

The Al Franken Podcast
The Al Franken Podcast
A five-time Emmy winning SNL comedy writer/producer, joins a four-time #1 NYT bestselling author, a three-time highest-rated national progressive radio host, a two-time Grammy winning artist, and a former US Senator. So, it gets a little crowded in the booth when Al talks public policy and sometimes political comedy with notable guests. Think “The Daily” without the resources of the NYTimes.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 28, 2024 • 41min
170: In Remembrance of My Friend Bill Walton
Basketball legend Bill Walton is remembered in a touching tribute by the host, reflecting on their friendship and resilience. They discuss women's basketball teams, culture, and positive values in the sport. Bernie's seating strategy at concerts and reflections on life and gratitude are also highlighted in this emotional episode.

May 26, 2024 • 38min
169: Harry Litman on the Trump Trial
Former U.S. Attorney Harry Litman discusses the Trump hush money trial, potential outcomes, and trial proceedings. Topics include witness testimonies, legal implications of false records, jury dynamics, and Trump's actions. The discussion delves into the defense strategies, challenges of prosecuting federal crimes, and potential consequences for Trump's future.

May 19, 2024 • 43min
168: Comedian Trae Crowder – The Liberal Redneck
Trae Crowder, the Liberal Redneck, discusses his upbringing in a red state, the appeal of Trump to rednecks, and their transition to supporting him. He delves into the consequences of job loss in communities, family struggles, personal growth, and challenges of being liberal in a redneck community. The podcast also explores his journey from stand-up comedy to viral success with the 'Liberal Redneck' character.

May 12, 2024 • 41min
167: Judd Legum on How Elon Musk is Helping Trump
Judd Legum from Popular Information discusses Elon Musk's Twitter influence spreading right-wing propaganda, conspiracy theories, and potential impact on the elections. Topics include algorithm bias, racist ideologies, and Musk's shift to supporting Trump.

5 snips
May 5, 2024 • 46min
166: Molly Jong Fast, Host of the Fast Politics Podcast
Special correspondent for Vanity Fair and host of the Fast Politics podcast, Molly Jong Fast, discusses Congress, abortion, protests, Trump hush money scandal, and the Presidential election in a wide-ranging conversation on the podcast.

Apr 28, 2024 • 54min
165: Ari Berman on His New Book, Minority Rule
Author Ari Berman discusses GOP's undermining of democracy in America. Talks about historical compromises, voter suppression tactics, and the fight for democracy in Wisconsin. Explores anti-democratic forces in the Republican Party and unsubstantiated claims of election fraud.

Apr 21, 2024 • 44min
164: Melissa Murray & Andrew Weissmann on the “Hush Money Trial”
Bestselling Authors Melissa Murray and Andrew Weissmann discuss the hush money trial involving Trump, exploring potential legal consequences, jury selection challenges, internal conflicts within the defense team, Trump's alleged scheme, and the upcoming Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity. Includes insights on document falsification, unethical media practices, and the importance of citizen participation in the justice system.

Apr 14, 2024 • 36min
163: Battleground States: Wisconsin: Ben Wikler – Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair
Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair, Ben Wikler, discusses efforts to combat GOP gerrymandering in the state. They delve into challenges of fair elections, the impact of dark money, and the crucial role of state parties in politics. Ben highlights the fight for democracy in Wisconsin, organizing for Biden's win, and the ongoing battle against voter suppression and gerrymandering.

4 snips
Apr 7, 2024 • 49min
162: Democratic Strategists Rachel Bitecofer and Justin Barasky on Democratic Messaging
Democratic strategists Rachel Bitecofer and Justin Barasky discuss the importance of messaging for Democrats to defeat Trump and retain the Senate in the upcoming 2024 election. They highlight the need to remind voters that the Democratic Party represents their interests on issues like abortion and the economy, drawing insights from the Republican playbook.

Mar 31, 2024 • 43min
161: Pulitzer Prize Winning Historian Anne Applebaum of The Atlantic
Pulitzer Prize Winning Historian Anne Applebaum discusses the Moscow concert hall attack, US funding failures for Ukraine, dangers of a second Trump term, and rising global autocracy. Exploring implications of violence, aid skepticism, and Trump's admiration for dictators.


