Pod Save America
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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 jour...

Episodes 1,682
Books 512

Recently mentioned

Latest Recommendations

The Day After: How to Wield Power in a Post-Trump World – A Progressive Political Playbook on Saving Democracy from the #1 New York Times Bestselling Author of Shameless cover

The Day After

Brian Tyler Cohen

Mentioned 1 week ago

Trump Honors Dead Friend, Restarts War

The hosts discussed Brian Tyler Cohen's new book, noting that it had just been released and urging listeners to buy it. They highlighted its relevance for understanding power in a postTrump world.

Then Lovett talks to our pal Brian Tyler Cohen about his brand new book, The Day After, How to Wield Power in a PostTrump World.

Buy on Amazon
The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America cover

The Devil in the White City

Erik Larson

Mentioned 3 weeks ago

Trump Held a Fair And (Almost) No One Came

The hosts mentioned that they had recently read the book, noting it covered the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and the construction of the first Ferris wheel.

I read Devil in the White City recently. I'm on Eric Larson kick, which is about the World's Fair in Chicago in 1893, I believe. And that was when the first Ferris wheel was built.

Buy on Amazon
Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad Vibes cover

Lawless

Leah Litman

Mentioned 3 weeks ago

The MAGA Supreme Court's Assault on America

Leah Litman was introduced as the author of a book titled Lawless, which examines how the Supreme Court operates on conservative grievances, fringe theories, and bad vibes.

A law professor, co-host of Crooked Media's Strict Scrutiny and author of Lawless, How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievances, Fringe Theories and Bad Vibes.

Buy on Amazon
Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump cover

Regime Change

Maggie Haberman

Mentioned 4 weeks ago

Pool Me Twice, Shame On You

The hosts praised the book as a compelling, pageturning inside look at Donald Trump's second term, noting its extensive interviews and fresh revelations.

New York Times reporters Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan talk to Tommy about their explosive new book, Regime Change, which is full of fascinating revelations about Trump's second term White House.

Buy on Amazon
What It Takes: Lessons in the Pursuit of Excellence cover

What It Takes

Stephen A. Schwarzman

Mentioned 1 month ago

LIVE(ish) from the Obama Presidential Center

They noticed the book titled "What It Takes" among the other titles in the reading room.

I see What It Takes.

Buy on Amazon
Life of Pi cover

Life of Pi

Yann Martel

Mentioned 1 month ago

LIVE(ish) from the Obama Presidential Center

The hosts spotted the novel on the library shelf while walking through the reading room.

I see Life of Pi.

Buy on Amazon
We Are the World (Cup): A Personal History of the World's Greatest Sporting Event – Soccer's Triumphs, Heartbreaks, and the Passion That Unites Fans Worldwide cover

We Are the World (Cup)

Roger Bennett

Mentioned 1 month ago

TRUMP CURSES KNICKS

Roger Bennett highlighted his new book, noting it captures the excitement and depth of the World Cup and encourages listeners to pick up a copy.

My guest today is the co-creator and long-time host of the smash hit Men in Blazers podcast ... a New York Times best-selling author whose most recent book is called We Are the World Cup buy it now.

Buy on Amazon
View from the East Wing: A Memoir cover

View from the East Wing

Dr Jill Biden

Mentioned 1 month ago

Trump's Versailles on the Potomac

The hosts compared it to Condoleezza Rice's oped and said the memoir was the more interesting read.

Which is less welcome, the Jill Biden memoir or the Condoleezza Rice oped?

Buy on Amazon
All We Say: The Battle for American Identity: A History in 15 Speeches cover

All We Say

Ben Rhodes

Mentioned 1 month ago

What Does it Mean to Be an American?

The hosts praised the book as a compelling, timely history of the United States told through fifteen pivotal speeches, noting its emotional impact and recommending it to anyone interested in American politics.

Ben has written an incredible, timely book about that argument... The book is called All We Say, A History of the United States in 15 Speeches.

Buy on Amazon
Make America Sane Again: Reflections on Trump’s Travesties cover

Make America Sane Again

Sheldon Hirsch

Mentioned 2 months ago

Trump Admits He's for He/Him, Not You

They said they had written a book titled Trump in America that was released in 2020, just before the pandemic.

When I wrote my book on Trump in America in 2020, I guess it came out. Yeah. 2020. Yeah. Right before the pandemic.

Buy on Amazon
The Crooked Places Made Straight: Reflections on the Moral Meaning of America cover

The Crooked Places Made Straight

Raphael G. Warnock

Mentioned 2 months ago

Will Raphael Warnock Hear the Call?

The senator announced his forthcoming book, which reflects on the moral meaning of America and ties his sermon on Isaiah to the nation's 250th birthday. He said the book would address equity, integrity, and the moral topography of the country.

So, you've written a book coming out next month. Yeah. That's a sermon on Isaiah for America's 250th birthday.

Buy on Amazon
The U.S. Constitution: A Comprehensive and Annotated Guide for the Modern Reader cover

The U.S. Constitution

Melissa Murray

Mentioned 2 months ago

Trump Is Falling. Are Democrats Rising?

Melissa Murray introduced her new book, describing it as a modernreader guide that explains every clause of the Constitution and offers historical context and anecdotes.

The book is the U.S. Constitution, a comprehensive and annotated guide for the modern reader.

