

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

May 16, 2023 • 1h 6min
Trump’s Surprise Q-chella Set
Anderson Clayton, the 25-year-old chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, shares her insights on turning North Carolina blue. She discusses grassroots engagement strategies and the challenges of voter mobilization in rural areas. The conversation touches on recent legislative actions affecting abortion rights and the political landscape post-Obama. Clayton also reflects on the importance of optimism within the Democratic Party and how to navigate today's polarized environment.

May 11, 2023 • 56min
Trump’s CNN Clown Hall
Dara Lind, an expert from the American Immigration Council, sheds light on the significant changes following the expiration of Title 42. She discusses the new, stricter asylum regulations under the Biden administration and their impact on families fleeing violence. The conversation also touches on the broader migration crisis, emphasizing the need for humane treatment amid policy enforcement. Additionally, Trump's controversial CNN town hall and its repercussions on the political landscape are examined, highlighting today's polarized environment.

May 9, 2023 • 1h 10min
Tucker’s War With Fox
Nish Kumar, host of Pod Save the UK and comedian, discusses the complexities of UK politics and the recent coronation of King Charles. He humorously critiques the royal family and the media's obsession with them. The conversation also touches on the political ramifications of recent protests in London and the shifting dynamics within the Conservative and Labour parties. Throughout, there's a sharp blend of humor and serious analysis as they navigate the intricate relationships between monarchy, public engagement, and government policies.

May 4, 2023 • 1h 10min
Trump and CNN Together Again
Chasten Buttigieg, author of "I Have Something to Tell You" and husband of Pete Buttigieg, shares his journey growing up gay and reflects on the evolving cultural landscape. He discusses the significance of representation, touching on figures like Richard Hatch and Ellen DeGeneres. The conversation delves into redefining masculinity within the LGBTQ+ experience. Humor intertwines with heartfelt narratives as Chasten highlights personal acceptance and the importance of diversity in today’s society.

May 2, 2023 • 55min
DeSantis World Bore
Zooey Zephyr, Montana's first openly transgender legislator, shares her powerful experience of being banned from the House floor for opposing anti-trans legislation. She delves into the broader implications of Republican majorities' attempts to undermine democracy and the emotional toll of such discriminatory policies. The discussion spotlights the fight for trans rights amidst rising extremism and emphasizes the importance of advocacy and resilience in the face of legislative challenges.

Apr 27, 2023 • 1h 9min
Dark Brandon: The Sequel
Celinda Lake, a veteran Democratic strategist and pollster, discusses President Biden's re-election campaign strategy, emphasizing the importance of framing political messages around personal freedom and democracy. She shares insights on the shifting political landscape and the challenges ahead as Biden aims for 270 electoral votes. The conversation also dives into the drama surrounding Tucker Carlson's firing from Fox News and the impact of media dynamics on political narratives. It's a blend of sharp analysis and engaging humor.

Apr 25, 2023 • 1h 8min
Tucker? I Hardly Knew Her
Mark Leibovich, a talented staff writer for The Atlantic renowned for his political insights, joins the conversation. He shares a quirky story about a breakfast with Chris Christie and delves into the dynamics of Biden's re-election campaign and the Republican primary landscape. The discussion also touches on the evolving strategies within the GOP, the implications of recent Supreme Court rulings, and the cultural fallout from media transitions, particularly after Tucker Carlson's departure from Fox News. Expect a blend of humor and sharp political analysis!

Apr 20, 2023 • 1h
“Fox’s $787 Million Lie.”
Leah Littman, a legal expert and co-host of Strict Scrutiny, joins to dissect the fallout from Fox News' $787 million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems. She discusses the missed chance for accountability through a public trial and critiques the media's shifting ethics. The conversation also touches on the contentious U.S. debt ceiling negotiations, revealing the political tensions ahead of the 2024 election. Lastly, Littman delves into the Supreme Court’s role in the ongoing battle over abortion medication access, linking it to broader media accountability issues.

Apr 18, 2023 • 1h
“Little Ronny Pudding Fingers.”
Max Fisher, a Crooked Media contributor and expert on media ethics, dives into the high-stakes defamation case between Dominion Voting Systems and Fox News. He discusses the implications of misinformation on democracy and the challenges of proving actual malice in court. The conversation also touches on Ron DeSantis’s recent actions, including a controversial abortion ban, and Kevin McCarthy’s unlikely debt ceiling plan, alongside the ongoing ethical scandals involving Clarence Thomas. Fisher’s insights highlight the intersection of media, politics, and accountability.

Apr 13, 2023 • 50min
"He’s Running (From Prison)."
Donald Trump is still in the race for President, even while facing legal troubles. Tim Scott believes he can outshine Trump, while Biden keeps his campaign plans under wraps. The discussion also highlights a push for Dianne Feinstein's resignation and a looming threat of book bans in certain states. Gretchen Whitmer shares Michigan's strategies that could inspire national Democrats, focusing on gun safety and abortion rights. The evolving political landscape and its cultural implications are critically examined.