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
Sep 14, 2020 • 1h 11min
“50 Days to Joe.”
Reverend Greg Lewis, leader of Wisconsin's Souls to the Polls initiative, champions grassroots efforts to boost voter turnout in the Black community. He discusses how this program aims to empower voters and combat challenges like ID laws and misinformation. The conversation also touches on the urgency of increasing civic engagement ahead of the election, highlighting the importance of community unity in ensuring every vote counts.
Sep 10, 2020 • 1h 13min
“Trump’s Covid confessions.”
Carlos Odio, co-founder of Equis Research and expert on Latino voting trends, joins the discussion on Trump’s candid admissions about downplaying COVID-19. They analyze how this manipulation affected public trust during the pandemic. The conversation shifts to the climate crisis, urging better media coverage and accountability. Odio also offers insights into engaging Latino voters in Florida, stressing the importance of targeted outreach and understanding cultural nuances to enhance their electoral participation.
Sep 8, 2020 • 54min
“Is hating the troops good for Trump?”
Lauren Groh-Wargo, CEO of Fair Fight Action and former campaign manager for Stacey Abrams, delves into the current political landscape as the looming election approaches. The discussion highlights Trump's controversial remarks about U.S. military members and their impact on public perception. Groh-Wargo emphasizes the fight against voter suppression in Georgia and the importance of mobilizing diverse voter bases. They also explore how economic factors and healthcare issues shape voter sentiment, underscoring the urgency of proactive civic engagement.
Sep 3, 2020 • 1h 5min
“AirTifa.”
Renee Montgomery, a WNBA player renowned for her activism and social justice efforts, joins the discussion. She shares her decision to sit out the season to focus on pressing societal issues. The conversation highlights the evolution of athlete activism, touching on the challenges athletes face when speaking out. Montgomery reflects on her personal journey and the importance of youth engagement in combating voter suppression. The impact of her work, alongside fellow activists, underscores a transformative movement within the sports community.
Aug 31, 2020 • 1h 7min
“The Weakest Strongman.”
Cornell Belcher, an Obama pollster and political analyst for NBC and MSNBC, joins the discussion to delve into key political and social issues. He reflects on Trump's inflammatory comments and Biden's emphatic stance against violence amid civil unrest. The duo examines the psychological dynamics of protests, contrasting grassroots movements with organized responses, and critiques the Republican narratives during the pandemic. Belcher underscores the importance of mobilizing marginalized voters ahead of the election, highlighting COVID-19's disproportionate impact on these communities.
Aug 28, 2020 • 51min
“Well that was terrible.”
The hosts tackle Donald Trump's acceptance speech, critiquing its impact amid a pandemic and the upcoming election. They discuss the disconnect between grand political displays and the harsh realities citizens face. The rhetoric of law and order emerges as a critical electoral strategy, particularly affecting suburban voters. The hosts also humorously touch on food waste, particularly celery, while navigating the complex landscape of political messaging and public sentiment during these challenging times.
Aug 27, 2020 • 1h 15min
“Kenosha vs. Convention.”
Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes joins to discuss the fallout from the shooting of Jacob Blake and the subsequent protests in Kenosha. He highlights the urgent need for systemic change and critiques the contrasting responses of political campaigns to issues of police brutality. Barnes emphasizes the importance of authentically reaching out to diverse voters and the role professional athletes played in addressing systemic racism. The discussion delves into the political exploitation of unrest and the need for genuine leadership in the fight for justice.
Aug 24, 2020 • 54min
“The RNC: Now, With 5x More Trump!”
Kevin Roose, a New York Times technology columnist and host of Rabbit Hole, dives deep into the alarming rise of the QAnon movement within American politics. He discusses its origins from a 4chan post and how social media has amplified its reach and acceptance among conservatives. The conversation also touches on the disconcerting intertwining of conspiracy theories with mainstream ideology and examines how online platforms both shape and challenge political beliefs, revealing the complexities of navigating misinformation.
Aug 21, 2020 • 51min
“It’s Joe Time.”
The hosts reflect on Joe Biden's impactful acceptance speech, emphasizing themes of unity and empathy amidst political challenges. They dissect Biden's straightforward communication and compare it to Trump's polarizing style. There's a lively discussion about the evolving formats of political conventions and the power of emotional narratives in connecting with voters. With the Republican National Convention on the horizon, they critique expected themes and messaging while encouraging voter engagement in light of the pandemic.
Aug 20, 2020 • 1h 28min
“The Convention is good!”
United States Senator Elizabeth Warren joins the discussion, bringing her passion for consumer protection and economic equality. She shares insights on her upcoming convention speech and the crucial importance of saving the U.S. Postal Service. The conversation also delves into the innovative format of the Democratic National Convention, emphasizing unity and engagement among diverse voter demographics. Warren highlights the role of effective communication in addressing important issues like childcare and the implications of political accountability.
