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
Dec 10, 2020 • 1h 39min
“The Mitch Who Stole Christmas.”
Anat Shenker-Osorio, a renowned messaging expert and founder of ASO Communications, joins the discussion with insights on effective political communication. They dive into Mitch McConnell's obstruction of pandemic relief for corporate interests and the strategic implications for the Georgia runoffs. Anat emphasizes the need for Democrats to shift focus from technical details to compelling narratives, urging them to 'sell the brownie' instead of the recipe. Their conversation spans electoral strategies, the importance of grassroots organizing, and crafting narratives that resonate with voters.
Dec 7, 2020 • 1h 6min
“Caught in the Trump trap.”
Rachel Maddow, the insightful host of "The Rachel Maddow Show" and author of "Bagman," joins Jon Lovett for a thought-provoking discussion. They dive into President-elect Biden's ambitious pandemic strategy and the challenges faced in communication. Maddow discusses Trump's controversial influence on the GOP and voter engagement in Georgia. The duo also touches on the media's role in sensationalizing politics and the urgent need for political accountability amidst a wave of misinformation. Their conversation is both enlightening and entertaining!
Dec 3, 2020 • 1h 11min
“Pardon me?”
Dan Wagner, the founder of Civis Analytics and former analytics chief for Obama's 2012 campaign, joins Dan Pfeiffer. They dissect why polling failed so dramatically in 2020, unveiling the complexities of public sentiment. Wagner emphasizes the dire need for effective messaging and strategic introspection among political parties. The duo also touches on the implications of potential pardons from Donald Trump and discusses critical bipartisan efforts needed for Covid relief, all while navigating tricky political terrains.
Nov 30, 2020 • 1h 3min
“Certified Loser.”
Joaquin Castro, a Texas Congressman and member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, shares his insights on a pivotal moment in international relations. He discusses the assassination of an Iranian nuclear scientist and its ramifications for U.S.-Iran tensions. Castro emphasizes the Biden administration's diplomatic approach and the need to prioritize foreign policy reform. He also touches on how Congress can reclaim its role in guiding America's global engagements, especially in light of the challenges posed by misinformation and past military interventions.
Nov 26, 2020 • 54min
"The ads that defined 2020."
Discover the intriguing world of political ads as they dissect the most impactful campaign strategies from Trump and Biden during the contentious 2020 election. The discussion reveals how targeted messaging shaped voter perceptions, especially in a polarized climate. Explore the nuanced approaches to ads focusing on identity and economic themes, and their roles in mobilizing specific demographics. Controversial ads are analyzed for their unintended effects, showcasing the evolving landscape of political advertising and its profound influence on elections.
Nov 23, 2020 • 50min
"Have you tried role playing?" (Thanksgiving mailbag!)
The hosts dive into the complexities of absentee voting in Georgia and the absurdities of contemporary politics. They share personal Thanksgiving anecdotes, creating a warm community feel. Discussions also touch on student loan debt relief and its implications for educational reform. A humorous breakdown of breakfast habits and Dunkin' Donuts favorites adds a lighthearted touch. The episode wraps up with thoughts on Biden's diplomatic efforts and the importance of grassroots activism in countering disinformation.
Nov 19, 2020 • 1h 15min
“My Cousin Rudy.”
Reverend Raphael Warnock, the Democratic nominee for Georgia's Senate seat and senior pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church, shares his insights on navigating the political landscape. He addresses the chaotic efforts of Trump and Giuliani to deny election results and stresses the importance of accountability. Warnock highlights grassroots voter registration as key to maintaining Georgia's blue status. He also discusses how his faith influences his views on healthcare and education, emphasizing the need for unity and inclusivity in the political arena.
Nov 16, 2020 • 1h 5min
“Transition to greatness!”
Chuck Rocha, President of Solidarity Strategies and a key advisor to Bernie Sanders, discusses the urgent need for the Democratic Party to enhance its outreach to Latino voters. He emphasizes innovative strategies and tailored messaging to engage diverse communities effectively. Rocha highlights the challenges posed by COVID-19 on political campaigning and the importance of addressing issues like immigration and healthcare. He also sheds light on the upcoming Georgia Senate races and the critical role of voter engagement in shaping the party's future.
Nov 12, 2020 • 1h 1min
“One Flew Over the Coup-Coup’s Nest.”
Stacey Abrams, CEO of Fair Fight Action, is a powerhouse in voter registration and a driving force in flipping Georgia blue. In an engaging discussion, she shares insights on grassroots mobilization and the successes seen in Georgia's political shift. Abrams emphasizes the importance of building coalitions for upcoming elections and combating voter suppression through strategic grassroots efforts. She also dives into the broader implications of political engagement at the local level and the vital role of community in safeguarding democracy.
Nov 9, 2020 • 1h 12min
“President-elect Joe Biden.”
LaTosha Brown, co-founder of Black Voters Matter and a champion for voting rights, dives into the transformative impact of grassroots organizing. She discusses the significance of the Georgia Senate runoffs and the historic turnout among Black voters. Brown emphasizes the need for ongoing political engagement and unity to address systemic inequities, highlighting the power of collective action. The conversation reflects on the emotional aftermath of Biden and Harris's victory, encapsulating a moment of hope and the urgent call for democratic participation.