Buy on Amazon

Most Recommended

Bottoms Up and the Devil Laughs: A Journey Through the Deep State Cover

Kerry Howley

Bottoms Up and the Devil Laughs

A Journey Through the Deep State

It was described as a haunting work of narrative nonfiction about the security state and Reality Winner, having been recently published.

"

Carrie Howley wrote a book who is a genius, wrote a book called Bottoms Up and the Devil Laughs about the security state and reality winner that came out a few months ago.

— Episode: Mar-a-Lago's Funniest Home Videos

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: Mar-a-Lago's Funniest Home Videos

It was described as a haunting work of narrative nonfiction about the security state and Reality Winner, having been recently published.

"

Carrie Howley wrote a book who is a genius, wrote a book called Bottoms Up and the Devil Laughs about the security state and reality winner that came out a few months ago.

Episode: Mar-a-Lago's Funniest Home Videos

It was recently published, described as a haunting work of narrative non-fiction about the security state and Reality Winner, by the author of Mobility.

"

Carrie Howley wrote a book who is a genius, wrote a book called Bottoms Up and the Devil Laughs about the security state and reality winner that came out a few months ago.

Episode: Mar-a-Lago's Funniest Home Videos

It was described as a haunting work of narrative nonfiction about the security state and Reality Winner.

"

Carrie Howley wrote a book who is a genius, wrote a book called Bottoms Up and the Devil Laughs about the security state and reality winner that came out a few months ago.

This Changes Everything: How the Gospel Transforms the Teen Years Cover

Jaquelle Crowe

This Changes Everything

How the Gospel Transforms the Teen Years

It was mentioned as a book that helped the author of 'Mobility' to consider the energy transition and its potential consequences.

"

This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein is a wonderful book

— Episode: Mar-a-Lago's Funniest Home Videos

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: Mar-a-Lago's Funniest Home Videos

It was mentioned as a book that helped the author of 'Mobility' to consider the energy transition and its potential consequences.

"

This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein is a wonderful book

Episode: Mar-a-Lago's Funniest Home Videos

It was mentioned by the author of Mobility as a wonderful book.

"

This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein is a wonderful book

Episode: Mar-a-Lago's Funniest Home Videos

It was mentioned as a wonderful book and a source of inspiration for Mobility, particularly in exploring the energy transition and the potential for similar systems to profit.

"

This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein is a wonderful book

The Big Break: The Gamblers, Party Animals, and True Believers Trying to Win in Washington While America Loses Its Mind Cover

Ben Terris

The Big Break

The Gamblers, Party Animals, and True Believers Trying to Win in Washington While America Loses Its Mind

It was described as a riveting account of Washington, D.C. in the post-Trump era, focusing on influential figures and their roles in the political landscape. The book highlighted the chaos and changes that transpired in the city during this period.

"

The Washington Post's Ben Teres talks to Tommy about his new book, The Big Break, which is a riveting account of DC in the post-Trump era.

— Episode: 12 Angry Hopefuls

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: 12 Angry Hopefuls

It was described as a riveting account of Washington, D.C. in the post-Trump era, focusing on influential figures and their roles in the political landscape. The book highlighted the chaos and changes that transpired in the city during this period.

"

The Washington Post's Ben Teres talks to Tommy about his new book, The Big Break, which is a riveting account of DC in the post-Trump era.

Ben Terrace is a reporter for The Washington Post. He is the author of the new book, The Big Break, which is available today.

It's a very fun page turning quick read. So I highly recommend folks read it if you want to learn about some of the more interesting characters in Washington.

The book is called The Big Break because the country went through a big break, but also because all these new people have the opportunity to kind of seek out big breaks of their own.

The book again is The Big Break. It is available now. It's a great read.

Episode: 12 Angry Hopefuls

It was described as a riveting account of Washington, D.C. in the post-Trump era, focusing on several interesting political characters and their experiences during that time.

"

Ben Teres talks to Tommy about his new book, The Big Break, which is a riveting account of DC in the post-Trump era.

It's a great book. It's a very fun page turning quick read, so I highly recommend folks read it if you want to learn about some of the more interesting characters in Washington.

The book is called The Big Break because the country went through a big break, but also because all these new people have the opportunity to kind of seek out big breaks of their own.

Ben, thank you for doing the show. The book again is The Big Break. It is available now. It's a great read.

Episode: 12 Angry Hopefuls

It was described as a riveting account of Washington D.C. in the post-Trump era, focusing on some of the more interesting, influential and powerful characters who rose to prominence during that time.

"

The Washington Post's Ben Teres talks to Tommy about his new book, The Big Break, which is a riveting account of DC in the post-Trump era.

Ben Terrace is a reporter for The Washington Post. He is the author of the new book, The Big Break, which is available today.

It's a very fun page turning quick read. So I highly recommend folks read it if you want to learn about some of the more interesting characters in Washington.

The book is called The Big Break because the country went through a big break, but also because all these new people have the opportunity to kind of seek out big breaks of their own.

The book again is The Big Break. It is available now. It's a great read.

Episode: 12 Angry Hopefuls

It was described as a riveting account of DC in the post-Trump era, focusing on interesting characters and how they rose to prominence.

"

Ben Teres talks to Tommy about his new book, The Big Break, which is a riveting account of DC in the post-Trump era.

It's a great book. It's a very fun page turning quick read, so I highly recommend folks read it if you want to learn about some of the more interesting characters in Washington.

