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
74 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 28min
Trump’s Insane Plan To “Own” Gaza
Sara Jacobs, a Congresswoman from California and member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, discusses the dire consequences of Trump’s contentious plan to claim Gaza, threatening stability in Egypt and Jordan. The podcast delves into the implications of cutting USAID and the effects on foreign aid in Africa, spotlighting innovative health solutions amidst funding cuts. Jacobs emphasizes the urgency of bipartisan support to safeguard foreign assistance and tackle national security challenges linked to humanitarian crises.
82 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 33min
Elon Musk’s DOGE Dorks Gut USAID
Yousra Elbagir, a Sky News Africa Correspondent, shares insights on the violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, focusing on the M23 rebel group's control over mining resources. She discusses the humanitarian crisis connected to the conflict and the underlying geopolitical motives, including Rwanda's involvement. The conversation also critiques the stark contrast between international condemnation of violence in Africa and ongoing exploitation by foreign entities, reflecting on historical injustices and growing anti-Western sentiments.
109 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 27min
Trump's New MAGA Deep State
Peter Beinart, an author and editor known for his work on Jewish identity, joins the discussion to unpack the profound challenges faced by the Jewish community post-Gaza conflict. He emphasizes the necessity of honest dialogue about antisemitism and Israeli policies. The conversation dives into the ethics surrounding foreign aid cuts under Trump, particularly regarding detrimental impacts on global health initiatives. They also explore pressing geopolitical issues, including the deepening crises in Ukraine and the Israeli-Palestinian landscape, making a case for empathetic engagement and understanding.
16 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 38min
Trump the “Peacemaker”
Sam Rose, Acting Director of UNRWA Affairs in Gaza, provides a firsthand look at the dire humanitarian crisis following the recent ceasefire. He discusses the immense struggle for aid in a war-torn region and highlights the urgent needs of civilians who yearn for basic rights. The emotional toll on families affected by the conflict is palpable, revealing personal stories amid the broader statistics. Rose emphasizes the critical role of organizations like UNRWA in delivering support and addresses the complex challenges that remain for Gaza's inhabitants.
24 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 1h 26min
Biden’s Foreign Policy Farewell
Ian Bremmer, founder and president of the Eurasia Group, provides keen insights into the top global risks for 2025. He discusses the complexities of U.S. foreign policy regarding the Gaza conflict and critiques the Biden administration's strategies. The conversation dives into the unsettling rise of far-right parties in Europe and the implications of a changing governance landscape in Lebanon. Bremmer also paints a picture of a potential G0 world, where diminished U.S. leadership catalyzes shifting power dynamics and increased international tension.
24 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 1h 18min
Elon Musk’s Quest For Global Domination
The hosts dive into the surprising resignation of Justin Trudeau and the political turbulence in South Korea, where President Yoon faces serious challenges. They discuss Donald Trump’s alarming threats regarding Greenland and the Panama Canal. The conversation shifts to Elon Musk's controversial support for far-right parties in several countries and its implications for global politics. They also address the Biden administration's response to the genocide in Sudan and the relaxation of sanctions on Syria, alongside the ongoing complexities of Guantanamo Bay.
31 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 53min
Introducing: Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams
Dr. Céline Gounder, an infectious disease specialist and science communicator, joins Stacey Abrams to discuss the incoming Trump administration's threat to public health. They unpack controversial nominations like RFK Jr. and stress the need for science-driven policies. The conversation highlights the necessity of robust public health systems and local preparedness, while emphasizing the economic importance of Medicaid. Lastly, they explore grassroots activism as a vital tool for change, empowering communities to engage and address health issues effectively.
49 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 34min
Assad Spins His Surrender From Moscow
Leila Molana-Allen, a PBS NewsHour special correspondent reporting from Aleppo, shares her firsthand insights on the Syrian conflict. She discusses the surprising promises of rebel leaders to disband and focus on rebuilding. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by journalists in war zones and the critical role they play in documenting the realities on the ground. Molana-Allen also sheds light on the humanitarian crises and the Syrian populace's desires for Western support amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics.
42 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 1h 19min
What’s Next for Syria?
Dareen Khalifa, Senior Advisor at the International Crisis Group, brings her deep expertise on Syrian affairs to the conversation. She discusses the aftermath of the Assad regime's fall, including the formation of a new interim government by the rebel group HTS. Khalifa delves into the implications of designating HTS as a terrorist entity and the humanitarian crises affecting Syrian refugees. The talk also highlights the emerging role of rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani and the challenges of governance in a post-Assad landscape.
29 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 56min
Breaking: Assad Regime Falls
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.
