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
4 snips
Jan 24, 2023 • 1h 16min
“Biden’s Lawless Raid on Biden.”
Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic House Minority Leader from New York, joins the discussion to dive into the latest political drama. He addresses Joe Biden's administration changes amidst controversies surrounding classified documents. The conversation touches on Donald Trump's Twitter comeback and his challenges in endorsements. They also explore the dynamics of upcoming Senate races and the importance of bipartisan efforts during the debt ceiling crisis. Adding a fun twist, the group plays 'Take Take Don’t Tell Me,' ranking news stories with humor and insight.
Jan 19, 2023 • 1h 15min
"Kook-ing With Gas."
Sarah Longwell, publisher of The Bulwark and a political strategist known for her focus groups and Never Trump stance, joins the discussion on pressing voter issues. They dive into the chaos around America's debt limit and how Republicans are leveraging it. Longwell shares insights on the impact of extreme candidates in elections and the shifting dynamics among Trump supporters. The podcast also tackles the quirky controversy over gas stoves, mixing humor with serious implications about health and government regulations.
Jan 12, 2023 • 1h 4min
“The House that MAGA Built.”
Congresswoman Katie Porter, a fierce advocate for consumer protection and candidate for the U.S. Senate, joins the discussion to share her views on political dynamics and legislative challenges. They delve into the current chaos in the MAGA House, contrasting how President Biden and former President Trump handle classified documents. Katie also highlights the significant housing crisis in the U.S. and the need for judicial reform, pushing for stronger Democratic candidates to ensure accountability and community engagement in politics.
Jan 10, 2023 • 58min
“First Rule Package of Fight Club.”
Kevin McCarthy's chaotic pursuit of the speakership takes center stage, exposing deep rifts within the Republican Party. Joe Biden's first trip to the US-Mexico border highlights evolving immigration policies amid rising tensions. Maxwell Alejandro Frost, the first Gen Z congress member, shares insights on youth engagement in politics and the importance of tackling issues like gun violence. The dynamic atmosphere in Congress shows the struggle for stability, as personal anecdotes and political narratives collide in this lively discussion.
Jan 5, 2023 • 40min
“Kevin at the Gaetz of Hell.”
The hosts tackle Kevin McCarthy's rocky journey to leadership, poking fun at his attempts to unite a fractured Republican Party. They delve into Biden's surprising legislative wins while Trump flounders in his attempts to save face. A lively discussion brings attention to the dizzying distractions in politics, like investigations into Hunter Biden. The episode wraps up with a humorous game that exposes the absurdities of conservative media, leaving listeners both entertained and informed.
Jan 4, 2023 • 1h 1min
"Kevin Can Wait.”
The chaos in Congress unfolds as Kevin McCarthy struggles to secure the Speaker position. A new member of Congress is exposed for fabricating their entire past, raising eyebrows about integrity in politics. The discussion swings to Biden's bipartisan efforts on infrastructure, alongside the fallout from Trump's tax returns being made public. Tensions arise within the GOP over abortion issues, while the dangers of misinformation are explored through the lens of social media and gaming culture. Expect sharp commentary and humor throughout!
Dec 22, 2022 • 1h 20min
"What a Year!"
Katie Porter, a US Representative for California known for her candid style and consumer advocacy, joins the hosts for a lively look back at 2022. They critique the chaotic political landscape, explore the significance of the Democratic primary calendar, and discuss cultural controversies like backlash against drag shows. The conversation turns humorous with a quiz on pop culture moments and awards for the year's worst political takes. Porter emphasizes the role of grassroots movements while engaging in playful banter about resolutions and absurd political commentary.
Dec 20, 2022 • 40min
"Holiday Mailbag!"
The hosts tackle burning questions about the 2024 election and the Democratic party's shifting strategies since 2016. They reflect on major events like the Roe v. Wade overturn and the invasion of Ukraine. The banter takes a lighthearted turn, featuring insights on health awareness and humorous travel tales. They dive into pop culture, discussing 'White Lotus' and their favorite Taylor Swift songs. Plus, they share their morning routines and the quirks of airport dining, blending political discourse with entertaining anecdotes.
14 snips
Dec 15, 2022 • 1h 6min
“Trump’s Grift-mas Miracle.”
Tech reporter Mike Isaac from the New York Times joins the discussion, diving into Donald Trump's new digital trading cards and their bizarre appeal to his supporters. The conversation shifts to the turbulent world of Twitter under Elon Musk, highlighting the erratic changes and their impact on public perception. They also analyze the growing love affair between the QAnon cult and the platform, raising eyebrows about its influence on the political landscape. Overall, an entertaining exploration of technology's intersection with politics.
Dec 13, 2022 • 52min
“Kevin’s Gavel In A Vice.”
Senator Brian Schatz from Hawaii, a champion for climate change, joins the discussion amid a whirlwind of political drama. They tackle the failures around the debt ceiling and dissect the implications of Kyrsten Sinema's party switch. Schatz shares insights on navigating democracy in challenging times, touching on mental health, and the crucial role of social media in today’s political landscape. The conversation is both earnest and laced with humor, making complex issues more relatable.
