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 21, 2019 • 48min
2020: Beto O’Rourke on Biden, Iran and the puppy primary
Beto O’Rourke, a Democratic presidential candidate from Texas celebrated for his grassroots campaigns, discusses his vision for winning the presidency. He outlines bold policies on healthcare and immigration reform while calling for comprehensive voting rights to restore faith in democracy. O’Rourke shares insights on the nuances of the Israel-Palestine conflict and critiques of U.S. foreign policy. Plus, in a delightful twist, he argues why his dog Artemis should be the leader of the pack. It's both a serious discussion and a light-hearted reflection!
Jun 20, 2019 • 1h 28min
“Trump on shuffle.”
Congresswoman Katie Porter, a fierce advocate from California’s 45th district, joins the discussion to delve into her support for an impeachment inquiry against Trump. The conversation navigates the tricky dynamics of Biden's campaign amid past gaffes and rising competition from Warren against Sanders. They analyze Trump's reelection strategies, dissecting how his messaging has evolved and the challenges he faces. Porter also highlights the need for transparency and ethical governance in today's polarized climate, emphasizing accountability in Congress.
Jun 17, 2019 • 1h 16min
“'Tis the season for virtual treason.”
Former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid shares his insights on impeachment and the shifting dynamics in the Senate. He emphasizes the complexities and caution required in addressing impeachment proceedings. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar lightens the mood with a fun game about student debt, blending humor and critical commentary on the financial burdens facing young Americans. Their conversations touch on pressing political events, from military escalations with Iran to Elizabeth Warren's rise in the Democratic primaries.
Jun 14, 2019 • 41min
2020: Andrew Yang on the universal basic income and why he hates the penny
Andrew Yang, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who ran for president in 2020, dives into the necessity of universal basic income as automation disrupts traditional job markets. He shares his vision for implementing UBI through innovative funding strategies like value-added taxes. Yang also critiques the penny, advocating for its abolition due to economic inefficiencies. The discussion touches on protecting reproductive rights, modernizing antitrust laws, and navigating the political landscape with kindness, all while engaging in a thoughtful dialogue about America's future.
Jun 13, 2019 • 1h 29min
“Norway, if you’re listening.”
Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, representing Minnesota's 5th Congressional District, discusses her groundbreaking plan for student debt relief, emphasizing its importance for the middle class. She dives into the complexities of immigration reform and the struggles faced by communities under policies like DED and TPS. The conversation also touches on the critical role of census accuracy in political representation. Omar passionately advocates for ambitious goals in political discourse while balancing pressing issues with humor and relatable anecdotes.
Jun 10, 2019 • 1h 13min
“Welcome to the Panderdome.” (LIVE from Des Moines)
Ann Selzer, a renowned pollster and president of Seltzer & Co., shares her insights on Iowa caucus polling with the lively hosts. They discuss Trump’s trade war, the challenges of media bias, and the strategies candidates use to resonate with voters. Selzer emphasizes the significance of polling in understanding public sentiment, while the conversation humorously critiques political pandering unique to Iowa. The dialogue showcases the complex emotions tied to activism and the need for authenticity in campaigning, all while engaging the audience with witty anecdotes.
Jun 7, 2019 • 1h 9min
"You can run but you can’t Hyde.” (LIVE from Chicago)
Marie Newman, a Democratic candidate for Illinois' 3rd congressional district and an anti-bullying advocate, joins the lively discussion. The hosts dive into the economic challenges posed by Trump's trade war and how it impacts battleground states. They tackle Joe Biden's recent shift on the Hyde amendment, emphasizing its effects on women's healthcare access. Newman shares her journey from advertising to advocacy, highlighting grassroots campaigning's power. The conversation blends humor with pressing political issues, showcasing the urgency for community engagement.
Jun 3, 2019 • 1h 15min
“Donald Trump, Diplomat.”
Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, shares his views on President Trump's visit and the rise of far-right populism, drawing parallels with European leaders. Rebecca Nagle, a Cherokee journalist, highlights the ongoing struggle for Native American rights and the intersection of current politics with tribal land issues. The discussion also addresses the fallout of Trump's diplomatic strategies on U.S.-UK relations, the urgent call for gun control, and the growing need for political leaders to genuinely engage with their constituents.
May 31, 2019 • 44min
2020: Marianne Williamson on big truths and moral outrage
Marianne Williamson, a renowned author and activist, shares her insights on running for president and the crucial difference between moral outrage and anger. She discusses the urgent need to remove money from politics, advocating for a revolutionary Department of Peace to balance military spending with humanitarian efforts. Williamson highlights the disconnect between political discourse and the real struggles of Americans, urging deeper political engagement and empathy. Her vision combines spirituality with social justice, pushing for a more compassionate political landscape.
May 30, 2019 • 1h 50min
“A dirty, filthy, disgusting word.”
David Mandel, the showrunner of HBO's 'Veep' and a master of political satire, joins the hosts to explore the messy intersection of politics and humor during the Trump era. They discuss the challenges of crafting meaningful narratives in comedy while addressing serious political themes. Mandel shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes from 'Veep,' highlighting the creative process influenced by real-world events. The conversation also touches upon strategic campaign narratives and the evolving nature of political discourse, blending laughter with crucial commentary.
