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
191 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 15min
Trump's Crackdown on Dissent
Bernie Sanders, the Independent Senator from Vermont and a prominent advocate for democratic socialism, joins the discussion to unpack the Trump administration's punitive measures against dissenters. They highlight the alarming detention of a campus protest leader and recent executive orders that threaten free speech and educational institutions. Sanders emphasizes the importance of grassroots mobilization and authenticity in political messaging. The conversation also touches on the precarious economic landscape fueled by Trump's policies, signaling a critical moment for democracy.
161 snips
Mar 9, 2025 • 1h 3min
How a Political Party Can Rise from the Dead
Alistair Campbell, former advisor to UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, shares insights on political revivals. He discusses how the Labour Party overcame Thatcherism and the importance of rebranding. Campbell emphasizes the necessity for Democrats to revive their populist roots amid the current political climate. The conversation also touches on the effective communication strategies needed to engage disillusioned voters and highlights the rising influence of right-wing populism, drawing parallels between the UK and American political landscapes.
153 snips
Mar 7, 2025 • 1h 30min
The DOGE Who Caught the Car
Sarah Longwell, a political strategist and author renowned for her insights on American politics, joins the discussion. The conversation dives into the ramifications of Trump’s recent speech and voters’ primary concerns about the economy. They dissect the turbulent market reactions to political decisions, the threat to Social Security from government chaos, and how Democratic infighting affects their messaging. The complexities surrounding public views on Elon Musk also get a spotlight, illustrating the tension between wealth, technology, and politics.
142 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 58min
The State Of the Union Is ... Long
The hosts dive into the spectacle of Donald Trump's record-setting 99-minute State of the Union address, filled with blame and bizarre moments. They discuss everything from tariffs and their economic fallout to the peculiar proposal of invading Greenland. Political protests and their effectiveness also come under scrutiny, as well as Rep. Al Green's bold interruptions. With a comedic twist, they examine Democratic responses and the need for a shift in political messaging to better connect with voters.
189 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 1h 20min
Trump’s Ukraine Fallout and Crypto Grift
The hosts dive into the chaotic aftermath of Trump's meeting with Zelensky, questioning the stability of U.S.-Ukraine relations. They highlight Trump's intentions with tariffs and Elon Musk's controversial take on Social Security. Discussions shift to the government's foray into cryptocurrencies, with a skeptical eye on the proposed strategic reserve. The episode tackles the humanitarian implications of foreign aid cuts and the complex repercussions of aggressive tariff strategies, all laced with humor and critical insights.
429 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 43min
Trump and Zelensky's Disastrous Meeting
A tumultuous White House meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky turns into a heated exchange. The discussion reveals deep diplomatic tensions and how domestic politics overshadow critical humanitarian concerns. Insights into JD Vance's provocative role add complexity to the situation. As Zelensky grapples with geopolitical pressures, the podcast examines the ramifications for U.S.-Ukrainian relations and the challenges of pursuing peace amid misinformation and shifting international dynamics.
176 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 1h 22min
Will Elon Find the Epstein Files Before It's Too Late?
The discussion kicks off with a critique of the Trump administration's failure to deliver on the Epstein files. Elon Musk's role in politics raises eyebrows as he challenges traditional power dynamics. There's humor infused in a fictional cabinet meeting, shedding light on government incompetence during health crises. The chaos surrounding immigration policies takes center stage, sparked by Trump’s latest outrageous video. Jen Psaki offers insights on effective communication strategies for Democrats as looming government shutdowns create urgency and controversy.
86 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 1h 6min
Finally, a Podcaster at the Top of the FBI!
A controversial MAGA podcaster lands a key role at the FBI, igniting fears of politicized law enforcement. The hosts delve into geopolitical issues, particularly the ongoing Ukraine crisis, and the implications of political purges within the military. They discuss Elon Musk's unconventional bureaucratic strategies and challenge the rise of conspiracy theories in public service. Amidst the chaos, they touch on budget struggles faced by Republicans and the importance of press freedom, all while injecting humor into the heavy political landscape.
509 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 1h 16min
Bill Maher on Hating Donald Trump, the Far Left and 69ing
Bill Maher, a provocative political commentator and comedian, engages in a lively discussion about wokeism, government fraud, and the shifting dynamics of the Democratic Party. He debates whether the Democrats have strayed too far left and critiques the discourse around Israel and Gaza. Maher also tackles the complexities of gender-affirming care, questioning who should make decisions about children's well-being. With sharp humor, he challenges listeners to reconsider their views on free speech and the evolving landscape of American politics.
151 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 1h 15min
Is Trump's Honeymoon Over?
Andrew Weissmann, a former federal prosecutor and legal expert, joins the discussion on Trump’s changing political landscape. They explore Trump's partnership with Elon Musk and how it impacts public perception. The podcast dives into Trump’s dangerous rhetoric regarding Ukraine, the implications of proposed Medicaid cuts, and the broader consequences of politicizing the Justice Department. Weissmann also shares insights on the challenges facing high-profile corruption cases and the importance of maintaining integrity within the legal system.
