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 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.
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.
