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
Jan 20, 2022 • 1h 1min
"New Year, New Biden."
Amanda Littman, Co-founder of Run for Something, dives into the crucial role of local races in safeguarding democracy. She highlights the importance of recruiting young candidates and emphasizing civic engagement. The conversation also touches on Biden's communication during his press conference and the political maneuvers needed for upcoming midterms. Meanwhile, legal troubles loom for Donald Trump, blending serious discussions with humor about the current political circus. Tune in for insights on grassroots movements and the state of American politics!
Jan 18, 2022 • 1h 9min
"Spar-a-lago: Ron v. Don."
Martin Luther King III, the son of the legendary civil rights leader and a passionate advocate for voting rights, joins the discussion. He delves into the ongoing struggle for voting rights and the impact of current legislation, emphasizing the need for mobilization against restrictive laws. The conversation also highlights the political rivalry brewing between Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis, exploring their differing strategies leading into the 2024 election. King reflects on his father's legacy while addressing the importance of activism in today's political climate.
Jan 16, 2022 • 1h 3min
Offline: Chimamanda Adichie on the Death of Good Faith
Join acclaimed Nigerian novelist and feminist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie as she discusses her viral essay on social media and its impact on public discourse. She reflects on the changing landscape of literature amidst political polarization and the challenges of articulating nuanced thoughts in a charged environment. Adichie dives into the complexities of gender identity discussions, the role of social media in shaping narratives, and the necessity for empathy in our increasingly divided world. Get insights on maintaining good faith in dialogue and the art of genuine communication.
Jan 13, 2022 • 1h 4min
“Democracy in Disarray.”
Tensions rise as Joe Biden rallies for voting rights while trying to engage key Senators. Dr. Fauci delivers frank remarks about the Omicron variant, calling out political foolishness. The conversation takes a humorous turn with a critique of the week's best and worst punditry. Navigating the complexities of democracy, the hosts dissect the implications of COVID-19 on upcoming elections and political strategies, all wrapped in a lighthearted exploration of Washington's quirky personas and the obsession with bipartisanship.
Jan 11, 2022 • 1h 8min
“Joe and the Giant Speech.”
In this discussion, Ben Wikler, Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, dives into the pivotal role of Wisconsin politics in shaping democracy. He addresses Joe Biden's fight against voter suppression and assesses Ron Johnson's controversial re-election bid. The conversation also scrutinizes Ted Cruz's cringe-worthy moments and the broader implications for democracy. Wikler highlights grassroots efforts and local elections, underscoring their importance in mobilizing voter engagement for future political battles.
Jan 9, 2022 • 59min
Offline: Alex Stamos on Leaving Facebook and Zuckerberg’s Reign
In a fascinating discussion, Alex Stamos, former Chief Security Officer at Facebook and a current director at the Stanford Internet Observatory, dives into the internal workings of Facebook. He highlights the cyclical distrust towards institutions fueled by disinformation and personal well-being. Stamos critiques Mark Zuckerberg's leadership, advocates for greater transparency, and reflects on the challenges of misinformation during pivotal events like the 2016 election. He also underscores the pressing need for effective content moderation and ethical accountability.
Jan 6, 2022 • 1h 6min
“Biden takes on the Big Lie.”
In this discussion, Dave Wasserman, House editor of The Cook Political Report, dissects the complexities of redistricting and its surprising benefits for Democrats. They dive into President Biden's recent speech on democracy and the ongoing struggle against misinformation stemming from January 6th. The conversation touches on the intricate relationship between media and political strategy, revealing how redistricting shapes the electoral landscape and impacts voter engagement amidst a polarized climate.
Jan 4, 2022 • 1h 8min
“Happy Birthday to Coup.”
Bob Wachter, Chair of the Department of Medicine at UCSF, shares his expertise on the Omicron surge and its implications for public health. The conversation dives into the political aftermath of January 6th, focusing on Trump's upcoming press conference and Democratic efforts to change the filibuster for voting rights. They also explore societal reflections on 2021's absurdities and the challenges posed by misinformation on social media. Expect insightful commentary on healthcare innovations alongside humorous political anecdotes!
Jan 2, 2022 • 50min
Offline: Jon and Emily Favreau Answer Your Questions
In this engaging discussion, Emily Favreau, wife of Jon Favreau, shares candid insights on parenting during the pandemic and the challenges of managing screen time for kids. They emphasize the importance of community support and mental wellness, while also reflecting on their ambitions and how they balance work and family life. With a light-hearted tone, they discuss their friendship dynamics and love for Taylor Swift, bringing humor into navigating parenthood and staying connected as a couple amid life's chaos.
Dec 28, 2021 • 36min
PSA Presents: The Pundies.
The hosts tackle the year's worst political takes with wit and insight, introducing the second annual Pundi Awards. They mix serious discussions on student loans and coffee preferences with humorous anecdotes. Relationships with beloved TV show finales spark laughter and nostalgia. Personal development goals, reading habits, and AI discussions reveal their lighter sides. They navigate complex political strategies, highlighting Joe Manchin's role while reflecting on pandemic impacts. The blend of humor and serious commentary keeps listeners engaged as they discuss vaccines and New Year resolutions.
