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
58 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 1h 46min
Live from Occupied D.C. with Barack Obama
Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, joins the conversation to praise grassroots activists after recent Democratic wins and emphasizes the crucial need for youth engagement. U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett shares her insights on the government shutdown and her potential Senate run in Texas. The hosts analyze election data showing surprising voter shifts, while also discussing Trump's proposed focus on affordability and the political ramifications of a potential government shutdown. The lively discussion wraps up with Crockett’s take on why Trump can’t stop mentioning her.
154 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 49min
Revenge of the Libs
Celebrate the Democratic wins in the recent election, including big victories in New Jersey and Virginia. Zohran Mamdani's historic mayoral win in New York sparks discussions about his cross-party appeal and the future of progressive candidates. The hosts analyze the significance of affordability as a key message across races. Wins in Pennsylvania and Georgia signal political momentum, while shifts in Virginia highlight the impact of federal issues and Trump’s unpopularity. It's a night that illustrates a broader rejection of Trump’s agenda.
86 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 1h 33min
Don't Poo — Vote!
George Redis, a U.S. Army veteran from Ventura, CA, shares his harrowing story of being detained by ICE while driving to work. He recounts the shocking details of his experience, including being tear-gassed and held in solitary confinement with no explanation. Redis opened up about the lawsuit he filed to challenge the incident, emphasizing the need for reform in accountability for federal officers. His journey highlights the intersection of civil rights and personal bravery, as he advocates for systemic change.
88 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 1h 11min
Debating the Trump Era with Abby Phillip
Abby Phillip, CNN anchor and author of A Dream Deferred, discusses her experiences in political journalism. She highlights the narrowing of White House access and the impact of financial pressures on traditional reporting. Abby emphasizes the importance of blending analysis with hard news and reflects on Jesse Jackson’s lasting influence on the Democratic Party. She explores modern campaigning's emotional disconnect and the continuing struggle for working-class voters, revealing insights from her daily conversations with MAGA supporters.
106 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 1h 34min
Noem Won't Rule Out Tear-Gassing Trick-or-Treaters
Zohran Mamdani, a dynamic Democratic mayoral candidate for New York City, joins to discuss his campaign's final push. He shares insights on coalition-building and prioritizing cost-of-living issues over cultural distractions. Mamdani also tackles the challenges posed by Trump-backed opponents and media misrepresentation, while advocating for inclusivity in New York. He reflects on the responsibilities of governing and translating campaign excitement into real commitments for the city. Plus, he adds some playful banter about sports.
176 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 1h 32min
Trump's Secret Plan for a 3rd Term
In this discussion, guest Marc Elias, a prominent election attorney and founder of Democracy Docket, delves into the potential legal risks surrounding Donald Trump's talk of a third term. He asserts there's no constitutional loophole but warns of possible extra-legal tactics. The conversation also covers threats to the 2025 elections and how the DOJ's involvement could be manipulated. Elias emphasizes the need for public activism, civic engagement, and strong defenses to protect democracy against rising intimidation efforts.
64 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 1h 37min
Trump (Literally) Destroys White House
In this engaging discussion, Denise Feriozzi, Head of the Pipeline Fund, shares her insights on cultivating the next generation of Democratic leaders. She emphasizes the critical need for grassroots candidates at the local level. The hosts also dive into Trump’s demands for $230 million from the DOJ and his controversial pardon of a crypto CEO linked to terrorism. The conversation highlights the significance of building a strong Democratic bench through strategic state-based organizing and local election engagement.
115 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 1h 56min
Trump Unloads on No Kings
Graham Platner, a veteran and Democratic Senate candidate from Maine, shares insights about his journey from military service to oyster farming. He candidly discusses his struggles with PTSD and disillusionment after combat, as well as the impact of resurfaced Reddit comments on his campaign. Platner also critiques the Democratic Party's leadership and emphasizes a return to working-class policies, all while reflecting on how farming has aided in his personal recovery.
90 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 1h 8min
Why is Big Business Caving to Trump? (with Andrew Ross Sorkin)
Financial columnist Andrew Ross Sorkin, known for his insights in the New York Times and as a CNBC host, joins to delve into the strange dynamics of today's economy. He explores why CEOs are bowing to political pressure, the risks of tariffs, and the ominous signs of a potential financial crisis reminiscent of the Great Depression. Sorkin discusses the role of crypto in the market and the need for corporate leaders to establish clear boundaries. His warnings about leverage and economic fragility highlight the importance of humility in navigating this complex landscape.
98 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 1h 39min
JD Vance Defends Hitler-Loving Racists
Joining the conversation is Senator Brian Schatz, a U.S. Senator from Hawaii, known for his advocacy on civil liberties and bipartisan cooperation. He dives into the implications of the recent government shutdown and remarks on the troubling designation of Antifa as a terrorist organization. Schatz also addresses the potential fallout of expiring ACA tax credits and discusses U.S. military actions in Venezuela. His take on the Young Republicans' leaked racist messages and JD Vance's defense of them adds a provocative layer to the episode.
