Pod Save the World - Crooked Media

Assad Spins His Surrender From Moscow Dec 18, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest developments out of Syria, including the rebel leadership’s promises to disband and focus on building the state, international delegations and journalists making trips to Damascus, and Israel’s bombing campaign on Syrian territory and plans to build more settlements in the Golan Heights. They also talk about trouble for some of Trump’s cabinet nominees, concessions from Hamas in ceasefire negotiations, the impeachment of South Korea’s president, a no confidence vote in Germany, trouble for Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Prince Andrew’s latest misadventure. Then, Tommy speaks to PBS NewsHour special correspondent Leila Molana-Allen from Aleppo, who gives an on the ground perspective from Syria.

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.

What’s Next for Syria? Dec 11, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest developments in Syria after the fall of the Assad regime, including the debate in Washington and European capitals about whether to talk with the new Syrian government, remove sanctions, or remove Hayʼat Tahrir al-Sham’s terrorist designation. They also cover Trump’s trip to France and meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump’s loyalty test for those seeking national security jobs in his new administration, whether South Korea’s president will be impeached after declaring martial law, the collapse of the French government, a court order canceling Romania’s election results, and the corruption trials of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Then Ben speaks to Dareen Khalifa, Senior Advisor at the International Crisis Group, about what’s next for Syria and her insights into rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani.

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.

Breaking: Assad Regime Falls Dec 09, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the breaking news that Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria after rebel factions took over Damascus in a stunning sweep after 13 years of Civil War. They talk about the speed with which it all happened, what could come next as Syrians decide their own fate after decades of dictatorship, and how the events will affect US policy.

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South Korean President Declares Martial Law Dec 04, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss President Yoon Suk Yeol’s sudden declaration of martial law in South Korea, how Trump and his team will approach the Syrian civil war, and why Kash Patel, Trump’s pick to lead the FBI, is so dangerous. They also talk about Trump’s nepotism hires, more troubling news reports about Secretary of Defense nominee Pete Hegseth, Trump’s threats to levy tariffs on BRICS countries, UNRWA closing a crucial aid route into Gaza due to looting, a former Israeli defense minister’s declaration that Israeli is engaging in ethnic cleansing, protests in Georgia, and elections in Romania and Ireland. Finally, Tommy speaks with Natasha Hall, Senior Fellow in the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic & International Studies, to unpack what’s happening in Syria, who all the players are, and how we got here.

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.

Israel and Hezbollah Reach Ceasefire Deal Nov 27, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the latest additions to Trump’s national security team, and his threat to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China months before taking office. They also talk about the ICC arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli government sanctioning left-leaning news outlet Haaretz, Russia striking Ukraine with a missile that can carry nuclear warheads, the influence of the fossil fuel industry at COP29, new sentencing for pro-Democracy activists in Hong Kong, coup charges against Brazil’s former president, and a new draft dodging tactic out of South Korea. Then, Ben speaks to Nobel Peace Prize winner and women's rights activist Malala Yousafzai, and director Sahra Mani, about their new documentary "Bread & Roses".

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.

Trump’s Looming MAGA Military Purge Nov 20, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss how Trump’s nomination of Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard could reshape and politicize the US military and intelligence community, and how Trump’s choice to lead the FBI will signal how intensely he plans to go after his political enemies. They also talk about Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to hit targets in Russia with US-made weapons, the dark irony of COP29 being held in Azerbaijan, Biden’s trip to the G20 and APEC, Brazil’s sports gambling crisis, and a serious case of banana-phobia. Then Tommy speaks to Senator Bernie Sanders about his effort in Congress to ban offensive weapons sales to Israel.

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.

Trump’s National Security Team Takes Shape Nov 13, 2024

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.

Russian Interference Won’t Stop After Election Day Nov 06, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the normalization of foreign interference in US elections, the Chinese hack of US telecoms that could be putting millions of Americans’ communications at risk, concerns around potential post-election day violence stemming from right wing groups, and Bill Clinton’s unhelpful Gaza messaging. They also talk about Benjamin Netanyahu firing his Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, allegations that a Netanyahu staffer leaked classified information, reports that Russia planned to ship explosive devices on planes headed to the US, an update on the election in Moldova, and a massive political shakeup in Botswana. Finally, they cover a report about how North Korean soldiers sent to Russia are spending their free time, a time limit on hugs at a New Zealand airport, and Russia’s historically massive fine on Google.

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.

Election 2024: The Stark Choice on Climate Change? Nov 02, 2024

In this special episode of Pod Save the World, Ben looks at the most existential issue of our time, and one that gets little attention on the campaign trail: climate change. He examines both Harris and Trump’s records, the domestic and global benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act, the dire circumstances for small island nations and vulnerable communities, and what’s at stake if the US abandons climate leadership. Ben is joined by Brian Deese, former Director of the White House National Economic Council in the Biden administration, Leah Stokes, an Associate Professor of Environmental Politics at UCSB, and Rueanna Haynes, the Head of Diplomacy, Climate Analytics, and Director of Climate Analytics, Caribbean.

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.

North Korean “Storm Corps” Deploys to Russia Oct 30, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss why North Korea deployed 10,000 special forces troops to Russia, reports that Elon Musk likes to chat on the phone with Vladimir Putin, and a Trump campaign memo suggesting that if elected, he should do away with FBI background checks normally required before staff can access classified information. They also talk about new Israeli laws that would cripple aid deliveries into Gaza, the muted response from Iran after Israeli airstrikes near Tehran, increasingly sophisticated election interference from Russia, Iran, and China, the consequences of elections in Georgia and Japan, and a giant feces geyser near Moscow. Then, Tommy interviews NBC correspondent Jacob Soboroff about the new documentary based on his book “Separated” that details the inhumane family separation policy enacted during the Trump administration, and the chances of it happening again if he wins.

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Election 2024: Cooperation, Competition, or War with China? Oct 26, 2024

In this special episode of Pod Save the World, Ben looks at the most important bilateral relationship in the world today: the new era of competition between the U.S. and China. Will the U.S. drift into outright conflict with China, or can we balance competition and cooperation? He reviews China’s attempt to reshape the global order, how the Biden administration has tried to get tougher on China through its trade policy, and how tensions over Taiwan could impact both our economic and military future. Ben is joined by Evan Medeiros, Professor of Asian Studies at Georgetown University, US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, and Ryan Hass, Chair of Taiwan Studies at the Brookings Institution.

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.

Trump Blames Zelensky for War, Sucks Up to Saudis Oct 23, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the biggest foreign policy debates on the 2024 campaign trail, like Trump blaming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for the war in Ukraine, Kamala Harris campaigning with Liz Cheney, speculation about who would serve in Harris’s foreign policy cabinet, and Gaza policy. Then they talk about the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, the devastating humanitarian situation in Northern Gaza, continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon, the BRICS summit in Russia, Moldova’s razor thin vote to pursue EU membership, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleging that right wing personalities Tucker Carlson and Jordan Peterson are financed by the Russian government, the electrical grid collapse in Cuba, and a shady pizza operation in Germany. Then, Tommy speaks to Casey Michel, Director of the Combating Kleptocracy Program at the Human Rights Foundation and author of the new book, “Foreign Agents”.

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Election 2024: Israel, Gaza, and the Future of the Middle East Oct 19, 2024

In this special episode of Pod Save the World, Ben looks at the expanding conflict in the Middle East and how either a Harris or Trump electoral victory could impact the actions or motivations of countries in the region. He also looks at the growing rift among Democrats on the issue of Israel, anti-semitism in the US, the Palestinian perspective on the ongoing destruction in Gaza, and the broader regional dynamic. Ben is joined by Peter Beinart, Editor-at-Large of Jewish Currents and author of the forthcoming book “Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza”, as well as foreign policy analyst Rula Jebreal, and The Economist’s Middle East correspondent, Gregg Carlstrom.

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Trump Officials on an Iranian Hit List Oct 16, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the Israeli military’s plan to seal off and lay siege to Northern Gaza, the Biden administration’s demand that Israel improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza or else the US will (maybe?) cut off weapons shipments, the IDF’s expanding military campaign in Lebanon, and new details about how Israel might respond to Iran’s ballistic missile attack. They also talk about a “hit list” of Trump administration officials being targeted by Iran, North Korea blowing up roads connected to South Korea and sending troops to Russia, Canada and India expelling diplomats over the assassination of a Sikh activist, and Viktor Orbán getting dunked on in the European Parliament. Then Ben speaks to Saad Mohseni, author of “Radio Free Afghanistan” about running a media company in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.

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.

Election 2024: Ukraine, Russia, and Whether the War Will End Oct 12, 2024

In this special episode of Pod Save the World, Ben looks at how the war in Ukraine will be impacted by a Harris or Trump victory. Speaking to guests from Ukraine, Russia, and Europe, we hear different perspectives on American leadership, the future of the war, and the stakes for Ukrainians, Russians and NATO. Ben is joined by Senator Chris Murphy, Ukrainian journalist Illia Ponomarenko, Nina Krushcheva, Professor of International International Affairs at the New School, and Célia Belin, Senior Policy Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations.

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.

One Year of War in the Middle East Oct 09, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the anniversary of the October 7th attack in Israel and how the war has expanded across the Middle East in the year since, they play reflections from a Palestinian journalist in Gaza and an Israeli woman whose relatives were taken hostage, and discuss the heavy fighting this week in both Northern Gaza and Lebanon. Then they talk about how the war has become a major issue on the campaign trail, Trump’s bizarre claim to have visited Gaza and support for Israel attacking Iranian nuclear infrastructure, Kamala Harris’s frosty comments about Benjamin Netanyahu on 60 Minutes, Macron’s call to stop arming Israel, and Netanyahu’s ominous message to the Lebanese people. They also talk about Bob Woodward’s new book, the Tunisian election and the end of the Arab Spring, the dangers of the far-right surge in Austria, and a Qantas Airlines experience of in-flight entertainment gone horribly wrong. Then, Ben speaks to Ta-Nehisi Coates about his new book, “The Message”, that digs into the Israeli and Palestinian conflict and how victims can become victimizers.

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.

Election 2024: What are the Stakes for Global Democracy? Oct 05, 2024

In this special episode of Pod Save the World, Ben looks at how this November’s election will impact global democracy. From the rise of autocracy and the far right, to U.S. efforts to support (or undermine) democratic values around the world, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump represent a stark choice. He’s joined by Senator Chris Murphy, USAID administrator Samantha Power, Sarah Margon, the US Foreign Policy Director at the Open Society Foundations, and Zack Beauchamp, Vox reporter and author of “The Reactionary Spirit”.

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Israel Invades Lebanon, Iran Attacks Israel Oct 02, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the escalating war between Israel, Hezbollah and Iran after Iran launched 200 ballistic missiles towards Israel on Tuesday in retaliation for the Israeli strike that killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. They also talk about Nasrallah’s importance and the prospects for his replacement, the Israeli ground invasion into Lebanon, the Biden administration’s muddled message on the Middle East, and how Trump is using the Iranian strikes to attack Kamala Harris. Then, Tommy speaks with Leila Molana-Allen, who is covering the conflict in Beirut as Special Correspondent for PBS News Hour, about the war’s devastating impact on civilians in Lebanon.

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.

Israel Bombards Hezbollah in Lebanon Sep 25, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the escalation of violence between Israel and Hezbollah into all-out war, the shuttering of Al Jazeera in the West Bank, the importance and futility of the United Nations General Assembly, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s trip to the US with a “victory plan” and a swing state ammunition plant visit. Then they discuss new polling that reveals where American voters stand on foreign policy issues, another troubling local election in Germany with high turnout for the far-right, a Socialist candidate’s victory in Sri Lanka’s election, Elon Musk caving on free speech in Brazil, the potential national security implications of a sunken luxury yacht, a proposal in Albania to create a liberal Muslim micro-state, and painted dogs displayed as pandas in a Chinese zoo. Then, Ben speaks with Lebanese journalist and author of Black Wave, Kim Ghattas, about the situation on the ground in Beirut after the last week of pager attacks and strikes have caused panic, as well as the degree of damage to Hezbollah’s power.

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.

Israel Sends Exploding Pagers to Hezbollah Sep 18, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss reports that Israel sent thousands of explosive pagers to members of Hezbollah and whether this signals the beginning of a larger Israeli military operation in Lebanon, what people who have been in national security meetings with Kamala Harris say about her leadership style and new polling about the politics of foreign policy in this election, and the growing pressure on the US and UK to allow the Ukrainian military to use western weapons to hit targets inside Russia. They also discuss why the 2008 war between Russia and Georgia has become a major issue in Georgia’s upcoming election, the new Prime Minister of France, Iran hiring Hells Angels and other criminal networks to target critics abroad, and why Americans were sentenced to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo for a coup attempt. Finally, they touch on the trial against Manchester City for financial breaches in the Premier League, the NSA’s new podcast, and whether Pokémon GO was a western intelligence tool.

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.

Republicans Blame Kamala Harris for Afghanistan Collapse Sep 11, 2024

Tommy is joined by Colin Kahl, Biden’s former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, to discuss multiple conflicts and hot spots around the world including the ongoing efforts against ISIS in Iraq, the hard lessons being learned in the war in Ukraine, Republican attempts to blame Kamala Harris for the Afghanistan withdrawal, extremist attacks in western Africa, and the futility of trying to defeat Hamas militarily in Gaza. Then, Tommy is joined by Vera Bergengruen, Senior correspondent for TIME Magazine, to discuss her cover stories on President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador and President Javier Milei of Argentina, why they’re popular at home and with Republicans in the US, the DOJ indictment that disclosed the Russian government paid huge sums to American right-wing influencers, and why Russian influence operations work best in smaller countries.

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.

Hamas Executes Hostages, Israelis Protest Netanyahu Sep 04, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the discovery of six Israeli hostages killed by Hamas, protests in Israel demanding Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu agree to a ceasefire and hostage release deal, how Biden’s rhetoric about Gaza gives Netanyahu political cover, and the challenges of the UN’s Polio vaccination rollout in Gaza. They also talk about what an election win for Germany’s far-right AfD party means for the country’s political future, why a former aide to NY Governor Kathy Hochul is being charged with working as a foreign agent for China, why X (Twitter) was blocked in Brazil, a controversial effort to reform Mexico’s judicial system, the shooting of Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine, and the Taliban’s ban on women speaking in public in Afghanistan. Then, Ben speaks to Tom Perriello, the US Special Envoy to Sudan about the negotiations he led to address the world’s worst hunger crisis.

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.

Telegram Founder Arrested in France Aug 28, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss Telegram founder Pavel Durov’s arrest in France, the debate over free speech, social media, and CEO accountability, as well as why the Russian government finds the app so useful. They also talk about strikes between Hezbollah and Israel and the lonely optimism of the US on a ceasefire deal, a change in US nuclear strategy that refocuses on China, the spread of mpox, protests in India over the rape and murder of a doctor, and some troubling insider knowledge about former Trump officials. Then Tommy speaks to Senator Peter Welch about how Kamala Harris could take a stronger stance on Gaza and what Tim Walz’s gym habits were when they were in Congress together.

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.

Gaza Protests and the DNC Aug 21, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the lack of foreign policy discussion in speeches at the DNC in Chicago, protests over Gaza happening outside of the convention, and reports that Trump could be influencing Netanyahu’s decision to hold off on agreeing to a ceasefire deal. They also talk about Ukraine’s incursion into Russia causing a pause in negotiations to stop attacks on energy infrastructure, the anti-democratic nature of Thai politics as they welcome a new Prime Minister, and Ramzan Kadyrov’s tricked out Tesla Cybertruck. Then Ben speaks to Alsu Kurmasheva, the Radio Free Europe reporter who was recently freed in a historic prisoner exchange with Russia.

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.

Ukraine Invades Russia Aug 14, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the impact of Ukraine’s shocking military incursion into Russian territory, how the US and Israel are preparing for a possible retaliatory military strike by Iran and Hezbollah, how activists are trying to influence Kamala Harris’s position on Gaza, and the latest details on the humanitarian situation in Gaza and ceasefire negotiations. Then they talk about Iran hacking the Trump campaign, reports that the US offered Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro amnesty in exchange for stepping down, terror threats at Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna, and outrage over a celebrity event in Pompeii. Then, Ben speaks to Sahar Halaimzai, Director of the Afghanistan Initiative at the Malala Fund about the gender apartheid that exists in Afghanistan three years after the Taliban’s return.

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.

Harris-Walz Ticket, A Russian Prisoner Exchange Aug 07, 2024

Ben and guest host Alyona Minkovski discuss how Harris’s pick of Tim Walz as a running mate represents a new generation of US foreign policy, the anticipation of an attack from Iran and Hezbollah in retaliation for the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, and a historic prisoner exchange between the US and Russia that included journalists, dissidents, and an FSB assassin. Then they talk about the resignation of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, the Venezuelan opposition’s proof of victory, the role of AI and disinformation in the far-right riots in the UK, and favorite moments from the Paris Olympics. Then, Ben speaks to Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor to President Biden, about how the prisoner exchange came together and what it could mean for the prospect of negotiations on the war in Ukraine and the effort to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.

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.

Venezuela's Stolen Election Jul 31, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro’s attempt to hold on to power after losing Sunday’s election, the political debate over whether the US should sanction Venezuela, and what Vice President Harris should do in the next 100 days to pass the “Commander-in-Chief test.” They also talk about the escalating war between Israel and Hezbollah, Netanyahu’s disgraceful speech to Congress, Kamala Harris’s meeting with Netanyahu, far-right protests in Israel over an investigation into abuse of Palestinian detainees, and reports of a polio outbreak in Gaza. Then they go over evidence of UAE boots on the ground in Sudan, reports of an ambush of Wagner Group fighters in Mali, favorite moments from the Paris Olympics so far, and FOX news outrage over a misconstrued clip from the opening ceremony. Finally, Ben speaks to Phillip Gunson of the International Crisis Group about the situation on the ground in Venezuela following the election.

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.

Breaking Down Kamala Harris’s Foreign Policy Jul 24, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the international reaction to Biden’s decision to drop out of the presidential race, and dive into what Kamala Harris’s foreign policy could look like based on her record in the Senate, experience during the Biden administration, and advisers. They also talk about Netanyahu’s visit to Washington and planned speech to Congress, resignations of Senator Robert Menendez and the head of the Secret Service, deadly protests in Bangladesh, updates from the EU, and how to escape from a cocaine shark. Then, Tommy speaks with Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian about the 10 year anniversary of his imprisonment in Iran, and what the US government could be doing now to get more hostages home from Russia and Hamas.

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.

World Reacts to Trump Assassination Attempt Jul 17, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the global reaction to the assassination attempt on Donald Trump and the rise of political violence around the world, Trump VP pick JD Vance’s views on foreign policy, and more low-lights from the RNC. They also talk about the conviction of Senator Robert Menendez on corruption charges, the last news from Gaza, Robert Kagame’s re-election in Rwanda, Kenya’s ongoing protests, a win for women’s rights activists in Gambia, the world’s most expensive wedding in India, and arguably one of the most tone-deaf social media posts in history. Then, Tommy speaks with Congressman Seth Moulton about JD Vance, calls for Biden to step down, Secret Service’s failures, and what the IDF could learn from the US war in Iraq.

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.

French Election Shock, NATO Descends on D.C. Jul 10, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the surprising French election results and debate whether Macron’s decision to call early elections was a success or failure, the Labour landslide in the UK, and how American politics loom large at this year’s NATO summit in Washington, DC. They also talk about the election of reformist Masoud Pezeshkian in Iran and how a new president could change relations with the West, the latest on negotiations to end the war in Gaza, what to expect from Bibi Netanyahu’s address to Congress, and why you should wear a poncho if you’re planning on visiting Barcelona. Then, Ben speaks to Coco Khan and Nish Kumar of Pod Save the UK about last week’s elections.

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.

UK Election Preview with David Lammy Jun 26, 2024

Ben is joined by guest host David Lammy, British MP and Shadow Foreign Secretary. They discuss the upcoming election in the UK on July 4th and how historic a Labour win by Keir Starmer would be, how to read into popular support for Nigel Farage and his far-right party, an election betting scandal from people within Rishi Sunak’s inner circle, and the key domestic and economic issues on the line. They also talk about David’s theory of “progressive realism” and how a Labour foreign policy would continue to advocate for unity on the war in Ukraine, pressure Hamas and Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire, and what it would mean for David to represent his country as Foreign Secretary. Then, Ben touches on the arrival of a Kenyan police force in Haiti, Julian Assange’s release from prison, and speaks to New York Times reporter Edward Wong about his new book, “At the Edge of Empire: A Family's Reckoning with China”.

Democracy or Else is OUT NOW! Buy wherever you get your books: http://crooked.com/books

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Why Is Putin Going To North Korea? Jun 19, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the “Peace Summit” held in Switzerland for the war in Ukraine and the glaring problem of Russia’s absence, Putin’s first visit to North Korea in 24 years and why this growing alliance is a troubling development, and the news that Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich will stand trial next week in Russia on espionage charges. They also talk about Netanyahu disbanding his war cabinet, analysts warning of increasing terror threats to the United States because of the war in Gaza, devastating polling for Emmanuel Macron ahead of a snap election in France, protests in Argentina in response to reforms pushed through by Javier Milei, and the Pope doing influencer outreach by inviting comedians to the Vatican. Then, Ben speaks with Rep. Ilhan Omar about her letter to President Biden asking for a humanitarian parole program for Sudanese refugees.

Finally, don’t miss Ben and Tommy discussing how they got into careers in politics – something Tommy, Jon Favreau and Jon Lovett suggest others do in their new book, Democracy or Else. Pre-order Democracy or Else, out June 25th: crooked.com/books

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Far Right Surges in European Elections Jun 12, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the success of far-right parties in the European Parliamentary elections and debate whether French President Emmanuel Macron’s call for snap elections in France is bold or disastrous. Then they talk about British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s shocking decision to skip a ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the latest developments out of Israel and Gaza, including ceasefire negotiations, Benny Gantz leaving Netanyahu’s war cabinet, and the ethics of an Israeli hostage rescue in Gaza that resulted in hundreds of civilian casualties. They also walk through the horrific state of affairs in the civil war in Sudan, a foreign election interference scandal rocking Canada, a Chinese waterfall getting a little help from the government, and why Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville is still very, very dumb. Then Ben interviews Dr. Rosa Balfour, the Director of Carnegie Europe, about the broader implications of the European Parliamentary election results on issues like climate change.

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.

World Reacts to Trump’s Guilty Verdict Jun 05, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss Biden’s ceasefire proposal and debate whether going public with the plan will pressure Hamas and Israel to accept it, they also try to understand why Democrats agreed to invite Israeli PM Bibi Netanyahu to address a joint session of Congress. Then they discuss global reactions to Trump’s guilty verdict, the debate over allowing Ukraine to use American provided weapons against targets on Russian soil, British PM Rishi Sunak’s decision to call early elections on July 4th, shocking election results for Prime Minister Modi in India, an end of a political era for Nelson Mandela’s ANC party in South Africa, and a tit for tat between North and South Korea involving balloons full of trash and K-Pop songs. Then, Tommy covers the historic election of Mexico’s first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, with Dan Restrepo, a founding partner at Dinamica Americas and President Obama’s former principal advisor on issues related to Latin America.

