, leads a bold initiative to restrict social media for kids under 16, citing developmental research. She shares insights on enforcement and platform compliance, emphasizing the significance of safeguarding youth online. The conversation also navigates the broader implications of Australia’s approach, aiming to inspire global standards on digital safety. Additionally, Tommy and Ben dissect Trump’s AI policies and their impact on international relations, revealing the complexities of current geopolitical tensions.
87 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 49min
498: Is Pete Hegseth a War Criminal?
Julia Loktev is a filmmaker known for her work on 'My Undesirable Friends', while Ksenia Mironova is a Russian independent journalist from TV Rain. They discuss the challenges faced by independent journalists in Russia amid severe crackdowns. Ksenia shares her personal experiences, including the arrest of her partner, shedding light on the tactics used to silence the press. They also reflect on the decision to continue their work in exile and draw parallels between media suppression in Russia and trends emerging in the U.S.
67 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 1h 16min
497: Unpacking Trump’s Ukraine “Peace Deal”
Dive into the chaotic world of Trump's proposed peace deal for Ukraine, revealing its shifting terms and potential Russian rejection. Explore the U.S. absence from major global summits and its implications for international relations. Unpack Bolsonaro's bizarre arrest story and the U.S. military positioning regarding Venezuela. Discover escalating tensions between Israel, Lebanon, and Gaza, and the spicy back-and-forth between China and Japan over Taiwan. Plus, a look at Candace Owens' latest conspiracy theory and MAGA influencers’ surprising international ties!
76 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 1h 38min
496: Trump & Saudi Arabia: A Tale of Corruption
Atul Gawande, a surgeon and public health leader, discusses his New Yorker documentary 'Ravina's Choice' and the dire consequences of USAID dismantlement. He highlights the staggering rise in preventable malnutrition and deaths resulting from cuts to foreign aid. Gawande sheds light on how these systemic failures in global health are affecting vulnerable populations, emphasizing the need for long-term investment and independent development agencies to rebuild capacity and restore credibility in humanitarian efforts.
