Pod Save America
Crooked Media
Pod Save America is a no-bullshit conversation about politics hosted by former Obama aides Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer, and Tommy Vietor. It cuts through the noise to break down the week’s news and helps people figure out what matters and how they can help. They’re regularly joined by journalists, activists, politicians, entertainers, and world leaders. You can watch on YouTube or listen to new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
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.
For a transcript of an episode of Pod Save America, please email transcripts@crooked.com.
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.
For a transcript of an episode of Pod Save America, please email transcripts@crooked.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
109 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 1h 24min
Can Newsom Stop Trump's Steal?
California Governor Gavin Newsom dives into the urgency behind calling a special election to redraw the state’s congressional map, aiming to counteract Trump and Texas Republicans' efforts to manipulate the 2026 midterms. He discusses the challenges of implementing this ballot proposal and the importance of independent redistricting for democratic integrity. The conversation also touches on Trump's authoritative political maneuvers and the need for citizen mobilization against misinformation, blending critical insight with a call to action for voters.
100 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 34min
Trump’s Made for TV Occupation of D.C.
David Kirkpatrick, a staff writer at The New Yorker known for his deep dives into politics, joins the discussion about Trump's actions in D.C. They analyze his controversial deployment of National Guard troops and the implications of federal oversight in the city. Kirkpatrick reveals his investigation into how much the Trump family financially benefits from his presidency, touching on the ethics of profiting from public office. The conversation also covers Trump's shifting views on cryptocurrency and the broader consequences of misinformation in political discourse.
207 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 1h 16min
Pete Buttigieg Thinks Democrats Can't Go Back
Pete Buttigieg, the former South Bend mayor and Transportation Secretary, shares insights on the future of the Democratic Party. He discusses how much of the current status quo should be restored and how to effectively message around Trump's broken promises. Buttigieg also reflects on JD Vance's rise to power and the values he's compromised. Additionally, topics include gerrymandering, the erosion of trust in political institutions, and the need for cohesive strategies to connect with changing voter demographics.
103 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 1h 25min
Trump Goes Bananas
Michael Osterholm, the Director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, shares insights on the alarming decision to halt federal research into mRNA vaccines. The discussion reveals potential public health crises linked to misinformation and vaccine preparedness. Amid political turmoil, Trump’s chaotic maneuvers are examined, including the fallout from his grand jury investigations and MAGA's redistricting efforts. The dialogue provides a sobering look at the need for political engagement and accountability as the next elections approach.
42 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 1h 8min
Texas Democrats Working Remote
Texas Democrats boldly flee the state to block Republican redistricting, sparking fascinating discussions on political tactics. State Rep. James Talarico shares insights on the implications for constituents. The hosts tackle Trump's controversial moves, including firing key officials and commenting on unexpected topics like Sydney Sweeney's jeans. They also delve into the challenges of fundraising tactics affecting party relations, critiques of political narratives, and the emotional toll of unmet promises around IVF. Plus, a light-hearted commentary on celebrity controversies rounds it all off!
85 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 1h 40min
How Many Nobel Prizes Can Trump Win?
Jason Crow, a Colorado Congressman and advocate for Democratic candidates, joins to discuss his efforts to recruit future House members and the legal battle he's waging against ICE for access to detention facilities in his district. The conversation also touches on Trump's wild claims regarding Nobel Prizes, his controversial comments about Jeffrey Epstein, and the political implications of the current economic tariffs. With a lighthearted take on serious political maneuvers, this episode balances humor and critical insights into the shifting political landscape.
95 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 1h 43min
Will Trump & Netanyahu Let Gaza Starve?
Amir Tibon, an Israeli journalist and columnist for Haaretz, joins for an in-depth discussion on the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, revealing how aid shortages escalated due to political decisions. The conversation delves into the influence of Israel's far-right on Netanyahu and critiques the shifting narrative from U.S. leaders, including Trump’s recent comments acknowledging starvation in Gaza. Expect insights on reevaluating U.S. military support and the urgent need for compassionate diplomacy amid the ongoing conflict.
197 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 1h 3min
Stephen Colbert, South Park, and Donald Trump’s War Against the Media
Brian Stelter, CNN's chief media analyst and author of "Reliable Sources," joins the discussion on the precarious state of political media. He reveals troubling insights into the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's late show, questioning whether corporate interests influenced the decision. Stelter also examines Trump's legal threats against media outlets, discussing their chilling effect on journalism. Moreover, the conversation highlights the provocative satire of South Park, exploring how it comments on Trump's administration and the media's role in a rapidly changing landscape.
122 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 26min
CTRL-F 'Trump' in the Epstein Files
Mark Warner, the Senior U.S. Senator from Virginia and Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, dives deep into Trump's controversial connections with Jeffrey Epstein. The discussion highlights Trump's tactics of deflection and disinformation, particularly his accusations against Obama. Warner provides insights into the intelligence community's findings on Russian election-meddling and addresses the political fallout regarding transparency and accountability. The conversation unveils the complexities of navigating modern political scandals and the urgent need for clarity in public discourse.
102 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 1h 32min
An Obama Arrest a Day Keeps the Epstein Files Away
Lindsay Toczylowski, head of the Immigrant Defenders Law Center, discusses Andry Hernandez Romero's release from a brutal megaprison in El Salvador after 125 days. The conversation sheds light on the harrowing experiences of asylum seekers returning to oppressive regimes and the complexities of U.S. immigration policies. Toczylowski emphasizes the urgent need for community advocacy in the face of human rights abuses, urging listeners to engage with and support those affected by harsh immigration practices.