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Norwegian Prime Minister Explains Decision to Recognize a Palestinian State May 29, 2024

Ben speaks to Jonas Gahr Store, the Prime Minister of Norway, who explains why he decided to formally recognize a Palestinian state alongside the leaders of Spain and Ireland. Then, Ben is joined by Fareed Zakaria to talk about the long term prospects for peace on multiple fronts like Israel and Palestine, Russia and Ukraine, and China and Taiwan. They also discuss Zakaria’s new book, “Age of Revolutions: Progress and Backlash from 1600 to the Present”. Finally, Ben interviews Ravi Gupta about the new podcast from Crooked Media, “Killing Justice”.

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Introducing "Killing Justice" May 27, 2024

When a judge in India dies of a heart attack, his passing barely makes the news. But when his niece approaches a journalist two years later, she shares a different story: that the circumstances around Judge Brijgopal Loya’s death have made his family doubt the official story. From Crooked Media and The Branch - Killing Justice investigates how one man’s death has become a lodestone for increasingly polarized politics in India. Following the reporting and legal fallout that arise from this tip, Host Ravi Gupta examines the conflicting evidence and grapples with the broader implications a single night in the city of Nagpur has on the world’s largest democracy.

You can hear the first 2 episodes of Killing Justice right now on Apple or Spotify. New episodes every Monday. For ad-free episodes, join the ‘Friends of the Pod’ community at crooked.com/friends.

Hamas and Netanyahu Accused of War Crimes May 22, 2024

Ben and guest host Alyona Minkovski discuss the ICC’s application for arrest warrants against both Hamas and Netanyahu for war crimes, the mass exodus of civilians from Rafah, a US-Saudi pact supposedly being days away from being agreed to, and public rebukes against Netanyahu from members of his own war cabinet. They also talk about the Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi’s death in a helicopter crash, Zelensky putting hopes into Xi Jinping to pressure Putin on negotiations, an assassination attempt against the Slovakian Prime Minister, the latest in the trial of Julian Assange, a failed coup involving Americans in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Anthony Blinken “Rockin’ in the Free World”. Then, Ben speaks with Tamara Chergoleishvili, who is running for office in Georgia in this October’s elections in the European Georgia party.

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.

Biden Punishes China May 15, 2024

Ben is joined by guest hosts Daniel Kurtz-Phelan, Editor of Foreign Affairs magazine and Rana Ayyub, global opinion columnist for the Washington Post. Ben and Dan discuss a regrouped Hamas in northern Gaza, Secretary Blinken calling out the Israelis for not having a long term plan, Biden’s new tariffs on Chinese goods, the struggle to define America’s relationship with China, Russia’s new offensive in Kharkiv, and protests in Georgia over a foreign agent law. Then Ben and Rana talk about the Indian election, what a third Modi term would mean for India’s democracy, and attacks on Muslims and journalists in the country.

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.

Israel Begins Rafah Offensive (feat. Ali Velshi) May 08, 2024

Ben and guest host Ali Velshi discuss the latest developments on ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, the beginning of a military offensive in Rafah, the shutdown of Al Jazeera in Israel, and plans to ban TikTok in the United States. They also discuss Chinese President Xi Jinping’s first visit to Europe in 5 years, Putin’s inauguration and an alleged assignation plot against President Zelensky, and Canadian police bringing charges in the assassination of a Sikh separatist on their soil. Then, Ben speaks with Ali about his new book, “Small Acts of Courage: A Legacy of Endurance and the Fight for Democracy”, and interviews Slovenian activist Nika Kovač about the “My Voice, My Choice” campaign to fight for abortion rights in Europe.

Tucker Carlson Interviews "Putin's Brain" May 01, 2024

Ben and Tommy discuss reports that a temporary ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas may be imminent, that Saudi Arabia has decided to normalize relations with Israel, and that the ICC may issue an arrest warrant for Israeli PM Bibi Netanyahu. They also hear from campus protestors in New York, discuss leaked intelligence reports about whether Putin ordered opposition leader Alexei Navalny’s death, Tucker Carlson’s interview with a far-right ultranationalist close with Putin, Secretary of State Tony Blinken’s trip to China, why an Iranian rapper got a death sentence, major leadership changes in Scotland, and a dramatic reading care of Scotland. Then Tommy speaks to John McDermott, Chief Africa Correspondent for the Economist about South Africa’s upcoming election, waning western influence in the western Sahel, and the 30th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide.

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.

Gaza Protests Roil College Campuses Apr 24, 2024

Ben and Tommy discuss the House approving $26 billion in military aid to Israel despite strikes on Rafah and a continuously deteriorating humanitarian situation, the resignation of Israel’s intelligence chief, a report concluding that there’s no evidence for UNRWA having broad terrorist ties, and student protests over the war in Gaza at American universities. They also discuss supplemental funding for the war in Ukraine, angry reactions from Russian officials, Trump’s personal aide saying he was promised a pardon if he lied to the FBI, Elon Musk’s battle with a Brazilian judge, the US agreeing to withdraw all troops from Niger, and why Biden should stop talking about cannibalism. Then Ben speaks to Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal about her “no” vote on offensive weapons to Israel and her recent trip to Cuba.

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.

Breaking: Israel Strikes Back at Iran Apr 19, 2024

In a bonus episode, Tommy and Ben talk about the reports that Israel launched a retaliatory strike deep inside Iran, why Iranian leaders are downplaying what happened, why the logic of deterrence is stupid, and the Biden administration’s muted response. They also talk about supplemental funding bills for Israel and Ukraine that the House will vote on this weekend, the messaging incoherence of the US calling for a ceasefire in Gaza while sending Israel more weapons, the US vetoing a UN resolution on Palestinian statehood, and then they take audience questions from the Discord.

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.

Iran Attacks Israel Apr 17, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss Iran’s missile and drone attack on Israel and whether Israel will retaliate, Biden’s message of restraint to Prime Minister Netanyahu, the republicans calling for all out war with Iran, and what Iran’s strike means for efforts to end the war in Gaza and pass additional funding for Israel and Ukraine. They also talk about Ukrainian President Zelensky’s criticism of other countries’ willingness to shoot down Iranian missiles but not those from Russia, a grim anniversary for the civil war in Sudan, a mass stabbing in Australia, former US Ambassador Manuel Rocha pleading guilty to being a Cuban spy, and the arrival of Meghan Markle’s strawberry jam. Then Tommy talks with Middle East expert Khaled Elgindy about post-war reconstruction in Gaza, and what kind of political path forward could actually create a Palestinian state.

Don't forget to vote for Pod Save the World for a Webby Award!

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.

Biden Gives Israel An Ultimatum on Gaza Apr 10, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss Biden’s call with Israeli PM Bibi Netanyahu and threat to cut off US support for the war in Gaza, Israel’s announcement that it would open more aid corridors into Gaza, and the head spinning change in political support for the war in Washington. They also explain why Ecuadorian police raided Mexico’s embassy and sparked a global diplomatic crisis, Trump’s “secret plan” to end the war in Ukraine, the election of a pro-Russian president in Slovakia, the Japanese Prime Minister’s State Visit with Biden, how a trillion-dollar Saudi infrastructure project has already become a disaster, and the world’s saddest political tweet via the Tory Party in the UK. Then Ben speaks to David Miliband, the President of the International Rescue Committee, about the moral and legal imperative to try to save lives in Gaza.

Pod Save the World is nominated for a Webby award for Best News & Politics podcast! Vote for us if you can.

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.

Can Saudi Money Whitewash a Murder?: World Corrupt Season 2, Episode 4 Apr 06, 2024

In the final episode of this four-part series, Rog and Tommy trace the massive flow of Saudi money into Hollywood, Silicon Valley and Wall Street, and how the biggest venture capitalists and A-list celebrities seem to no longer care about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. They also look back at the history of the US-Saudi relationship, and how President Biden went from pleading to make Saudi Arabia a “pariah” to traveling there to fist bump Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah. And finally, they dive into the possible motivations behind Saudi Arabia’s investments, from the need to diversify the Saudi economy, to whitewashing the murder of Jamal Khashoggi and changing the subject from other human rights violations. Despite all the depressing news, Rog and Tommy try to find glimmers of hope where grassroots activism and football can lead the way in creating a more just world. All of this and more, on the final episode of World Corrupt, Season 2.

Israeli Strike Kills World Central Kitchen Staff in Gaza Apr 03, 2024

Ben and Tommy discuss an Israeli airstrike on an Iranian embassy building in Syria that killed several top Iranian generals, Israeli drone strikes that killed seven World Central Kitchen humanitarian relief workers in Gaza and what they tell us about Israel’s lack of concern about civilian causalities, and growing protests in Israel against Netanyahu. Then they talk about Trump’s “shadow Secretary of State” Ric Grenell, the Qataris investing in Newsmax, a 60 Minutes report blaming Russia for “Havana Syndrome”, and one year since Russia arrested WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich. Finally, they cover a new anti-hate speech law in Scotland, the barring of an opposition candidate in Venezuela, Chinese disinformation promoting Trump in the US, a big loss for Erdogan’s party in Turkey’s local elections, and Reagan’s almost assassin complaining about cancel culture.

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.

Saudi Arabia: The New Home of Global Football: World Corrupt Season 2, Episode 3 Mar 30, 2024

In episode three of this four part series, Rog and Tommy explore the rise of Saudi Arabia’s domestic football league and why superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar are flocking there. iNews’s chief football writer Daniel Storey joins the show to tell the tale of one of those players, former Liverpool captain and one-time “moral center” of English football Jordan Henderson, whose move to the Saudi pro-league led to one of the starkest falls from grace in recent sporting history. Plus, Saudi Arabia has all but secured hosting rights for the 2034 Men’s World Cup....but did football’s global governing body FIFA rig the bidding process years in advance? And with Saudi Arabia also eyeing hosting duties for the 2035 Women's World Cup, former US Women’s National Team legend Megan Rapinoe gives her thoughts on what it would mean to play football's crown jewel tournament in a country where women are assigned a male guardian and homosexuality is illegal. All of this and more on the latest episode of World Corrupt.

How Will Putin Respond to an ISIS Attack? (feat. Bernie Sanders) Mar 27, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the deteriorating relations between the White House and Bibi Netanyahu's government after the UN Security Council calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, the stalling hostage negotiations in Qatar, and Trump's PR advice to Israel. Then, they talk about the ISIS attack at a Moscow concert hall and Putin's response. They also discuss Hong Kong's new national security law, two surprising political resignations, a democratic election in Senegal, why the former president of Brazil was hiding in a foreign embassy, and Kate Middleton's cancer diagnosis. Plus, Senator Bernie Sanders and Ben discuss the looming famine in Gaza, conditioning aid to Israel, and changing US foreign policy for the better.

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.

Saudi Arabia’s Despotic Ruler: World Corrupt Season 2, Episode 2 Mar 23, 2024

Roger Bennett and Tommy Vietor take a look at the history of Saudi Arabia, US-Saudi relations, and the Kingdom’s path to becoming a geopolitical force. They trace the unlikely rise of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman from a lowly place in the royal hierarchy to de facto leader of the country, and examine his record of enacting major social reforms while brutally cracking down on critics and rivals. Guests Ben Hubbard, Sarah Leah Whitson, and Khalid Al Jabri provide insight through stories about the infamous lock-up at the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh, the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and the disappearance of even the family members of MBS’ political rivals. And finally, they unpack what MBS’ massive investment into soccer means for the global game. Listen to the second episode of this four-part series to find out.

Trump Says Jewish Democrats “Hate Israel” Mar 20, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the looming famine in Gaza, reactions to Senator Chuck Schumer’s call for new elections in Israel, Trump’s claim that Jewish Democrats “hate Israel”, secret talks between the US and Iran over attacks in the Red Sea by Houthis. They also talk about Jared Kushner’s luxury real estate developments in Serbia and Albania, Putin’s overwhelming election “victory”, Senator Lindsey Graham’s visit to Ukraine, a new study on Havana Syndrome, Niger ending counterterrorism cooperation with the US, dates announced for the Indian election, and Trump suggesting action should be taken against Prince Harry if he lied about drug use on his visa application. Then Tommy speaks to Josh Geltzer, Deputy Homeland Security Advisor for the White House National Security Council, about the debate over reauthorizing Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

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.

Football in the House of Saud: World Corrupt Season 2, Episode 1 Mar 16, 2024

Roger Bennet and Tommy Vietor are back for Season 2 of World Corrupt! And this time, Rog and Tommy are diving into how Saudi Arabia, the biggest exporter of oil in the world and a nation in the news for human rights abuses, became the latest geopolitical power player sweeping global soccer. The Saudis have poured billions of dollars into the world’s most popular sport, including signing superstar players like Cristiano Ronaldo to eye-popping contracts. But the crown jewel in the Saudi investment portfolio? That would be the take over of one of England’s most historic football clubs, Newcastle United. A team with a rich history from an impoverished corner of the country, Newcastle had fallen upon hard times…and they welcomed the Saudis with open arms. But at what cost? Listen to the first episode of this four part series to find out.

Trump’s TikTok Flip Flop Mar 13, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss plans for delivering aid to Gaza through a maritime route and floating pier, US “red lines” over an Israeli invasion of Rafah and the public war of words between Biden and Netanyahu in weekend interviews. They they talk about Viktor Orban’s visit to Mar-a-Lago, concerns from the intelligence community about giving Trump classified briefings during the election, the debate over banning TikTok, election news in Portugal and Turkey, a mass kidnaping in Nigeria, a failed constitutional amendment vote in Ireland, and the photoshop scandal that is fueling even more rumors about the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton. Then Ben does a deep dive on the deteriorating situation in Haiti, which has become overrun by gangs, with Renata Segura, Deputy Program Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at the International Crisis Group.

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.

World Corrupt Season 2: Trailer Mar 09, 2024

And, we're back! Join Roger Bennet and Tommy Vietor for another season of World Corrupt, with a focus on why Saudi Arabia is investing billions in football. Episode 1 coming March 16.

Why is the US air dropping aid to Gaza? Mar 06, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the futility of aerial aid drops by the US in Gaza, Kamala Harris’ speech calling for an immediate ceasefire, Netanyahu rival Benny Gantz’s visit to Washington, and do a preview of President Biden’s State of the Union address. Then they discuss the breakdown of order in Haiti as gangs overrun prisons, a German audio leak about long range missiles for Ukraine posted by Russian state media, France enshrining abortion into their constitution, the thousands of Russians who came out for Alexei Navalny’s funeral, repercussions for multiple US leakers of classified intelligence, and Tucker Carlson’s about face on Putin. Then Tommy speaks with Kholood Khair, a Sudanese political analyst and founder of the Confluence Advisory think tank about the civil war in Sudan.

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.

CPAC Doubles Down on Creepy Autocrats Feb 28, 2024

Ben and Tommy discuss President Biden’s claim that a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas may be imminent, the domestic political problems the war is creating for Biden, the latest on efforts to defer attacks by Iran’s proxy groups in the Middle East, and some rare good news about Iran’s nuclear program. They also discuss the staggering casualty numbers from the war in Ukraine, claims that a prisoner exchange involving Alexei Navalny was in final stages before his death, new reports about extensive Russian efforts to interfere in our elections, right-wing autocratic creeps at CPAC, an investigation into the Mexican president’s ties with drug cartels, Saudi Arabia dumping money on celebrities and CEOs in Miami, and why Taylor Swift’s dad was throwing punches in Australia. Then Ben talks with Wai Wai Nu, a human rights activist and founder of the Women’s Peace Network about the civil war in Myanmar.

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.

Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 8: The Shit In The Frame Feb 24, 2024

Guangcheng has put his life on the line to stand up for noble causes and principles. He has also thrown his support behind Trump and, more recently, a range of intolerant ideas. There are so many things to admire about him, but there are others that are hard to excuse. We thought with this series that we could show how all these things could be true at once. But as we got closer to the end of the story, we learned just how hard that really is.

Can Ukraine Outlast Putin? Feb 21, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the two-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the military defeat of Avdiivka, panic at the Munich Security Conference over Republicans blocking more aid to Ukraine, and how Ukrainians have adapted to living in a state of war. Then they talk about calls for accountability for Alexei Navalny’s death and his wife Yulia’s promise to continue Alexei’s work, the arrest of an American dual national in Russia, Tucker Carlson’s Moscow metro propaganda videos, and an update on Russia’s space nukes. They also look at Netanyahu’s insistence on invading Rafah, a pro-Israel group’s attack on a Washington Post reporter, the Indonesian elections, why Jared Kushner is still a sniveling little prick, and a very Australian mankini scandal. Then Tommy talks with Mstyslav Chernov about his incredible documentary, 20 Days in Mariupol.

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.

Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 7: Lost And Found In Translation Feb 17, 2024

With a new position at the Catholic University of America and funding from a rightwing think tank, Guangcheng takes on a new challenge: strengthening his English. We examine why this became such a top priority for Guangcheng and his patrons, what it means to traverse borders and negotiate between languages, and how Guangcheng’s political beliefs are translated by different audiences in a country that elected Donald Trump.

Breaking: Putin Kills Alexei Navalny Feb 17, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the breaking news that Russia’s most prominent opposition figure, Alexei Navalny, has died while in prison. The only information available so far is coming from prison officials and Russian government-run news channels, who claim that Navalny collapsed. Tommy and Ben talk about Navalny’s legacy, nearly universal blame being put on Putin for his death, Biden’s response, and what this means for Russia’s opposition and political future.

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.

Trump Tells Putin to Invade NATO Nations Feb 14, 2024

Tommy and Max Fisher talk about the disastrous humanitarian implications of Israel’s impending offensive in Rafah, the Biden administration’s shifting tone towards Israel, and efforts to reach out to the Muslim American community in Michigan. They also talk about Trump’s comments encouraging Russia to invade NATO members who don’t spend enough on defense, react to Tucker Carlson’s (boring) interview with Vladimir Putin, Pakistan’s shocking election results, the chances of Irish reunification, and King Charles’s quirky views on modern medicine. Then Ben speaks with New Jersey Congressman Andy Kim about his campaign to oust Senator Bob Menendez, and how corruption impacts America’s foreign policy.

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.

Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 6: The Great Moving Right Show Feb 10, 2024

Almost one year after arriving in the US, the New York Post publishes a story suggesting NYU is trying to sever ties with Guangcheng. Guangcheng alleges the university is bowing to pressure from the Chinese Communist Party. Guangcheng’s hosts at NYU accuse right wing political forces of misleading him. Things get very messy. Where Guangcheng lands next sets him on a path that eventually leads to throwing his support behind Trump for reelection in 2020.

Tucker Carlson Goes to Moscow Feb 07, 2024

Tommy and Ben talk about US strikes against facilities in Iraq and Syria used by Iran-backed militia groups, White House denials that the conflict in Gaza has drawn America into a regional war, haunting statistics for children in Gaza, souring public opinion on the war, and dehumanizing commentary about the Middle East. They also discuss how Biden’s foreign policy agenda is being held up by Congress, Zelensky’s potential government and military shake-up, Tucker Carlson’s interview with Vladimir Putin, El Salvador’s election and Bukele’s rising popularity, polling in Europe that forecasts momentum for far right parties, a historic first in Northern Ireland, King Charles’ cancer diagnosis, Rishi Sunak’s insane fasting regimen, and Liz Truss’ plans to attend CPAC. Then Tommy speaks to Alex Ward, national security reporter at Politico about his new book “The Internationalists”.

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.

Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 5: Guangcheng’s Year of Living Famously Feb 03, 2024

Following a tense negotiation between the US and China, Guangcheng arrives in the United States. He is greeted with a hero’s welcome. He gives speeches. He wins awards. And he tries to adjust to life in New York, hosted by NYU. But quickly cracks start to emerge beneath the glamorous facade.

Will Biden Bomb Iran? Jan 31, 2024

Tommy and Ben talk about the drone strike by an Iranian-backed group on a US base in Jordan that killed three US service members, the pressure on Biden to retaliate against Iran directly, and the muddled politics of war. They also cover allegations that UN employees in Gaza participated in the October 7th Hamas attack, the International Court of Justice’s ruling about genocide charges against Israel, and Nancy Pelosi’s odd criticism of activists calling for a ceasefire. They also discuss NATO member fears about Russia, Trump floating major tariffs on China, a Kenyan court blocking the deployment of police to Haiti, and French farmers laying siege to Paris. Then, Tommy speaks with Ali Vaez, Iran Project Director at the International Crisis Group, about Iranian proxy groups, why Iran funds them, and the US conventional wisdom that Iran can only be deterred through military action.

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.

Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 4: Coming To America Jan 27, 2024

Guangcheng escapes house arrest, but he’s not free yet. Without a real plan or a place to hide, he turns to the US embassy in Beijing. His moves set in motion a diplomatic maelstrom, where top officials from the two most powerful countries in the world negotiate over his fate – and their own.

Netanyahu Rejects a Two-State Solution (again) Jan 24, 2024

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest news out of Gaza, including a potential ceasefire deal that would include a two month stop in fighting in exchange for hostages, a look back at Bibi’s rejection of a two-state solution throughout his political career, and the news that the Biden administration is preparing for a sustained military campaign in Yemen. They also talk about the UAE funneling weapons to Sudan, mass protests in Germany against the far-right ADF party, British conservative’s continuing attempts to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, Elon Musk’s visit to Auschwitz, and an odd auction item belonging to Winston Churchill. Then Ben speaks with Ricardo Zuniga, the former US Special Envoy to the Northern Triangle and Senior Advisor at the US Institute of Peace about the spiraling gang violence in Ecuador.

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.

Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 3: A Dissident Is Born Jan 20, 2024

Guangcheng is kidnapped by Chinese authorities and thrown in jail. By keeping him under lock and key, the government hopes to take away his power. But his imprisonment transforms him into a cause and a symbol of dissent in China and across the world. Then after years of detention, Guangcheng decides to try to make an escape. But how and who can he turn to?

Biden Launches Airstrikes Against Houthis in Yemen Jan 17, 2024

Ben and Tommy discuss US airstrikes on the Houthi rebels in Yemen and why they are unlikely to deter them, and provide background and context on the Houthi’s origins and motivations. They also cover the latest in Gaza and frustration with the administration’s refusal to change course after 100 days. Then they discuss the recent spike in gang violence in Ecuador, efforts to prevent Guatemala’s new President from being sworn in, Taiwan’s election results and North Korea announcing the end of efforts to reunify the Korean peninsula. Then Tommy speaks with Oona Hathaway, Director of the Center for Global Legal Challenges at Yale Law School, about South Africa’s charges of genocide against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

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.

Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 2: The Barefoot Lawyer Jan 13, 2024

Guangcheng fights his biggest case in China – exposing the brutality of the One Child Policy. This, and a series of public and legal victories in the early 2000s, makes him into an icon in the US and an enemy of the state in China, an unlikely place for a blind man who grew up in a poor village. So how did it all begin? We talk to Guangcheng himself to find out.

Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 1: Batman Gets Punched Jan 13, 2024

It’s 2011. Hollywood A-lister Christian Bale is in China and gets punched in the face by security guards for trying to visit Chen Guangcheng, a local human rights activist under house arrest. It’s all captured by a CNN crew and broadcast across the world. A few months later Guangcheng would escape to the United States. But after you arrive in America as a hero, what happens next?

How Israel’s War with Hamas Could Escalate Into a Regional Conflict Jan 10, 2024

Ben and Tommy cover the major developments in the war between Israel and Hamas, including the widening difference between Netanyahu and Biden on post-war planning, increasing criticism of the Israeli war effort within the Democratic Party, and the escalating risks of a regional war with Iranian-back proxy groups like the Houthi rebels and militia groups in Iraq and Syria. Then they discuss Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin’s secret hospitalization, foreign governments funneling money to Donald Trump and NJ Senator Bob Menendez, reports that US objectives in Ukraine are changing, and the fallout from an “almost naked” party in Moscow, the stabbing of an opposition leader in South Korea, protests in Germany, and a new Prime Minister in France. Finally, Ben speaks with Taiwanese journalist and podcaster Emily Wu about Taiwan’s upcoming election on January 13th.

