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
Jul 27, 2020 • 1h 26min
"99 days to the election (with Mehdi Hasan)."
Mehdi Hasan, a columnist for The Intercept and host of Deconstructed, teams up with Ari Berman, a senior reporter at Mother Jones, to discuss crucial election dynamics with just under 100 days to go. They dive into how COVID-19 has reshaped campaign strategies and public perception, especially affecting Trump and Biden's approaches. The conversation shifts to voting rights, the safety of mail-in ballots, and the challenges posed by recent Supreme Court decisions, emphasizing the urgency for voter engagement amid misinformation.
Jul 23, 2020 • 56min
“Person, woman, man, camera… podcast.”
Hosts delve into President Trump's shifting tone during COVID-19 briefings and his controversial cognitive claims. They discuss Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's response to misogynistic attacks and the urgent need for pandemic relief legislation. The conversation highlights Biden's new childcare initiatives and the challenges facing caregivers. With a blend of political critique and personal anecdotes, they explore accountability, misinformation, and the intersection of gender and political discourse.
Jul 20, 2020 • 1h 14min
“The John Lewis Voting Rights Act.”
Maria Teresa Kumar, President and CEO of Voto Latino, discusses vital strategies for engaging the Latino community in the upcoming elections. She highlights innovative ways to boost voter registration and participation, emphasizing the significant impact of young Latino voters on electoral outcomes. The conversation honors civil rights legends John Lewis and C.T. Vivian, stressing the urgent need for reforms like the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, while addressing the challenges faced by communities of color in political engagement.
Jul 16, 2020 • 1h 20min
“Parscale finds something new.”
Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, an epidemiologist and host of America Dissected, joins the discussion to share insights on health policy with a focus on his work with the Biden-Sanders health care task force. He talks about his revealing interview with Dr. Anthony Fauci and the importance of public trust in health communication during the pandemic. The conversation also touches on Biden's ambitious climate strategy and its potential impact on voter engagement in battleground states like Texas and Georgia, highlighting the critical intersection of health and political outreach.
Jul 13, 2020 • 55min
“Cold Stone Schemery.”
Kaya Henderson, former chancellor of D.C. Public Schools and co-host of Pod Save the People, dives into pressing political and educational issues. She discusses the implications of Trump's commutation of Roger Stone and the ensuing chaos in accountability. The conversation shifts to the challenges of reopening schools during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for safe and equitable strategies that consider the diverse needs of students, parents, and teachers amidst political pressures. Henderson’s insights highlight the profound impact of COVID-19 on education.
Jul 10, 2020 • 1h 15min
That's the Ticket Episode 3: The Decision
Perry Bacon Jr., a data-driven political analyst from FiveThirtyEight, joins the discussion on how vice presidential choices evolve. They explore Biden's strategic considerations in picking a running mate and reflect on historical trends. The impact of public perception on 'readiness' for office is dissected, emphasizing diversity and its effects on voter turnout. Insights on the role of black candidates lend depth to the conversation, along with light-hearted predictions about Biden's potential choice for VP.
Jul 9, 2020 • 1h 11min
“SCOTUS Gives Trump Notice.”
Oklahoma journalist Rebecca Nagle, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, uncovers a landmark Supreme Court ruling enhancing tribal rights, showcasing its profound impact on Native communities. Rashad Robinson, the President of Color of Change, dives into the critical issue of Facebook's handling of hate speech, reflecting on the challenges of corporate accountability in the digital age. They also discuss the political dynamics of school reopenings during the pandemic and the significance of authenticity in leadership amid a divided Democratic Party.
Jul 6, 2020 • 51min
“Joe Biden, Antifa General.”
The discussion kicks off with a humorous debate about Mount Rushmore and historical figures, setting a light tone. They dive into Trump's July 4th speech, critiquing its nationalist themes amid a pandemic. As Biden’s messaging contrasts with Trump’s divisive rhetoric, the podcast explores the political implications of COVID-19 on election strategies. There's a focus on Republican candidates navigating their allegiance to Trump while addressing public health failures and cultural controversies surrounding Confederate monuments.
Jul 3, 2020 • 1h 9min
That's the Ticket Episode 2: Paving the Way
Rebecca Traister, a writer for New York Magazine and bestselling author, dives into the media challenges faced by female political candidates. She discusses the historical significance of Geraldine Ferraro and Sarah Palin in vice presidential roles, highlighting the unique scrutiny women encounter. The conversation emphasizes the crucial link between representation and systemic inequality, advocating for diverse voices in politics. Traister also reflects on Biden's promise to choose a woman as his running mate, addressing the evolving landscape of gender dynamics in electoral politics.
Jul 2, 2020 • 1h 9min
“Trump’s Recovery Summer.”
Anat Shenker-Osorio, a political messaging guru and founder of ASO Communications, joins the discussion on the intricate dance of campaign narratives. She dives into the effectiveness of 2020 campaign ads, emphasizing the ‘race-class narrative’ and the importance of portraying communities positively. The conversation also sheds light on the disparity between the optimistic economic reports and the harsh realities faced by voters. Plus, explore strategies for engaging undecided voters and shifting focus from Trump to empowering grassroots movements.
