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
16 snips
Aug 20, 2024 • 57min
The Late Show with Joe Biden
Joe Biden captivates at the Democratic National Convention, rallying support for Kamala Harris and reflecting on their partnership. The hosts dissect the art of political speeches, drawing parallels between oratory and sports commentary. They humorously analyze the political landscape shaped by Trump and discuss the power of personal stories in campaigns. Amid lighthearted banter, the importance of optimism in politics shines through, alongside a memorable steak crawl adventure that adds a delicious twist to their insights.
20 snips
Aug 18, 2024 • 56min
How Kamala Beats Trump (Final Ep.)
Lynn Vavreck, a political scientist from UCLA, shares insights on the tight race expected in November. David Plouffe, former Obama campaign manager, discusses how to rally support for Kamala Harris against Trump. They explore the challenges of voter engagement in a polarized landscape and strategies to mobilize the electorate. The importance of mental health and self-care in campaigning is emphasized, along with fostering personal connections to sway undecided voters. Together, they highlight the critical role of grassroots efforts in shaping the election's outcome.
20 snips
Aug 16, 2024 • 48min
Republicans Beg Trump to Be New Person
Republicans are urging Donald Trump to tone down personal attacks on Kamala Harris, but Trump remains defiant. Harris and Biden unite for a positive event, showcasing new drug price policies. As RFK Jr. considers stepping back from the race, the dynamics of political messaging come under scrutiny. The contrast between Trump’s combative style and Harris’s supportive initiatives for homebuyers is evident. Lighthearted moments include taco preferences and the stress of making important calls, proving politics can be both serious and entertaining.
15 snips
Aug 14, 2024 • 44min
The "Let Trump Be Trump" Strategy
David Axelrod, a senior political strategist and former advisor to Barack Obama, dives into the chaotic political landscape. He dissects Trump's rambling interview with Elon Musk and his struggling efforts to define Kamala Harris. The conversation also highlights election strategies, comparing Trump's instinct-driven tactics with Harris's economic messaging. Axelrod emphasizes the importance of authenticity in connecting with voters and outlines what the Harris team needs to achieve at the upcoming Democratic National Convention.
30 snips
Aug 13, 2024 • 50min
Trump Rages, Harris Rises
Kamala Harris is gaining momentum in key swing states, leaving Donald Trump visibly agitated. As Trump makes bizarre accusations, JD Vance's attempts to attack backfire in interviews. The fallout from leaked training videos shows a troubling vision for a potential second Trump term. The political landscape is complex, with Harris unveiling her policies while navigating the fallout from online controversies. The need for clear communication and responsive strategies is essential as the candidates adapt to shifting public perceptions.
26 snips
Aug 11, 2024 • 54min
Kamala Harris’s Winning Message (Ep. 7)
Join Democratic message guru Anat Shenker-Osorio and strategist Michael Podhorzer as they dive into the political landscape shaping Harris and Walz’s campaign. They discuss how swing voters perceive the duo and what messaging can win them over. Highlights include the importance of reclaiming the concept of freedom, the significance of Minnesota's inspirational campaigns, and strategies to engage disillusioned voters. Plus, enjoy insights on the power of humor in political messaging!
25 snips
Aug 9, 2024 • 60min
Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Meltdown
Brian Tyler Cohen, author of "Shameless" and a prominent YouTuber, joins the discussion about Trump’s recent outbursts at Mar-a-Lago, where he bizarrely compared his crowd sizes to Martin Luther King Jr.'s historic speech. The team analyzes Kamala Harris's rising popularity and strategies to mobilize key voter demographics, highlighting the urgency for Democrats. They also dive into the absurdities of political narratives and end with a humorous game, reflecting on the bizarre dynamics of today's political landscape.
15 snips
Aug 7, 2024 • 56min
Tim Walz Keeps the Good Vibes Going
In this engaging discussion, guest Melissa Murray, co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast and Supreme Court expert, joins to analyze the evolving political landscape. They delve into Tim Walz's dual role as a charismatic leader and a progressive advocate, highlighting his history in education and sports. The conversation also covers Biden's proposed Supreme Court reforms, the implications of Trump's January 6th case, and the shadowy flights of Justice Clarence Thomas. Together, they emphasize the importance of voter engagement in shaping the upcoming election.
4 snips
Aug 6, 2024 • 52min
VP Picks Her VP
The podcast dives into the buzz surrounding Kamala Harris's vice-presidential pick, exploring the strengths of candidates like Governors Tim Walz and Josh Shapiro. There's chatter about the influx of seasoned Obama veterans bolstering her campaign and Trump's hesitation to debate Harris. Humorous moments surface with RFK Jr.'s peculiar bear cub story, showcasing the absurdities of modern politics. The hosts dissect the strategic implications of vice-presidential choices and the impact of campaign dynamics in a tense political landscape.
21 snips
Aug 2, 2024 • 49min
Trump Revives Birtherism
Donald Trump reignites birtherism, using racially charged rhetoric to strategize for elections. Jon and Dan dissect his tactics and speculate on potential buyer's remorse regarding J.D. Vance. The discussion also highlights Kamala Harris’s VP shortlist and the fading influence of Project 2025 amidst political divides. They critique the misogynistic undertones in campaigns, especially towards women of color, and analyze how Trump's controversial comments shape the current political climate while raising questions of justice and accountability.