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.

Introducing “Dissident At The Doorstep” Jan 06, 2024

What happens when someone becomes a human-rights icon – but then turns out to stand for something else entirely? Chinese activist Chen Guangcheng was locked up for fighting against China’s One Child Policy and suffered years of unlawful imprisonment. In 2012, following a daring midnight escape, he landed in the United States a hero. But that’s only the beginning of his story. Just a few years later, he would re-enter the spotlight as an avid Trump supporter and a “Stop the Steal” rally-goer. How did this happen? Alison Klayman, Colin Jones, and Yangyang Cheng set out on a journey to find out – did Guangcheng change, or was he totally misunderstood from the beginning? From Crooked Media, This is Dissident At The Doorstep.

Zelensky's Plea To Congress Dec 13, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss the dire humanitarian situation on the ground in Gaza and the disconnect between the Biden administration’s words and deeds when it comes to protecting civilians in Gaza, including the veto of a UN Security resolution calling for a ceasefire and additional weapons sales to Israel. They also discuss Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Washington and plea for more security assistance, and republican efforts to tie Ukraine funding to border security, the mess at the UN’s climate summit, a territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana, a masked mystery candidate running for president in Ghana and Elijah Wood’s Russian propaganda blunder on Cameo. Then, Max Fisher joins the show to discuss trends in global elections in 2023, and how 2024 may be the biggest election year in history.

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.

Henry Kissinger’s Complicated Legacy Dec 06, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest news from Gaza, including Israeli forces moving into southern Gaza, the Biden administration’s shift from a “hug Bibi” strategy to publicly criticizing Israel, and the ongoing skirmishes between the US military and Iranian proxy forces. They also talk about the latest controversies and accomplishments at the COP28 climate summit, how the UAE is fueling the civil war in Sudan, a US ambassador turned Cuban spy and the complicated, but mostly terrible, legacy of Henry Kissinger. Then Tommy interviews Vermont Senator Peter Welch about why he’s calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and what’s going on with Biden’s supplemental funding bill for Israel and Ukraine.

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.

How Long Will The Ceasefire In Gaza Hold? Nov 29, 2023

Ben and Tommy discuss the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas and how the US and Qatar helped broker it, Qatar’s unique role in international diplomacy, the debate over conditioning US aid to Israel, what we know about the Palestinians being released from Israeli prisons, and Elon Musk’s cynical trip to Israel. Then they cover right-wing populist election victories in the Netherlands and Argentina, reports that the US thwarted an attack on a Sikh separatist on American soil, leaked documents exposing the UAE’s plans to use COP28 to sell more oil and gas, and former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro’s run-in with a whale. Then Ben talks to Juliette Touma, Communications Director for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, about humanitarian efforts in Gaza and what she witnessed on her recent visit there.

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.

Climate Special: A Look Ahead At COP28 Nov 22, 2023

In a special episode, Tommy and Ben discuss the upcoming COP28 conference in the United Arab Emirates. They speak about the climate summit’s importance, hear from activists from the Pacific Asian community, break down the science behind a 1.5 degree celsius warming, and the cynicism around the large presence of fossil fuel lobbyists and the host country’s oil rich economy. Then, Ben speaks with John Kerry, the Special Presidential Envoy for Climate from the US, about what’s on the agenda this year and the challenges of securing funding to follow through on the global commitments made towards mitigating climate change.

We end the show with a Q&A segment for subscribers. To hear that segment in future episodes, and to get ad-free Pod Save The World, subscribe to Crooked's Friend of the Pod service at crooked.com/friends

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.

Hospitals Under Siege In Gaza Nov 15, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest news out of Israel and Gaza, including the legality of targeting hospitals, French President Emmanuel Macron’s call for a ceasefire, the growing divide between the US and Israel on long-term governance of Gaza, efforts to rescue the 240 hostages held by Hamas and militant groups, and first-hand accounts from two innocent people caught in the middle of this war. They also discuss the UK’s cabinet shakeup and the return of David Cameron, the nightmare facing Afghans expelled from Pakistan, and the APEC Summit in California where Biden and Xi Jinping will meet. Then Tommy speaks with historian, professor and author Yuval Noah Harari about what it would take for Israel and Palestinians to reach a peace agreement, and there’s a special surprise for Ben at the end.

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.

To support people in Afghanistan go to Uplift Afghanistan: https://www.upliftafghanistan.org/
To support Oxfam's humanitarian efforts go to https://www.oxfamamerica.org

One Month of War Between Israel and Hamas Nov 08, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about where the world stands one month after Hamas’ attack on Israel, including the declaration from Gaza’s health ministry that 10,000 civilians have been killed, Netanyahu’s statement about Israel taking “indefinite” security responsibility in Gaza, Biden’s push for a pause in fighting, and the successes and fails of American diplomacy thus far. They also discuss growing calls in Congress for a ceasefire, dismal approval ratings for Biden from Muslim voters and anti-war feelings from younger Americans, and reactions to Obama’s comments on Israel and Gaza. Then they touch on Zelensky’s attempts to keep the war in Ukraine on the world’s radar, Pakistan’s plan to deport up to 1.7 million Afghan migrants, and Boris Johnson’s alleged offer to get injected with COVID-19 on television. Finally, Ben speaks with Jewish American author Nathan Thrall about his new book, “A Day in the Life of Abed Salama: Anatomy of a Jerusalem Tragedy”, which documents the realities of life for Palestinians in the West Bank.

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.

The Israeli Ground Invasion Begins Nov 01, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the latest news out of Israel and Gaza, including the Israeli ground offensive, the death of over 3,000 children in Gaza, a rise in anti-semitic incidents around the world, and what a temporary ceasefire could achieve. Then they define some of the terminology being used to describe what’s happening in this current conflict, the need for long-term thinking about what happens to the people in Gaza, blood thirsty and misguided solutions from GOP Presidential candidates, extremist attacks in Niger, and a lifetime ban for Luis Rubiales from FIFA. Then Tommy speaks with Ayman Mohyeldin, the host of Ayman on MSNBC, who spent years reporting in Gaza, to give context on what life was like there before the war and how Hamas controls all aspects of social and professional life.

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.

America's Warning To Israel Oct 25, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest news from Israel and Gaza including the staggering figures of over 5,000 civilians dead in Gaza, the slow pace of aid arrival, the release of four hostages, and they hear the experiences of a woman with five family members kidnapped by Hamas. They also talk about the emotional impact of Biden’s visit to Israel compared to Netanyahu’s response, media organizations correcting the record on the Gaza hospital strike, and the sanitization of war through language. In other news around the world, they touch on new audio from an Australian Billionaire who Trump leaked secrets to, elections in Argentina and Venezuela, a strike for gender equality in Iceland, and an update on the war in Ukraine. Then Ben speaks to Democratic Senator Chris Murphy about America’s involvement in Israel and Gaza, public opinion in the US towards the conflict, and Senator Bob Mendendez.

We end the show with a new bi-weekly Q&A segment for subscribers. To hear that segment in future episodes, and to get ad-free Pod Save The World, subscribe to Crooked's Friend of the Pod service at crooked.com/friends

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.

Biden Heads To Israel Oct 18, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the breaking news of an airstrike hitting a hospital in Gaza, killing hundreds of staff, patients, and civilians. They also discuss Biden’s upcoming visit to Israel and negotiations around hostage rescue and aid packages, Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s meetings with regional leaders and resistance to taking in Palestinian refugees, new reports on Hamas’ lengthy, detailed planning for the attack on Israel, and thoughts on alternatives to a massive Israeli military response. Then they cover Senator Bob Menendez being charged as a foreign agent, hopeful election results in Poland, a deal that could relieve US sanctions on Venezuela, Pakistan’s deportation order affecting Afghan refugees, and Australia’s failed Indigenous Voice referendum. Then Tommy speaks with Melanie Ward, CEO of Medical Aid for Palestinians (https://www.map.org.uk/ (https://www.map.org.uk/)), about the dire situation on the ground in Gaza for those needing medical attention.

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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.

Breaking: Israel Tells Civilians In Gaza To Evacuate Oct 14, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the developing situation in Gaza where 1.1 million people have been told to evacuate northern Gaza in advance of an anticipated ground invasion by Israel. Two people on the ground in Gaza explain the logistical obstacles to evacuation and why many civilians have refused to leave. Then Ben and Tommy discuss how Republicans are losing their minds talking about Israel, pro-Palestine protests around the world, growing anger towards the Netanyahu government, and they take questions from the Pod Save the world Discord channel.

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.

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What’s next for Israel and Gaza? Oct 11, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the latest from Israel and Gaza, including the Netanyahu government’s policy and intelligence failures, the devastating toll on civilians in Israel and Gaza, questions about hostages and reports that Israel may launch a ground offensive into Gaza. They also cover the varied international response to the attack, the history of Hamas, and conflicting reports about Iranian culpability. Then Ben talks to Gregg Carlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, about political dynamics within Israel, the timing of the attack, and the unprecedented nature of this developing conflict.

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.

To help those affected by the Afghanistan earthquake: Uplift Afghanistan Fund--https://www.upliftafghanistan.org/

Hamas Goes To War With Israel Oct 08, 2023

In a special episode, Ben and Tommy talk about the deadly terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel, how Israel’s intelligence community failed to detect it, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declaration that his country is “at war” and what comes next, President Biden’s response, and what this all means for Israel’s political future.

Will Republicans Kill Support For Ukraine? Oct 04, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the waning support for financing the war in Ukraine, both in the US Congress and in Europe, Elon Musk’s visit to the southern border, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Mark Milley responds to Trump’s threats, Trump’s former Chief of Staff John Kelly tells CNN about Trump’s disrespect towards veterans, the UN authorizes a mission to Haiti, Canada and India continue their war of words, and the end of “Panda Diplomacy.” Then Tommy speaks with Sue Mi Terry, a former CIA officer and producer of the documentary “Beyond Utopia” that profiles the harrowing reality of life in North Korea and the lengths people will go to escape it. The documentary will be in theaters at the end of October.

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.

Don’t Clap For Nazis Sep 27, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the foreign policy implications of Senator Menendez’s corruption charges, the Biden administration’s move to grant temporary protected status to Venezuelan migrants and the role of US sanctions in fueling migration, and updates from Ukraine, including attacks on Russia’s Black Sea fleet and Ukraine’s grain supplies. They also discuss Ron DeSantis’s time working at Guantanamo Bay, reports that the U.S. supplied Canada with intelligence about the assassination of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil, a vetting disaster at the Canadian parliament, Saudi Crown prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Fox News interview, and Rahm Emanuel’s shit posting. Then Ben speaks with Olesya Vartanyan, the Crisis Group’s Senior Analyst for the Caucasus Region, about Azerbaijan’s seizure of Nagorno-Karabakh and the tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians now fleeing their homes.

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.

Canada Accuses India of Assassination Sep 20, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s accusation that India may have been behind the murder of a Sikh Canadian citizen, the prisoner swap between the U.S. and Iran, the one year anniversary of Mahsa Amini’s death, the United Nations General Assembly and lack of world leaders in attendance, and the latest updates on Russia/Ukraine, including rumors of Ramzan Kadyrov’s death. They also discuss Benjamin Netanyahu’s trip to the US, China’s disappearing public officials, stories about increasing espionage activities between the US and China, a missing F-35, and an Australian man who was fined for taking his pet Python surfing. Then Tommy speaks with Rory Stewart, former British politician and author of the new book, “How Not To Be A Politician”.

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.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken Sep 13, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about Kim Jong Un’s trip to meet with Vladimir Putin, Viktor Bout’s entrance into local Russian politics, Armenia’s diplomatic shift away from Russia, and a positive development in Nagorno-Kabarakh region. They also dig into an escalation into the economic war between the US and China, allegations about an undercover Chinese spy in the UK parliament, Biden’s trip the Vietnam and political value of foreign trips, Mexico’s future female president, the resignation of Spain’s head soccer official, a Florida man trying to cross the Atlantic in a hamster wheel and a red wine flood. Then US Secretary of State Antony Blinken joins to discuss the war in Ukraine, the G20, a reported Saudi Arabia-Israel normalization deal and more.

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.

Help those affected by the Morocco earthquake:

USAID Center for International Disaster Information-- https://www.cidi.org/disaster-responses/morocco-earthquake/
Give Directly-- https://www.givedirectly.org/morocco-earthquake/
Banque Alimentaire (The Food Bank) -- https://banquealimentaire.ma/en/

Kim Jong Un and Putin’s Budding Bromance Sep 06, 2023

Ben and guest host Max Fisher talk about the latest headlines on the Russia/Ukraine war, including Putin’s refusal to sign a new grain deal with Turkey’s Erdogan, a rumored visit by Kim Jong Un, more drones in Russian airspace, and a rise in pro-Russian disinformation in Europe. They also discuss the rise in military coups in Africa, the G20 in India, including calls for India to change its name, tensions with China, Biden’s potential meeting with MBS, and upcoming trip to Vietnam. Then, they dig into China’s economic slowdown. Finally, Ben is joined by Janti Soeripto, President and CEO of Save the Children, to discuss the organization’s work in Ukraine and how children in the country are gearing up to go back to school despite the conflict.

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.

Spain’s #MeToo moment? Aug 30, 2023

Ben and Tommy talk about the fallout after Spain’s head soccer official kissed star player Jennifer Hermoso, BRICS announcing the addition of six countries, Donald Trump’s musings on the Panama Canal, and a report that the US was aware of Saudi Arabia’s torture and killing of African migrants. They also discuss France’s ban on students wearing the Abaya in schools, former French president Nicolas Sarkozy’s memoir and defense of Russia, Zimbabwe’s disputed election, far right Israeli politician Ben-Gvir’s racist statement, and India’s lunar landing. Then Ben is joined by Joshua Yaffa, contributing writer for The New Yorker, to discuss his profile of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and what his rise and fall tell us about Russia.

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.

Wagner Leader Prigozhin Killed? Aug 24, 2023

In a special episode, Tommy and Ben talk about the developing story of the alleged deaths of Wagner Group leaders Yevgeny Prigozhin and Dmitry Utkin in a plane crash not far from Moscow. All ten people on the private plane were killed and Russian state news agencies reported that both men were on the passenger list – however, there hasn’t yet been confirmation they were onboard. From speculation about air defense missiles shooting down the plane, to claims that Prigozhin was on a different aircraft, Ben and Tommy analyze what this could mean for Wagner forces around the world, Putin’s inner circle, and more.

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.

Has Ukraine’s counteroffensive stalled? Aug 23, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about negative headlines surrounding Ukraine’s counteroffensive, Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin’s re-emergence in Africa, a Human Rights Watch Report about Saudi Arabia’s horrendous abuse of Ethiopian migrants, a fun twist in the Mar-a-Lago documents case, and rare good news for climate change from voters rejecting oil drilling in Ecuador and a drop in deforestation in Brazil. They also discuss Canada’s unprecedented wildfires, Ecuador’s election runoff a week after the assassination of a presidential candidate, the rise of a far-right political party in Germany, GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy’s remarks on America’s commitment to Israel, and the crash of a Russian lunar probe. Then Tommy is joined by Kurt Campbell, President Biden’s Coordinator for Indo-Pacific Affairs, to break down the historic summit at Camp David the US hosted between Japan and South Korea’s leaders.

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.

Tripping Balls with Janet Yellen Aug 16, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about a US hostage deal with Iran, a far-right frontrunner in the Argentina presidential election, a presidential candidate murdered in Ecuador, updates on the coup in Niger, and aid to Sudan. They also discuss Vivek Ramaswamy’s bizarre views on Taiwan, President Biden’s critical comments about China’s economy, Biden’s meeting with the presidents of South Korea and Japan at Camp David, the latest from Ukraine, Russia’s deteriorating economy and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s magic mushroom meal. Then Ben talks to Bobi Wine, a member of parliament in Uganda, a former pop-star and opposition leader about his presidential challenge to long-time authoritarian Uganda leader Yoweri Museveni. His wife, Barbie Kyagulanyi also joined the pod to discuss the National Geographic documentary about their campaign, Bobi Wine: The People’s President.

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.

Ukraine Sea Drones and Peace Talks Aug 09, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the global response to the coup in Niger, Ukraine’s sea drone attacks and peace talks in Saudi Arabia, new polling about approval Biden’s foreign policy and support for Ukraine, a quick look at some foreign policy debates in the 2024 GOP primary, and reports that US Marines will defend ships in the Persian gulf. Then updates from Colombia, Pakistan, ISIS, Chinese information operations, crypto scams, and why Rishi Sunak is the Prime Minister of Soul Cycle. Then Crooked Contributor Max Fisher joins to talk about the health of democracy around the world.

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.

Russian War Crimes and a Coup in Niger Aug 02, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about a coup in Niger, progress on the Ukrainian counteroffensive, drone attacks on Moscow, Yevgeny Prigozhin attends a summit of African leaders in Russia, prospects for a US-Saudi Arabia-Israel diplomatic deal, the eroding democratic process in Thailand, and an ISIS attack in Pakistan. They also discuss how to inspire action on climate change. Then Tommy talks to Ambassador-At-Large For Global Criminal Justice Beth Van Schaack about prosecuting Russian war crimes.

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.

Israel’s Judicial Coup, and Samantha Power on Ukraine Jul 26, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the gutting of Israel’s judicial system, and the (lack of) response from the US. They also discuss good-ish news from the elections in Spain, a US soldier who fled to North Korea, Putin’s crackdown on a far-right blogger, how Ron DeSantis and Senator Tommy Tuberville are hurting military recruiting, the UK’s fight with Apple, Saudi Arabia’s $1.1 billion soccer star, and doggie DNA passports in France. Then Ben talks to best friend of the pod Samantha Power, administrator of the US Agency for International Development about her recent visit to Ukraine, and the impacts of Russia pulling out of a vital grain initiative.

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.

Listen to a past Pod Save the World bonus episode on Israel, with Crooked Contributor Max Fisher.

Ukraine and the 2024 Presidential Campaign Jul 19, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about Russia pulling out of a vital grain initiative with Ukraine, 2024 Republican primary candidate views on Ukraine, Trump and Taiwan, the culture war amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act, John Kerry’s visit to China and climate change, the strange disappearance of China’s foreign minister, renewed fears of a second genocide in Darfur, the EU’s deal with Tunisia to curb migration, Iran’s morality police are back, and how a typo caused a massive military security leak. Then Tommy talks to Amir Tibon, the diplomatic correspondent for Haaretz Newspaper, about Biden inviting Israel PM Bibi Netanyahu to Washington as Bibi is trying to gut the Israeli supreme court.

Crooked Media Reads' first book, Mobility by Lydia Kiesling, is out now! Get your copy at www.crooked.com/mobility

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.

NATO Grows on Russia’s Borders Jul 12, 2023

Max Fisher joins Ben to discuss the ever-weirder Prigozhin circus, the last-second drama over bringing Sweden into NATO, whether Ukraine should join, the U.S. sending controversial cluster bombs to Ukraine, a seismic shift in European politics and what it means for the future of the far-right, an American reckoning over Israel following the raid in Jenin, an attempt to deescalate China, and why Vietnam banned the new Barbie movie. Then Ben talks to Ambassador Julianne Smith, U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO, about Ukraine and Sweden’s NATO membership bid and her work in Vilnius this week.

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.

Trump’s Self-incriminating Audio Jun 28, 2023

Ben and Tommy talk about the fallout from Wagner Group’s aborted mutiny in Russia, the status of Ukraine’s counteroffensive, new audio of Trump knowingly leaking classified information, why supporters of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are harassing a White House reporter, the fallout from Biden calling Chinese President Xi Jinping a dictator, a horrific tragedy that killed hundreds of migrants near Greece and right-wing politics, Israeli PM Bibi Netanyahu on trial for corruption, violence in the West Bank, and Republican presidential candidate Francis Suarez fails a foreign policy pop quiz. Then Tommy talks to Eben Novy-Williams, a sports business reporter at Sportico, about foreign investment in US sports teams and human rights.

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.

A Russian Coup Against Putin? (Bonus Pod!) Jun 25, 2023

Ben and Tommy talk about the extraordinary failed coup attempt against Vladimir Putin by Yevgeny Prigozhin and the Wagner mercenary group in Russia. They cover the infighting that got Russia to this point, what it means for Putin’s image and power, the amnesty deal that ended the insurrection and why Belarus was involved, and what it’s like at the White House when a crisis like this happens.

Thanks to our listeners for sending in questions over our subscriber Discord. Sign up for it and more benefits at crooked.com/friends

Tony Blinken goes to China Jun 21, 2023

Today’s episode covers: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US, Trump’s interview on Fox News about the Mar-a-Lago document indictment, new details about Trump’s real estate deal with the Saudis in Oman, Secretary of State Tony Blinken’s visit to China, how Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu is still meddling with Israel’s courts and inflaming relations with the US, the latest from Ukraine, reports that Russia tried to assassinate a CIA informant on US soil, Facebook’s stifling of free speech in Vietnam, and why it’s been a rough week for Boris Johnson and Liz Truss.

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.

How Trump’s Mar-a-lago Docs Endanger National Security Jun 14, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the national security implications of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago document indictment, China’s eavesdropping base in Cuba, Ukraine’s military counteroffensive and critics of US policy, USAID’s suspension of food aid to Ethiopia following an investigation into theft, how Sudan’s civil war is getting worse, how crypto currency is funding North Korea’s ballistic missile programs, the death of former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, protests in Senegal and executions in Iran. Then Ben talks to friend of the pod David Lammy, Britain’s Shadow Secretary of State, about Boris Johnson’s resignation from parliament and the arrest of Scotland’s former leader Nicola Sturgeon.

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.

Did Ukraine bomb the Nord Stream pipeline? Jun 07, 2023

Ben and Tommy talk about a blockbuster report that Ukraine bombed the Nord Stream natural gas pipelines, the bombing of a dam in Ukraine, accountability for the assassination of Haiti’s president, CIA Director Bill Burns goes to China, Saudi Arabia and sportswashing, Henry Kissinger’s human rights record and accountability in Washington, Trump’s classified documents woes, media restrictions in Pakistan, nukes in Iran, reports that school girls were poisoned in Afghanistan, and British PM Rishi Sunak goes to a baseball game. Then Ben talks with Tim Mak, founder of The Counteroffensive and a Crooked Contributor, about life in Ukraine

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.

Lindsey Graham’s Russian Arrest Warrant May 31, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about an anti-LGBTQ law in Uganda, violent protests in Kosovo and more reports on Trump’s handling of classified documents. They also discuss US-China relations, Elon Musk’s visit to China, heavy attacks in Kyiv, drone strikes in Moscow, Russia’s arrest warrant for Lindsey Graham, a new law in Poland cracking down on Russian political interference and Brazilian President Lula Da Silva’s relationship with Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Then Tommy talks to Turkish journalist and author Ece Temelkuran about the election in Turkey and the erosion of democracy. For all the Succession fans out there, spoiler alert! Ben and Tommy talk about the series finale at the end of the episode. You’ve been warned!

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.

