Pod Save the World

Bashar al-Assad's sudden fall leads to a whirlwind of discussion about Syria's future. The podcast dives into the rapid takeover of Damascus by rebel factions and the historical context of this dramatic shift. Insights include the psychological effects on the Syrian army and the experiences of liberated prisoners. The hosts analyze the required governance post-Assad and regional dynamics with countries like Iran and Israel. They also consider the U.S. policy changes and the international community's critical role in stabilizing a post-conflict Syria.

Natasha Hall, a Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic & International Studies and an expert on Syria, joins the conversation. They delve into President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unexpected martial law declaration in South Korea, highlighting its implications for democracy and regional stability. The discussion shifts to the complexities of the Syrian civil war, analyzing the roles of various players like Turkey and Hezbollah, and the significant geopolitical shifts impacting U.S. foreign policy.

Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and women's rights activist, and Sahra Mani, director of the documentary 'Bread & Roses,' discuss Afghan women's resilience against the Taliban. They highlight the struggles for education and rights, emphasizing storytelling's power in amplifying these voices. The conversation underscores the urgent need for international accountability and including women in negotiations for Afghanistan's future, revealing the importance of solidarity in their activism.

Senator Bernie Sanders, a prominent democratic socialist from Vermont, joins the discussion on the implications of Trump's recent military and intelligence appointments, reflecting on potential politicization risks. He critiques the Biden administration’s foreign policy and arms sales to Israel, advocating for a humanitarian approach. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for climate action ahead of COP29 and explores the chaotic U.S. political landscape, humorously connecting political turmoil to sports dynamics.

Tommy and Ben process Trump’s reelection and the role foreign policy played in the outcome, highlight some awkward reactions from global leaders, and walk through what we know about Trump’s choices for top positions like Secretary of State, National Security Advisor and CIA director. They also dig into what a second Trump term will mean for Russia and Ukraine, Trump’s alleged calls with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, Elon Musk’s new role as an American oligarch, and the latest developments out of Israel and Gaza, including the expiration of a 30 day ultimatum the Biden administration gave to Netanyahu’s government about increasing aid access. Then Ben speaks with Senator Chris Murphy about where Democrats went wrong and how they can adjust their foreign policy moving forward. For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Foreign interference in U.S. elections is becoming alarmingly normalized as experts discuss potential post-election violence. A recent Chinese hack could jeopardize millions of Americans' communications. Meanwhile, tensions rise in Israel with Netanyahu's controversial firings and U.S. military support debates. Global political shifts are notable in Moldova and Botswana, while North Korean soldiers indulge in unexpected activities during downtime. Finally, humorous takes on a hug limit at a New Zealand airport add a lighter touch amidst serious discussions.

Leah Stokes, an Associate Professor at UCSB, Brian Deese, former Director of the White House National Economic Council, and Rueanna Haynes, head of Diplomacy at Climate Analytics, dive deep into climate change's role in the 2024 election. They discuss the Inflation Reduction Act's impact on clean technology, the urgent need for U.S. leadership in global energy transitions, and the dire circumstances for vulnerable communities. The conversation highlights the historical roots of climate denial and the increasing public demand for bold climate action ahead of the forthcoming election.

Jacob Soboroff, an NBC correspondent and author of "Separated," joins the discussion to delve into his new documentary on the Trump administration's family separation policy. He emphasizes the emotional weight of children being torn from their parents and the urgent need for reform. The conversation also touches on North Korea deploying special forces to Russia and the alarming implications of this military alliance, along with the growing sophistication of foreign election interference affecting the U.S. political landscape.

Evan Medeiros, a Georgetown professor and former Obama advisor, discusses the U.S.-China rivalry. Katherine Tai, the U.S. Trade Representative, shares insights on the Biden administration's trade strategies. Ryan Hass, an expert on Taiwan, highlights Taiwan's crucial role in global dynamics and semiconductor production. They delve into the balance of competition and cooperation, the historical context of trade tensions, and the potential economic consequences of military conflicts, especially concerning Taiwan amid the upcoming elections.

Maxwell Frost, the first Gen Z member of Congress, dives deep into the urgent challenges of climate change and the transformative potential of the Inflation Reduction Act. He highlights how this landmark initiative aims to drive renewable energy adoption through substantial tax incentives. Frost emphasizes that despite political turmoil, collective action towards a sustainable future is essential. The conversation reflects on generational responsibility, the power of youth activism, and the critical need for innovative policies to combat environmental crises.