
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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Latest episodes

23 snips
Aug 28, 2024 • 1h 31min
Telegram Founder Arrested in France
Senator Peter Welch, a prominent voice for a ceasefire in Gaza, joins the conversation to delve into the recent arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov in France. They explore the implications for free speech and the role of social media amid global tensions. The discussion also touches on strikes between Hezbollah and Israel, the evolving U.S. nuclear strategy focusing on China, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Welch highlights the need for stronger U.S. stances in foreign policy, all while sharing personal anecdotes about his time in Congress.

8 snips
Aug 21, 2024 • 1h 7min
Gaza Protests and the DNC
The podcast dives into the lack of foreign policy focus at the Democratic National Convention amidst Gaza protests. It discusses how Trump's influence might affect Netanyahu's decisions on a ceasefire. The complexities of Ukraine's actions against Russia are examined, along with the challenges facing Thai democracy. A powerful interview with a journalist recently freed in a historic prisoner exchange highlights the struggle for press freedom. The emotional pull of stories centered around resilience and hope for justice resonates throughout.

Aug 14, 2024 • 1h 22min
Ukraine Invades Russia
Amid rising global tensions, a shocking military incursion by Ukraine into Russia takes center stage. The discussion shifts between the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the complex politics at play, including a Delicate ceasefire situation. Insights into Iran's cyber antics concerning U.S. politics and Venezuela's turbulent leadership also emerge. Moreover, a vital conversation on the harsh realities faced by women under Taliban rule in Afghanistan highlights ongoing advocacy efforts, emphasizing global responsibility and support for victims of oppression.

12 snips
Aug 7, 2024 • 1h 19min
Harris-Walz Ticket, A Russian Prisoner Exchange
Alyona Minkovski, a renowned host known for her insights on foreign policy, joins Ben for an engaging discussion. They delve into Kamala Harris’s choice of Tim Walz, signaling a shift in U.S. foreign policy. The duo explores tensions in the Middle East following Ismail Haniyeh's assassination, along with a historic U.S.-Russia prisoner exchange involving high-profile individuals. They also tackle political unrest in Bangladesh, Venezuelan electoral triumphs, and the impact of AI and disinformation on global events.

22 snips
Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 24min
Venezuela's Stolen Election
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro discusses his recent election, amidst claims of fraud and widespread protests. The conversation dives into U.S. foreign policy and the implications of sanctions on Venezuela. Maduro talks about the challenges of maintaining power, while experts weigh in on the necessity of supporting legitimate opposition movements. The dialogue also touches on the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, highlighting the urgent need for international awareness and action.

Jul 24, 2024 • 1h 21min
Breaking Down Kamala Harris’s Foreign Policy
Former U.S. Senator Kamala Harris's foreign policy vision and experience is dissected, highlighting her support for the Iran nuclear deal, critique of Trump's actions, and potential impact on global partnerships. Other topics include Netanyahu's controversial speech, protests in Bangladesh, humorous insights on sharks with cocaine, and discussions on addressing state-sponsored hostage-taking.

Jul 17, 2024 • 1h 23min
World Reacts to Trump Assassination Attempt
Podcast discusses global reaction to Trump's assassination attempt, JD Vance's foreign policy views, RNC low-lights, corruption charges against Senator Menendez, news from Gaza, Kagame's re-election, Kenya protests, win for women's rights activists in Gambia, world's most expensive wedding in India, tone-deaf social media posts. Tommy interviews Congressman Moulton on JD Vance, calls for Biden to step down, Secret Service failures, and IDF's lessons from US war in Iraq.

17 snips
Jul 10, 2024 • 1h 14min
French Election Shock, NATO Descends on D.C.
The podcast delves into the surprising French election results, the Labour landslide in the UK, American politics at the NATO summit, election of reformist Masoud Pezeshkian in Iran, negotiations to end the war in Gaza, Netanyahu's address to Congress, and protests against overtourism in Barcelona.

Jun 26, 2024 • 1h 21min
UK Election Preview with David Lammy
British MP David Lammy and host discuss UK election, Labour Party's chances, Nigel Farage's popularity, and progressive foreign policy. They touch on Ukraine conflict, Hamas-Israel ceasefire, and potential role for David as Foreign Secretary. Conversation also includes Kenyan police in Haiti, Julian Assange's release, and China's dynamics.

Jun 19, 2024 • 1h 23min
Why Is Putin Going To North Korea?
Discussions on Putin's visit to North Korea, Wall Street Journal reporter espionage charges in Russia, Netanyahu disbanding war cabinet, terror threats due to Gaza war, Macron's polling, protests in Argentina, Pope's influencer outreach, and Rep. Ilhan Omar's advocacy for Sudanese refugees.
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