The War Goes to Russia May 24, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about President Zelensky’s travel to the Arab League and G7 summits, Biden’s policy change on training Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16s, mysterious attacks inside Russia and outcomes from the G-7 summit. They also discuss the foreign policy fallout from Biden cutting his foreign trip short, how the Air Force failed to stop the Discord leaker, a leadership change in Iran, another tragic mistaken Pentagon drone strike mistake, an AI generated attack on the Pentagon and Dubai’s $5 billion man-made moon. Then Ben talks to Mark Malloch-Brown, president of Open Society Foundations, the biggest global foundation promoting human rights, about the effect authoritarian governments have on their efforts and the debt crisis that many countries are facing.

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.

Zelensky’s Secret War Plan May 17, 2023

On today’s episode, Max Fisher and Tommy discuss reports that a close Putin ally betrayed the Russian military and that President Zelensky secretly proposed bombing Russia, why elections in Turkey and Thailand could be the most important of this year, the United States’ war of words with South Africa, Senator Tommy Tuberville’s bizarre defense of white nationalists, updates on immigration, Gaza, US-China relations, and five stories that will make you feel hopeful.

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.

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Defining Victory for Ukraine May 10, 2023

Ben and Tommy talk about Iran using Syrian earthquake aid to smuggle weapons, Syria being readmitted to the Arab League, the drone strikes on the Kremlin, Title 42 and Biden’s immigration policy, the arrest of Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan, gun control in Serbia, the treatment of women in the UAE and some wild stories out of Australia. Then Ben interviews The Atlantic’s Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg about defining victory in Ukraine.

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.

Israel on the Brink May 05, 2023

Ben and Tommy are joined by Max Fisher for a special episode on the roots of the judicial crisis in Israel that has brought millions of protestors out into the streets and still threatens to tear the country apart. They dig into the unresolved constitutional questions from Israel’s founding, why Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu is a uniquely dangerous figure, and how the US-Israel relationship has pushed Israel to the far-right.

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.

The Pope’s peace talks May 03, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the ongoing crisis in Sudan, the Pope’s visit to Hungary, the upcoming coronation of King Charles and Prince Harry’s lawsuits against Rupert Murdoch. Then Ben and Tommy discuss the approaching elections in Turkey, the UAE’s influence in the US, the South Korean President’s karaoke moment at the White House and Ron DeSantis’s embarrassing trip abroad. Then Tommy talks to Deputy National Security Advisor for International Economics Mike Pyle on securing technological advances domestically, investments in green energy and the need for a unified approach to China with US allies.

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.

Crisis in Sudan Apr 26, 2023

Ben and Tommy talk about the evacuation of American employees from Sudan, expectations for Ukraine’s spring military offensive and Ron DeSantis’s trip abroad. Then they cover new intelligence about Russian influence in Africa and the ISIS threat in Afghanistan, Chile’s plans to nationalize its lithium industry, how former British PM Boris Johnson nearly gave Queen Elizabeth covid, and how the war on beer spread to Europe. Then Ben interviews Reuter’s Sudan and Egypt Correspondent Nafisa Eltahir about what’s behind the conflict in Sudan and the experiences of people left in Khartom.

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.

21-year-old Pentagon leaker exposed Apr 19, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about the latest news about the Pentagon leaks and leaker, and what it tells us about the effectiveness of the security clearance process. Then Ben and Tommy discuss Chinese agents harassing dissidents in the US, the war in Sudan, extrajudicial violence in India on live television, Lula’s message about the rise of far-right extremists, Trump’s interview on Tucker Carlson, and a shakeup in the South Korean government stemming from K-pop and Lady Gaga. Then Tommy interviews Washington Post reporter Shane Harris about his reporting on the leaked documents and what it could mean for national security going 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.

The Pentagon documents leak Apr 12, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss the massive leak of US intelligence documents and the potential global implications, a new White House report on what went wrong with the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, the potential repeal of the Iraq war authorization for use of military force, President Macron’s controversial visit to China, Biden’s visit to Ireland, Israeli forces attacking worshippers inside the al-Aqsa Mosque, Lionel Messi’s potential move to Saudi Arabia, and Twitter’s idiotic understanding of state-run media. Then, Ben is joined by New York Times international correspondent Valerie Hopkins to discuss the imprisonment of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and the dangers facing journalists and critics of Putin in Russia today.

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.

The world watches Trump’s arrest Apr 05, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about Donald Trump’s historic arrest and arraignment, Finland PM Sanna Marin’s election loss, Taiwan’s president visits America, a potential interim Iran nuclear deal, the Washington Post’s tone deaf op-ed on veterans rights, the arrest of an American journalist in Russia, new propaganda tactics from Russian state media, Montenegro’s long-standing president loses his re-election bid, more shady business dealings between Jared Kushner and Gulf states, and Mussolini’s granddaughter chugs wine in protest.

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.

Netanyahu backs down Mar 29, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about protests in Israel and Netanyahu’s persistent attack on Israel’s democracy, a drone strike in Syria, reignited fears of a nuclear attack from Putin, a new deal between Biden and Canadian PM Trudeau, VP Harris’ visit to Africa, North Korea’s “nuclear tsunami”, French President Macron’s expensive watch, and Lebanon entering the daylight savings debate. Then, Ben is joined by China expert Evan Medeiros to talk about a potential US TikTok ban, Xi’s meeting with Putin, and where US relations with China stand today.

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.

Is prosecuting presidents a good idea? Mar 22, 2023

Tommy and Ben are joined by Crooked contributor Max Fisher for a segment to discuss a possible Trump indictment and how common presidential prosecutions are around the world. Then Ben and Tommy cover Chinese President Xi Jinping’s trip to Moscow, the retirement age in France, the global implications of the SVB collapse, new reporting on Ron DeSantis and his involvement in Guantanamo Bay, and the latest coronavirus origin theory. Then Tommy is joined by Ethiopian journalist and activist Meaza Mohammed to discuss Ethiopia’s ongoing civil war and the lack of freedom of the press.

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.

20 years after the invasion of Iraq Mar 17, 2023

Ben and Tommy record a bonus episode to mark the 20-year anniversary of the US invasion of Iraq to try and answer the question: how did the Iraq war change America and the world? They’re joined by journalist and Iraq war supporter turned vocal opponent Peter Beinart, and Congressman and Iraq war veteran Ruben Gallego.

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.

China’s Iran Deal Mar 15, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about China brokering a deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Saudi Arabia’s wish list to “normalize” relations with Israel, protests of Netanyahu’s changes to Israel’s judicial system, the BBC, soccer and free speech, new reports about who sabotaged the Nord Steam gas pipeline, the president of Mexico’s bizarre press conference, the momentum behind banning TikTok, and Canada’s stance on flipping the bird. Then, Tommy interviews Welcome.US CEO Nazanin Ash about the global refugee crisis and how ordinary citizens can help.

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.

Who is poisoning girls in Iran? Mar 08, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss the suspected poisoning of Iranian schoolgirls, new intel on Havana syndrome, the case for dismantling the DHS, potential Chinese election interference in Canada, South Korea’s plan to end their forced labor dispute with Japan, the deadly battle for Bakhmut in Ukraine, the worlds greatest wine heist in Spain, and another questionable summit in the UAE. Then, US Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo joins Ben in the studio to discuss sanctions and their role in the Russia-Ukraine war.

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.

Will China arm Putin? Mar 01, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss changes to Mexico’s electoral system, the botched presidential election in Nigeria, Jill Biden’s trip to Africa, new intelligence about the covid lab leak theory, a Brexit breakthrough, more detail on China potentially selling arms to Russia and Europe’s pitch for a potential defense pact and peace deal, the World Bank, and Biden’s immigration policy. Then Tommy is joined by Israel’s Labor Party Leader Merav Michaeli to discuss recent violence the region, Netanyahu’s proposed judicial changes, and the fate of Israeli politics with Netanyahu at the helm.

One year of war in Ukraine Feb 24, 2023

Tommy and Ben look back on a year of war in Ukraine and discuss what people got wrong, lessons learned, and where things stand today. Then, Ben and Tommy talk to reporters and Ukrainians about the war including FT reporter and longtime Ukraine resident Christopher Miller, 18-year-old Ukrainian student and artist Assia Vlasenko who escaped Ukraine AFTER SIX MONTHS OF OCCUPATION, Research Director at the European Expert Association Maria Avdeeva who has been documenting Russian war crimes, and FT reporter and Putin expert Max Seddon.

View Assia's art here

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.

Biden goes to Ukraine Feb 22, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss Biden’s surprise trip to Ukraine, Putin’s decision to suspend participation in the New START treaty, the administration’s warnings against providing military support to Russia, the latest on spy balloons, Scotland’s First Minister resigns, near weapons-grade uranium found in Iran, Israeli hackers exposed for meddling in dozens of elections, another deadly earthquake in Turkey and Syria, Mike Pompeo’s embarrassing “best seller”, and AI bots going off the rails. Then, Ben talks with Rep. Ro Khanna about his trip to Taiwan, China’s relationship with the United States, and how to advance progressive politics abroad.

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.

Alien Balloon Invasion Feb 15, 2023

Ben and Tommy talk about Israeli PM Bibi Netanyahu’s attack on Israel’s judicial system, the ongoing US war against Chinese balloons and UFOs, Kim Jong Un’s likely successor, Saudi influence peddling, the latest in Ukraine as we approach the one year anniversary of Russia’s invasion, potential Cuba policy changes, India’s Prime Minister Modi raiding the BBC, and Melania Trump’s unexpected visit to the Situation Room. Then Tommy talks to USAID Disaster Response Lead Stephen Allen who is on the ground in Turkey about the earthquake devastation and how people can help.

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.

InflateGate: Biden vs Balloon Feb 08, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about Balloon-gate, Biden’s State of the Union address, the latest in Ukraine, the deadly earthquake in Turkey and Syria and how to help, Pope Francis denouncing anti-gay laws, and gang violence in Haiti. Then, Ben talks with Rep. Ilhan Omar about her recent removal from the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the message it sends globally.

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.

Israel attacks Iran Feb 01, 2023

Tommy and Ben talk about an Israeli drone attack in Iran, Tony Blinken’s meeting with Bibi Netanyahu, Ukraine’s requests for F-16 fighter jets, Putin’s bizarre threat towards Boris Johnson, the latest on Biden’s documents, deadly protests in Peru, Bolsonaro’s request for a US visa, and the Saudi LIV tour’s deal with Trump. Then, Tommy is joined by Save the Children CEO Janti Soeripto to talk about her nine meetings with the Taliban last week in response to the education bans on women and children in Afghanistan.

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.

Tanks for Nothing Jan 25, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss a corruption scandal in Ukraine, the debate over sending tanks to Kyiv, Mike Pence gets in on the classified hoarding game, the worst parts of Mike Pompeo’s trash new book, protests in France, Jacinda Ardern’s legacy, Kenneth Roth’s Harvard saga, and the State Department’s war on fonts. Then, Ben is joined by Olesya Vartanyan, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group to talk about the escalating Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict.

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.

How to handle the Biden docs Jan 18, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss the Davos summit, the latest round of Biden documents, the U.K. blocking a Scottish law that would make gender change easier, more Russian attacks in Ukraine, the new climate spotlight on the UAE, protests in Israel, China’s population on the decline, and Italy’s biggest mob boss finally getting caught. Then, Tommy is joined by The New York Times Brazil bureau chief Jack Nicas to discuss the fallout from the riots, the comparison to January 6th, and what it all means for Brazil’s new president Lula.

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.

Brazil's January 6th? Jan 11, 2023

Tommy and Ben discuss the riots in Brazil, Biden’s trip to Mexico AND IMMIGRATION POLICY, what a Republican House majority means for defense spending, why you should care about Nigeria’s next election, Iran sentencing protesters to death, MIKE POMPEO’S SAD BOOK and Prince Harry letting it rip on the Royal family. Then Ben is joined by the cast of the documentary “Navalny” to discuss Alexei Navalny’s poisoning, his imprisonment, and Putin’s murderous reign.

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.

New year, old problems Jan 04, 2023

Tommy and Ben recap all of the world news you missed over the holidays, including the latest on the war in Ukraine, Zelensky’s visit to DC, Bibi Netanyahu’s new government, the end of China’s zero-Covid policy, the new ban from the Taliban against Afghan women, and Bolsonaro’s hideout in Florida.

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.

“Can language be more inclusive?” Dec 28, 2022

Tommy introduces Worldos to Radiolingo, a new limited season podcast from Crooked Media and Duolingo. Radiolingo investigates all the ways language shapes our world and how our world shapes language. Hosted by Ahmed Ali Akbar, an audio journalist and James Beard Award-winning writer, each episode introduces a new way of looking at the impact of language across our lives, our relationships, our culture and much more. Radiolingo is a Crooked Media and Duolingo production. In this episode, Ahmed asks if language can reflect and reinforce gender expectations. And are there ways to make language more inclusive? Listen to and follow RADIOLINGO for free, wherever you get your podcasts.

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.

Understanding Iran Dec 21, 2022

Yeganeh and Jason Rezaian join Ben to answer all of your burning questions about Iran: what life is like for girls and women, why this movement is different than any before it, the risk of civil war or wider conflict, and why we should all care about the future of Iran and its people. Then President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee David Milliband joins to discuss what the IRC is most concerned about in 2023, how to better prevent humanitarian crises and what we can all do to help.

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.

Brittney Griner is Home (with Jen Psaki) Dec 14, 2022

Former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki subs in as cohost, talking with Ben about Brittney Griner’s release, what a Republican House means for Ukraine, executions and risks of escalation in Iran, Morocco’s Cinderella story at the World Cup, and Jen recounts some highlights from traveling the world with Barack Obama, John Kerry and Joe Biden. Then Brittney Griner’s agent Lindsay Kagawa Colas joins to recount Brittney’s first moments back on US soil, the journey to get her home and what comes next for the basketball star.

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.

Standing up to autocrats (and royals) Dec 07, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about the ongoing protests in China, Ukrainian strikes into Russia, speculation over Putin’s health, Iran sending mixed messages on the morality police, and Bostonians greeting the royals as warmly as expected. Then, Ben interviews Maria Ressa about the evolution of disinformation spread and how to combat it in the face of autocratic regimes.

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.

World Corrupt Episode 7: Stoppage Time! Dec 02, 2022

Tommy and Rog examine a tournament in which politics, sport and humanity have all been laid bare; USMNT captain Tyler Adams' leadership and poise when answering questions from Iran's state-run media; and what political and social scrutiny the United States could face as co-host for the 2026 World Cup.

Covid protests rock China Nov 30, 2022

Tommy and Ben discuss the anti-covid lockdown protests sweeping across China, soccer and politics at the World Cup, including the US win over Iran, Biden’s steady effort to thaw relations with Venezuela, updates from Ukraine, Belarus and Malaysia, news about the royal family and a victory for a boring French man. Then Ben is joined by Emma Belcher, President of the Ploughshares Fund to discuss how credible Russia’s nuclear threat really is.

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.

World Corrupt Episode 6: A Dystopian World Cup Nov 25, 2022

Tommy and Rog discuss what has been a surreal tournament thus far, from FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s astoundingly tone-deaf first-person speech, to a crackdown on armbands, to which countries have had the courage to stand up against injustice.

Thanksgiving Mailbag! Nov 23, 2022

Tommy and Ben answer all of your burning foreign policy questions and give recommendations for what to read and watch over the holidays.

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.

Did Russia bomb Poland? Nov 16, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the latest news out of Russia and Ukraine including reports that a Russian missile struck Poland, President Biden’s trip overseas, why this was a terrible week for Cryptocurrency, the UAE’s efforts to influence US politics, news about foreign corruption and influence peddling in Washington, the Iranian regime cracking down on teenage protests, a deadly attack in Turkey, and why an FBI investigation has angered the Israeli government. Then Tommy talks with US special envoy for Climate John Kerry about the COP27 UN climate summit in Egypt.

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.

Hope from Brazil Nov 09, 2022

Ben and Tommy cover the ongoing debate about whether the US should be having talks with Russia about the war in Ukraine, and how Republican control of Congress might impact US military support, rare candor from a Russian oligarch, disgraced Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu is back, a racist lawmaker is condemned in France, the climate change summit in Egypt and more. Then Ben is joined by Brazilian politician Tabata Amaral to discuss Bolsonaro's defeat, what it means for Brazil's future, and how to protect democracy globally.

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.

World Corrupt Episode 5: A Call to Action Nov 05, 2022

With the beginning of the tournament just over two weeks away, Tommy and Roger dig into the significance of athlete activism as they learn more about the dangerous and abusive living situations faced by migrant workers. Formerly imprisoned migrant worker Malcolm Bidali recounts the abuses he suffered in Qatar. Human rights activists Nick McGeehan and May Ramanos also join to articulate how and why athletes and fans alike need to keep the pressure on FIFA even after the World Cup concludes.

Bye Bye Bolsonaro Nov 02, 2022

Tommy and Ben rejoice over Jair Bolsonaro’s defeat in Brazil and stress over early exit polls from Israel’s election that suggest Bibi Netanyahu might get back into power. Then they cover the latest in Ukraine, tragedies in South Korea and India, the potential national security implications of Elon Musk’s purchase of Twitter, and some unexpected good news on climate change. Then Tommy is joined by USAID Administrator Samantha Power to discuss the worsening global food crisis, the Black Sea Grain Initiative and why it matters, and the protests in Iran.

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.

World Corrupt Episode 4: The Dark Side of the 2022 World Cup Oct 29, 2022

Tommy and Roger consider the complexities and deadly consequences of Qatar hosting the World Cup. You’ll hear from human rights activists and experts about what life is like in Qatar for migrant workers, and from Norwegian FIFA president Lise Klaveness and pro footballers Megan Rapinoe and Tim Sparv about the power of sports activism in the fight for justice.

The newest new British PM, with David Lammy Oct 26, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the wild week in British politics, the push for diplomacy in Ukraine from progressive Democrats, why former Chinese President Hu Jintao was dragged off stage at China’s party conference meeting, the US-Saudi relationship, former Israeli PM Bibi Netanyahu’s right-wing comeback bid, Brazil’s upcoming election and more. Then Ben is joined by British Labour MP David Lammy to talk about new British PM Rishi Sunak and the future of the Labour Party.

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.

World Corrupt Episode 3: Qatar’s path to the World Cup Oct 22, 2022

Tommy and Roger look at how a country roughly the size of Connecticut with documented human rights violations was awarded the World Cup bid. They’re joined by Tariq Panja of the New York Times to discuss FIFA’s corrupt history, and global sports expert Simon Chadwick to explain the concept of sportswashing and why Qatar would want hosting duties in the first place.

The British PM vs a head of lettuce Oct 19, 2022

Ben and Tommy cover the latest from Ukraine, the ongoing disaster that is the Liz Truss-led Tory government in the UK, how former US military officials are making big money in Saudi Arabia, China’s party congress, the Iran protests, BTS joins the military, Biden’s surprising new proposals on Venezuela and Haiti, and some comedy via Bob Woodward and Jared Kushner. Then Tommy talks with the New York Times Magazine’s Robert Draper about his new book, Weapons of Mass Delusion: When the Republican Party Lost its Mind, and about the Iraq war.

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.

World Corrupt Episode 2: “The Most Corrupt Thing I’ve Ever Seen” Oct 15, 2022

Roger and Tommy dig into the history of FIFA, the governing body of international football, and trace FIFA's long history of corruption up to the moment they awarded the World Cup tournaments to Russia and Qatar. Tariq Panja of The New York Times shares insight into how FIFA operates and former Justice Department official Matt Miller recounts the misconduct he witnessed firsthand at a World Cup bid.

Chinese Communist Party Coachella Oct 12, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the latest from the war in Ukraine, including the bombing of a Russian bridge to Crimea and Russia’s response, the latest on the protests in Iran, why an OPEC decision is leading the US to rethink the US-Saudi partnership, how British PM Liz Truss is making history and waging war on podcasters, why Elon Musk will not shut up and some scandal updates. Then Ben talks with former Australian PM Kevin Rudd about the upcoming Chinese Communist Party leadership conference.

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.

World Corrupt Episode 1: A Toxic Love Affair between Politics and Sports Oct 08, 2022

This fall, when the eyes of the world turn towards Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a shadow looms over the tournament, which is one of the most watched events in the world. The sports landscape being co-opted for geo-political and corporate gain is nothing new, but this year's iteration of football's biggest competition may be the most expensive example to date. Pod Save the World’s Tommy Vietor and Roger Bennett of Men in Blazers join forces to unravel the riddle of how to enjoy the game we love while holding the powers that control it accountable for their corruptive policies and practices. On this inaugural episode of World Corrupt, a collaboration from Men in Blazers Media Network and Crooked Media, the two hosts share the memories that helped them first fall in love with soccer, while also looking back into the annals of history at past instances of a phenomenon known as "sportswashing.”

Fighting for freedom in Iran Oct 05, 2022

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest news out of Ukraine, including the increasingly vocal criticism of the war effort from Putin’s allies and talk of nuclear weapons use. Then they cover the election results in Brazil, prisoner releases, trickle down economics get humiliated in the UK, a coup in Burkina Faso, and shorter updates from around the world. Then Tommy speaks with Yeganeh Rezaian from the Committee to Protect Journalists about the protests in Iran, her experience with Iran’s brutal morality police, and what Americans and the US government should do to support this movement.

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.

World Corrupt: Coming October 8th Sep 30, 2022

Soccer is a game which has often been called “the world’s most important least important thing.” However this November’s World Cup, the most-watched sporting competition on the planet, forces fans to grapple with the complexities of a tournament which has been twisted into a public relations exercise for Qatar, a country smaller than the state of Connecticut, with a shocking human rights record, that has built the tournament’s infrastructure with migrant labor practices that have been likened to modern slavery. This dilemma is at the core of World Corrupt, a six-episode collaboration from Men in Blazers Media Network and Crooked Media. Starting October 8, Men in Blazers’ Roger Bennett and Pod Save the World’s Tommy Vietor will join forces to explore what it means to be a fan and a responsible citizen of the world while navigating a sports landscape that is increasingly being co-opted for geo-political and corporate gain.

Fighting fascists with Bernie Sanders Sep 28, 2022

Ben and Tommy talk about the new right-wing government in Italy, the growing protests in Iran, Russia’s troop mobilization and sham referendums in eastern Ukraine, new British PM Liz Truss nearly tanks global markets, Jared Kushner gets a big boy award, the latest on the Mar-a-Lago documents saga, Cuba, NASA and the CIA starts a podcast. Then Ben talks with Senator Bernie Sanders about the upcoming elections in Brazil.

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.

How Russia could lose the war Sep 21, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about reports about Russian intelligence and misinformation operations abroad, Biden on Taiwan, El Salvador and US policy towards Central America, the Queen’s funeral, Speaker Pelosi’s visit to Armenia, protests in Iran, how the EU might punish Hungary, the Saudi golf tour hires a lobbyist, and the scandal rocking the international chess world. Then Ben interviews Kyiv Independent defense reporter Illia Ponomarenko about why Russia is losing their grip and Ukraine's pathway to success.

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.

Ukraine's shocking counteroffensive Sep 14, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the successful Ukrainian military counteroffensive, what it means for Zelensky and Putin and the next phase of the war. They also discuss the rise of a far-right party in Sweden, the latest news about the Queen of England’s funeral, famine in east Africa, Biden and refugees and why Obama yelled at Steph Curry about the moon landing. Then Tommy interviews US Trade Representative Katherine Tai about China, Taiwan, and how to make voters believe free trade will help them.

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.

The life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II Sep 09, 2022

In this bonus episode, Tommy and Ben discuss the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II. Then Ben is joined by historian Dan Snow to dig deeper into the Queen’s place in British history.

