

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

Feb 22, 2021 • 1h
“When they Cuomo, we go high.”
Bee Nguyen, a Georgia State Representative and advocate against voter suppression, shares her insights on the alarming new legislation aimed at curbing voter access in her state. She highlights the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities and the urgent need for federal legislation to protect voting rights. The discussion also touches on Governor Cuomo's controversy surrounding underreported nursing home deaths and the political landscape surrounding the American Rescue Plan. Nguyen's passionate fight for equitable voting resonates amid a chaotic electoral climate.

Feb 18, 2021 • 1h 4min
“Flyin’ Ted.”
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the chief medical advisor to President Biden, dives into the complexities of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout, emphasizing the urgency of prioritizing vulnerable populations. He shares insights on emerging variants and the intertwined challenges of public health and political discourse. The podcast also touches on the political drama surrounding Trump, McConnell, and the contentious student debt debate, all while reflecting on the energy crisis in Texas and its political ramifications. It's a blend of serious issues with Fauci's expert perspective.

Feb 16, 2021 • 1h 3min
“He did it. Not guilty.”
Heather McGhee, a political strategist and author of "The Sum of Us," joins the conversation to discuss the staggering economic costs of racism. She eloquently addresses how inclusivity can lead to mutual prosperity, emphasizing the need to build coalitions that transcend racial divides. The discussion also touches on the political dynamics surrounding Trump's impeachment, the urgent fight for voting rights, and the critical need for reforms to safeguard democracy. McGhee's insights challenge listeners to rethink economic policies and foster unity.

Feb 11, 2021 • 1h 8min
“Impeachment, Lies, and Videotape.”
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, representing Washington's 7th district and chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, joins Dan to discuss pivotal issues in American politics. They delve into the use of video evidence in Trump's impeachment trial, highlighting the emotional impact on the public. Jayapal also examines the pressing need for a $15 minimum wage, addressing the challenges faced by low-wage workers during the pandemic. The conversation underscores the shift in Republican voter loyalty and the urgent need for Democrats to reconnect with working-class constituents.

Feb 8, 2021 • 46min
“Impeaching the Big Lie.”
The second impeachment of Donald Trump kicks off, sparking discussions about accountability and the political landscape. The Biden administration is navigating immigration reforms while addressing the fallout from the previous administration's policies. A significant defamation lawsuit against Fox News highlights the consequences of spreading false narratives about election integrity. The podcast also examines the media's role in political discourse and the challenges of combatting misinformation in today's climate.

Feb 4, 2021 • 1h 9min
“Party of Q.”
Farai Chideya, a journalist and author of the podcast 'Our Body Politic', joins the conversation to tackle pressing political issues. They dive into the contrasting strategies of Democrats and Republicans amidst COVID relief efforts. Chideya emphasizes the need for more representative media that connects with diverse communities. The duo also explores the internal conflicts within the Republican Party and the implications of redistricting on voter motivation and fair representation. Their dialogue sheds light on the urgency for political unity and the evolving landscape of journalism.

Feb 1, 2021 • 57min
“Katie Porter’s stock tips.”
Democratic Congresswoman Katie Porter, representing California's 45th District, dives into the urgent need for mental health care access during the pandemic. She discusses the GameStop saga and its implications for Wall Street regulation, arguing for stricter oversight. Porter also highlights the ongoing tug-of-war within the GOP, emphasizing the challenges of navigating extremism in politics. She stresses the importance of transparent communication in public health and calls for comprehensive economic relief measures to support those in need.

Jan 28, 2021 • 1h 28min
“Go Big or Lose Small.”
Ezra Klein, a New York Times opinion writer and host of The Ezra Klein Show, joins the discussion on critical political issues. He dives deep into the implications of ending the filibuster and how it might shape the future of democracy. The conversation also highlights the disconnect between Senate Republicans and public sentiment, especially regarding accountability for past actions. Klein emphasizes the urgency for Democrats to act boldly in response to voter priorities, asserting that inaction could jeopardize their political future.

Jan 25, 2021 • 1h 3min
“There’s no ‘I’ in ‘Unity.’”
Jen Psaki, former White House Press Secretary during the Biden administration, shares her insights on navigating the challenging political landscape. She discusses the bipartisan chaos surrounding Biden's COVID relief plan, including Mitch McConnell's tactics and Republican civil strife. Psaki emphasizes the necessity of unity in governance while critiquing misconceptions about Biden's approach. The conversation also touches on executive actions aimed at unifying America and the evolving dynamics within the media and political communications.

Jan 21, 2021 • 1h 6min
“Joe Biden is President.”
The swearing-in of Joe Biden marks a historic shift, filled with hope and relief. Emotions run high as Kamala Harris makes history as Vice President. The podcast discusses Biden's inaugural address, emphasizing unity and truth while addressing current challenges. Immediate executive actions on public health and civil rights are also highlighted. The complexities of navigating post-pandemic politics and the significance of transparency in communication are analyzed, contrasting current efforts with the previous administration's approach.