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
Oct 23, 2020 • 50min
“Abraham Lincoln over here.” (Debate recap special)
The hosts dive into the recent presidential debate, sparking laughter and insights about Trump's potential 2024 run. They share a funny story involving Biden and an intern, emphasizing the vital role of voting. A detailed critique highlights Biden's clarity versus Trump's vagueness on crucial issues like COVID-19 and economic matters. The contrasting debate styles capture tensions surrounding race relations and healthcare, while discussions on climate change and energy policies showcase the candidates' stark differences. It's a lively and thought-provoking conversation on the future of American politics.
Oct 21, 2020 • 1h 13min
“Trump’s secret Chinese bank account.”
Jory Craig, Vice President of GQR and a disinformation expert, joins in to unpack the murky waters of voter disinformation ahead of the election. Craig discusses how right-wing smears can shift narratives and the importance of voter engagement in combating these tactics. The conversation also delves into Trump's financial dealings, debate strategies, and the significance of polling data. With insights on both domestic and foreign misinformation threats, listeners learn effective ways to share accurate information and counter falsehoods.
Oct 19, 2020 • 57min
“How Trump can win.”
LaVora Barnes, Chair of the Michigan Democratic Party, shares insights on the ever-shifting political landscape of Michigan. She dives into the significance of voter mobilization in key battlegrounds, how misinformation can sway opinions, and the ramifications of Trump's chaotic campaign strategy. The conversation also touches on the challenges of early voting and tangible ways to engage diverse voters. Barnes emphasizes the critical role her party plays in combating voter suppression and ensuring a fair election.
Oct 16, 2020 • 1h 23min
“America’s Crazy Uncle.” (Town hall recap)
John Fetterman, the dynamic Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, shares insights on the critical final weeks of a hotly contested race in his state. He discusses the implications of the dueling town halls between Trump and Biden, particularly how they may influence voter sentiments. Fetterman emphasizes the importance of unity and outreach in battleground areas while tackling the challenges posed by the pandemic. He also highlights recent polling trends and the significance of suburban voter support in shaping election outcomes.
Oct 14, 2020 • 44min
“Barack Obama on 2020.”
Former President Barack Obama shares his insights on the pivotal 2020 election, advocating for Joe Biden and emphasizing the need for progressive change. He discusses the importance of voting, especially among young voters of color, and the role of government in addressing systemic issues. Obama highlights the need for pragmatic reform and empathy in leadership, contrasting Biden's approach with past administrations. He also tackles the dangers of misinformation and the politicization of the justice system, urging a return to truth in political discourse.
Oct 12, 2020 • 1h 4min
"Willy Wonka and The Covid Factory.”
Congresswoman Katie Porter, known for her incisive questioning in hearings, joins Jon Lovett to unpack the overlapping crises of the 2020 election and the pandemic. They dive into the partisan chaos surrounding COVID relief negotiations and dissect Trump's controversial health narratives on the campaign trail. Porter emphasizes the widening inequality exacerbated by the pandemic and critiques the inadequate response to economic struggles. Their conversation is a dynamic blend of political insight and urgency, highlighting the need for accountability and civic engagement.
Oct 8, 2020 • 1h 19min
“Kamala at me, bro.” (Debate recap!)
Beto O'Rourke, the former Texas congressman and grassroots leader of Powered by People, joins the discussion on the vice presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Mike Pence. They dissect the debate's dynamics, focusing on Harris's compelling storytelling and perceptions of gender bias. O'Rourke shares insights about his mission to turn Texas blue, highlighting the rise of young voters and the importance of grassroots initiatives. The conversation emphasizes the need for voter engagement to combat suppression and discusses the strategic importance of flipping key Texas legislative seats.
Oct 5, 2020 • 1h 3min
“Trump's Covid Joyride.”
Senator Cory Booker, a key figure in the Senate Judiciary Committee and advocate for justice from New Jersey, dives into the reckless political landscape surrounding Trump's COVID-19 handling. He discusses the bizarre health narratives emerging from the White House and the implications of Trump's hospitalization joyride. As the election approaches, Booker explores the impact of COVID-19 on campaign strategies and the urgent need for responsible leadership, urging voters to engage actively in shaping the future.
Oct 2, 2020 • 58min
“Trump gets Covid.”
Andre Banks, founder of AB Partners and Win Black / Pa'lante, shares his insights on combating misinformation targeting Black and Latinx communities. The discussion reveals how Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis exposed a hypocrisy in leadership and impacts voter behavior. Banks emphasizes the importance of informed outreach to marginalized voters, especially amid ongoing social movements. The conversation also highlights the need for robust strategies to counter disinformation and enhance electoral engagement ahead of the upcoming election.
Sep 30, 2020 • 1h 2min
“Will you shut up, man?” (Debate recap special)
In this captivating discussion, President Joe Biden reviews the chaotic presidential debate he faced against Donald Trump. The conversation highlights the moderator's struggles and how both candidates' contrasting styles played a significant role in shaping voter perceptions. Biden’s response to issues like systemic racism and his candid narrative about family adds an emotional depth to the analysis. The hosts also tease potential reforms for future debates, leaving listeners eager for what’s next in this heated political landscape.
