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
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.
67 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.
64 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 16min
Trump’s Peace Prize Pipe Dream
Listeners delve into the chaos of U.S. foreign policy influenced by Trump's administration. The discussion tackles military actions against Iran and the dire situation in Gaza. Legal and political wrangling surrounding Netanyahu's corruption trial adds another layer of intrigue. The podcast also highlights the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the complexities of international relations, revealing both the dark and absurd realities of global politics, including a humorous look at a new luxury resort in North Korea.
86 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 1h 23min
Trump Fails To Destroy Iran’s Nuclear Program
Nilou Tabrizi, a visual forensics reporter at The Washington Post and co-author of a book on Iran's women-led uprising, shares her insights on the recent turmoil in Iran. She discusses how Iranian civilians are affected by military actions and their challenges in reporting amidst conflict. The conversation also highlights the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, the limitations of military solutions, and the deep emotional impact on ordinary Iranians. Tabrizi emphasizes the resilience of the Women's Life Freedom movement and the importance of understanding personal narratives in geopolitics.
63 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 48min
Trump Goes to War With Iran
Tommy and Ben dive into the recent airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites and examine the horrific possible retaliations. They discuss how these actions could escalate tensions across the Middle East. The hosts critique the administration's messaging and suggest that the Democrats need a better strategy. They explore the complexities of military versus diplomatic approaches and highlight the dire consequences for civilians caught in the crossfire. Global reactions to the U.S. foreign policy shifts and the implications for international relations are also a focus.
98 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 42min
Will Trump Drag Us Into War With Iran?
In this engaging discussion, U.S. Representative Greg Landsman weighs in on the possibility of U.S. military involvement in Iran, advocating for action while also supporting the war in Gaza. He debates the ramifications of such strategies, confronting the risks of regime change and media influence on public perception of war. The conversation also touches on the alarming topic of Landsman being targeted in a shooting incident, highlighting the personal stakes involved in today's heated political climate. Insights into bipartisan tensions and the need for a principled foreign policy are also explored.
69 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 34min
Israel Launches Massive Strike on Iran
Tensions escalate as Israel launches a surprise military assault on Iran, targeting its nuclear program and military leadership. The discussion dives into the geopolitical implications, including the possible fallout and Iranian retaliation. Experts analyze the effectiveness of these strikes and historical contexts, while also debating how Democrats should respond. The broader diplomatic landscape is explored, emphasizing the necessity for careful engagement amid the volatility of U.S.-Israel relations during the last administration.
52 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 36min
Trump’s MAGA Militia
Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, shares her insights on how COVID reshaped global politics and the importance of partnering with big tech to curb radicalization. She emphasizes the need to balance complex truths regarding Gaza and discusses empathetic leadership during crises. The conversation dives into the broader implications of trust in institutions and the importance of principled politics, all while reflecting on her new book, "A Different Kind of Power." Ardern's unique perspective offers hope amid today's political chaos.
39 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 1h 19min
Ukraine's Surprise Attack on Russia
Ali Velshi, an MSNBC anchor and author of "Small Acts of Courage," joins to discuss a range of pressing global issues. They dive into Ukraine's bold drone strike on Russia, exposing the complexities of the ongoing conflict. The conversation shifts to the troubling humanitarian situation in Gaza and the roles of Arab nations in supporting Palestinian rights. They also address the challenges posed by U.S.-China trade tensions, as well as the rising tide of right-wing populism in Europe, emphasizing the critical need for responsible journalism in today's political landscape.
