Pod Save America
Pod Save America
Pod Save America is a no-b******t 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, Friday and Sunday.
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
429 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 43min
Trump and Zelensky's Disastrous Meeting
A tumultuous White House meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky turns into a heated exchange. The discussion reveals deep diplomatic tensions and how domestic politics overshadow critical humanitarian concerns. Insights into JD Vance's provocative role add complexity to the situation. As Zelensky grapples with geopolitical pressures, the podcast examines the ramifications for U.S.-Ukrainian relations and the challenges of pursuing peace amid misinformation and shifting international dynamics.
190 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 1h 22min
Will Elon Find the Epstein Files Before It's Too Late?
The discussion kicks off with a critique of the Trump administration's failure to deliver on the Epstein files. Elon Musk's role in politics raises eyebrows as he challenges traditional power dynamics. There's humor infused in a fictional cabinet meeting, shedding light on government incompetence during health crises. The chaos surrounding immigration policies takes center stage, sparked by Trump’s latest outrageous video. Jen Psaki offers insights on effective communication strategies for Democrats as looming government shutdowns create urgency and controversy.
92 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 1h 6min
Finally, a Podcaster at the Top of the FBI!
A controversial MAGA podcaster lands a key role at the FBI, igniting fears of politicized law enforcement. The hosts delve into geopolitical issues, particularly the ongoing Ukraine crisis, and the implications of political purges within the military. They discuss Elon Musk's unconventional bureaucratic strategies and challenge the rise of conspiracy theories in public service. Amidst the chaos, they touch on budget struggles faced by Republicans and the importance of press freedom, all while injecting humor into the heavy political landscape.
553 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 1h 16min
Bill Maher on Hating Donald Trump, the Far Left and 69ing
Bill Maher, a provocative political commentator and comedian, engages in a lively discussion about wokeism, government fraud, and the shifting dynamics of the Democratic Party. He debates whether the Democrats have strayed too far left and critiques the discourse around Israel and Gaza. Maher also tackles the complexities of gender-affirming care, questioning who should make decisions about children's well-being. With sharp humor, he challenges listeners to reconsider their views on free speech and the evolving landscape of American politics.
161 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 1h 15min
Is Trump's Honeymoon Over?
Andrew Weissmann, a former federal prosecutor and legal expert, joins the discussion on Trump’s changing political landscape. They explore Trump's partnership with Elon Musk and how it impacts public perception. The podcast dives into Trump’s dangerous rhetoric regarding Ukraine, the implications of proposed Medicaid cuts, and the broader consequences of politicizing the Justice Department. Weissmann also shares insights on the challenges facing high-profile corruption cases and the importance of maintaining integrity within the legal system.
233 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 1h 26min
Trump's Shocking Cuts to Air Safety and Nuke Inspection
Stephen A. Smith, the legendary sports commentator and potential 2028 presidential candidate, shares his insights on how Democrats are failing to connect with young men. The discussion highlights Trump’s alarming cuts to air safety and nuclear inspections, raising concerns about national security. They also touch on geopolitical tension regarding Ukraine, and the need for the Democratic Party to revive its approach to engage a broader audience, arguing for a shift from traditional campaigning to innovative outreach strategies.
256 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 1h 26min
Is Elon a Drag on Trump?
Rohit Chopra, the former Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, shares insights on his dismissal and the troubling trends for consumer protection. He discusses the aggressive attempts by Trump and Musk to dismantle the CFPB, emphasizing the importance of this agency in safeguarding consumers from corporate exploitation. The conversation highlights the political fallout from proposed budget cuts affecting essential services and asks critical questions about the influence of billionaires like Musk on the government and public perception.
302 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 1h 38min
Will Trump Defy the Courts?
Leah Litman, a legal expert and co-host of the Strict Scrutiny podcast, dives into the tense relationship between Donald Trump and the judicial system. The discussion highlights how federal judges are finally challenging Trump’s authority, raising questions of whether he will comply with their rulings. They explore the implications of executive power, the constitutional crisis sparked by political leaders defying court decisions, and the broader impact on democracy and rule of law.
247 snips
Feb 9, 2025 • 1h 8min
How the Right Took Over the Media
Ben Smith, Editor-in-chief of Semafor and ex-media columnist for the New York Times, joins to discuss the fraught landscape of today's media. He highlights how Trump's tactics have reshaped journalism, turning media narratives into a battleground. The conversation delves into the consequences of corporate consolidation for journalistic integrity and the rise of polarized media consumption. Smith argues that the media's enduring challenges stem from succumbing to personality-driven reporting and warns against the implications for democracy.
245 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 1h 29min
Trump's War on the U.S. Government
Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii, a prominent advocate for economic policy and climate change, joins the discussion about the current political turmoil. He highlights the Democratic resistance to Trump's controversial nominees, including a fierce floor battle against his OMB pick. Schatz emphasizes the need for proactive strategies to navigate a shifting political landscape and rally support against harmful initiatives. The conversation also touches on the implications of Trump's Gaza proposal and the vital role of civic engagement in safeguarding democracy.
