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
Sep 15, 2022 • 1h 4min
"The GOP's One-Man Ban."
Senator Maggie Hassan from New Hampshire, known for her bipartisan efforts, joins the conversation. They dive into the Republican proposal for a nationwide abortion ban and its implications for the upcoming elections. The discussion also highlights the political fallout from Ron DeSantis's controversial actions with migrants. Hassan shares insights from her own campaign against MAGA candidate Don Bolduc, emphasizing the importance of keeping women's rights at the forefront of political discourse. Humor and lighthearted games add a fun twist to the serious topics.
Sep 13, 2022 • 1h 4min
"Mitch Better Have Their Money."
Lindsay Owens, the Executive Director of Groundwork Collaborative and an economic expert, joins the conversation to dissect the intricacies of inflation and its real-life implications. The discussion touches on the Republican Party’s midterm jitters and the challenges around same-sex marriage protections, revealing tensions in political strategies. Listeners are entertained with a quirky game called 'Two Takes and a Fake', blending serious topics with light-hearted fun. The interplay between corporate profit and rising prices is also prominently explored.
Sep 8, 2022 • 50min
"Of MAGA and Midterms (with John Fetterman!)"
John Fetterman, the Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania and a Democratic Senate candidate, dives into the heated atmosphere of the 2022 midterms. He candidly discusses the rivalry between Trump and Biden while outlining strategies for Democratic candidates in key races, especially in Pennsylvania. The conversation also touches on the legal troubles surrounding Trump's Super PAC and the importance of authentic messaging to engage voters. Fetterman emphasizes his recovery journey and the power of relatable narratives in connecting with constituents.
Sep 1, 2022 • 1h 12min
“A Picture Says a Thousand Crimes.”
Mitch Landrieu, the former mayor of New Orleans and current White House Infrastructure Czar, shares keen insights on President Biden’s infrastructure plan. He discusses the transformative impact of the recent infrastructure law, emphasizing its importance for clean water and transportation in underserved communities. The conversation also touches on navigating political divides, the urgency of equitable project implementation, and highlights the need for patience and collaboration among government levels. It's a fascinating look at infrastructure as a tool for social equity.
Aug 30, 2022 • 58min
"Redactions Speak Louder."
Pat Ryan, New York's newly elected Congressman, shares insights from his unexpected victory in a swing district. He discusses the political chaos surrounding Trump's legal issues and the potential for violence tied to GOP rhetoric. Ryan emphasizes the lessons Democrats can learn about grassroots campaigning and effective messaging in today's polarized climate. The conversation also explores the political implications of Biden's student debt relief plan and critiques the hypocrisy of some politicians who oppose it despite benefiting from similar policies.
Aug 25, 2022 • 1h 8min
"Biden cancels student debt!"
Melissa Murray, co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast and a legal expert, leads a lively discussion featuring Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House Press Secretary, who elaborates on President Biden's landmark decision to cancel up to $10,000 in student debt. Katie Hobbs, Arizona's Secretary of State, shares insights into her gubernatorial campaign and the challenges she's faced, including threats from political adversaries. The conversation weaves through serious political topics while maintaining a humorous undertone, making for a captivating listen.
Aug 23, 2022 • 1h 4min
"Will Trump Cost Mitch the Senate?"
Beto O'Rourke, a former U.S. Representative and current Texas gubernatorial candidate, joins the discussion on the chaotic dynamics within the GOP. He shares insights on how Trump’s influence is unsettling Senate races and McConnell's leadership. They delve into fundraising challenges and the potential consequences for the Republican agenda. O'Rourke also emphasizes grassroots mobilization in Texas, tackling issues like gun control and voting rights, amid the ongoing voter suppression debates.
Aug 18, 2022 • 1h 7min
"Let them eat crudité."
Filmmaker Alex Holder, known for his documentary "Unprecedented" on Trump’s last days, joins for an insightful conversation. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his documentary, including the fallout from its subpoena by the January 6th Committee. The discussion also touches on Trump's ongoing legal issues and his impact on the Republican Party, as well as humorous political blunders that resonate with voters. Holder's unique perspective sheds light on the intertwining of media, politics, and public perception.
Aug 15, 2022 • 1h 30min
"Raiders of the Lost Docs." (Live from Atlanta!)
Josie Duffy Rice, a co-host of Crooked Media's "What a Day" and Atlanta native, leads the discussion with prominent guests like Stacey Abrams, the former Georgia House minority leader and voting rights advocate, and Bee Nguyen, a Georgia state representative running for Secretary of State. They dive into the Mar-A-Lago raid, political turmoil, and the critical importance of protecting voting rights in Georgia. The conversation blends humor and serious insights, highlighting the upcoming elections and the need for civic engagement.
Aug 13, 2022 • 1h 35min
"Nukes of Hazzard." (Live from Nashville!)
Odessa Kelly, Founder of Stand Up Nashville and Democratic candidate for Congress, shares her insights on Nashville's political shifts and the importance of representation. Al Gore, former Vice President and climate activist, discusses the significance of new climate legislation and the shift in political discourse surrounding climate change. They also play a fun game of 90's trivia, reflecting on how environmental issues have evolved over the decades. The conversation is both humorous and inspiring, urging civic engagement in the upcoming midterms.