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.

The new British Prime Minister Sep 07, 2022

This week, Ben and Tommy talk about the new British Prime Minister Liz Truss, Israel’s bizarre rules for visitors to the West Bank, Chileans vote down a new constitution, an assassination attempt in Argentina, updates on Ukraine, Politico’s new owner, China’s covid lockdowns, Kenya’s election, Nigel Farage gets a new product line and a BBQ row roils France.

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.

Who is winning the war in Ukraine? Aug 31, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about reports that Ukraine launched a new offensive against Russian troop and ask the question, who is winning the war? They also cover the impending European energy crisis, the death of former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, reports that Trump brags about having intelligence on the French President’s sex life, floods in Pakistan, new pentagon rules to prevent civilian casualties and more. Then Ben talks with Associated Press reporter Samya Kullab about the political crisis in Iraq.

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.

Let Sanna Marin dance! Aug 24, 2022

Ben and Tommy cover the latest on the FBI raid at Mar-a-Lago, the dumb controversy over Sanna Marin - the PM of Finland - dancing, Colombia considers decriminalizing cocaine, forced labor in China, Brazil’s upcoming election, Imran Khan in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia gives the west the finger, Dennis Rodman goes to Russia and more. Then Max Seddon from the Financial Times joins to discuss a recent car bomb attack near Moscow that killed a far-right propagandist and daughter of a right-wing Russian philosopher.

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.

Adam Schiff on Trump's classified cache Aug 17, 2022

Ben and Tommy cover the latest on the classified information seized at Mar-a-Lago, the one year anniversary of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, assassination attempts connected to Iran, Austin Tice, the former Australian PM’s secret jobs, Kenya’s presidential election, Ukraine, Myanmar, TikTok and disinformation and bears tripping balls. Then Ben talks with Congressman Adam Schiff about possible ramifications of the FBI raid at Mar-a-Lago, potential national security fallout, and what this tells us about what Trump would do if he won in 2024.

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.

The FBI raids Mar-a-Lago Aug 10, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the national security implications of the FBI raid on Mar-a-Lago, Israel bombs targets in Gaza, good news about the Iran deal and climate change, a historic first for the Marine Corps, Trump and his generals, Viktor Orban attends fascist CPAC Coachella, and a verdict for Brittney Griner. Then Tommy talks with podcaster Emily Y. Wu about Speaker Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan and the Chinese response.

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.

Zawahiri is dead, Pelosi's in Taiwan Aug 03, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the drone strike against Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, Speaker Pelosi’s trip to Taiwan, the latest news from Ukraine, including the debate over adding Russia to the State Sponsor of Terrorism list, news about Russian intelligence operations in the US, Trump weighs in on Brittney Griner’s case, excerpts from a wild profile of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, why there’s tensions between Kosovo and Serbia and the first ever international take appreciators.

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.

Introducing: Another Russia Aug 01, 2022

In 2015 Putin’s number one public enemy, Boris Nemtsov, was shot and killed in front of the Kremlin. He was a relentless critic of Putin, corruption, and war in Ukraine. Then, he was assassinated. His daughter, journalist Zhanna Nemtsova, and co-host Ben Rhodes tell his story to find out what happened to an entire country – and what happens next. Is another Russia possible?

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/another-russia/id1634279839

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1edslXTCkkMFeN8htn1iAy?si=1G14a5slQ-uURxuxsTmbpA

Crooked: https://crooked.com/podcast-series/another-russia/

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.

China picks a fight with Pelosi Jul 27, 2022

This week, Ben and Tommy explain why the Chinese government is freaking out about Speaker Pelosi visiting Taiwan, the latest news from Ukraine, the climate change bomb that might go off in Congo, Viktor Orban’s latest racist rant, Pope Francis’s trip to Canada, and why 9/11 families are doubling down on their criticism of Trump while the Saudi government plans a monument to stupidity in the desert, and much more. Then Ben talks with Zhanna Nemtsova about their new podcast Another Russia, which explores the murder of Zhanna's father and what it tells us about Russia today. Listen to Another Russia here or wherever you get your podcasts.

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.

A fist bump to remember Jul 20, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover President Biden’s trip to Israel and Saudi Arabia, explain why 9/11 families are furious at Donald Trump, discuss what can happen internationally on climate change without US action, the latest from Sri Lanka, why the Prime Minister of Italy may resign, then we laugh at Fox News’s foreign coverage, Mike Pompeo’s presidential ambitions, a French mustard shortage and what Boris Johnson’s successors think about him. Finally, Tommy is joined by Politico’s Christopher Miller to discuss the latest news from Ukraine.

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.

Japanese PM Shinzo Abe’s assassination Jul 13, 2022

Tommy and Ben discuss the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, protest in Sri Lanka, President Biden’s trip to the Middle East, the latest news from Ukraine and Brittney Griner’s prosecution in Russia, Condoleezza Rice’s new job and John Bolton weighs in on coups. Then Ben talks with long-time diplomat and Asia expert Danny Russel about the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, politics in Japan, and Abe's legacy.

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.

Boris Johnson Brexits Jul 08, 2022

Ben and Tommy record a bonus episode on British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s resignation with special guest and friend of the pod David Lammy, Labour MP and shadow Foreign Secretary of State.

Why Brexit still sucks Jul 06, 2022

Ben and Tommy answer your questions about the Labour Party’s leadership, Brexit and the UK’s refugee policies, “Russification” in Ukraine, Latin America, the risk from and rise of China, Yemen, Sri Lanka, climate change, favorite simple pleasures, pet peeves, favorite places to visit, and book recommendations.

Crooked Coffee is now available at crooked.com/coffee!

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.

Jesus take the wheel (before Trump does) Jun 29, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about abortion rights globally, President Biden’s trip to Europe for G7 and NATO meetings about Ukraine, WNBA star Brittney Griner’s detention in Russia, Afghanistan, free speech in India and the national security implications of Tuesday’s explosive January 6th committee hearing. Then Tommy talks with journalist Peter Beinart about the human rights issues swirling around President Biden’s upcoming visit to the Middle East.

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.

Inside Navalny’s operation Jun 22, 2022

Ben lays out the significance of the elections and governmental shakeups in Israel, Colombia, and France and talks through the latest on the war in Ukraine. Then Ben talks with Alexei Navalny’s chief of staff Leonid Volkov in Copenhagen about Navalny’s fate, his media operation, and Putin’s propaganda machine.

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.

Worldo Mailbag! Jun 15, 2022

In this special mailbag episode, Tommy and Ben answer listener questions on topics including framing climate change as a national security interest, how both artificial intelligence and migration are going to become headline issues in the years to come, why Democrats are better at foreign policy, Myanmar, their top Pearl Jam albums, career advice for those who want to work in foreign policy, and more. Plus, they offer their takes on the NBA Finals, Taylor Swift, Jared Kushner taking James Patterson's masterclass, and the Saudi golf league.

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.

Justin Trudeau is in studio! Jun 08, 2022

Tommy and Ben interview Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the state of democracy, gun control, Ukraine and the best comedians in Canada. Then they cover the Summit of the Americas, the latest from Ukraine, President Biden’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, why Jared Kushner could be in trouble, how Poland is showing what a post Roe America might look like, why confidence is waning in British PM Boris Johnson, lasers and the Platinum Jubilee got weird.

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.

Ukraine and the global food crisis with Samantha Power Jun 01, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the latest news from Ukraine, including the EU’s plan to ban most imports of Russian oil, reports that Iran has enough nuclear material to make a bomb, how other countries have prevented gun violence, a major election in Colombia, President Biden meets BTS, the Queen’s Jubilee controversy, and climate activists say let the Mona Lisa eat cake. Then Ben speaks with USAID Administrator Samantha Power about how the war in Ukraine is creating a global food shortage and what we can do to help.

Crooked Coffee launches 6/21. Sign-up to be the first to sip: http://go.crooked.com/coffee-pstw

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.

Biden (sort of?) pledges to defend Taiwan May 25, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about President Biden’s trip to Asia, whether the US would defend Taiwan in a war with China, the latest news from Ukraine, including calls for Ukraine to cut a deal with Russia and the growing food crisis. They also cover a plot to assassinate George W Bush, fascism in Hungary, charges of anti-semitism against progressives and US policy towards Israel, MAGA grifters and Boris Johnson’s party pics. Then Ben talks to Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield about her efforts at the UN to help Ukraine and tackle the international food crisis.

The Killing of Shireen Abu Akleh May 18, 2022

Ben and Tommy talk about the latest news from Ukraine, including the latest from Mariupol, Finland and Sweden’s application to join NATO, and Mitch McConnell’s visit to Kyiv. Then they explain why countries are threatening to boycott the Summit of the Americas, changes to Biden’s Cuba policy, news of a major covid outbreak in North Korea, the upcoming elections in Australia, Eurovision and rocking out at the Queen’s Jubilee. Then Tommy talks with Palestinian writer Jalal Abukhater about the killing of al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh in the occupied West Bank.

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.

Raining on Putin's Victory Day parade May 11, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the latest news from Ukraine, including more money and weapons from the US, the First Lady’s visit to Ukraine, intelligence leaks and Vladimir Putin’s underwhelming Victory Day speech. Then they cover the historic election in Northern Ireland, more dumb scandals in the UK, protests and violence in Sri Lanka, a depressing election result in the Philippines, the CIA’s message for Brazil and more Trump officials write books. And then Ben talks with Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo about sanctions against Russia and the global economic impact of the war in Ukraine.

With our constitutionally protected right to abortion under attack, abortion funds are working nonstop to make sure people can still access (and afford) abortion.

Visit votesaveamerica.com/roe to learn more, donate, and take action.

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.

Bill Gates on preventing the next pandemic May 04, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about the latest in Ukraine, including Ukrainian attacks on targets in Russia, Biden’s $33 billion aid request, and Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov’s insane attempt to blame the Jews for the Holocaust. Then they cover the upcoming election in the Philippines, France’s resurgent left, Saudi Arabia, a former CIA agent turned life coach, QAnon runs for congress and more humiliation for Tory party MPs. Finally, Tommy talks with Bill Gates about his new book, How to Prevent the Next Pandemic.

With our constitutionally protected right to abortion under attack, abortion funds are working nonstop to make sure people can still access (and afford) abortion.

Visit votesaveamerica.com/roe to learn more, donate, and take action.

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.

Au revoir Le Pen (for now) Apr 27, 2022

Ben and Tommy cover the latest from Ukraine, including the Secretary of Defense and State’s visit to Kyiv and concerns that both the US and Russian mission in Ukraine might be expanding. Then they talk about major defeats for far-right candidates in elections in France and Slovenia, what Elon buying Twitter could mean for international users, worrisome news in Darfur and Trump musings on the royal family. Then Ben talks with reporters Christopher Miller and Max Seddon about the war in Ukraine and what's changed since it began two months ago.

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.

The digital war in Ukraine Apr 20, 2022

Ben and Tommy cover the latest from Ukraine, including how the fighting has moved east, the sinking of a Russian battleship, and how the war is evolving on the digital battlefield. They also discuss how fighting between Israeli police and Palestinian worshippers could break up Israel's government coalition, Ronan Farrow's new report about spyware for profit, Jared Kushner's $2 billion kickback from the Saudis, and the economic impact of the lockdowns in China. Then Ben is joined by award-winning journalist Louisa Lim to discuss her new book, Indelible City: Dispossession and Defiance in Hong Kong.

How to Help in Ukraine

Come Back Alive
Ukrainian Congress Committee of America: donate to humanitarian efforts
United Help Ukraine: donate to the life-saving medical supplies to Ukraine’s front lines
Revived Soldiers Ukraine: donate to treatment of the wounded and the provision of hospitals
Razom for Ukraine: donate to tactical medical training and emergency response in Ukraine
Nova Ukraine: donate to humanitarian aid for Ukraine
Vox: How you can help Ukrainians

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.

A chemical weapons attack in Ukraine? Apr 13, 2022

On today’s episode, Tommy talks with Oleksiy Sorokin from the Kyiv Independent about the latest news from Ukraine, including reports of a Russian chemical weapons attack, Russian war crimes, British PM Boris Johnson’s visit to Kyiv and preparations for the next phase of fighting in eastern Ukraine. Then Tommy walks through some additional Ukraine news out of Washington, what happened in the French elections, Pakistan’s Prime Minister receiving a vote of no confidence, and the covid lockdown in Shanghai. Finally, Ben interviews London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

How to Help in Ukraine

Come Back Alive
Ukrainian Congress Committee of America: donate to humanitarian efforts
United Help Ukraine: donate to the life-saving medical supplies to Ukraine’s front lines
Revived Soldiers Ukraine: donate to treatment of the wounded and the provision of hospitals
Razom for Ukraine: donate to tactical medical training and emergency response in Ukraine
Nova Ukraine: donate to humanitarian aid for Ukraine

Vox: How you can help Ukrainians

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.

War crimes in Ukraine Apr 06, 2022

Tommy and Ben discuss the horrifying images of war crimes against civilians in Ukraine, the growing support for far-right candidates in the upcoming French elections, Viktor Orban’s depressing victory in Hungary, political turmoil in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the fragile ceasefire in Yemen and covid funding. Then Tommy talks with Anastasiia Lapatina from the Kyiv Independent about what it’s like covering the Russian invasion as it impacts her life and family in such a personal way.

How to Help in Ukraine

Ukrainian Congress Committee of America: donate to humanitarian efforts

United Help Ukraine: donate to the life-saving medical supplies to Ukraine’s front lines

Revived Soldiers Ukraine: donate to treatment of the wounded and the provision of hospitals

Razom for Ukraine: donate to tactical medical training and emergency response in Ukraine

Nova Ukraine: donate to humanitarian aid for Ukraine

Vox: How you can help Ukrainians

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.

A Peace Deal in Ukraine? Mar 30, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about the latest in Ukraine including reports of progress towards a peace deal, President Biden's visit to Poland, the apparent poisoning of Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich, and Trump's (second) plea to Putin for (more) dirt on Biden. Tommy and Ben also discuss other international news, including China's latest covid lockdown, missiles in North Korea, and the Taliban reversing their decision to re-open schools for girls. Then Ben talks with European Parliament member Katalin Cseh about the upcoming elections in Hungary and why they are so consequential.

How to Help in Ukraine

Ukrainian Congress Committee of America: donate to humanitarian efforts

United Help Ukraine: donate to the life-saving medical supplies to Ukraine’s front lines

Revived Soldiers Ukraine: donate to treatment of the wounded and the provision of hospitals

Razom for Ukraine: donate to tactical medical training and emergency response in Ukraine

Nova Ukraine: donate to humanitarian aid for Ukraine

Vox: How you can help Ukrainians

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.

Biden goes to NATO Mar 23, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the latest in Ukraine, including Biden’s visit to Brussels for a NATO summit and trip to Poland. They also explore how China is viewing the Russian invasion, how the war can create a global food shortage, the latest on the military effort and peace talks, the reaction to President Zelensky’s address to the Israeli Knesset, why the Russians are making prank calls, and President Trump weighs in with more strategic genius. Then Tommy interviews former US Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch about what Zelensky was like before the war and her time at the State Department under Trump.

How to Help in Ukraine

Ukrainian Congress Committee of America: donate to humanitarian efforts
United Help Ukraine: donate to the life-saving medical supplies to Ukraine’s front lines
Revived Soldiers Ukraine: donate to treatment of the wounded and the provision of hospitals
Razom for Ukraine: donate to tactical medical training and emergency response in Ukraine
Nova Ukraine: donate to humanitarian aid for Ukraine
Vox: How you can help Ukrainians

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.

Putin and Zelensky deliver messages to the world Mar 18, 2022

Tommy and Ben record a second episode this week on Ukraine to discuss President Zelensky’s speech to Congress, the latest on US weapons transfers to Ukraine, Vladimir Putin’s terrifying authoritarian speech, Russian attacks on civilians, hope for peace talks, bad faith attacks on Biden by Republicans and the frustrating way Ukraine is being covered in the US. Then Ben speaks with Sviatoslav Yurash, the youngest member of Ukraine's Parliament about the post-Maidan generation and his close friend, journalist Oleksandra Kuvshynova who was killed while covering the war.

How to Help in Ukraine

Ukrainian Congress Committee of America: donate to humanitarian efforts
United Help Ukraine: donate to the life-saving medical supplies to Ukraine’s front lines
Revived Soldiers Ukraine: donate to treatment of the wounded and the provision of hospitals
Razom for Ukraine: donate to tactical medical training and emergency response in Ukraine
Nova Ukraine: donate to humanitarian aid for Ukraine
Vox: How you can help Ukrainians

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.

How to be a Russian Oligarch Mar 18, 2022

Tommy and Ben discuss the debate about whether the US and NATO should help supply MiG fighter jets to Ukraine, reports that Russia may be preparing to use chemical weapons, the growing risk to journalists covering the war, what President Biden and the US are doing to support Ukraine and how people in Russia are reacting to the invasion. They also cover China’s reaction to the war, the major covid outbreak in parts of China, and how the war is complicating the Iran nuclear deal negotiations. Then Ben talks with author Tom Burgis about the rise and influence of Russian oligarchs.

How to Help in Ukraine

Ukrainian Congress Committee of America: donate to humanitarian efforts
United Help Ukraine: donate to the life-saving medical supplies to Ukraine’s front lines
Revived Soldiers Ukraine: donate to treatment of the wounded and the provision of hospitals
Razom for Ukraine: donate to tactical medical training and emergency response in Ukraine
Nova Ukraine: donate to humanitarian aid for Ukraine
Vox: How you can help Ukrainians

The rising cost of Putin’s war Mar 09, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about Biden’s decision to ban Russian oil and gas imports, Congress’s proposed $12 billion package for Ukraine, the latest military movements, diplomatic efforts to end the war and Russia’s detention of WNBA star Brittany Griner, the treatment of refugees, Donald Trump’s creative plans for Ukraine and how Republicans are annoying President Zelensky. Then Tommy talks with State Department Counselor about how the US is getting arms to the Ukrainian military, how sanctions work, and what the US government thinks will come next.

How to Help in Ukraine

Ukrainian Congress Committee of America: donate to humanitarian efforts
United Help Ukraine: donate to the life-saving medical supplies to Ukraine’s front lines
Revived Soldiers Ukraine: donate to treatment of the wounded and the provision of hospitals
Razom for Ukraine: donate to tactical medical training and emergency response in Ukraine
Nova Ukraine: donate to humanitarian aid for Ukraine
Vox: How you can help Ukrainians

For more reporting:

Tanya Kozyreva - @TanyaKozyreva

Anastasiia Lapatina - @lapatina_

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.

Russia attacks civilians & a nuclear plant Mar 05, 2022

In this bonus episode, Tommy and Ben talk about the escalating attacks by Russian forces on Ukrainian civilians, the shocking Russian attack on a nuclear power plant, Russian military progress in southern Ukraine, the latest on western energy sanctions, intelligence sharing and how the war could lead to a global food shortage. You will also hear from a 29-year-old mother of two on the ground in Odessa, Ukraine, as the city is preparing for an attack, and from Buzzfeed’s Christopher Miller who is reporting from the ground in Kyiv.

Russia escalates the war in Ukraine Mar 02, 2022

Tommy and Ben walk through the latest news from Ukraine, including how Russia has conducted the military campaign so far and why many experts are concerned that the risk to civilians will increase, the impact of sanctions, the strong response from Europe, which countries have refused to condemn Russia and why, the private sector response and how sports leagues have shown solidarity for Ukraine. Then Tommy interviews a 29-year-old Ukrainian refugee named Kseniia Putiatina about her three-day journey from Ukraine to Istanbul and how she made the decision to flee.

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.

Special Report: On the Ground in Ukraine and Russia Feb 26, 2022

As the worst case scenario unfolds in Ukraine, Ben runs through the latest on Russia’s invasion, how this attack marks a new phase of history, and what to expect in the coming weeks and months. Then Ben is joined by Ukrainian investigative reporter Tanya Kozyreva from Kyiv as it is under siege. During the interview, Tanya describes the dire situation in Kyiv, the Ukrainian peoples’ commitment to resist, and has to seek shelter after hearing explosions. Ben is also joined again by Max Seddon, Bureau Chief of the Financial Times in Moscow who shares how Russians feel about the invasion, and if sanctions could actually cause President Putin to stand down.

Putin invades Ukraine Feb 23, 2022

Ben assesses the escalating situation in Ukraine, from Putin’s recognition of separatist regions and his deployment of troops as peacekeepers to the first wave of sanctions against Russia. Then, he chats with Max Seddon, bureau chief of The Financial Times in Moscow, about Putin’s state of mind and the current political mood in Russia. And USAID Administrator Samantha Power drops by to share her perspective on what’s at stake in Ukraine, as well as a few encouraging updates on the global COVID vaccination effort.

Emergency Pod: Brink of War in Ukraine Feb 19, 2022

In an emergency pod, Ben gives an update on the rapidly unfolding situation in Ukraine, the unfolding of Putin’s potential pretext for war, and how the world is preparing for a likely and looming invasion. Then Ben is joined by BuzzFeed correspondent Christopher Miller, who has been reporting from the frontlines in eastern Ukraine, for an on-the-ground perspective on what’s happening, what war could look like, and how Ukrainians are preparing.

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.

Putin’s Choice: War or Peace Feb 16, 2022

Ben reviews the latest developments in Ukraine, including President Putin’s shifting tone and President Biden’s warning of the risk of war. Then he chats with the New Yorker's Moscow correspondent Joshua Yaffa on the ground in Kyiv amid fears of an imminent Russian invasion. Ben also talks with radicalization and extremism expert Amarnath Amarasingam about Canada's trucker protests, how American right-wing media helped fuel their momentum, and how they could impact Canada's politics longterm.

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.

Russia and China’s new world order Feb 09, 2022

Ben and guest host Alex Wagner discuss the latest diplomacy on Ukraine, Russia and China’s pact against the West, the politics of a return to the Iran Deal, right-wing truckers protesting in Canada, Boris Johnson singing I Will Survive, censorship at the Beijing Olympics, and Kim Jong Un’s new look. Then Ben is joined by Estonia’s Prime Minister Kaja Kallas to talk about her views on Ukraine and what it’s like to be a NATO ally bordering Russia.

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.

Understanding Putin Feb 02, 2022

Ben does a deep dive on President Vladimir Putin’s history and how he has arrived on the brink of war with Ukraine with help from Putin expert and special Reuters correspondent Catherine Belton, and Russian journalist and activist Zhanna Nemtsova.

Where to Donate:

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Baby Quest Grants, a non profit providing fertility grants to those who can’t afford costly procedures like IVF and egg freezing.

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.

WTF is happening with Ukraine? Jan 26, 2022

Tommy and Ben cover the latest news about a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine, a coup in Burkina Faso, fighting in Yemen and the UAE, why the clock is ticking for the Iran deal, a new cabinet in Chile, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern cancels her wedding, news about Havana syndrome, more trouble for party enthusiast and British PM Boris Johnson, buying the bitcoin dip in El Salvador, and Mike Pompeo seeks help. Then Tommy talks with Peter Beinart about the history of NATO expansion and how it may have made Putin more aggressive.

Pod Save America is vaxxed, boosted, and headed back on the road! Join Tommy, Jon, Jon, and Dan on the road for Pod Save America (A)live And On Tour. Get tickets & learn more: crooked.com/events.

Listener presales: January 25 at 10 am local time through January 27 (code CROOKED)

General onsale: January 28 at 10 am local time

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.

