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
Nov 28, 2021 • 1min
Offline: DeRay Mckesson on How Twitter Saved Black Lives
DeRay Mckesson discusses the impact of Twitter on social movements, highlighting its role in the #BlackLivesMatter movement. The conversation delves into the evolution of online activism since the Ferguson protests. Mckesson shares insights on how to engage people face-to-face and emphasizes that Twitter can be a powerful tool for good despite its challenges. The humorous comparison of social media platforms to familiar places adds a lighthearted touch to the serious themes.
Nov 25, 2021 • 1h 2min
"Thanksgiving Mailbag!"
The hosts tackle listener questions, blending politics with Thanksgiving fun. They explore the quirky tradition of turkey pardons and share humorous personal stories. A deep dive into Latino voter engagement highlights how cultural factors shifted their support in recent elections. The discussion also covers the effects of pandemic policies on education and the need for Democrats to adapt their messaging. From political strategies to lighthearted anecdotes, the conversation captures the spirit of gratitude and the importance of activism.
Nov 23, 2021 • 58min
“Kyle Rittenhouse, Right-Wing Hero.”
Join legal expert Melissa Murray, a professor and co-host of Strict Scrutiny, as she breaks down the controversial Rittenhouse verdict and its implications for vigilante culture. They dive into the challenges faced by prosecutors, particularly in a politically charged environment. Murray discusses the media's role in shaping public perception of such cases and the dangerous normalization of violence. They also draw parallels between rhetoric in the Rittenhouse and Ahmaud Arbery cases, urging for active engagement in addressing deep-rooted social issues.
Nov 21, 2021 • 1min
Offline: Stephen Colbert on Finding Laughter in the Darkness
Stephen Colbert discusses his eight-hour-a-day screen habit and advocates for a Twitter-free lifestyle. He reveals the challenges of producing The Late Show during the pandemic and expresses relief at the return of a live audience. The conversation dives into the darker moments of American democracy experienced behind the scenes. Colbert also shares his views on cancel culture and emphasizes the importance of empathy in comedy, proving that laughter can indeed be found in the darkest times.
Nov 18, 2021 • 1h 13min
“Gaslighting gas prices” (with Elizabeth Warren!)
United States Senator Elizabeth Warren, a champion of consumer protection and economic policy, joins the discussion on rising prices and public perception. She dives into the Build Back Better plan, underscoring its potential to support American families amidst inflation concerns. The conversation humorously navigates political narratives, the challenges of messaging, and recent punditry fails. Warren advocates for empathetic communication from leaders to connect with voters on these pressing economic issues.
Nov 16, 2021 • 1h 1min
“Free Steve Bannon!”
Steve Bannon's surrender to federal authorities stirs controversy as Trump also revisits his election claims. Austan Goolsbee offers insights on inflation and its impact on the economy, while the complexities of Biden and Harris's relationship come under scrutiny as 2024 approaches. The discussion also touches on the importance of bipartisanship and challenges within the Republican Party, alongside a humorous look at the burgeoning cryptocurrency market and its cultural implications.
Nov 14, 2021 • 52sec
Offline: Megan Rapinoe on Social Media and Mental Health
Megan Rapinoe opens up about the mental health challenges faced by professional athletes in the social media spotlight. She discusses her unexpected role as a champion for social justice, balancing public perception as both a hero and villain. The conversation also touches on her future career aspirations, including the tantalizing possibility of running for office. Laughter and insights abound as the duo navigates the complexities of modern fame and personal well-being.
Nov 11, 2021 • 1h 5min
“Republicans not quite in array.”
Perry Bacon, a Washington Post columnist renowned for his insights on Democratic midterm strategy, joins the discussion. He highlights the Republican Party's drift towards extremism and the implications for upcoming elections. Topics include strategies for Democrats to connect with voters and the challenges of maintaining a diverse coalition. They also examine voter turnout trends post-presidential wins and the importance of addressing racial dynamics within the party. The dialogue underscores the need for sustained political engagement to ensure democracy thrives.
Nov 9, 2021 • 59min
"Josh Hawley’s Masculinity Press Tour."
Dave Roberts, a climate reporter and author of the Volts newsletter, joins to dive into the recent billion-dollar Infrastructure Bill and its implications for climate initiatives. The discussion shifts to the COP26 Climate Summit, touching on climate emissions accountability and the challenges of monitoring commitments. Humorously, they also tackle Josh Hawley's masculinity crisis and Ted Cruz's quirky endorsement of Joe Rogan, critiquing cultural narratives surrounding modern manhood. It's an entertaining blend of serious climate talk and lighthearted political commentary.
Nov 7, 2021 • 56sec
Offline: Peter Hamby on Saving Journalism from Twitter
Peter Hamby dives into the chaotic landscape of political journalism, illustrating how Twitter has distorted media narratives. He discusses the profound impact of the internet on journalism and what it takes to build a sustainable future. The conversation highlights the necessity for proactive engagement in politics, especially in today's climate, and explores the evolving role of media in shaping public discourse.
