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.
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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
Jan 19, 2021 • 1h 4min
“Trump who?”
The hosts dive into the chaotic final days of the Trump presidency, reflecting on his lasting impacts on the Republican Party and American politics. They discuss Biden's ambitious plans to combat the recession and pandemic while emphasizing the significance of a peaceful power transition. The contrast between Trump's divisive legacy and the hopeful vision for democracy is explored, along with the craft behind impactful inaugural addresses. The conversation touches on economic relief strategies and the challenges of ensuring public trust in leadership.
Jan 14, 2021 • 1h 35min
"2 Impeachment 2 Furious.”
Donald Trump makes history as the first president impeached twice, sparking a bipartisan rift within the Republican Party. Mitch McConnell's strategic position is analyzed as party loyalty clashes with accountability. The rise of misinformation leading to the January 6th insurrection is scrutinized, highlighting its impact on communities and political violence. Renée DiResta discusses the role of social media algorithms in promoting extremist content, raising questions about public trust and the effectiveness of current moderation strategies.
Jan 11, 2021 • 1h 11min
“Tweets and Reconciliation.”
Faiz Shakir, former campaign manager for Bernie Sanders and a senior advisor to Harry Reid, shares his insights on navigating progressive policy in a closely divided Senate. He discusses Joe Biden's challenges and strategies for advancing key legislation, including healthcare and voting rights. The conversation also touches on the implications of social media censorship and accountability in politics, alongside the lessons learned from the Capitol attack's aftermath, emphasizing the need for honest discourse and strategic engagement.
Jan 7, 2021 • 1h 35min
“Two Americas.”
Nsé Ufot, CEO of the New Georgia Project, is at the forefront of grassroots organizing, credited with the historic Georgia Senate victories. In this discussion, she reflects on how community engagement paved the way for significant electoral change. Ufot sheds light on the dual nature of American democracy, as it grapples with both progress and ongoing challenges. She also emphasizes the urgent need for voter mobilization and protection against suppression, particularly in evolving political landscapes. Her insights reveal a roadmap for future civic engagement.
Jan 4, 2021 • 1h 11min
“Sedition: Impossible.”
Alyssa Mastromonaco, former White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Barack Obama, shares her unique insights on presidential transitions. She discusses the chaos of the 2016 shift from Obama to Trump, spotlighting the crucial need for planning and continuity. The conversation dives into the new administration's strategies for addressing past mishaps, particularly in COVID-19 vaccine rollouts. Alyssa emphasizes the importance of federal civil servants in ensuring smooth transitions, debunking myths around their roles in political shifts.
Dec 28, 2020 • 50min
"PSA Presents: The Pundies."
The hosts hilariously critique the worst political takes of 2020, including their own, during their inaugural Pundies. They delve into the absurdities of media narratives around Biden while sharing lively thoughts on polling inaccuracies. A hilarious guessing game adds fun as they reflect on political predictions and personal resolutions. Humorous discussions about reality shows, body image, and the chaos of remote life weave into reflections on letting go of grudges and finding joy in everyday moments.
Dec 23, 2020 • 42min
Introducing 'Gaining Ground: The New Georgia' (episode 1)
Hank Klibanoff, a Pulitzer and Peabody award-winning journalist and professor at Emory University, joins the conversation to explore Georgia's political transformation. He discusses the 2018 gubernatorial race that propelled Stacey Abrams into the national spotlight. Key highlights include grassroots voter mobilization and the impressive surge of women in politics. Klibanoff also reflects on the impact of voter suppression and the ongoing struggle for voting rights, capturing the essence of a state evolving from red to blue.
Dec 21, 2020 • 1h 2min
“Melania’s Last Christmas” (Holiday mailbag!)
The hosts tackle listener questions about the Biden administration's challenges and Trump's actions. They dive into the significance of the upcoming Georgia Senate elections and the impact of redistricting on swing states. Engaging with voter dynamics, they discuss grassroots fundraising versus wealthy donors. There’s a lighthearted take on hypothetical cabinet picks and nostalgic memories, blending humor with personal anecdotes about music, sports, and family traditions around the holidays.
Dec 17, 2020 • 1h 12min
“Stimulus checks and balances.”
In a fascinating discussion, former President Barack Obama reflects on his presidency and the complexities of military decisions, particularly regarding Afghanistan. He shares insights into his tensions with the Pentagon and the challenges of balancing national security with diplomacy. The conversation delves into rising right-wing nationalism and its implications for U.S. politics. Obama also analyzes the recent Georgia Senate race and the impact of political strategies on voter sentiment, emphasizing the urgency for effective relief amidst ongoing economic challenges.
Dec 14, 2020 • 48min
“Drunk on Coup-laid.”
The podcast dives into the monumental rollout of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine amidst a polarized political landscape. It highlights the triumphs of Operation Warp Speed but critiques the Trump administration's handling of vaccine distribution. Listeners hear about the Electoral College's formalization of Biden's victory and the unsettling realities of political extremism post-coup. The unsettling implications for democracy and public health are examined, underscoring a need for renewed trust and strategic leadership.
