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
Jun 18, 2020 • 1h 9min
“Juneteenth.”
Heather McGhee, Chair of Color of Change and author of "The Sum of Us," guest hosts and discusses critical themes around police reform and the need for a sustained political movement against systemic racism. Reverend William Barber, Co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign, highlights their fight against poverty and the plans for the Moral March on Washington. Together, they emphasize the importance of grassroots activism, education on racial history, and the necessity of diverse coalitions to create meaningful change.
Jun 15, 2020 • 1h 20min
“Trump, unmasked.”
ACLU attorney Chase Strangio, an advocate for transgender justice, explores a groundbreaking Supreme Court ruling that protects LGBTQ rights in the workplace. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Wesley Lowrey shares insights from his reporting on nationwide protests, highlighting the urgent need for police reform following the police killing of Rayshard Brooks. The conversation dives into the complexities of racial tensions, the impact of public sentiment on policing, and the ongoing struggles for equality amidst a shifting sociopolitical landscape.
Jun 11, 2020 • 1h 11min
“Let the healing begin!”
Stacey Abrams, founder of Fair Fight and former Democratic leader in Georgia, dives into the critical voting rights issues plaguing her state. She discusses the disastrous recent primaries that highlighted voter suppression and calls for federal intervention to ensure fair access to the polls. Abrams also shares insights from her book, "Our Time Is Now," emphasizing the need for activism in the face of systemic challenges. The conversation touches on the broader political landscape, election dynamics, and the importance of maintaining democratic integrity.
Jun 8, 2020 • 1h 16min
“Protest works.”
George Gascon, a candidate for Los Angeles District Attorney and former San Francisco DA, discusses the pressing need for progressive criminal justice reform. He emphasizes the significance of recent protests against police violence, advocating for defunding the police and reallocating resources to social services. Gascon shares insights on transforming police accountability and the importance of community involvement in driving change. Their conversation highlights the crucial role of district attorneys in addressing systemic racism and ensuring equitable practices within the justice system.
Jun 4, 2020 • 1h 26min
“Your President of Lawlessness and Disorder.”
LaTosha Brown, co-founder of the Black Voters Matter Fund, passionately discusses the urgent need for mobilizing Black voters ahead of November. She explores the significant impact of recent protests against systemic racism and police brutality. The conversation highlights the troubling dynamics of power under Trump’s presidency and critiques governmental responses to calls for justice. Brown emphasizes grassroots activism and community engagement as vital tools in shaping policies and fostering hope for meaningful change.
Jun 1, 2020 • 1h 8min
“Justice for George Floyd.”
Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former Mayor of Atlanta, shares her experiences navigating the turmoil following George Floyd’s death. Activist DeRay McKesson discusses effective police reform measures and the ongoing struggle against systemic racism. They explore the impact of protests, the emotional toll of police violence, and the critical need for accountability. Discussions also highlight the contrasting responses from political leaders and emphasize grassroots activism as a driving force for change.
May 28, 2020 • 1h 14min
“Biden grieves, Trump tweets.”
Paul Tewes, a key figure in the Obama campaigns and head of Organizing Together 2020, joins the discussion to emphasize the importance of grassroots organizing for the upcoming election. He highlights the stark differences in how Biden and Trump respond to national tragedies, with Biden focusing on empathy while Trump distracts with social media antics. The conversation also dives into the need for engagement with Black voters and the significance of supporting pivotal states like North Carolina to sway national politics.
May 26, 2020 • 49min
“How we beat Trump.”
Tanya Somanader, Crooked Media's Chief Content Officer, joins to discuss the crucial Adopt a State initiative, aimed at empowering voters to engage in battleground states. She highlights innovative strategies for digital activism and grassroots organizing. The hosts dive into listener questions about the VP selection process and the challenges of a virtual convention. They also share humorous insights on political culture and the anticipation of potential election outcomes, adding a dose of fun to the serious topic of voter engagement.
May 21, 2020 • 1h 23min
“Trump hits the Hydroxy.”
Dave Weigel, a reporter at The Washington Post, joins the discussion to dissect the digital campaign strategies shaping both Biden and Trump’s approaches. They delve into the president's controversial announcement about hydroxychloroquine amid COVID-19, unpacking the absurdity of prioritizing social media drama over public health. Weigel also analyzes polling insights, revealing Biden's slim lead in Michigan, and highlights the critical nature of voting access in battleground states, reflecting on how each candidate is tackling economic messaging during this turbulent political climate.
May 18, 2020 • 1h 6min
“Fired up and ready to Zoom.”
Senator Sherrod Brown, a champion for working-class America, and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Connie Schultz share insights into the Senate negotiations over the upcoming stimulus bill. They discuss the implications of political purges and the role of inspectors general in holding government accountable. The pair lightens the mood by sharing their experiences of quarantining together, highlighting the dynamics of personal relationships during challenging times. Their blend of serious discussion and light-hearted banter offers a compelling look at politics and partnership.