Pod Save America's Going On Tour! Jan 24, 2022

Pod Save America is vaxxed, boosted, and headed back on the road! Get tickets & learn more: crooked.com/events

Join Jon, Lovett, Tommy, Dan, and special guests this spring and summer as they travel across the country for conversations about politics, the press, and the impending threats to our democracy (but in a fun way!)Listener presales: January 25 at 10 am local time through January 27 with code CROOKED

General onsale: January 28 at 10 am local time

crooked.com/events

Secretary of State Tony Blinken Jan 19, 2022

On today’s episode, Tommy and Ben interview Secretary of State Tony Blinken about the threat of Russia invading Ukraine, the Iran deal, combatting antisemitism and promoting democracy. They also discuss how silicon valley views human rights in China, why Boris Johnson could party his way into retirement, how Novak Djokovic got the boot from Australia, the eruption in Tonga and why Twitter is back in Nigeria.

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.

Putin invades (but not where you thought) Jan 12, 2022

Ben and Tommy talk about protests and power struggles in Kazakhstan, Boris Johnson’s garden party problems, an update on the assassination of the Haitian president, how Novak Djokovic's vaccination status caused a diplomatic crisis in Australia, when North Korea invented the burrito (huh?) a heroic bomb sniffing rat and much more. Then Ben talks with former Ukrainian Prime Minister Oleksiy Honcharuk about tensions with Russia and how Ukraine plans to maintain democracy despite Putin's efforts to destroy it.

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.

Trump endorses a dictator Jan 05, 2022

Tommy and Ben talk about Trump’s endorsement of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and what it says about the future of democracy, the latest on Biden’s efforts to prevent Russia from invading Ukraine, China and Lithuania, a major election in Chile, and a look ahead at some of the world’s most important elections in 2022. Then Ben talks with author Howard French about his new book “Born in Blackness: Africa, Africans, and the Making of the Modern World.”

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.

China 101 Dec 29, 2021

Tommy and Ben are joined by Asia policy expert Danny Russel for a special episode that is entirely focused on China. They discuss Chinese President Xi Jinping’s background and worldview, Wolf Warrior diplomacy, China’s human rights record and suppression of the Uyghurs, and the fear that war between the US and China is inevitable and could start over Taiwan.

The Trump-Bibi Netanyahu bromance is dead Dec 15, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss why a holiday party is causing big problems for British PM Boris Johnson, why the Trump – Netanyahu bromance is officially dead, partying in Finland, an update on the assassination of the president of Haiti, a confusing choice to be US ambassador to Kenya, updates on Russia and Ukraine, the Iran deal, accountability at the Pentagon, a debate over whether progressives are getting rolled on defense policy, a court ruling on Julian Assange’s extradition, and camel influencers.

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.

Biden’s Olympic Boycott Dec 08, 2021

Tommy and Ben cover the US diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Olympics, Biden's call with Putin and rising tensions in Ukraine, Myanmar's ousted leader being unjustifiably sentenced to prison time, Justin Bieber's shady concert for the Saudis, El Salvador's crypto game, UK Parliament's cocaine problem, and a "Mambo No. 5" performance amid Poland's deadly migrant crisis. Then Ben talks with New Yorker reporter Ian Urbina about Libya's secret migrant prisons and his time detained in one.

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.

Rihanna replaces the Queen Dec 01, 2021

Tommy and Ben cover the Omicron variant, a history making Prime Minister in Sweden, the Nordstream 2 pipeline and tensions in Ukraine, corruption and spies in international soccer, Jared Kushner goes hunting for gulf oil kickbacks, a historic election in Honduras, the Iran deal talks on life support, maple syrup cartels and Oasis. Then Tommy talks with Pashtana Durrani about her work educating women and girls in Afghanistan.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

What happened to Peng Shuai? Nov 24, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about the allegations by and disappearance of Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai, calls to boycott the Beijing winter Olympics, British PM Boris Johnson’s rough couple of weeks, economic woes in Turkey, democratic backsliding, asteroid killing satellites, what human rights advocates are demanding from Justin Bieber, how Popeyes is taking Britain storm and much more. Then Ben talks with President Biden’s Special Envoy to Iran Rob Malley about next week's nuclear talks with Iran, and where U.S.-Iranian relations stand going into them.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

The case for invading Australia Nov 17, 2021

Ben and Tommy talk about reports of a potential war crime by the US military in Syria, tensions on the border of Belarus and Poland, increased concern that Russia might invade Ukraine, Biden’s (virtual) summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, how Trump sycophants are seeding election lies in Brazil, a hostage is freed in Myanmar, space debris, how Trump’s coup attempt spread to the Pentagon, and the case for invading Australia. Then CNN’s Nima Elbagir joins to discuss the ongoing civil war in Ethiopia and the coup in Sudan.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Rhodes goes to Glasgow Nov 10, 2021

This week, Ben calls in from the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow where he’s traveling with President Obama. In this episode Ben and Tommy cover the latest news from COP26, the increasingly dire civil war in Ethiopia, recent Biden administrations actions against ransomware hackers and the spyware for profit industry, a drone attack in Iraq, the US reopening its borders, and the #Fartghazi scandal lingering in the UK. Then Ben speaks to climate activists Hannah Martin and Luisa Neubauer, and former Secretary of State John Kerry about the intense climate negotiations in Glasgow.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

The world gathers to fight climate change Nov 03, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about the big news out of the climate change summit in Glasgow, the news out of the G20, the latest on the coup in Sudan and civil war in Ethiopia, a GITMO detainee details CIA torture, morally bankrupt billionaires flock to Saudi Arabia, the skeptical take on Havana Syndrome, Real Housewives of Dubai, Facebook is dead, and the JFK assassination. Then former Australian PM Kevin Rudd joins to talk about COP26, Australian politics and Evergrande.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Cocaine Hippos Oct 27, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the military coup in Sudan, how Boston Celtics center Enes Kanter is making waves in China, Israel’s designation of six Palestinian human rights groups as terrorist organizations, Facebook’s global impact, Trump officials get kickbacks from the Saudis, Russia, climate change and cocaine hippos. Then British Member of Parliament David Lammy joins to discuss the recent murder of a British lawmaker and the danger of online hate speech.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

We booked a Nobel Prize winner Oct 20, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the murder of a British member of parliament, Colin Powell’s legacy, missiles, climate change, the fight against Viktor Orban, kidnappings in Haiti, democracy in Sudan, covid in Brazil, her majesty’s cocktails, why Australia hates Ted Cruz, and wizards. Then Nobel Peace Prize winning journalist Maria Ressa joins to talk about her battles against President Rodrigo Duterte and Facebook.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Ted Lasso with a bone saw Oct 13, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about why US special forces were on a training mission in Taiwan, the Saudi government buys a soccer team, Biden’s Syria policy, stealing US Navy secrets, a breakthrough in the fight against Malaria, what a $20 million home in Beverly Hills tells us about Afghanistan, Iraq’s election results, Ted Cruz and the far-right in Spain, an Ethiopia update and gift giving in the Trump era.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Decoding the Pandora Papers Oct 06, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss a new, massive leak of financial documents that expose how billionaires and powerful politicians hide their money, the global impact of Facebook going offline, the CIA sounds the alarm about protecting sources, Biden’s team tries to fix relations with France, news about China and Ethiopia, and then Ben gets an update on the current situation in Afghanistan from activist and senior fellow at the Atlantic Council Sahar Halaimzai.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Jared Kushner is “Rasputin in a slim-fitting suit” Sep 29, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about the results of the German elections, Senate hearings on Afghanistan, a report about a Trump administration plan to arrest Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, votes on Israel and Yemen on Capitol Hill, an update on Burma, and funny Trump foreign policy stories. Then Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian joins to talk about his new podcast 544 Days, which details his time being held hostage in Iran’s notorious Evin prison.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

France is not amused Sep 22, 2021

Tommy and Ben explain why a security agreement between the US, UK and Australia has enraged the French, the latest on elections in Canada and Russia, the assassination of an Iranian scientist, Biden addresses the UN General Assembly, and the Space Force debuts its dress uniform. Then Senator Chris Murphy joins Ben to discuss the withdrawal from Afghanistan and the urgency for filling critical diplomatic positions that Republicans are blocking.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Who hid the nukes from Trump? Sep 15, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about the national security news in Bob Woodward’s new book, some rare progress in nuclear talks with Iran, the latest on efforts to get the world vaccinated, why national security jobs are stalled in the Senate and an assessment of the global threat from terrorism, for-profit spyware, and Kim Jong Un’s weight loss. Then CNN’s senior international correspondent Nima Elbagir joins to talk about her reporting on the war in Ethiopia.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

20 years after 9/11 Sep 08, 2021

Tommy and Ben cover the latest from Afghanistan, right-wing protests in Brazil, a coup in Guinea, bitcoin in El Salvador, Biden’s immigration policy, big elections in Germany, Japan and Canada, and tough times for celebrities in China. Then Ben talks to former US Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul about the Ukrainian President’s visit to America.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

What comes next for Afghanistan Sep 01, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about the United States ending its war in Afghanistan as both countries navigate what comes next, what a visit from Israel’s prime minister can tell us about the future of the U.S.-Israel relationship, and where things stand with Russia’s opposition movement weeks away from parliamentary elections.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

The lessons we should learn from Afghanistan Aug 25, 2021

Tommy and Ben cover the latest news from Afghanistan, including an update on the evacuation efforts, the threat from ISIS, the coming US political fight over refugees, the media coverage of the war and what lessons they hope that the country will learn from it. They also explain why the Vice President’s trip to Asia was temporarily delayed by reports of “Havana Syndrome” in Vietnam, and discuss updates on the earthquake in Haiti. Then Tommy is joined by Ali Latifi, Al Jazeera English’s online correspondent in Kabul, to discuss what life is like in Kabul a little more than a week after the Taliban takeover.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

A tragic end to 20 years in Afghanistan Aug 18, 2021

Today’s episode is all about Afghanistan. Tommy and Ben cover President Biden’s decision to withdraw troops, the failure to process visas and get refugees out of the country, why the Afghan security forces didn’t fight back, the history of the war effort under four US presidents, Trump’s role in what happened and the broader political implications.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Tucker’s all Orban has left Aug 11, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, Mike Pompeo and the missing whisky, Sudan and Ethiopia, big climate change news, the US military’s new covid vaccine rule, China’s Olympic lies, and some dystopian space idiocy.Then, Ben interviews Hungarian journalist Szabolcs Panyi about Viktor Orban’s star turn with American right wing media and the Chinese Communist Party, and Orban’s standing at home heading into next year’s elections.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Tucker Carlson makes a fascist friend Aug 04, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest news from Afghanistan, Tucker Carlson’s adventures with fascists in Hungary, the state of US-Iran relations, the shortcomings of the global coronavirus vaccination campaign, updates from Myanmar, the defection of a Belarusian sprinter at the Tokyo Olympics and more. Then Ben talks to German climate activist Luisa Neubauer about how Germany's summer of intense weather has impacted the politics of climate action there.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Trump vs Team USA Jul 28, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the criminal charges against Trump’s inaugural committee chair Tom Barrack, President Biden's meeting with the prime minister of Iraq, why the Israeli government is attacking Ben and Jerry's, Xi Jinping's visit to Tibet and tons of Olympic news. Then Tommy talks to journalist Fadil Aliriza about why the Tunisian president dismissed the prime minister and Parliament.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Spyware for profit Jul 21, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss unrest and inequality in South Africa, the spyware for profit industry in Israel, Chinese cyberattacks, climate change news, updates from Haiti and Cuba, Jeff Bezos' trip to space, whether the Australian prime minister pooped his pants and more. Then Mohamed Soltan joins Ben to talk about claims the US government pledged to incarcerate him after he was released from Egyptian prison and why it is so critical that the Biden administration rethink American policy towards Egypt.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

An assassination in Haiti and protests in Cuba Jul 14, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the assassination of Haitian president Jovenel Moïse, the ongoing protests in Cuba, how President Biden should respond to ransomware attacks, new US ambassador nominations, the impact of heat waves on marine life, a new dating app in Iran, and soccer and Olympics news. Then Haitian journalist Widlore Meráncourt talks to Tommy about the political situation in Haiti and the context for American intervention in the country.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

World’s worst space race Jul 07, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the US withdrawal from Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan, why billionaires are racing to ride rockets, Xi Jinping’s speech celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party, potential updates to American sanctions policy, the financial crisis in Lebanon, a meeting between Saudi and American government officials and more. Then Ben talks to journalist Rana Ayyub about why the Indian government is targeting her over a tweet and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s larger crackdown on free speech.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Private mercenaries and naked sunbathers Jun 30, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss updates on the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, the discovery of hundreds of bodies at former residential schools for Indigenous children in Canada, Saudi mercenaries getting trained in the US, Russian war crimes in the Central African Republic, the ongoing civil war in Ethiopia, Hungary’s latest attack on LGBTQ rights, Boris Johnson’s big boat boondoggle, a helicopter rescue of naked sunbathers in Australia and more. Then former US ambassador to the UK and Sweden joins Tommy to tell some of his best stories from his time abroad and talk about his approach to leadership.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Iranian elections and Justin Bieber’s state visit Jun 23, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the results of the presidential election in Iran, regional elections in France and why Justin Bieber went to visit the French president, the impact of the Putin-Biden summit, Bitcoin use in El Salvador, the latest from Afghanistan and Hong Kong, and rumors about a Chinese spy. Then Tommy talks to Congresswoman Norma Torres about how to make foreign aid programs more effective in Northern Triangle countries.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Bye bye Bibi! Jun 16, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss President Biden’s first foreign trip and meeting with Vladimir Putin, the end of Bibi Netanyahu’s 15 year hold on power, a Twitter ban in Nigeria, a breakthrough in the fight against dengue fever, why Kim Jong-Un is railing against K-Pop and more. Then writer Yair Rosenberg joins Tommy for a deep-dive on Israel’s new coalition government.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Joe's Eurovision 2021 Jun 09, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss how Bibi Netanyahu has gone full Trump in an attempt to break up the opposition coalition in Israel, presidential elections in Nicaragua and Peru, crackdowns on journalists in Myanmar, how the US government seized money back from hackers, AI drones, controversial Ukrainian soccer jerseys and more. Then Ben talks to Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer about President Joe Biden's first international trip and why he is meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Boris elopes, Bibi on the ropes (with Afua Hirsch) Jun 02, 2021

Ben and guest co-host journalist Afua Hirsch do a deep dive into the biggest stories in British politics including Dominic Cummings' damning testimony, Boris Johnson's secret wedding, why Viktor Orbán was at Number 10 Downing Street, and where the Labour party goes from its most recent defeat. They also talk about the latest deal that might oust Bibi Netanyahu from office, the coup in Mali, the humanitarian crisis in Tigray, German acknowledgment of a genocide in what is now Namibia, the new three-child policy in China, updates from Hong Kong, and Naomi Osaka's decision to withdraw from the French Open. Then Ben interviews the mayor of Budapest Gergely Karácsony about his run for Hungarian prime minister and how he plans to defeat Viktor Orbán.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsaveamerica.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Belarus hijacks a plane (and Samantha Power) May 26, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss how the Belarusian president forced a plan to land so he could arrest a journalist, the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, a spike in coronavirus cases in Japan ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, more theories about the origins of coronavirus, a coup in Samoa, why John Cena had to apologize for calling Taiwan a country and more. Then USAID Administrator Samantha Power joins Ben to talk about her development agenda and how the agency can actually help get coronavirus vaccines into arms around the world.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Time to call for a ceasefire in Gaza May 19, 2021

Tommy and Ben do a deep dive into the latest news on the fighting between Israel and Hamas and what the Biden administration has said about it. They also talk about proposed changes to how the military handles sexual assault case, the bourgeoning film industry in outer space, coercive birth control policies in Xinjiang and a prank pulled on those perpetuating the Big Lie. Then Congresswoman Betty McCollum joins Tommy to discuss her bill to condition military aid to Israel.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Clashes in Israel and Gaza May 12, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about the escalating violence in Israel and Gaza, cyberattacks on American infrastructure, a deadly police raid in Brazil, updates on Alexey Navalny’s situation, President Biden’s decision to back coronavirus vaccine patent waivers and more. Then, foreign policy analyst Rula Jebreal joins Ben to discuss the context for the latest outbreak of fighting in Israel and Gaza and how we should be thinking about asymmetries of power.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Talks with Iran and covid in India May 05, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss all the latest news out of Iran and the Iran deal negotiations, reports about mysterious directed energy attacks against Americans, the Biden administration’s North Korea policy, a deadly stampede in Israel, fighting on the border of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the fury of Manchester United Fans and more. Then journalist Rana Ayyub joins Tommy to talk about the devastating wave of coronavirus cases in India and how Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government is making it worse.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Fighting climate change, coronavirus, and capitalism Apr 28, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss President Biden’s ambitious new climate goals, the coronavirus outbreak in India, American recognition of the Armenian genocide, Chloé Zhao’s Oscar win and censorship in China, leaked audio from the Iranian foreign minister and more. Then Ben talks to Pulitzer Prize winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen about cultural depictions of the Vietnam War and the links between colonialism and capitalism.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Putin's Power Plays Apr 21, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the president of Chad’s mysterious death, Vladimir Putin's imprisonment of Alexei Navalny, the devastating coronavirus outbreak in India, updates on what actually happened at the Natanz nuclear facility, SPACE HELICOPTERS!!, a not so super idea for a soccer league and more. Then Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer joins Tommy for a conversation on the Biden administration's Russia policy and the decision to withdraw from Afghanistan.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Biden ends one war, will Israel and Iran start another? Apr 14, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the cyberattack on an Iranian nuclear facility, Biden's plans to withdraw all troops from Afghanistan by September 11th, whether MBS spent almost half a billion on a forged painting, violence in Northern Ireland, escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, sports nationalism and more. Then Ben talks to journalist Afua Hirsch about how Boris Johnson's government has embraced racism and the complicated legacy of Prince Philip.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Should America boycott the 2022 Olympics? Apr 07, 2021

Nearly two dozen people are arrested in Jordan as confusion swirls about whether a coup was being plotted there. Calls to boycott the 2022 Olympics in Beijing pick up momentum, including from within the United States. New reporting sheds light on violence taking place in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. And more. Then, Tommy talks with Washington Post reporter Joby Warrick about his book, “Red Line: The Unraveling of Syria and America's Race to Destroy the Most Dangerous Arsenal in the World.”

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Israel Deadlocked, Suez Unblocked Mar 31, 2021

Tommy and Ben walk through the inconclusive results of the latest Israeli election, how Covid and bad political leadership is devastating Brazil, the Suez Canal, news from Biden on Afghanistan, more military violence in Myanmar, plans for a Chinese-Russian moon base, pan-European progressivism, US-Bolivia policy, and whether Prince William is actually the sexiest bald man alive. Then, Ben talks to Ricardo Herrero, head of the Cuba Study Group, about how the Biden administration should reengage with Cuba.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Biden versus Putin Mar 24, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about what they are watching for in the Israeli elections, why Republicans are stalling the confirmation of a key Department of Defense official, the race for global vaccine distribution, Vladimir Putin challenging Joe Biden to a debate, a dramatic US-China summit in Alaska, proposed restrictions on protest in the UK, President Biden's position on drug eradication in Latin America and marijuana use in DC. Then Tommy talks to Canadian Member of Parliament and the leader of the New Democratic Party Jagmeet Singh about progressive politics in Canada and the US-Canada relationship.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Vaccine diplomacy and Kushner bashing Mar 17, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the intelligence community's new report on foreign interference in the 2020 election, America's role in getting the whole world vaccinated, why Jared Kushner's new op-ed is a joke, the Biden administration's posture towards North Korea and China, crackdowns on dissent in Uganda and Myanmar, the fight for women's safety in the UK and Australia, the surge of unaccompanied minors arriving at the southern border of the US, and more. Then Ben talks to Merav Michaeli, a member of the Knesset and leader of the Israeli Labor party, about how she's building back the Israeli left and the politics of Israel's upcoming election.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include which podcast you would like.

Oprah upends the British Empire Mar 10, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest massive state-sponsored hack on American businesses and government email servers, Biden’s efforts to end the war in Afghanistan, the need to rethink counterterrorism policies, protests in Senegal, why pineapple is patriotic in Taiwan, Russian efforts to undermine confidence in American Covid vaccines, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s sit-down with Oprah, and more. Then, Tommy interviews Verónica Gago, a professor and a leader of Argentina’s Ni Una Menos movement that helped legalize abortion.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include which podcast you would like.

President Biden, Saudi Arabia and human rights Mar 03, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk about the newly released report on the murder of Jamal Khashoggi and how President Joe Biden is approaching the US-Saudi relationship, US airstrikes on Syria, how Iran has responded to outreach from the Biden administration, why another French President is going to jail, Salvadoran elections, India and Pakistan reaching a ceasefire in Kashmir, Mike Pompeo’s bad stand up at CPAC and more. Then Ben talks to historian and author Thant Myint-U about where Myanmar goes from here and whether the US actually has a role to play in bringing democracy back to the country.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Bobi Wine’s fight against a military dictatorship Feb 24, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the line between legitimate criticism of Israel and antisemitism, and how people like Mike Pompeo lie and blur that line to shut down policy debates, a former Trump aide’s claims about the origin of Covid-19, Biden’s moves to re-enter the Iran nuclear deal, US-Egypt policy, Australia’s attempts to regulate big tech, allegations that a Trump supporting mercenary-for-hire named Erik Prince violated an arms embargo on Libya, and more. Then Tommy interviews Uganda politician, former presidential candidate, and musician Bobi Wine about his brave fight against a military dictator and how US assistance can prop up anti-democratic leaders.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com.

Biden confronts the war in Afghanistan Feb 17, 2021

Tommy and Ben talk through Biden’s options in Afghanistan, updates on the coup in Myanmar, censorship in China, the effectiveness of the Pfizer vaccine in Israel, government transparency in Mexico, LGBTQ+ rights in the UK, crackdowns on activists in India and Egypt, and royal baby updates. Then Ben interviews Congresswoman Ilhan Omar about the dangers of reflexively tightening domestic terrorism laws.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com.

Why Rihanna cares about the farmers' protests in India (and you should too) Feb 10, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the farmers’ protests in India, updates on the situation in Myanmar, Biden’s big foreign policy speech, Canada’s classification of the Proud Boys as a terrorist organization, debate over definitions of anti-Semitism and the double standards when critiquing Israel, and the political situation in Haiti.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com.

The coup in Myanmar, explained Feb 03, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss the military takeover in Myanmar and how President Biden should respond, Alexey Navalny's sentencing in Russia, Poland's near-total abortion ban, the Biden administration's pause on arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, textbook revisions in Saudi Arabia, and disparities in Israel's mass vaccination campaign. Then Ben talks to journalist and host of the Black Diplomats podcast Terrell Jermaine Starr about how domestic activism fits into American foreign policy.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, please visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.

Putin's plush palace Jan 27, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss President Biden’s first call with Vladimir Putin as President and the US-Russia relationship, Rob Malley and the fight over Biden’s Iran policy, Biden’s approach to Venezuela, Chinese sanctions on former Trump officials, why Google might be leaving Australia, chaos in the Italian government and more. Then Russian journalist Alexey Kovalev joins to talk about the mass protests in support of Alexey Navalny and how the Kremlin is reacting

The world Biden inherits Jan 20, 2021

On the final Pod Save the World of the Trump presidency, Ben and Tommy talk about Joe Biden’s day-one foreign policy agenda, the arrest of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, why the US dropped charges against a Mexican general accused of working with a drug cartel, how Trump is trying to keep his loyalists in the government after he leaves office, elections in Uganda, a State Department designation of genocide in Xinjiang, and more. Then activist Nathan Law joins Ben to talk about where the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong goes from here.

