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
May 3, 2021 • 55min
“Vax On, Mask Off.”
The podcast dives into the GOP's civil war, spotlighting Trump's lasting grip on the party. It humorously tackles the legal troubles facing Rudy Giuliani and Matt Gaetz, hinting at possible indictments. The discussion shifts to the Biden administration's vaccination strategies amidst global disparities. Key topics include vaccine hesitancy and the need for transparency in media to combat misinformation. Finally, the conversation wraps up with a call for intellectual property waivers to enhance vaccine production in underprivileged nations.
Apr 29, 2021 • 59min
“A Very Lit Joint (Address) with Jen Psaki.”
Jen Psaki, former White House Press Secretary under President Biden, joins the conversation to dissect Biden's first address to Congress. She reveals the political implications of the recent Census data on Democratic control and highlights the challenge of combating right-wing conspiracies. The discussion delves into effective communication strategies and the importance of transparency in addressing public concerns. Psaki also emphasizes the need for grassroots efforts to counter misinformation, especially as it relates to vaccination outreach and legislative priorities.
Apr 26, 2021 • 1h 25min
“Raise Caitlyn Jenner’s taxes!”
Hunter Biden, author of 'Beautiful Things' and son of President Joe Biden, joins the conversation to discuss his personal journey and the complexities of addiction. He shares heartfelt stories about family struggles and the importance of resilience and support in overcoming challenges. The dialogue also touches on the absurdity of celebrity politics with Caitlyn Jenner's gubernatorial run in California and explores the transformative power of love and redemption, all while navigating the current political landscape.
Apr 22, 2021 • 58min
“Accountability today, justice tomorrow.”
Rep. Karen Bass, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and a strong advocate for police reform and racial justice, joins the discussion to share insights on crucial issues following Derek Chauvin's conviction. She highlights the renewed hope for police reform amidst ongoing struggles for racial justice in America. The podcast also touches on the ambitious goals of the Green New Deal and President Biden's climate commitment. Bass emphasizes the importance of legislative changes and citizen action in achieving meaningful reform.
Apr 19, 2021 • 43min
"The Tucker Carlson Caucus."
Shaniqua McClendon, Crooked Media's political director, dives into the complex dynamics of the Biden administration's refugee policies, highlighting the gap between lofty goals and reality. She discusses the alarming rise of a white nationalist caucus among Republicans and the challenges posed by the filibuster in the Senate. McClendon emphasizes the importance of advocacy and constituent engagement while navigating the tricky landscape of immigration amidst rising xenophobia. Humor and political discourse blend as they motivate listeners to take action.
Apr 15, 2021 • 1h 6min
“Daunte Wright should be alive today.”
Sam Sinyangwe, co-host of Pod Save the People and co-founder of Campaign Zero, dives into the urgent need for police reform following the tragic death of Daunte Wright. He passionately discusses the systemic issues surrounding police violence in America and advocates for transformative changes. The conversation also explores innovative alternatives to traditional policing, highlighting community safety initiatives. Sinyangwe emphasizes the role of federal action in fostering accountability and urges listeners to engage in meaningful reform.
Apr 12, 2021 • 47min
“Mag-a-Lago."
The Republican Party's spring donor retreat turns into a MAGA extravaganza at Mar-a-Lago, featuring Trump’s controversial remarks. Meanwhile, Biden pushes for Supreme Court reform amidst McConnell's judicial damage. Tension rises as Trump and DeSantis vie for control within the GOP leading up to 2024. The podcast also dives into the perils of extremist rhetoric following the January 6th insurrection and discusses the labor movement's struggles against corporate giants like Amazon. Expect laughs and insights as politics meets absurdity!
Apr 8, 2021 • 48min
“Are we infrastructure?”
Raquel Willis, an award-winning writer and activist, joins the discussion to shed light on the alarming rise in anti-trans legislation. She emphasizes the importance of reframing narratives around transgender rights, arguing that misinformation fuels opposition. The talk also dives into Joe Biden's jobs plan and the contentious definition of infrastructure, revealing the political tensions and challenges Democrats face. Amidst fundraising controversies and shifting public sentiment, Raquel's insights illuminate how these issues deeply affect marginalized communities.
Apr 5, 2021 • 1h 1min
“A-holes in the Outfield.”
Ben Wikler, Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, shares his insights on the political landscape in Wisconsin, particularly the strategies to challenge Ron Johnson. He discusses the significant implications of Major League Baseball's decision to relocate the All-Star Game in light of voter suppression laws. The conversation highlights the complexities of marijuana legalization and its potential for economic growth and social justice. Additionally, they examine grassroots mobilization in combating voter suppression, emphasizing the urgency of engaging local communities.
Apr 1, 2021 • 58min
“Planes, Trains, and Matt Gaetz.”
Dive into the chaos of Infrastructure Week as President Biden unveils his ambitious $2 trillion jobs plan. The hosts hilariously discuss the Republican Party's attempts to rebrand themselves as the party of the working class, despite some obvious contradictions. Matt Gaetz’s ongoing legal troubles add a scandalous twist to the conversation. Meanwhile, a lighthearted ranking of the worst Republicans adds humor to the mix, making for an entertaining exploration of political dynamics.
