Pod Save the World

Ian Bremmer, founder and president of the Eurasia Group, provides keen insights into the top global risks for 2025. He discusses the complexities of U.S. foreign policy regarding the Gaza conflict and critiques the Biden administration's strategies. The conversation dives into the unsettling rise of far-right parties in Europe and the implications of a changing governance landscape in Lebanon. Bremmer also paints a picture of a potential G0 world, where diminished U.S. leadership catalyzes shifting power dynamics and increased international tension.

The hosts dive into the surprising resignation of Justin Trudeau and the political turbulence in South Korea, where President Yoon faces serious challenges. They discuss Donald Trump’s alarming threats regarding Greenland and the Panama Canal. The conversation shifts to Elon Musk's controversial support for far-right parties in several countries and its implications for global politics. They also address the Biden administration's response to the genocide in Sudan and the relaxation of sanctions on Syria, alongside the ongoing complexities of Guantanamo Bay.

Dr. Céline Gounder, an infectious disease specialist and science communicator, joins Stacey Abrams to discuss the incoming Trump administration's threat to public health. They unpack controversial nominations like RFK Jr. and stress the need for science-driven policies. The conversation highlights the necessity of robust public health systems and local preparedness, while emphasizing the economic importance of Medicaid. Lastly, they explore grassroots activism as a vital tool for change, empowering communities to engage and address health issues effectively.

Leila Molana-Allen, a PBS NewsHour special correspondent reporting from Aleppo, shares her firsthand insights on the Syrian conflict. She discusses the surprising promises of rebel leaders to disband and focus on rebuilding. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by journalists in war zones and the critical role they play in documenting the realities on the ground. Molana-Allen also sheds light on the humanitarian crises and the Syrian populace's desires for Western support amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics.

Dareen Khalifa, Senior Advisor at the International Crisis Group, brings her deep expertise on Syrian affairs to the conversation. She discusses the aftermath of the Assad regime's fall, including the formation of a new interim government by the rebel group HTS. Khalifa delves into the implications of designating HTS as a terrorist entity and the humanitarian crises affecting Syrian refugees. The talk also highlights the emerging role of rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani and the challenges of governance in a post-Assad landscape.

Bashar al-Assad's sudden fall leads to a whirlwind of discussion about Syria's future. The podcast dives into the rapid takeover of Damascus by rebel factions and the historical context of this dramatic shift. Insights include the psychological effects on the Syrian army and the experiences of liberated prisoners. The hosts analyze the required governance post-Assad and regional dynamics with countries like Iran and Israel. They also consider the U.S. policy changes and the international community's critical role in stabilizing a post-conflict Syria.

Natasha Hall, a Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic & International Studies and an expert on Syria, joins the conversation. They delve into President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unexpected martial law declaration in South Korea, highlighting its implications for democracy and regional stability. The discussion shifts to the complexities of the Syrian civil war, analyzing the roles of various players like Turkey and Hezbollah, and the significant geopolitical shifts impacting U.S. foreign policy.

Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and women's rights activist, and Sahra Mani, director of the documentary 'Bread & Roses,' discuss Afghan women's resilience against the Taliban. They highlight the struggles for education and rights, emphasizing storytelling's power in amplifying these voices. The conversation underscores the urgent need for international accountability and including women in negotiations for Afghanistan's future, revealing the importance of solidarity in their activism.

Senator Bernie Sanders, a prominent democratic socialist from Vermont, joins the discussion on the implications of Trump's recent military and intelligence appointments, reflecting on potential politicization risks. He critiques the Biden administration’s foreign policy and arms sales to Israel, advocating for a humanitarian approach. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for climate action ahead of COP29 and explores the chaotic U.S. political landscape, humorously connecting political turmoil to sports dynamics.

Tommy and Ben process Trump’s reelection and the role foreign policy played in the outcome, highlight some awkward reactions from global leaders, and walk through what we know about Trump’s choices for top positions like Secretary of State, National Security Advisor and CIA director. They also dig into what a second Trump term will mean for Russia and Ukraine, Trump’s alleged calls with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, Elon Musk’s new role as an American oligarch, and the latest developments out of Israel and Gaza, including the expiration of a 30 day ultimatum the Biden administration gave to Netanyahu’s government about increasing aid access. Then Ben speaks with Senator Chris Murphy about where Democrats went wrong and how they can adjust their foreign policy moving forward. For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.