The book is called The Big Break because the country went through a big break, but also because all these new people have the opportunity to kind of seek out big breaks of their own.

It's a great read. Buy it, take it to the beach with you. You'll learn a lot about Washington, but don't let it make you too cynical because there's some good stuff, too, that you can do if you want to work there.

Our Time Is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America Cover

Stacey Abrams

Our Time Is Now

Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America

Stacey Abrams mentioned her book, which discusses voter suppression and engagement, as well as the need for consistent investment in progressive infrastructure across the country to build on democratic successes.

"

So this is a shameless plug for my book. Our Time Is Now, Power, Purpose and the Fight for a Fair America.

— Episode: “One Flew Over the Coup-Coup’s Nest.”

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: “One Flew Over the Coup-Coup’s Nest.”

Stacey Abrams mentioned her book, which discusses voter suppression and engagement, as well as the need for consistent investment in progressive infrastructure across the country to build on democratic successes.

"

So this is a shameless plug for my book. Our Time Is Now, Power, Purpose and the Fight for a Fair America.

So the first half of the book, I talk about voter suppression and voter engagement. But the second half of the book is exactly that.

Episode: “One Flew Over the Coup-Coup’s Nest.”

Stacey Abrams mentioned her book, 'Our Time Is Now,' which discusses voter suppression, voter engagement and building sustainable, consistent investment in communities to empower citizens.

"

So this is a shameless plug for my book. Our Time Is Now, Power, Purpose and the Fight for a Fair America. So the first half of the book, I talk about voter suppression and voter engagement. But the second half of the book is exactly that.

Episode: “Let the healing begin!”

It was discussed that Stacey Abrams's new book 'Our Time Is Now' is excellent, with a compelling beginning about her grandmother's fear of voting. Her writing style was described as brilliant and not like a typical politician.

"

She's also the author of the new book Our Time Is Now which is out now.

Everyone should buy this book.

It is excellent.

Because you're also a novelist, you don't write like a politician.

You write brilliantly, which is such a pleasure to read.

Episode: The Politics of Fashion: How What We Wear Shapes t...

Stacey referenced a personal family story that she recounted in her own book, Our Time Is Now.

"

I remember a story that my grandmother told me, and I talk about it in my book, Our Time Is Now.

Hated by All the Right People: Tucker Carlson and the Unraveling of the Conservative Mind Cover

Jason Zengerle

Hated by All the Right People

Tucker Carlson and the Unraveling of the Conservative Mind

The hosts announced the upcoming Crooked Media Reads release, describing it as an excellent book about Tucker Carlson that they had read and loved.

"

Crooked Media Reads is releasing our next book on January 27th, 2026. It's called Hated by All the Right People, Tucker Carlson and the Unraveling of the Conservative Mind.

— Episode: Trump's Gaza Ceasefire Takes Hold

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: Trump's Gaza Ceasefire Takes Hold

The hosts announced the upcoming Crooked Media Reads release, describing it as an excellent book about Tucker Carlson that they had read and loved.

"

Crooked Media Reads is releasing our next book on January 27th, 2026. It's called Hated by All the Right People, Tucker Carlson and the Unraveling of the Conservative Mind.

It's by an incredible journalist named Jason Zengerle. The title comes from Tucker himself. When he visited Hungary in 2021, he praised Viktor Orban for being Hated by All the Right People.

So it's an excellent book. I've read it. You will all love it.

Episode: Trump Retreats After Alex Pretti's Killing

The hosts announced the new Crooked Media book by Jason Zengerle, described it as a great, fastread that received strong reviews, and highlighted the Washington Post's praise for its mordant, insightful reporting.

"

also, Crooked is publishing a brand new book. It's from one of our favorite political writers, Jason Zengerle.

It's called Hated by All the Right People, Tucker Carlson and the Unraveling of the Conservative Mind. And it is now out. You can buy it today. Tommy interviewed Jason a few episodes back about the book. It is fantastic.

The Washington Post called it mordant, insightful, vigorously reported, and yet deliciously entertaining.

It's a great read. It's a fast read. You're going to love it.

Episode: That'll Leave a Denmark

The book examined Tucker Carlson's rise and the evolution of the MAGA movement, showing how his career mirrored broader shifts in conservative media. Listeners were told it was a compelling and essential read.

"

And then Tommy talks to our pal Jason Zengerle about his new book, published by Crooked Media Reads, that explores the rise of Tucker Carlson. It's called Hated by All the Right People, and you can preorder it right now.

I both highly recommend folks listen to the interview with Jason because he's really smart... But also, the book is incredible. It's like an amazing look at who Tucker Carlson is, the arc of his career across the mainstream media.

Joining me now is the author of Crooked Media Reads newest book Hated by All the Right People, Tucker Carlson and the Unraveling of the Conservative Mind, Jason Zengerle. It's an incredible book which I have read and I highly, highly recommend everybody go preorder a copy right now.

The title of the book, Hated by All the Right People, is a reference to a line Tucker Carlson said about Victor Orban, a toast to Victor Orban. He was truly Hated by All the Right People.

You can preorder Hated by All the Right People at crooked.com/books or pick up the book wherever you shop when it releases on January 27th.

Episode: ICE's Reign of Terror

The book was announced as a forthcoming release on January 27, described as a fascinating, entertaining look at Tucker Carlson's political evolution and the rise of the MAGA movement, written by New York Times Magazine writer Jason Zengerle.