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.

Samantha Power’s point Jan 13, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss last week’s violent coup attempt and the call for new domestic terrorism laws, how world leaders are reacting to Trump’s Twitter ban, Netanyahu’s announcement of new Israeli settlements and how Biden should handle it, and all the things Mike Pompeo is trying to screw up for the incoming Biden administration. Then former US ambassador to the UN Samantha Power joins to talk about how to restore American credibility at international organizations, Bill Burns as CIA director, last week’s mass arrests in Hong Kong and refugee policy.

New year, new strain Jan 06, 2021

Tommy and Ben discuss Joe Biden’s latest foreign policy staffing decisions, the huge (likely) Russian hack of American government and private networks, Iran’s latest moves on uranium enrichment, a big win for abortion-rights in Argentina, Jack Ma mysteriously disappearing from public view, the latest coronavirus lockdown in the UK, the anticlimactic finalization of Brexit, and more.

Barack Obama, Worldo-in-Chief Dec 16, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk with former President and current Worldo Barack Obama about some of the biggest foreign policy challenges and accomplishments addressed in his book, A Promised Land. Those include the financial crisis and the rise of nationalism, the decision to send more troops to Afghanistan and tensions with the Pentagon leadership, the Cairo speech, dealing with Russia and Vladimir Putin, the politics of terrorism, including GITMO and the drone program, the rise of China and climate change, and some of the absurdities of traveling abroad as President.

For a transcript of this interview, visit crooked.com/podsavetheworld.

Biden's controversial pick to run the Pentagon Dec 09, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk through Joe Biden’s decision to nominate General Lloyd Austin for Secretary of Defense, a new wealth tax in Argentina, the mass vaccination campaign underway in the UK, reporting on how a Chinese spy developed ties to California politicians, a former Israeli official’s disclosures about space aliens, new Olympic sports, and more. Then Ben interviews French activist Assa Traoré about the fight for racial justice and changes to policing in France and her work as the leader of the Committee for Justice and Truth for Adama.

Assassinations in Iran & Biden’s foreign policy team Dec 02, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk about the assassination of an Iranian nuclear scientist, what Biden’s national security team tells us about his foreign policy, protests over police brutality in France, infighting at the UN Human Rights Council, China picking (Twitter) fights, a soccer legend dying and Cher helping a lonely elephant find friends. Then Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy joins to talk Iran, Biden’s cabinet and how to make a more progressive foreign policy.

A very Worldo mailbag Nov 25, 2020

In the inaugural Pod Save the World Thanksgiving mailbag episode, Tommy and Ben take your foreign policy questions, and a trip down memory lane.

One last war for the road? Nov 18, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk about reports that Trump asked his national security team for options to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities and has accelerated the drawdown of troops from Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia. They also discuss the spiraling civil war in Ethiopia, reports that al Qaeda’s number two in command was assassinated in Iran, why Peru had three Presidents in a week, China pulling together a big trade deal, another blow for pro-democracy advocates in Hong Kong, and Biden transition news. Then HuffPost’s Rowaida Abdelaziz joins to talk about reports that data from a Muslim prayer app was being sold to the US military and Islamophobia in the US and France post 9/11.

Trump lost, the world won Nov 11, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk about President-elect Biden’s win, Trump’s refusal to start the transition, how world leaders reacted and who Biden should talk with first, why British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is a shapeshifting creep, some bizarre 11th hour Trump admin personnel moves and weapons sales, good news for science, civil war in Ethiopia, a peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Iran and elections in Burma. Then former Mexican Ambassador to the US Arturo Sarukhan talks to Ben about the future of US-Mexico relations under a Biden administration.

How the world sees our election Nov 04, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk with British Member of Parliament David Lammy about how the world views the US election. Then they talk about protests over abortion rights in Poland, fears of civil war in Ethiopia, reports about US cyber attacks against hackers to prevent election interference, how social media companies handled election disinformation and reports of a Royal covid coverup.

A Biden foreign policy Oct 28, 2020

On the final Pod Save the World before the election, Tommy and Ben talk to Biden foreign policy advisor Tony Blinken about what Joe Biden’s foreign policy will look like, and how he will approach everything from getting America back in the Iran nuclear deal to how Biden will build momentum in the global fight against climate change. Then, they dig into the latest failed ceasefire between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the latest wave of coronavirus in Europe, protests over police brutality in Nigeria, Chile’s vote to write a new constitution, Trump’s failed Venezuela policy, the normalization of relations between Sudan and Israel, and how Trump is making tensions between Ethiopia and Egypt worse.

Rudy Giuliani's disinformation expo Oct 21, 2020

Tommy and Ben break down what we know about the connection between foreign disinformation and the latest allegations about Hunter Biden, Russia’s proposal to extend the New START treaty, Sudan getting taken off the state sponsored terrorism list, and a win for Evo Morales’ party in Bolivia. They also talk about the future of escalation between China and Taiwan, attacks on American diplomats, the White House sending officials to negotiate with the Assad regime in Syria, and a blowout electoral win for Jacinda Ardern in New Zealand. Then Belarusian journalist Hanna Liubakova joins Ben to talk about what she has seen when reporting on the anti-Lukashenko protests in Belarus and why people have been so willing to stay in the streets.

North Korea debuts a massive new missile Oct 14, 2020

The Trump administration argues with itself about troop withdrawal timelines in Afghanistan, Trump’s covid drug cocktail restarts a debate about the president’s unchecked nuclear authorities, K-pop stars BTS are criticized by China, questions about the New York Times’s reporting on terrorism, refugee policy, corruption in Angola, Facebook (finally) bans Holocaust denial, a Belarus update and new marijuana laws in Mexico. Then nuclear nonproliferation expert Jeff Lewis joins to explain what we should make of the gigantic new missile North Korea debuted over the weekend.

COVID Commander-in-Chief Oct 07, 2020

The foreign policy implications of Trump catching Covid, erosion of democracy in India, a possible coup in Kyrgyzstan, an update on fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan, a major dam project in Ethiopia, then weird military music videos, Subway subs and soccer. Then former CIA Director John Brennan joins to talk about Russia’s 2016 election interference, Saudi Arabia, the CIA’s darker history and his new book, Undaunted.

Trump’s foreign IOUs Sep 30, 2020

Trump’s taxes reveal foreign income and liabilities, why Armenia and Azerbaijan are at war, the White House’s efforts to bribe Sudan, politically-charged corruption charges in Pakistan, Europe’s Covid spike, the US threatens to close its embassy in Baghdad, new sanctions on Iran and Cuba, Bibi Netanyahu’s dirty laundry, why Yelp reviews are dangerous in Thailand and the story of a heroic rat. Then Ben’s interview with Ayad Akhtar, Pulitzer Prize winning playwright and author of the new novel Homeland Elegies, about what it means to be an American, and how global attitudes about the United States are affected by its foreign policy.

Assassin-in-Chief Sep 23, 2020

Tommy and Ben discuss the latest on Russian election interference, the case for dismantling DHS, a setback for LGBTQ+ rights and US military accountability in the Philippines, domestic terrorism in Australia, the new interim government in Mali, reports that Trump considered assassinating Bashar al-Assad, and much more. Then, Washington Post Afghanistan and Pakistan bureau chief Susannah George joins to break down the latest on the Afghan Republic-Taliban peace talks.

The Missing Peace Sep 16, 2020

Tommy and Ben discuss the so-called “peace” deals between the UAE and Israel and Bahrain, the US/Taliban/Afghan peace talks, disturbing allegations from a whistleblower at the Department of Homeland Security, what needs to be done globally to combat climate change, the ongoing refugee crisis in Europe and an Iranian assassination plot. Then former US Ambassador to Russia Mike McFaul joins to talk about the protests in Belarus and how Biden should approach Russia if he wins.

Trump’s military complex Sep 09, 2020

Tommy and Ben discuss reports that Trump routinely denigrates American servicemembers and veterans, including those killed in battle, an update on the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, trouble for Brexit, the BLOB biting back, another Mulan controversy, a Twitter troll briefing the WH press corps, updates on Belarus and the assassination of Jamal Khashoggi, why German nationalists and conspiracy theorists are rallying behind Trump, and a climate change scandal.

From Putin to pandas with Karen Attiah Sep 02, 2020

Ben and guest co-host Karen Attiah, the Global Opinions editor for The Washington Post, talk about Jared Kushner’s coddling of dictators and his trip to the United Arab Emirates, human rights in Egypt, the latest on the crackdown in Belarus and its implications for journalists, far-right protestors in Germany who threatened to storm the Reichstag, and the global impact of the late Chadwick Boseman.

The RNC live from Jerusalem Aug 26, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk about the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, the foreign-policy focused elements of the Republican National Convention, including Mike Pompeo’s speech from Israel, great news about efforts to eradicate polio, an update on protests in Belarus, why the State Department is wasting money promoting anti-LGBT bigotry, a military coup in Mali, police brutality in the US and India and news from China. Then Ben talks with Brazilian politician Tabata Amaral about Bolsonaro’s response to COVID, his authoritarianism, and how she’s trying to engage women in Brazilian politics.

Blockbuster Senate report on Russian election interference Aug 19, 2020

Foreign policy analyst and author Rula Jebreal joins to discuss the US-Israel-UAE diplomatic agreement announced last week. Tommy and Ben talk about the major Senate intelligence committee’s report on Russian interference in the 2016 election, the latest in Belarus, why thousands are protesting in Thailand, a US diplomatic humiliation at the UN, reports that Iran was also paying the Taliban bounties to kill US troops, and updates out of Lebanon, Portugal and Spain.

Kamala Harris on the world stage Aug 12, 2020

Now that Senator Kamala Harris is Joe Biden’s running mate, Ben and Tommy examine her foreign policy record. They also discuss growing concerns about foreign election interference, the disputed election and crackdown in Belarus, how the press is under attack in Hong Kong, Trump’s escalating fight with Chinese tech companies, allegations that Saudi Arabia tried to murder (another) critic abroad, an oil spill in Mauritius, protests in Zimbabwe, eruptions in Indonesia, Putin’s claim he has a Covid vaccine, more ambassadors gone wild and General (???) Bill Belichick. Then Tommy talks with Washington Post Beirut Bureau Chief Liz Sly about the massive explosion that rocked the city and the political and economic crisis in Lebanon before the blast.

Explosions in Beirut Aug 05, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk about the enormous explosions in Beirut, why Cuba has become an issue for Congresswoman Karen Bass in Biden’s VP selection process, Biden’s 2000(!?!) campaign foreign policy advisors, why US troops are leaving Germany, the upcoming election in Belarus, why the Department of Homeland Security was collecting “intelligence” on activists and journalists, why Spain’s former king is in trouble, how schools are coping with COVID, climate change and Bangladesh, Afghanistan and TikTok.

Ambassadors Gone Wild Jul 29, 2020

Tommy and Ben make the case for Susan Rice as Vice President, the latest on escalating tensions between the US and China, US plans to sell advanced armed drones abroad, two Trump donors turned ambassadors are engulfed in scandal, anti-corruption protests threaten the government in Bulgaria, Bob Gates writes a book and we’re confused, the truth about TikTok and things aren’t looking good for Major League Baseball. Then Ben interviews Israeli news anchor Yonit Levi about the massive anti-Netanyahu protests in Israel.

Everything Mike Pompeo touches turns to sh*t Jul 22, 2020

Democrats sound the alarm about foreign election interference. Experts say Israel and the US are responsible for mysterious explosions across Iran. Mike Pompeo uses taxpayer dollars to run for President. A fire on a US Navy ship has major implications. Lebanon’s economy nears collapse. The UAE launched a space craft. The White House threatens to prevent 92 million Chinese citizens from entering the US. A coronavirus update and some baseball news. Then Bernie Sanders’s foreign policy advisor Matt Duss joins to talk about lessons from the 2020 campaign and how to push for a smarter, more progressive foreign policy.

Dems in Congress push for a more progressive foreign policy Jul 15, 2020

A leadership fight in Congress that could help make the Democratic Party’s foreign policy more progressive. A far-right nationalist wins reelection in Poland. How other countries are reopening schools during COVID. Egypt cracks down on press freedom. China, the NBA and why ESPN suspended a reporter. Turkey tries to silence critics abroad. China sanctions Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio and may sign a strategic deal with Iran. And the US keeps its border closed.

Trump’s cruel immigration policies Jul 08, 2020

Literally no one is surprised that Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has contracted COVID, and how Sweden’s terrible response could help us move past the broken debate about reopening our economy. Mysterious explosions at military sites in Iran. Garbage right-wing outlets publish fake news by fake people. Joe Biden’s diplomatic style. China’s legal crackdown on Hong Kong. Neo-Nazis infiltrate the German military. And then Ben talks to Cecila Muñoz, former head of the White House Domestic Policy Council, about Trump's latest heinous efforts to restrict immigration and what the next administration will have to do to change course - and about her new book, "More than Ready."

Russian bounties with Rep Adam Schiff Jul 01, 2020

Explosive reports that the Russia military has been paying Taliban-linked militants to kill US forces in Afghanistan. Tommy and Ben try to figure out why Russia would do this and how the US should respond. China ends Hong Kong’s independence. The LGBT community is under attack in Chechnya. Social media platforms crack down on hate speech. A new strain of pig flu worries scientists. A reexamination of Belgium’s racist, colonial history. Congress tries to weaken encryption. The humanitarian situation in Yemen worsens, and progressive Democrats call out Israeli annexation of the West Bank. Then Congressman Adam Schiff joins to discuss reports of Russian bounties against US troops and the politicization of the US intelligence community.

John Bolton’s sh*tty book Jun 24, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk through some of the explosive revelations in John Bolton’s book, from supporting the construction of concentration camps in China, to thinking it would be “cool” to invade Venezuela to his approach to North Korea and Iran. They also cover news about climate change, Chinese cyberattacks, the ongoing saga of Capt Crozier, the latest with the Coronavirus and an update out of Afghanistan. Then Tommy is joined by Hamed Sinno, the lead singer of one of the biggest bands in the Middle East, Mashrou’ Leila, and an influential LGBTQ rights activist.

Assault on the press and democracy in the Philippines Jun 17, 2020

An attack on press freedom in the Philippines and what it could mean for the future of their democracy. The two year anniversary of the US-North Korea Singapore summit. Right-wing zealots take over the Voice of America. Fighting between China and India and updates out of Russia. The US threatens to sanction the International Criminal Court (huh?), how right-wing news outlets are being used by foreign intelligence, and Bob Gates and John Bolton sell books. Then Ben talks to Rokhaya Diallo, a French journalist and activist, about the protests against systemic racism and police brutality in France and what's next for President Emmanuel Macron.

Why policing is better abroad Jun 10, 2020

Tommy and Ben examine how other countries structure and run their police forces to see if there are policies or tactics the US can adopt to improve outcomes. New data suggests that claims of election fraud in Bolivia were wrong. Why the possibility of creating a Palestinian state is in jeopardy. The international movement to get rid of racist statues and monuments. Trump orders US troops out of Germany. Honor killings in Iran. Why John Bolton is sad. And then the Washington Post’s David Ignatius joins to talk about his new spy novel The Paladin, why Generals are abandoning Trump, General Flynn’s call with Russia and more.

The world is watching Jun 03, 2020

The global reaction to the protests in the United States and the scary and inappropriate way the US military is being asked to police them. Trump’s latest fight with the G-7, an update on the war in Libya, why Ted Cruz is threatening Twitter, and locusts. Then Washington Post Global Opinions Editor Karen Attiah joins to talk about how Western media would be covering the protests in the US if they were happening in another country.

False START May 27, 2020

China tries to crush dissent in Hong Kong. Tommy and Ben discuss what the White House, Congress and the Biden campaign can do to stop them. Failed diplomacy with North Korea and why the US is walking away from bipartisan arms control agreements. Facebook leadership ignored evidence that the platform was polarizing users and driving them to extremism, the US bans travel from Brazil, scandal erupts in the UK, and Iran and Venezuela increase cooperation. Then Ben talks to Aidan Eyakuze, a Tanzanian activist, about the Tanzanian government's failure to take coronavirus seriously.

The corruption of Mike Pompeo May 20, 2020

Al Qaeda stages its first successful attack on American soil since 9/11, exposing America’s broken relationship with Saudi Arabia. Mike Pompeo fires the man investigating his corruption. Israel accelerates plans to annex West Bank settlements and engages in cyber warfare with Iran. French President Emmanuel Macron loses his majority, a typhoon barrels down on India, and a financier of the Rwandan genocide is apprehended. Marco Rubio takes over the Senate Intelligence Committee as concern grows about foreign interference in the upcoming election, Trump’s war of words with the WHO continues, and we got a super duper missile in the house.

Flynnocent After Proven Guilty May 13, 2020

The political fallout from the failed coup attempt in Venezuela. General Flynn and the administration’s attempt to undercut the Mueller probe and punish Trump’s political enemies. The coronavirus weakens Putin’s strongman image. Peace slips further away in Afghanistan. The ongoing, escalating war of words between the US and China and much more. Then Wind of Change host Patrick Radden Keefe joins to discuss spies, propaganda, and how music and culture became weapons in the Cold War.

Follow Wind of Change on Spotify to binge all 8 episodes now: https://spoti.fi/WindOfChange

Mercenaries invade Venezuela May 06, 2020

Why the Trump administration is directing the intelligence community to prove their claims about China and the coronavirus is so dangerous. A truly unbelievable story about a ragtag group of mercenaries who attempted to invade and stage a coup in Venezuela. Trump’s nominee to be Director of National Intelligence gets a hearing. Then Asia expert Danny Russel joins to talk about White House plans to punish China over the coronavirus, how Beijing might respond, and what the hell we should make of Kim Jong Un’s reemergence after weeks of rumors about his health.

TMZ at the DMZ Apr 29, 2020

The latest rumors and news about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s health, and what we know about a possible succession process. Iran launches a military satellite and Trump tries to use the Iran nuclear deal to put in place more sanctions. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro could face legal trouble. New Zealand eliminates the coronavirus while doctors in the UK race to produce a vaccine and major countries come together to discuss how to accelerate work on treatments. The latest in Afghanistan and Navy Capt. Brett Crozier might get his job back. Then journalist Rana Ayyub talks with Ben about life in India during COVID.

Kim Jong Un-healthy? Apr 22, 2020

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu cuts a deal that allows him to stay in charge. We explain how the price of a barrel of oil briefly becomes negative. Rumors about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s health and who might come next. Hong Kong leaders face more attacks on democracy and heavy-handed tactics from China. Parliaments around the world figure out how to meet virtually, and new polling on Trump’s handling of national security. Then former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright joins.

Samantha Power Hour Apr 15, 2020

Former Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus talks about Capt Crozier, the USS Theodore Roosevelt and how the coronavirus created a crisis in the Navy. Former US Ambassador to the UN Samantha Power explains why a successful US coronavirus response has to be global. And Tommy and Ben talk about how a Chinese lab is raising questions about the origin of the coronavirus, Vladimir Putin’s disinformation campaigns against science and his muddy political future, why the UK has reacted to the pandemic in a more united and less partisan fashion and how China is using water to squeeze its neighbors.

The Navy’s coronavirus clusterf*ck Apr 08, 2020

A coronavirus clusterf*ck in the Navy leads the Acting Secretary of the Navy to resign. The virus sends British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to the ICU while the Queen of England releases a message to the British people. Trump retaliates against an impeachment enemy by firing the Intelligence Community Inspector General. The White House has a new press secretary (sort of) while press freedom is under assault in India. Good news about efforts to stop the coronavirus in Austria, Denmark and New Zealand. And then Tommy connects with some Americans stranded abroad because of the coronavirus.

How a virus can threaten democracy Apr 01, 2020

Today’s show is a little different. We skip the update on the spread of the coronavirus itself and instead focus on the impact it’s having on governments and people. For example, 2019 was the year of the protestor, but how do protestors continue if they can’t gather safely or legally? How can we stop leaders from using the coronavirus to consolidate power, stifle the press or jettison privacy protections? And with the news that the virus has temporarily sidelined a US aircraft carrier, how do we refocus defense policy and spending for the future? Then Tommy talks with former US Ambassador to Israel Dan Shapiro about the shocking news that Blue and White Party chief Benny Gantz is forming a coalition with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. And Ben talks with British Labour Party MP David Lammy about the UK’s response to the coronavirus.

*Crooked has started a Coronavirus Relief Fund for organizations supporting food banks, health care workers, restaurant workers, seniors, kids who depend on school lunches, and others in need. Donate: crooked.com/coronavirus

A criminally negligent coronavirus response Mar 25, 2020

Tommy and Ben go through the latest news on the international response to the coronavirus, including nationwide lockdowns in the UK and India and signs of hope in Italy. Then they look at how the virus is impacting US relations with North Korea, how US sanctions are impeding health care workers in Iran and Venezuela, and how authoritarian leaders are using the pandemic to grab more power. They also cover Mike Pompeo’s trip to Afghanistan and how China is trying to turn the coronavirus into a propaganda win. Then Ambassador Susan Rice joins and does not mince words about her assessment of Trump’s performance.

Our new coronavirus reality Mar 18, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk about the new normal as the world combats the coronavirus. They cover how South Korea has successfully reduced cases, how the Trump administration was warned about this threat, how a functioning White House should respond, Trump’s war of words with China and much more. In non-coronavirus news, they discuss the possibility of a new Prime Minister in Israel. Then Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy joins to discuss the latest on the COVID-19 relief package in Congress.

Coronavirus and oil shocks rock the global economy Mar 11, 2020

Coronavirus update and explanation of why an oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia is rocking the global economy. More crackdowns in Saudi Arabia, why Putin might be the Russian President for life, more holes in the US/Taliban troop withdrawal plan, and hopeful progress for abortion rights in Argentina. Then Zarlasht Halaimzai from the Refugee Trauma Initiative joins to offer an Afghan perspective on Trump’s troop withdrawal deal with the Taliban.

A fragile peace deal in Afghanistan Mar 04, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk about the fragile peace agreement between the US and the Taliban, the Israeli elections, the escalating fighting between Turkey and Syria, the coronavirus, Iran, Putin’s political weakness and Boris Johnson is having a baby. Then Tommy is joined by Jomana Qaddour from the Syria Relief and Development organization to talk about what people can do to help ease the suffering in north west Syria.

Bernie Sanders’ foreign policy record comes under attack Feb 26, 2020

First, Trump’s trip to India, his new and unqualified Director of National Intelligence, and should Democrats attend AIPAC? Then updates on Sudan and South Sudan, the coronavirus, a fragile peace agreement in Afghanistan, and John Bolton. Finally, Tommy and Ben discuss attacks on Bernie Sanders’ views on Cuba, former leftist leaders in Latin America, and criticism of the CIA, before reflecting on the death of former Egypt President Hosni Mubarak, and the nine years since the Arab Spring began. Then Politico’s Natasha Bertrand joins to explain why new intel chief Richard Grenell has become an issue in Wikileaks founder Julian Assange’s extradition case.

Bloomberg’s foreign policy and the global economy gets the coronavirus Feb 19, 2020

Mike Bloomberg’s foreign policy record and platform. How some 2020 candidates failed a foreign policy quiz. The humanitarian crisis in northwest Syria. The latest on the coronavirus and how Senator Tom Cotton is spreading disinformation. The Koch brothers funding foreign policy think tanks…for good? Mike Pompeo speaks at the Munich Security Summit and headlines about Afghanistan, Iran and John Bolton. Then Ben talks with Paris Climate Accords architect Christiana Figueres.

