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
357 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 18min
Well ... he's back.
Dive into the chaotic return of a former president as he outlines bold plans amidst an audience of billionaires. The hosts dissect the awkward inauguration speech, Biden's controversial pardons, and the comedic absurdity of TikTok's role in politics. They navigate the complexities of political rhetoric, executive actions, and even meme currencies tied to Trump's brand. With humor and sharp critique, they discuss the unsettling political landscape ahead and the necessity of voter engagement to meet upcoming challenges.
159 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 1h 31min
Biden’s Final Warning
Ben Wikler, Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party and candidate for DNC chair, shares his bold vision for revitalizing the Democratic National Committee. He discusses the critical challenges facing the party, including economic inequality and the need for authentic communication. The conversation highlights grassroots movements and the importance of connecting with citizens on everyday issues. They also analyze Biden's farewell address, emphasizing concerns over oligarchy in America and the implications for democracy.
245 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 35min
Will the GOP Hold Disaster Relief Hostage?
Ken Martin, Chair of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party and a candidate for the Democratic National Committee, discusses the politicization of disaster relief amid Los Angeles wildfires, highlighting how GOP figures are pushing for conditional aid. He emphasizes the importance of bipartisan cooperation in crisis recovery. The conversation also touches on the challenges the DNC faces in connecting with working-class voters and the need for a new messaging strategy to strengthen party engagement and success in future elections.
153 snips
Jan 11, 2025 • 38min
Breaking: Gavin Newsom On the LA Fires
Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, discusses the state's response to the devastating Los Angeles fires. He shares insights on the emotional impact on affected communities and the political tensions surrounding disaster recovery. Newsom addresses water shortages that hindered firefighting efforts and outlines the state's commitment to rebuilding. He stresses the need for infrastructure improvements to face future wildfires while highlighting the pressing issues of home insurance and housing affordability in California.
170 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 17min
As LA Burns, Trump Plays Politics
Chris Murphy, a U.S. Senator from Connecticut known for his advocacy on gun control, discusses pressing political issues amid California's devastating wildfires. He addresses the GOP's swift blame game and conspiracy theories while highlighting the misinformation surrounding federal responses. The conversation also delves into Trump's legal challenges and the Democratic strategy to counteract Republican agendas. Murphy emphasizes accountability in political leadership and the importance of credible information during crises.
137 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 1h 1min
Kamala Didn't Have the Courage!
The podcast dives into Kamala Harris's certification of election results on the anniversary of the January 6th Capitol riot. The hosts unpack the political fallout from that day, reflecting on Democratic strategies and the Republican push for tax cuts. They explore the cracks in MAGA-world over immigration, alongside amusing anecdotes from personal experiences. A critical look at the significance of the Presidential Medal of Freedom rounds out their discussion, showcasing the complexities of modern governance and political absurdities.
24 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 53min
Introducing: Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams
Stacey Abrams chats with Dr. Céline Gounder, an infectious disease specialist and editor at KFF Health News, about the potential public health threats from the incoming Trump Administration. They delve into the importance of evidence-based policymaking and the urgent need to differentiate between public health and individual healthcare. Dr. Gounder emphasizes the role of citizens in advocating for informed health policies and critiques the growing skepticism towards science, all while stressing the necessity for grassroots activism to drive meaningful change.
72 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 34min
What Really Happens During a Presidential Transition
Alyssa Mastromonaco, who served on the Obama transition team, and Caroline Reston, a podcast producer, delve into the fascinating world of presidential transitions. They share behind-the-scenes stories from the 2008 Obama administration, highlighting the chaotic shift from campaign to governance. The duo discusses the importance of communication during transitions, the absurdities of cabinet application processes, and the lessons learned from past administrations. Their playful banter adds a humorous touch to the serious nature of political handovers.
232 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 1h 16min
The Pundies: Worst Takes of 2024
Join producer Elijah Cone as he guest hosts a humorous award show recognizing the worst political takes of 2024. The team reflects on the year's absurdities, including a trolling by the world's richest man just before the holidays. They engage in playful banter about their old New Year's resolutions while diving into the challenges faced by the Democratic Party and hilarious critiques of punditry. Expect a mix of laughter and insight as they dissect the political landscape and share personal goals for a chaotic 2025.
168 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 10min
AOC Loses to the Gerontocracy
Cecilia Muñoz, a longtime immigration advocate and former domestic policy director in the Obama White House, shares insights on the Democratic Party's missteps, notably sidelining young leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The discussion dives into the disconnect between party leadership and voters on immigration, emphasizing the necessity of regaining trust without compromising values. Muñoz also highlights the challenges of crafting effective, balanced immigration reform that resonates with the public, addressing both enforcement and humanitarian concerns.