"

Crooked Media's newest book, Hated by All the Right People, Tucker Carlson and the Unraveling of the Conservative Mind, is releasing on January 27th. It's by one of our favorite political journalists, New York Times Magazine writer, Jason Zengerle, and it is a fascinating, really entertaining look at Tucker's political evolution and how his rise traces the rise of the MAGA movement.

You can get a discount right now when you pre-order a copy of Hated by All the Right People. Head to crooked.com slash books to get that discount and check out Jason's book, Signing Tour Date.

Didn't I Say To Make My Abilities Average In The Next Life?! Light Novel Vol. 18 Cover

FUNA

Didn't I Say To Make My Abilities Average In The Next Life?! Light Novel Vol. 18

It was mentioned in the context of Bob Woodward's book about Trump, in relation to how Trump had admitted to purposely downplaying the pandemic for political purposes.

"

It is one of the most disgusting things I've ever heard at the time. We were all shocked, maybe not surprised but certainly shocked.

— Episode: "The ads that defined 2020."

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: "The ads that defined 2020."

It was mentioned in the context of Bob Woodward's book about Trump, in relation to how Trump had admitted to purposely downplaying the pandemic for political purposes.

"

It is one of the most disgusting things I've ever heard at the time. We were all shocked, maybe not surprised but certainly shocked.

Episode: “50 Days to Joe.”

It was mentioned in relation to the book's revelations about Trump's handling of COVID-19, specifically his downplaying of the virus's severity, which was discussed at length. The book's content was widely circulated and influenced public perception.

"

The Woodward book

reports in the Woodward book that Trump called his generals pussies.

So a lot of people are hearing these allegations that he basically covered up the severity of COVID-19 early on.

And the Woodward tape came up more than anything else about Trump.

the majority of news stories that people have consumed about Donald Trump, especially when it comes to the coronavirus, have been pretty negative and terrible for him as a candidate.

What Happened Cover

Hillary Rodham Clinton

What Happened

It was described as an honest, raw, and open account of a brutal experience, particularly around the 2016 election, with Hillary taking responsibility for her mistakes.

"

It's not an easy read because it's like those are really dark times for everyone.

— Episode: “Amnesty Don.”

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: “Amnesty Don.”

It was described as an honest, raw, and open account of a brutal experience, particularly around the 2016 election, with Hillary taking responsibility for her mistakes.

"

It's not an easy read because it's like those are really dark times for everyone.

It's an honest, the parts I've read are like an honest, very open, raw take on an absolutely brutal experience.

But it makes you reading the book makes you realize again that we all made a mistake. We're all responsible for this.

And, you know, I think some of that is grappling with challenges that no candidate, no one candidate or campaign can control.

And that's your message, your policy, sort of like the career and life decisions you make prior to the campaign, making sure your messages break through.

Episode: Hillary Clinton

Hillary Clinton discussed her book, 'What Happened,' which aimed to explain the 2016 election results and address issues like sexism and misogyny in politics, while also highlighting the Democratic Party's challenges.

"

I wrote this book to explain what I think happened but also to raise issues that I think we have to deal with so that they won't have the same impact on the next election and the one after that.

I write a whole chapter called on being a woman in politics because I was really quite taken aback at the attitude and the Behavior of my general election opponent.

I'm hoping that everybody will read in my book that chapter because I want everyone to think about it and be serious about it and Then I think we have to stand up and speak out men and women alike.

I'm for public financing and I put forth a very Comprehensive set of changes I voted for you know, McCain Feingold.

I wrote this book to try to come to grips with What Happened But also to sound the alarm about what I think could still and may well happen.

Episode: "Schumer's bump."

It was described as a candid book about the 2016 election, where Hillary Clinton took responsibility for her mistakes while also addressing outside factors that contributed to her loss.

"

It's a very candid book like and we're talking about like we've all read a lot of politicians books unfortunately.

But the excerpts that have leaked out and they have leaked out they haven't been put out by the by the Clinton people don't really paint an accurate picture of what the whole thing is about.

The excerpts give you a unique window into her frustration because she couldn't have more fully owned this loss in the book.

What Happened by Hillary Clinton available now.

I think future college kids will probably get assigned it and like grumble about it but then actually secretly enjoy reading it because it's like kind of a fun book.

White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism Cover

Dr. Robin DiAngelo

White Fragility

Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism

Mentioned as an example of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training that some may find excessive, or 'out there'.

"

there's a difference between things, but we sort of conflate them all and we have this debate and it probably isn't that helpful.

— Episode: “Republicans not quite in array.”

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: “Republicans not quite in array.”

Mentioned as an example of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training that some may find excessive, or 'out there'.

"

there's a difference between things, but we sort of conflate them all and we have this debate and it probably isn't that helpful.

Episode: “The midterms start now.”

It was mentioned in the context of a Loudoun County school board member's op-ed. The book's concept of a positive white identity being an impossible goal was referenced as a possible influence on curriculum.

"

a positive white identity is an impossible goal. White identity is inherently racist. White people do not exist outside the system of white supremacy.

Episode: “The midterms start now.”

It was mentioned in the context of a Loudoun County school board member recommending it to teachers. The book discusses the concept that white identity is inherently racist and the impossibility of a positive white identity.

"

a positive white identity is an impossible goal. White identity is inherently racist. White people do not exist outside the system of white supremacy.

