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
Jun 3, 2022 • 1h 27min
"Trump's Crimetime Preview." (Live from The Beacon Theatre!)
Joining the discussion are Melissa Murray, a law professor known for her insightful legal analysis, and Letitia James, New York's Attorney General, widely recognized for her bold investigations. They delve into the alarming tactics by Republicans aimed at undermining democracy on election day. Tish shares her insights on ongoing probes into the Trump organization, highlighting accountability in political actions. The conversation also touches on gun legislation challenges in light of recent mass shootings, making it a compelling mix of legal analysis and urgent social issues.
May 30, 2022 • 40min
"Memorial Day Mailbag."
The hosts tackle your burning questions on student loan debt and the economic implications of Biden's policies. They engage in lighthearted talks about Memorial Day, gun control after Uvalde, and the urgency for new political voices. Expect hilarious anecdotes about diet trends and humorous travel tips mixed with serious discussions on voter engagement. They even predict summer music hits with a playful twist! The balance of comedy and politics keeps things entertaining while addressing pressing issues.
May 26, 2022 • 58min
"Why We Can't Give Up."
Senator Alex Padilla of California, a strong advocate for gun safety reform, joins to address the urgent need for action following the recent Texas school shooting. He emphasizes the emotional toll on families affected by gun violence and discusses the challenges of achieving bipartisan support for effective legislation. The conversation also touches on California's assault weapons ban as a potential model for national reform. Additionally, they analyze the recent election results and their implications for the political landscape related to gun control.
May 24, 2022 • 57min
"Trump Loses Georgia Again?"
Congresswoman Karen Bass, who represents California's 37th District and is running for mayor of Los Angeles, dives into pressing issues like homelessness and crime. She discusses how to effectively tackle these challenges while navigating the influence of money in politics. The conversation also touches on the Georgia primaries, Trump's persistent impact, and the vital role of grassroots movements in enhancing voter engagement. Bass emphasizes the need for a community-driven approach to create real change in urban settings.
May 19, 2022 • 56min
"The Most Dangerous Candidate of 2022?"
The podcast dives into the fierce midterm primaries, emphasizing the rise of progressive candidates alongside extreme Republican contenders. North Carolina Senate hopeful Cheri Beasley shares her insights on challenging Trump-backed Ted Budd. The discussion highlights Pennsylvania's political dynamics and the importance of personal narratives for candidates. It also addresses the urgent call for voter mobilization post-Roe v. Wade leaks and the push for greater representation, particularly of African-American women, in shaping future policies.
May 17, 2022 • 60min
"Stoking Hate in Primetime."
Jonathan Martin, a national political correspondent for the New York Times and co-author of "This Will Not Pass," discusses the alarming influences of racism in recent violence, like the Buffalo mass shooting. He delves into the impact of conservative media and social media on public attitudes towards immigration and the rise of extremist political narratives. The conversation highlights Biden's strategic branding and critiques the GOP's response to Trump's legacy, illustrating the fragile state of political discourse and activism today.
May 12, 2022 • 1h 6min
"We Don't Chalk About Susan."
Brian Deese, the Director of the National Economic Council under President Biden, shares crucial insights on the White House's approach to inflation and economic challenges facing families. The discussion highlights the importance of legislative strategies for protecting abortion rights following a failed Senate vote. Deese emphasizes a ‘bottom-up and middle-out’ economic philosophy, advocating for labor unions in fostering growth. The episode also touches on the implications of Trump's return to Twitter and the evolving landscape of MAGA extremism in Republican politics.
May 9, 2022 • 1h 23min
"Running the Ultra MAGAthon." (Live from St. Louis!)
In this lively discussion, United States Representative Cori Bush emphasizes the need for Democrats to remain engaged in political battles, spotlighting the urgency of reproductive rights. Former Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander shares local BBQ recommendations while diving into politics with a spark of humor. The hosts reflect on alarming revelations from a tell-all book about Trump and engage the audience with trivia, blending community spirit with sharp commentary on political extremism and campaigning challenges in the Midwest.
May 6, 2022 • 1h 29min
"Ginni Leaked It!" (Live at The Chicago Theatre!")
Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow, known for her bold stance against Republican extremism, joins Megan Jiafo, Executive Director of the Chicago Abortion Fund, to discuss urgent topics surrounding abortion rights. They delve into the implications of recent legal challenges and the importance of grassroots mobilization to protect access. McMorrow shares personal insights on navigating political divides, while Jiafo highlights critical support for those needing abortions. The conversation blends advocacy with humor, capturing the audience's spirited engagement.
May 3, 2022 • 53min
What the SCOTUS leak could mean for abortion (Strict Scrutiny Emergency Episode)
Leah Littman, a co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast, alongside legal experts Melissa Murray and Kate Shaw, dive into the repercussions of a leaked Supreme Court draft that could overturn Roe v. Wade. They discuss the emotional turmoil among abortion rights advocates and the political chaos this leak could unleash. The trio critically examines recent judicial arguments surrounding women's autonomy and warns of potential impacts on other fundamental rights. They urge for grassroots activism, emphasizing the urgency of community engagement in defending reproductive rights.
