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
Mar 29, 2021 • 47min
“March Badness.”
The press corps faces scrutiny after a lackluster presidential news conference. Georgia's new voter suppression laws are likened to modern-day Jim Crow by President Biden. A tense immigration debate unfolds, highlighting the failures of sensationalized media narratives. Activists in Georgia find unique ways to respond to political challenges, all while keeping a sense of humor. The highlight? A playful March Badness tournament ranking the worst political figures, mixing satire with serious political critique.
Mar 25, 2021 • 46min
“Biden’s chance to go big.” (with Heather McGhee!)
Heather McGhee, a bestselling author and expert on racial justice and economic policy, joins the conversation to discuss President Biden's opportunity to push for bold, progressive reforms. They explore a proposed economic package aimed at combating climate change and inequality while emphasizing voting rights in Arizona amidst political polarization. The pair also touch on the challenges of gun control advocacy and the need for transformative social policies that support families through initiatives like baby bonds. It's a thought-provoking discussion on unity and change.
Mar 22, 2021 • 45min
“The voter suppression will continue until morale improves.”
President Biden and Vice President Harris address the urgent issue of anti-Asian hate, linking it to systemic racism and the impact of political rhetoric. The podcast dives deep into the GOP's voter suppression tactics and their implications for democracy. A humorous segment even lightens the mood with a 'dumbest people in politics' bracket. Additionally, discussions about voting access reveal shifting narratives and highlight grassroots activism as essential for maintaining civil rights. It's an engaging mix of serious issues and playful banter.
Mar 18, 2021 • 1h 8min
“Democracy or the Filibuster.” (with Alyssa Mastromonaco!)
Jason Concepcion, co-host of the sports podcast Take Line, dives deep into the rise of anti-Asian racism following the Atlanta shooting, advocating for greater societal awareness and challenging systemic biases. The conversation shifts to President Biden's stance on filibuster reform and its implications for democracy. The hosts also critique Republican politics regarding immigrant children at the border, unraveling the complexities of immigration reform and the urgent need for compassionate policies amidst shifting public opinions.
Mar 15, 2021 • 53min
“Beat the Press.”
Joe Biden's vaccine rollout sparks conversations about its impact on social gatherings. Donald Trump's playful quest for credit and the return of Tan Suit journalism create buzz. The serious allegations against Andrew Cuomo lead to calls for accountability, while progressives voice concerns over Biden's foreign policy. Media scrutiny shifts from pets in the White House to the intricacies of vaccination messaging and migration challenges, highlighting the disconnect between press inquiries and public sentiment.
Mar 11, 2021 • 53min
“Green Eggs and Covid Relief Plan."
The podcast humorously critiques how Republicans distract from key issues with cultural controversies like Dr. Seuss and Mr. Potato Head. It dives into Trump’s tensions with the GOP and how his influence shapes fundraising strategies and primaries. There's a serious look at the shifting Latino vote post-2020, highlighting regional disparities. The light-hearted tone also features parenting anecdotes, balancing the heavy political topics with personal reflections.
Mar 8, 2021 • 1h 14min
“The Era of Big Government is Back.”
Danica Roem, the first openly transgender person in a U.S. state legislature and Virginia State Delegate, joins the discussion on pressing political issues. She highlights the importance of defending trans rights amid ongoing legislative battles across the country. Roem shares insights on Virginia's advancements in LGBTQ rights, including the Virginia Values Act. The conversation also touches on the significance of engaging in activism and the challenges faced in confronting anti-trans legislation, especially in youth sports.
Mar 4, 2021 • 57min
“Basket of Neanderthals.”
Svante Myrick, the dynamic Mayor of Ithaca, New York, has gained attention for his bold police reform proposal that seeks to transform how communities handle public safety. He discusses prioritizing community solutions instead of traditional law enforcement. The conversation dives into the challenges and motivations behind this innovative approach, emphasizing the need for trust between police and the communities they serve. Myrick also highlights the importance of community engagement and the role it plays in shaping effective policing policies.
Mar 1, 2021 • 1h 7min
"Bienvenidos a Orlando (with Will Smith!)"
Will Smith, renowned actor and executive producer of the docuseries 'Amend: The Fight for America,' joins the conversation to discuss the 14th Amendment’s pivotal role in the fight for equality. He shares insights about personal growth and the intersection of art and politics. The dialogue takes a lively turn as they examine the current political landscape, including the Senate's minimum wage debate and the chaotic rhetoric at CPAC, highlighting how these issues continue to shape American identity and democracy.
Feb 25, 2021 • 1h 13min
“The Clown Prince of CPAC.”
Dara Lind, an immigration policy reporter for ProPublica and co-host of "The Weeds," joins the discussion to unravel the impacts of Biden’s immigration strategies, notably concerning unaccompanied minors at the border. The conversation dives into Trump’s ongoing influence over the GOP at CPAC, the electoral challenges faced by Texas Democrats, and the surprising voting dynamics among Latino communities. Lind highlights the pressing need for reform in immigration policy and voting rights, emphasizing the complexity of these issues in today's political landscape.