Beloved (Everyman's Library) Cover

Toni Morrison

Beloved (Everyman's Library)

It was mentioned as a book that the government might force people to read as part of a hypothetical microchip-implantation scheme in the context of a humorous discussion about gas stoves.

"

And that's how COVID started. They will force you to read Beloved.

— Episode: "Kook-ing With Gas."

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: "Kook-ing With Gas."

It was mentioned as a book that the government might force people to read as part of a hypothetical microchip-implantation scheme in the context of a humorous discussion about gas stoves.

"

And that's how COVID started. They will force you to read Beloved.

Episode: “Build Back Meta.”

It was discussed in the context of a controversy surrounding its inclusion in school reading lists, with one parent in an ad expressing concern over its explicit content, although it was not actually banned.

"

So when my son showed me his reading assignment, my heart sunk. It was some of the most explicit material you can imagine.

I read it in high school. I remember there being it's a wonderful book. First of all, there are some like dark parts of the book.

I also read it in high school, but I'm going to let you in on a secret. You don't think it's about that? I don't think this kid.

It's like replace Beloved with To Kill a Mockingbird. This also gave me nightmares. Replace To Kill a Mockingbird with Jane Eyre.

McAuliffe has been accusing Yunkin of wanting to ban books and silence black authors. His staff passed out copies of Beloved during the Biden rally.

Episode: “Build Back Meta.”

It was discussed in the context of a political ad attacking Terry McAuliffe for a vetoed bill regarding sexually explicit content in school books, though it was not explicitly described as such by voters on the ground.

"

So when my son showed me his reading assignment, my heart sunk. It was some of the most explicit material you can imagine.

I met with lawmakers. They couldn't believe what I was showing them. Their faces turned bright red with embarrassment.

I read it in high school. I remember there being it's a wonderful book.

I don't I mean, I don't remember. I don't know. I don't remember a sexually explicit material jumping out at me or what the fuck are they talking about?

McAuliffe has been accusing Yunkin of wanting to ban books and silence black authors.

Twilight of Democracy: The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism Cover

Anne Applebaum

Twilight of Democracy

The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism

Anne Applebaum's book, 'Twilight of Democracy,' was mentioned and discussed in the context of the current situation in Ukraine and the rise of authoritarianism around the world. It was described as a 'fantastic book' that explored the seductive lure of authoritarianism.

"

On the line, I'm joined by Anne Applebaum. She's a staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of a fantastic book, Twilight of Democracy, the seductive lure of authoritarianism.

— Episode: “Is Palin Running? Alaska!”

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: “Is Palin Running? Alaska!”

Anne Applebaum's book, 'Twilight of Democracy,' was mentioned and discussed in the context of the current situation in Ukraine and the rise of authoritarianism around the world. It was described as a 'fantastic book' that explored the seductive lure of authoritarianism.

"

On the line, I'm joined by Anne Applebaum. She's a staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of a fantastic book, Twilight of Democracy, the seductive lure of authoritarianism.

Episode: "Sex Demons and Karaoke with Dan and Alyssa."

It was described as a book about the allure of authoritarianism, and the host noted that it was more engaging than anticipated, and was being read to stay up-to-date with other hosts' knowledge on the topic.

"

And now I'm reading, this is now you're gonna make fun of me, but I'm doing this in primarily to keep up with Tommy and Ben and the world owes is an Apple bombs book, The Twilight of Democracy, which is about sort of the lure of authoritarianism.

It's the right thing to do. Like I should be serious and learn things, but it's actually it's a much more sort of engaging read than I imagined. It's it's actually quite good.

Episode: “Is Palin Running? Alaska!”

It was discussed during an interview with the author about the current political climate in Russia and Europe and how autocrats are using nationalism to gain power.

"

She's a staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of a fantastic book, Twilight of Democracy, the seductive lure of authoritarianism.

The Wisdom of Crowds: Why the Many Are Smarter Than the Few and How Collective Wisdom Shapes Business, Economies, Societies and Nations Cover

James Surowiecki

The Wisdom of Crowds

Why the Many Are Smarter Than the Few and How Collective Wisdom Shapes Business, Economies, Societies and Nations

The hosts noted that James Surowiecki had authored a book titled The Wisdom of Crowds, which they said was a hit.

"

James wrote a book called the wisdoms of crowds. It was a hit in case you didn't keep up.

— Episode: First They Came for John Bolton

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: First They Came for John Bolton

The hosts noted that James Surowiecki had authored a book titled The Wisdom of Crowds, which they said was a hit.

"

James wrote a book called the wisdoms of crowds. It was a hit in case you didn't keep up.

Episode: Trump's "Liberation Day" Crashes the Stock Market

The book was mentioned as the work of the guest James Surowiecki, highlighting his credentials as the author of The Wisdom of Crowds.

"

James Surowiecki ... is the author of the book, The Wisdom of Crowds.

Episode: 1118: Is Trump Afraid of Bad Bunny? (feat. Pablo T...

The conversation referenced the book as a source that described prediction markets as an interesting and useful way to forecast outcomes.

"

but it's interesting because realistically, the prediction market, as Jim Sirawicke, Wisdom of Crowds, that was his book in 04, told me, it is an interesting and useful way to predict some things.

How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America Cover

Clint Smith

How the Word Is Passed

A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America

It was mentioned to describe a chapter discussing the Lost Cause movement's attempts to rewrite Civil War history, including how it used children to spread falsehoods about it.

