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 29, 2020 • 1h
"Statues over soldiers.”
Ron Klain, a seasoned Biden campaign advisor and former Ebola response coordinator, joins to discuss pressing political and health issues. He critiques the Trump administration’s inaction on Russian bounties on American troops and emphasizes the need for accountability. Klain also addresses the ongoing pandemic, highlighting challenges in healthcare systems and the importance of a cohesive national response. With the 2020 campaign heating up, he outlines Biden’s strategies against Trump, especially regarding voter outreach and effective communication.
Jun 26, 2020 • 57min
That's the Ticket Episode 1: Vet on It
Dive into the secretive world of vice presidential vetting. Discover how the selection process has evolved and the intricate checks candidates face. Hear firsthand accounts from campaigns, including both Barack Obama and John Kerry, as well as insights on how the Biden campaign is handling vetting today. The importance of transparency and personal chemistry adds another layer to the drama of candidate selection. Plus, learn about the strategic communication that helps manage public perception during pivotal election announcements.
Jun 25, 2020 • 1h 21min
“Biden up, Trump down, Covid rising.” (with Alyssa Mastromonaco!)
Alyssa Mastromonaco hosts a compelling discussion with Jamal Bowman, a Democratic congressional candidate who made waves with his primary victory in New York's 16th district. They delve into the resurgence of COVID-19 and its political implications, while also analyzing Biden's commanding lead over Trump in key states. Jamal shares insights about his grassroots campaign focused on housing and education, emphasizing the need for community engagement and progressive change within the Democratic Party.
Jun 22, 2020 • 1h 16min
“Live, from the Tulsa overflow” (with Jon Stewart!)
Jon Stewart, Emmy Award-winning former host of The Daily Show, joins the conversation to unpack Trump’s recent political missteps in Tulsa. He dives into the impact of money in politics and critiques the influence of political consultants, as reflected in his new film, Irresistible. Stewart also navigates the turbulent legal landscape surrounding Trump and discusses the media's role in shaping political narratives. With his signature blend of humor and insight, he emphasizes the importance of integrity in both politics and media.
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.