"

Clint Smith's book has a really powerful chapter on this about the Lost Cause effort, which is an effort to rewrite the Civil War history, to defend the Confederacy, to make it as if it was about stat...

— Episode: "MAGA v. The Military." (with Sam Sander...

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: "MAGA v. The Military." (with Sam Sanders!)

It was mentioned to describe a chapter discussing the Lost Cause movement's attempts to rewrite Civil War history, including how it used children to spread falsehoods about it.

"

Clint Smith's book has a really powerful chapter on this about the Lost Cause effort, which is an effort to rewrite the Civil War history, to defend the Confederacy, to make it as if it was about states' rights or something more noble than just the defense of slavery.

Episode: “Stop the 2024 Steal.”

It was described as a beautiful book, not dry, and conveyed a human texture and sensory detail to the reader regarding the history of slavery in the United States. It was also described as profoundly emancipatory and liberating.

"

I just wanted to start by just telling listeners that, you know, it is when you pick up this book and start reading, it will be obvious to you that the book was written by a poet.

This is not dry nonfiction. It is written in this way that you allow the reader to almost inhabit your mind and your in your body and your experience as you go to these places and you kind of can feel the emotional connection to them. And it's just a beautiful book.

I was DMing you. I picked it up and like the next day I was halfway done and I just can't recommend it enough.

Again, amazing work.

Everybody should buy it. Buy a copy for your friends, buy a copy for your enemies.

Episode: “Stop the 2024 Steal.”

It was described as a beautiful, emotional, and sensory journey through the history of slavery in the US, connecting the past to the present and exploring the legacy of the institution.

"

It is written in this way that you allow the reader to almost inhabit your mind and your in your body and your experience as you go to these places and you kind of can feel the emotional connection to them.

I just can't recommend it enough.

I'm holding up the book. The book, you take the reader on this this remarkable journey to several places across the United States into one stop in Africa, in these places all of deep ties to slavery.

It was just such a the experience for me was added a sort of texture and dynamism to this history that I wanted to do my best to convey to the reader.

Everybody should buy it. Buy a copy for your friends, buy a copy for your enemies.

A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership Cover

James Comey

A Higher Loyalty

Truth, Lies, and Leadership

Dan Pfeiffer compared his own book sales to James Comey's book, 'A Higher Loyalty', which he mentioned had sold 600,000 copies in its first week of release.

"

Well, I know what I'm going to do after the podcast. I'm gonna go get that proof of purchase. Get my book plate.

— Episode: “It’s your Justice Department!"

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Episode: “It’s your Justice Department!"

Dan Pfeiffer compared his own book sales to James Comey's book, 'A Higher Loyalty', which he mentioned had sold 600,000 copies in its first week of release.

"

Well, I know what I'm going to do after the podcast. I'm gonna go get that proof of purchase. Get my book plate.

Episode: “Exquisite presidential leadership.”

The Republican National Committee created a website to attack the former FBI Director, James Comey, in advance of the release of his new book, 'A Higher Loyalty'.

"

You have the fucking Republican National Committee has created a website called Lion Comey to attack the former FBI director in advance of the release of his new book.

The Chief’s Chief Cover

Mark Meadows

The Chief’s Chief

Mark Meadows' book was mentioned, and it was said that he had included incriminating information within it, likely due to his lack of awareness of what was or was not damaging.

"

He gave over the incriminating docs and then kind of made it clear what he wasn't giving over. Then he stonewalled.

— Episode: “Mark Meadows’ Fascist PowerPoint.”

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Episode: “Mark Meadows’ Fascist PowerPoint.”

Mark Meadows' book was mentioned, and it was said that he had included incriminating information within it, likely due to his lack of awareness of what was or was not damaging.

"

He gave over the incriminating docs and then kind of made it clear what he wasn't giving over. Then he stonewalled.

that he claimed executive privilege over information that is currently being released in his brand new book.

Because putting in your book that Trump got a positive test because he wanted to turn himself into a biological weapon to kill Joe Biden turned out to have been more incriminating than even Mike Meadows understood.

Episode: “Mark Meadows’ Fascist PowerPoint.”

Mark Meadows' book was mentioned as containing incriminating information, and the hosts discussed how it undermined his executive privilege claims.

"

He claimed executive privilege over information that is currently being released in his brand new book.

Because putting in your book that Trump got a positive test because he wanted to turn himself into a biological weapon to kill Joe Biden turned out to have been more incriminating than even Mike Meadows understood.

I Alone Can Fix It: Donald J. Trump's Catastrophic Final Year Cover

Carol Leonnig

I Alone Can Fix It

Donald J. Trump's Catastrophic Final Year

The book, authored by Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker, focused on the Secret Service and helped establish the understanding of Tony Ornato and Robert Engel as being Trump's 'yes men'.

"

Carol Lennon of The Washington Post, who wrote a book both on the Secret Service and helped Phil Rucker write a book on Trump, has noted that Ornato and Engel were both known as Trump yes men.

— Episode: "A Very Special Episode of Insurrection....

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: "A Very Special Episode of Insurrection."

The book, authored by Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker, focused on the Secret Service and helped establish the understanding of Tony Ornato and Robert Engel as being Trump's 'yes men'.

"

Carol Lennon of The Washington Post, who wrote a book both on the Secret Service and helped Phil Rucker write a book on Trump, has noted that Ornato and Engel were both known as Trump yes men.

Episode: “deja coup.”

It was discussed and excerpts were read from the book, which detailed the fears of General Milley regarding a potential coup attempt by Donald Trump after the 2020 election.

"

Trump's attempt to steal the election his right stag moment and feared that the MAGA protests could be the, quote, modern American equivalent of brown shirts in the streets.

They may try, but they're not going to fucking succeed. You can't do this without the military. You can't do this without the CIA and the FBI. We're the guys with guns.

I'm not into coups...elections are my coup...if I was going to do a coup, I wouldn't do it with General Milley. He sucks.

Episode: “deja coup.”

It was discussed that the book revealed General Milley's worries that Trump might attempt a coup, and that he called Trump's actions a 'right stag moment'.

"

They may try, but they're not going to fucking succeed. You can't do this without the military. You can't do this without the CIA and the FBI. We're the guys with guns.

Apparently, General Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, was so worried that Trump might attempt a coup that all the joint chiefs discussed a plan to resign.

Milley called Trump's attempt to steal the election his right stag moment and feared that the MAGA protests could be the, quote, modern American equivalent of brown shirts in the streets.

I'm not into coups...elections are my coup...if I was going to do a coup, I wouldn't do it with General Milley. He sucks.

A Citizen's Guide to Beating Donald Trump Cover

David Plouffe

A Citizen's Guide to Beating Donald Trump

David Plouffe discussed his new book, 'A Citizen's Guide to Beating Donald Trump', which was said to provide guidance on how to defeat the president in the upcoming election.

"

He's got a book coming out.

— Episode: “Joementum!”

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Episode: “Joementum!”

David Plouffe discussed his new book, 'A Citizen's Guide to Beating Donald Trump', which was said to provide guidance on how to defeat the president in the upcoming election.

"

He's got a book coming out.

He's got a book called A Citizen's Guide to Beating Donald Trump.

Episode: “Whistle while you spy.”

It was said to be an answer to the question of what the public can do to help beat Trump, with an emphasis on taking ownership of the election and encouraging active participation beyond just voting.

"

So I'm simply saying, first of all, from someone who's run presidential campaigns, why volunteer work is important. The difference it can make. How you registering five voters in Michigan may not seem like a lot. But if just 2,000 other people in Michigan did the same thing, that's like the win margin in Michigan. So it matters.

What can you control? That's different for everybody, but I lay out a set of ideas for, and again, it's not all the ideas, but you know, creating your own content. So if you've got a neighbor who voted for Trump was voting for Obama, take your phone out, film them, put it on your social media channels. Like just, you've got to like every day think through what can I do?

I think that the ownership, I'd say the ownership we all have to take over this election is even greater than we saw in our organization in the Obama races. I really do.

The Education of an Idealist (English and Old English Edition) Cover

Samantha Power

The Education of an Idealist (English and Old English Edition)

The book was highly recommended as fantastic, and mentioned as a work by a 'best friend of the pod'.

"

Also, buy Sam's book if you haven't already, The Education of an Idealist. It is fantastic.

— Episode: “Dems in Array.”

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Episode: “Dems in Array.”

The book was highly recommended as fantastic, and mentioned as a work by a 'best friend of the pod'.

"

Also, buy Sam's book if you haven't already, The Education of an Idealist. It is fantastic.

Episode: “Rudy likes club drugs.” (LIVE from Las Vegas!)

It was a memoir about Samantha Power's life as a journalist and activist, including her experiences in Kosovo and Sudan, and eventually as a diplomat during the Obama administration.

"

I could not be happier this was when I was in the dungeon writing pod save America one day it will be done and I will be with my friends on pod save America let me to take a break from this book so I can listen to my friends yell about politics be really emotional about politics because that's really helpful

Barack Obama's just read your book he'd like to meet the next time you're in Washington

I'm hoping over the next 20 30 minutes we can we're at like a steak restaurant thinking okay not ordering a drink not ordering an appetizer and speaking even more quickly than usual

I volunteered to work in his office

everyone please I please go buy it The Education of an Idealist by Samantha power don't you dare go to the library we're pro library you can sit it you can read it in the library if you want one more books like this buy the book and donate it to a library

Episode: “Whistle while you spy.”

It was described as excellent and fantastic, and listeners were encouraged to buy a copy.

"

Also by Samantha Power's book. It's excellent. It's fantastic. Yes. Go buy Education of an Idealist.

Beautiful Things: A Memoir Cover

Hunter Biden

Beautiful Things

A Memoir

It was mentioned that Hunter's book was read, and it's a miracle he's still alive given the events detailed within.

"

If you read about if you I read Hunter's book and it's a miracle that he is still alive

— Episode: Indictment (Georgia's Version)

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Episode: Indictment (Georgia's Version)

It was mentioned that Hunter's book was read, and it's a miracle he's still alive given the events detailed within.

"

If you read about if you I read Hunter's book and it's a miracle that he is still alive

Episode: Indictment (Georgia's Version)

It was mentioned that Joe Biden's son, Hunter, had written a book. It was also said that given his struggles, it was a miracle that he was still alive.

"

If you read about, if you I read Hunter's book and it's a miracle that he is still alive and the idea that Joe Biden is going to push his son away in this very difficult chapter for political reasons I think you know that's not something Joe Biden is going to do

Episode: Indictment (Georgia's Version)

It was mentioned that Hunter Biden's book was read and that it was a miracle he was still alive given his circumstances.

"

if you read about if you I read Hunter's book and it's a miracle that he is still alive

I Have Something to Tell You: A Memoir Cover

Chasten Buttigieg

I Have Something to Tell You

A Memoir

It was discussed as a memoir about grappling with being gay in a time of limited acceptance and representation, with a focus on the challenges of conforming and the importance of finding one's own voice.

"

I think this book is about what it means to grapple with being gay when there were in some ways sort of bromides of tolerance but a deeper way in which being gay was still something to be afraid of or...

— Episode: Trump and CNN Together Again

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Episode: Trump and CNN Together Again

It was discussed as a memoir about grappling with being gay in a time of limited acceptance and representation, with a focus on the challenges of conforming and the importance of finding one's own voice.

"

I think this book is about what it means to grapple with being gay when there were in some ways sort of bromides of tolerance but a deeper way in which being gay was still something to be afraid of or afraid you were.

But I think the book is for any young person who's ever felt like a fish out of water or a person who has felt like they're forced to conform.

And I also think it'll be a great resource for teachers and parents to understand what young people are going through, what they could be going through.

And you might be unaware of that. And also the pain and the hurt that is inflicted upon young people by ignorance and the good that can come from having these conversations and making space for everyone.

I think we're constantly coming to terms with who we thought we had to be when we were younger, who we thought we could be when we came out. And then that space in between where you're like still policing yourself.

Episode: Trump and CNN Together Again

It was discussed as a memoir about being gay during a time of limited acceptance and the experience of conforming and surviving, coming out and reflecting on the past.

"

I feel like we're in the middle of a reexamination right now for kids that were born in the 80s in this period of growing acceptance but not acceptance.

And I think this book is about what it means to grapple with being gay when there were in some ways sort of bromides of tolerance but a deeper way in which being gay was still something to be afraid of or afraid you were.

But I think the book is for any young person who's ever felt like a fish out of water or a person who has felt like they're forced to conform.

And I also think it'll be a great resource for teachers and parents to understand what young people are going through, what they could be going through.

And you might be unaware of that. And also the pain and the hurt that is inflicted upon young people by ignorance and the good that can come from having these conversations and making space for everyone.

Episode: Trump's Trade War Hits Hollywood

This is the guest's previously released best-selling young adult memoir that was mentioned in passing during the interview.

"

You're also the best-selling author of a young adult memoir called I Have Something to Tell You.

Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm Cover

Thich Nhat Hanh

Fear

Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm

It was discussed in the context of a game about Bob Woodward's books. It was mentioned as a real book title, and they discussed the various elements present in Bob Woodward's books.

"

According to my extensive research of Bob Woodward's Wikipedia page summary, not the full thing. He has written 21 books on US politics or current events.

— Episode: “How Mark Zucked America.”

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Episode: “How Mark Zucked America.”

It was discussed in the context of a game about Bob Woodward's books. It was mentioned as a real book title, and they discussed the various elements present in Bob Woodward's books.

"

According to my extensive research of Bob Woodward's Wikipedia page summary, not the full thing. He has written 21 books on US politics or current events.

One interesting, one important source for the recent details about the Trump coup attempt is Bob Woodward's most recent book.

And that got me thinking about how every Bob Woodward book has three core elements.

One, juicy insider details to sort of an omniscient voice that makes it impossible to verify said details. Three, a histrionic title.

Episode: "Anonymous cowards.”

It was discussed at length, with various White House staff and cabinet secretaries calling the president names and describing him as unfit. Trump reacted negatively, calling it 'fake'.

"

Trump was called the following: Amoral, anti-democratic, impetuous, petty, ineffective, reckless, erratic, unstable, and he was accused of, quote, acting in a manner that is detrimental to the health of our republic.

...the allegation in the Woodward book that Gary Cohn was stealing papers off his desk.

...Woodward writes a book, it's filled with a bunch of things. You disagree with that interpretation of events and then the press obsesses about that interpretation of events for a very long time.

...the point the book is making is that Donald Trump is dangerously unfit for the presidency with only a passing understanding of A, how government works and B, reality.

...we know from solid reporting that a number of people, maybe even most of the people in the White House feel the president is not up to the job. Unfit for office. Unstable.

Episode: “Kava-not-cool, guys.”

It was said to be very bad for Donald Trump, with several anecdotes highlighting his perceived stupidity and erratic behavior, alongside claims of staff actively trying to prevent policy changes by hiding documents from him.

"

Bob Woodward is out with a new book it's called Fear and it's about the Trump administration

John Kelly who reportedly frequently lost his temper and told colleagues that he thought the president was unhinged...he's an idiot it's pointless to try to convince him of anything he's gone off the rails we're in crazy town I don't even know why any of us are here this is the worst job I've ever had

Trump being very stupid as a running theme in this...he's literally so stupid that he thought Senator McCain got out of a Vietnamese POW camp early when he is literally famous for refusing early release and spending years more in captivity being tortured

he also called Sessions mentally retarded he's this dumb southerner he couldn't be a one-person country lawyer down in Alabama

it is worth pausing like on the fact that they are trying to prevent changes in policy by hiding documents from the president United States honestly I'm not I think they probably should I think they should hide documents from him because he's a fifth sixth grader who has no idea what's going on

Note: The book recommendations on this page are discovered automatically from podcast transcripts, and may be incorrect or incomplete.