How the CIA broke the world’s encryption Feb 12, 2020

Tommy and Ben tell some stories about the New Hampshire primary in 2008, walk through a report on a decades-long CIA/German effort to crack encrypted communications, talk through several major data breaches, and explain why the QAnon conspiracy theory is a national security issue. Then they cover: good news from Sudan, North Korea’s nukes, a dustup between the US and the Philippines, the Wall Street Journal’s attempt to Swift Boat Mayor Pete, and Bernie Sanders' foreign policy doctrine and how the 2020 candidates differ. Then former White House Ebola Response Coordinator Ron Klain joins to talk about efforts to contain the Coronavirus.

Jared still sucks Feb 06, 2020

Today’s topics include: Brexit, updates on the Coronavirus, why Trump made Venezuela a focus of his State of the Union speech, the list of countries subject to Trump’s muslim ban gets bigger, Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s allies attack Jared Kushner, and Trump’s inexcusable land mine policy decision. We also complain about the Iowa caucuses and wonder aloud if they’re more democratic than politics in Hungary, so that’s depressing.

Trump kills the Middle East peace process Jan 29, 2020

First, Tommy and Ben talk about Trump’s plan to help Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu win reelection and how it essentially means the death of the middle east peace process. Then they discuss how Trump’s cruel immigration policies could lead to the murder of an Iraqi refugee and the mistreatment of pregnant women. Also, why John Bolton and Mike Pompeo are terrible, the Saudi hacking of Jeff Bezos, more fallout from the Iran strike, updates on Burma and Kashmir and why Putin loves puppies. Then, Tommy is joined by public health expert Abdul El-Sayed to discuss the risk from the coronavirus and the public health infrastructure in the US and China.

That’s President Sh*thole to you Jan 22, 2020

Will new facial recognition technology end privacy as we know it? Can Trump scare the Intelligence Community out of testifying before Congress? Why did Putin’s entire cabinet resign and what does it mean for the future of Russia? Then...Russian spies are sneaking around Davos. Anti-war groups are gaining strength in Washington. Press freedom is under attack in Brazil. Hilarious translation errors anger China. How a mustache is exacerbating tensions in Asia, and why Tommy thinks the new Space Force uniforms are genius. Then, Ben talks with New Yorker staff writer Masha Gessen about Putin, the latest developments in Russia and her upcoming book about surviving autocracy.

Iran and the lies we told along the way Jan 15, 2020

Tommy and Ben cover the latest developments in the Iran crisis, including why the intelligence and legal case for assassinating Soleimani keeps changing, the horrific shootdown of a commercial airliner, and Iran resuming uranium enrichment. Then they discuss Attorney General Barr’s fight with Apple over encryption, and why Obama also got this issue wrong. Finally, they explain why Taiwan’s recent election was good for democracy, the latest on the China trade war, how the Russians are STILL trying to dig up dirt on Joe Biden, and why 2020 Democrats are fighting about Iraq. Also Megxit. Then the Washington Post’s Jason Rezaian joins to discuss protests in Iran and what we actually know about what the Iranian people think.

Iran retaliates to the Soleimani strike Jan 08, 2020

Tommy and Ben talk about the fallout from Trump’s decision to assassinate Iranian general Qassem Soleimani. What do we know about Iran’s ballistic missile strikes on bases hosting U.S. troops in Iraq? How are the Iranian people responding? Why is Trump threatening to commit war crimes? Why does the rationale for the strike keep changing and what can Congress do to stop the war from escalating? Then they discuss Kim Jong Un’s announcement that North Korea will abandon constraints on its nuclear program and how climate change has led to catastrophic fires across Australia. Then Middle East expert and former Bush, Obama and Trump aide Brett McGurk joins to discuss when the Soleimani assassination means for our relationship with Iraq and our efforts to fight ISIS.

Trump goes to war with Iran Jan 03, 2020

In a bonus episode, Tommy and Ben discuss Trump’s decision to assassinate a top Iranian official named Qassem Soleimani. What happened? How did we get here? Who is Soleimani and why is he so influential? What happens next and how should the 2020 Democrats respond?

UK election aftermath Dec 18, 2019

British MP David Lammy joins to talk about the UK elections and what they mean for Brexit and the future of the Labour Party. Then Ben and Tommy talk about India’s ongoing slide into Hindu nationalism, the China trade war, and a troubling investigation into problems with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) process. Plus, Biden’s record on Iraq, unfair charges of antisemitism against Bernie Sanders, and a proposal from Elizabeth Warren to fight global financial corruption.

A history of failure in Afghanistan Dec 11, 2019

Tommy and Ben explain why the Russian foreign minister is in Washington and why Vladimir Putin is in Paris, the media and political reaction to the Saudi flight student who murdered his classmates in Florida, updates out of North Korea, an exciting leadership change in Finland, and a troubling religious law in India. Then Afghanistan policy expert Jeff Eggers joins to talk about some extraordinary reporting by the Washington Post about the (somewhat) secret history of policy failures in Afghanistan, which is based on documents that the Post is comparing to The Pentagon Papers.

NATO’s “brain death” Dec 04, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk about Trump’s trip to London for the NATO summit, including his dustup with the French President and the health of NATO in 2019. Then they discuss the Iranian government’s crackdown on protestors, Trump’s visit to Afghanistan, Ben’s trip to Hong Kong, the expanding trade war, amazing reporting about India’s Prime Minister, and why US foreign aid keeps getting mysteriously frozen. Then The Intercept’s Mehdi Hasan joins to talk about the upcoming British parliamentary elections, the London Bridge attack, and Brexit.

Panic at the Pentagon Nov 27, 2019

First, Tommy talks with former DOD official and national security expert Kelly Magsamen about Trump’s meddling in the military justice system and the firing of the Secretary of the Navy. They also discuss the impeachment hearings, whether former National Security Advisor John Bolton should testify, Hong Kong’s democracy-affirming elections, why Trump is extorting Japan for money and the latest on the US military mission in Syria. Then Tablet Magazine’s Yair Rosenberg joins to discuss the corruption charges against Israeli PM Bibi Netanyahu and what it means for his political future.

Impeachmentpalooza Nov 20, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss the increasingly violent protests in Hong Kong, the impeachment hearings, Trump’s new policy on Israeli settlements, and protests and leaked documents in Iran. Then they talk China, an update on Lebanon, Bolivia becomes a 2020 issue, why Trump is pardoning war criminals, and bad news out of Korea. Then Politico’s Nahal Toosi joins to talk impeachment, Mike Pompeo, and why spies are getting bored.

President Erdogan crashes the impeachment hearings Nov 13, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk about Fmr President Evo Morales's abrupt departure from Bolivia and whether to call it a coup, the latest Brexit news, Turkish President Erdogan's post-ethnic cleansing visit to DC, Russian interference in Africa, the White Helmets, why businesses just can't quit Saudi Arabia and some wild White House personnel news. Then former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd joins to talk about China and the toxic influence of the Murdoch media empire.

Breaking down the Baghdadi raid Nov 06, 2019

Tommy and Ben discuss what the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi means for ISIS as well as Trump's strange lie about Baghdadi's "whimpering" demise. Then they cover the Paris Climate Agreement and the future of climate activism, Iran's increased nuclear activity and use of hostages as a foreign policy strategy, and protests in Chile and Iraq. Later they shout about Mike Pompeo, discuss the House resolution on Armenian Genocide, the Uighurs, bad guys hacking WhatsApp, and Rudy Giuliani, butt dialing cyber security czar. Then America Dissected host Dr. Abdul El-Sayed joins to discuss Ebola, superbugs, and how trust in government is key to global public health.

Announcing: What A Day Nov 01, 2019

“What A Day,” Crooked Media’s new daily news podcast, is here! Hosted by comedian Akilah Hughes and politics reporter Gideon Resnick, “What A Day” cuts through the chaos and crimes to break down the biggest news of the day, help you understand what matters, and how you can fix it—all in 15 minutes or less. New episodes come out every morning, Monday through Friday, at 5 a.m. Eastern. Subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

LIVE from J Street Oct 30, 2019

Tommy and Ben record a special episode from D.C. at the national conference hosted by the progressive Jewish organization J Street. They run through news from around the globe and from the Middle East with Michelle Goldberg of the New York Times - and chat with two activists, Maisam Jaljuli and Mikhael Manekin, about progressive solutions for the Arab-Israeli peace process. The episode also includes selections from interviews Tommy and Ben recorded at the conference with five presidential candidates: Michael Bennet, Pete Buttigieg, Julian Castro, Amy Klobuchar and Bernie Sanders. Full videos for all interviews are available at jstreet.org.

Bill Taylor’s got the Ukraine receipts Oct 23, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk about the latest on impeachment and about Turkey’s invasion of Syria. Then they run through a whirlwind week of news that included Brexit updates, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s narrow election victory, and Israel’s ongoing government formation process. They also discuss the treatment of US diplomats in China, Facebook’s handling of disinformation campaigns, protest movements in Haiti and Lebanon and some great reporting about the war in Afghanistan. And in this week’s interview, National Security Advisor Susan Rice joins the pod to talk about Trump and Syria, General Mattis, Benghazi and leading Bill Clinton’s Africa policy.

Send Rudy Giuliani to Syria Oct 16, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk about disaster unfolding in Syria, fact check Trump’s claim that he’s ending wars, explain who the Kurds are and why they’re US allies, survey the international reaction to Turkey’s offensive in Syria and explain why nuclear weapons make everything more complicated. Then they talk through the latest on impeachment and the corruption of US foreign policy, evaluate the détente in the trade war with China, highlight some good news out of Ethiopia, and talk about the latest in the dispute between the NBA and China. They end with a discussion of soccer diplomacy and how Senator Lindsey Graham got prank called. Then Vice News’s Isobel Yeung joins to talk about her reporting on the ground in Syria, Hong Kong and Xinjiang, China.

Abandoning our allies in Syria Oct 09, 2019

Tommy and Ben discuss Trump’s decision to pull US troops out of Syria and let Turkey begin a military campaign against the Kurds, a key US ally in the fight against ISIS. Then they try to understand why Republicans are only willing to criticize Trump’s Syria policy, explain why the NBA and Chinese government are fighting, and try to understand why Gordon Sondland, the US Ambassador to the European Union, was part of the quid pro quo with Ukraine. Finally they cover the latest on North Korea, Russia and Boris Johnson’s Brexit. Then Washington Post Beirut bureau chief Liz Sly calls in to talk about protests in Iraq and the view from the ground in Syria.

Ukraine, corruption, and partners in crime Oct 02, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss Trump’s quid pro quo with Ukraine, that country’s history with corruption, why Joe Biden was pushing to fire a Ukrainian prosecutor, and how this controversy could destabilize the Ukrainian government. Then they cover Trump’s call to pressure Australia, the shady ways the White House is restricting access to information, and how Mike Pompeo is complicit in all of it. Finally, they discuss China’s 70th anniversary celebration, the protests in Hong Kong, the latest with Iran, Brexit, and why John Bolton is criticizing Trump’s North Korea policy. Then former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom David Cameron joins to discuss his new book For the Record, Brexit, and the future of democracy.

Impeach the mofo Sep 25, 2019

Tommy talks with national security expert Kelly Magsamen about Trump’s attempt to extort Ukraine for manufactured dirt on Joe Biden, Trump’s UN speech, Iran, the Israeli elections and the protests in Egypt. Later, Tommy is joined by Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin, a former CIA officer who joined six of her colleagues with national security backgrounds to say the allegations against Trump on Ukraine would be an impeachable offense. Then, Tommy speaks with former US Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power about Syria, national security decision making and her new book, The Education of an Idealist.

Trump on Iran: Locked and Bloated Sep 18, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk about the growing risk of war with Iran in the wake of the attack on Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure, the Israeli elections, Rep. Adam Schiff’s claim that the Director of National Intelligence is suppressing a whistleblower, Trump’s favorite dictator, the death of Hamza bin Laden, Indian Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US, how to build an international coalition to fight climate change, and storm Area 51 gets cancelled. Then Tommy talks with Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) about why he thinks a military attack on Iran is insane and the humanitarian disaster in Yemen.

Bye Bye Bolton Sep 11, 2019

Tommy and Ben bid farewell to Trump’s former National Security Advisor, John Bolton. Then they discuss Trump’s proposed sleepover party with the Taliban at Camp David and reports that the US had to extract a spy from Russia. After updates about Brexit and the Hong Kong protests, they dig into the upcoming Israeli elections and Trump’s new child Middle East peace negotiator. They end with the latest on Iran and thoughts about the death of Robert Mugabe and the 18th anniversary of 9/11. Then Senator and presidential candidate Michael Bennet joins to discuss how to protect our elections from Russian interference.

Don’t look back in Brexit Sep 04, 2019

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s wild decision to suspend parliament and try to force a Brexit. The latest on the protests in Hong Kong. Can the US finalize a peace deal in Afghanistan and is John Bolton cut out of that process? Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu pulls out all the stop in advance of the Israeli elections. North Korea’s missile launches look dangerous. Will France sweep in to save the Iran deal? Trump’s former Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis refuses to criticize a president not named Obama and Trump has a message for Poland.

What Worldos wanna know (Mailbag episode!) Aug 28, 2019

Tommy and Ben answer listener questions in a special mailbag episode. Then, Ben chats with Congressman Ro Khanna about Donald Trump’s misadventures at the G-7, Yemen, Iran, and what a progressive foreign policy platform should look like.

Massive, global problems and the idiots trying to solve them Aug 21, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk about the ongoing controversy over Rep. Ilhan Omar and Rep. Rashida Tlaib being barred from visiting Israel and the West Bank. The collapse of Italy’s government. How social media companies are fighting Chinese propaganda about Hong Kong. Why the Russians are hiding data about a secret nuclear explosion. The corruption of US foreign policy. A call to action for California wine lovers and an ISIS blooper reel. Then Yaqiu Wang, a China expert with Human Rights Watch, joins to talk with Tommy about the latest on the protests in Hong Kong.

Dunking on Erdogan with Enes Kanter Aug 14, 2019

Police crack down as protests escalate to new heights in Hong Kong. An explosion involving a nuclear reactor in Russia kills at least a half dozen people. Boris Johnson tries to negotiate a U.S.-U.K. trade deal ahead of Britain’s exit from the European Union. A scary report in the New York Times sheds light on what’s driving the spread of right wing extremism around the globe. And Ben Rhodes shares the story behind his recent reporting for The Atlantic on Aung San Suu Kyi. Then Enes Kanter, a professional basketball player for the Boston Celtics, joins Ben in the studio to talk about human rights and the politics of his home country, Turkey - and why President Recep Tayyip Erdogan put out a warrant for his arrest and banned him from coming home.

Stopping domestic terrorism Aug 07, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben talk about the threat from domestic terrorism, the escalating trade war with China, the protests in Hong Kong, tensions with Iran, and the war in Afghanistan. Then they discuss changes to Trump’s national security team, why tensions are increasing between Japan and South Korea, a major announcement from India about Kashmir, more sanctions on Venezuela, why arms control treaties are dying, and what the hell Lindsay Lohan is doing with the Saudi Crown Prince. Then former National Counterterrorism Center Director Nicholas Rasmussen joins to discuss what policy changes are needed to stop rightwing domestic terrorists.

Paging Moscow Mitch McConnell Jul 31, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss President Trump’s choice to be his Director of National Intelligence. Then, GQ’s Julia Ioffe joins to discuss the brutal crackdown on protestors in Russia. Then Tommy and Ben discuss Bibi Netanyahu’s new campaign strategy, Bernie Sander’s policy towards Israel, our policy in Afghanistan and the bizarre role Secretary Pompeo is playing overseeing the military. Finally, they check in on Boris Johnson and Trump’s global corruption network. Then Tommy talks with The Intercept’s Glenn Greenwald about some why his reporting led the President of Brazil to threaten him with jail time.

A$AP Trumpy Jul 24, 2019

Tommy and Ben discuss the new UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the Hong Kong protests turn violent, Trump’s bizarre pool spray with the Pakistani PM, updates from Iran, Israel and Russia, Trump plays good cop, bad cop with John Bolton, China’s military moves, a new Defense Secretary and maybe intelligence chief, FaceApp hysteria, storming Area 51 and A$AP Rocky. Then Labour Party MP David Lammy joins to discuss Boris Johnson and Brexit.

Pour one out for the Iran deal Jul 17, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben talk about Trump's new asylum rules, an Iran update, the global response to Trump's racism - including China seeming to echo him, Biden's foreign policy speech, German Chancellor Angela Merkel's health and legacy, a North Korea update and if a deranged conspiracy theorist will lead the US intelligence community. Then Tommy speaks Army veteran and US Senator Tammy Duckworth.

Ivanka the diplomat Jul 10, 2019

Trump picks a Twitter fight with the British Ambassador to the US. Iran revs up its uranium enrichment. New polling about the Iran deal. High five diplomacy with the North Koreans. Updates on protest movements in Sudan and Hong Kong. Russia’s role in peddling the Seth Rich conspiracy. Introducing America’s chief diplomat, Ivanka Trump, and a 2020 foreign policy update. Then Turkish journalist Ece Temelkuran joins to discuss Turkey’s slow descent into authoritarianism and the parallels around the world.

Former Secretary of Defense Ash Carter Jul 03, 2019

Tommy sits down with former Defense Secretary Ash Carter to chat about his book “Inside the Five-Sided Box”, and some of the most complex challenges facing our national security community today, including the war in Afghanistan and closing the prison in Guantanamo Bay.

Iran and a hard place Jun 26, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk through Trump's bizarre on again, off again war with Iran. They explain how the targeting process is supposed to work, try to divine the broader strategy, and do some self reflection about the terrible government euphemisms that mask the cost of war. Then a quick update on Saudi Arabia, Jared's rehashed Middle East Peace plan, Beto O'Rourke's "war tax", Bernie Sanders' foreign affairs article, some good news out of Turkey and then wtf is wrong with Boris Johnson? Then, First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon joins talks with Tommy about Scottish Independence

Trump’s torched credibility on Iran Jun 19, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben talk about the rapidly escalating tensions with Iran, some good news for the protestors in Hong Kong, Mohamed Morsi's death in Egypt, a new Secretary of Defense, a trade war update, why Facebook is still being used for incitement, a 2020 update about Mayor Pete and Tulsi Gabbard, and whether Snapchat filters are the future of government press conferences. Then Avril Haines joins to discuss what it was like going from NSC lawyer to Deputy CIA Director and the legal basis (or lack thereof) for war with Iran.

Mayor Pete Buttigieg’s foreign policy speech Jun 12, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss Mayor Pete Buttigieg’s foreign policy speech and Trump’s ongoing and bizarre coddling of noted relative murderer Kim Jong Un. Then they discuss the brave activists and journalists protesting in Hong Kong and Russia, the tariff fight with Mexico, Venezuela, wonder again why we do business with Saudi Arabia, LGBT pride at the State Department, how a fake Iranian author got published, and how a dead tree is a metaphor for our alliances. Then Sudanese activist Wafa May Elamin joins to discuss the crackdown on protestors in Sudan.

A Kingdom United against Trump Jun 05, 2019

Tommy and Ben Rhodes are joined by former Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Danny Russel. They discuss Trump’s trip to the UK, what Bibi Netanyahu’s failure to form a government means for his political future, Jared Kushner’s disastrous interview with Axios and the political influence of Prince Mohammed bin Zayed of the United Arab Emirates. Then they do a deep dive on US-China policy, the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre, and updates on North Korea, Cuba, India’s elections, Iran and why hiding the USS John S. McCain is actually a real problem.

Low IQ President visits Japan May 29, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss the European parliament election results, Trump’s trip to Japan and the major US/Japan split on North Korea, the ongoing political disaster in the UK, more arms sales to Saudi Arabia, Turkey’s slide to dictatorship, NSA hacking tools in the wild and Trump micromanaging aircraft carrier designs (seriously). Then Ron Klain joins to discuss his work coordinating the global response to the 2014 Ebola outbreak and why the outbreak happening currently is so frightening.

Fox News loves war crimes May 22, 2019

This week Tommy and Ben check their anxiety levels when it comes to potential war with Iran, try to understand why a Fox News host is lobbying to protect men accused of war crimes, discuss Bernie's foreign policy record as mayor of Burlington, get an update on far-right parties in Australia and Austria and explain why milkshakes are Britain's hottest new protest. Then Noura Erakat joins to talk about Trump’s middle east peace plan and what it will take to create a Palestinian state.

Please don’t bomb Iran May 15, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk about the escalating trade war with China, the drumbeat for real war with Iran, how the Pentagon is hiding how badly things are going in Afghanistan, and (an)other fascist visits the White House. Then Tommy talks with author and historian Michael Beschloss about his book Presidents of War.

Threats from Iran and the time Ben met the Queen May 08, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss the US sending an aircraft carrier to the Middle East in response to threats from Iran, fighting between Palestinian militants and Israel, North Korea, Venezuela, our escalating trade war with China and Viktor Orban coming to the White House. Then Ben shocks us with his excitement about the royal baby and shares unforgettable story about the time he met the Queen of England. Then The New Yorker's Dexter Filkins dials in to talk about his piece on National Security Advisor John Bolton.

Venezuela, Libya and the Russian navy's beluga whale May 01, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben talk about violent clashes in Venezuela, Trump pouring gas on Libya's civil war, designating the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, the Russian navy's beluga whale, good news out of Spain and GITMO becomes a retirement home. Then the Washington Post's Beirut bureau chief Liz Sly joins to discuss the new video from ISIS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

ISIS in Sri Lanka, cruelty to Cuba, Ukrainian elections Apr 24, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss the horrific Easter Sunday terrorist attack in Sri Lanka, North Korea's weapons test, China's ascendance, Trump's UK state visit, elections in Ukraine, the foreign policy impact of the Mueller report and the Armenian genocide. Then, Cuba expert Marguerite Rose Jiménez joins to discuss Trump's cruel rollback of Cuba policy.

Assange arrested, Bernie's foreign policy, Bowe Bergdahl and Afghanistan Apr 17, 2019

Tommy and Ben discuss the arrest of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, Bernie's foreign policy, potential war with Iran and the arrest of Chinese scholars. Then J Street's Yael Patir explains the state of liberal political parties in Israel. Then author and Army veteran Matt Farwell joins to discuss Bowe Bergdahl and the war in Afghanistan.

Israeli elections, Iran under fire and the IRA's history Apr 10, 2019

Iran expert Kelly Magsamen joins Tommy and Ben to discuss Trump's decision to designate the IRGC a terrorist organization. Then, Tommy and Ben discuss the Israeli elections, spies at Mar-a-Lago, Egypt's President at the White House, protests in Sudan, fighting in Libya and Brexit. Then, author Patrick Radden Keefe joins to discuss his new book SAY NOTHING and the history of the IRA and the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

Democracy resurgent in Europe(?) and Israeli elections Apr 03, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss Trump's decision to cut off aid to central America, whether recent elections in Turkey and Slovakia mean that Democracy is resurgent in Europe, and the Algerian President's resignation. Then Khaled Elgindy joins to discuss protests in Gaza, the middle east peace process, Palestinian politics and the upcoming Israeli elections.

Brexit, fighting in Gaza, ISIS defeated(?) and eliminating nukes Mar 27, 2019

First, Tommy, Ben Rhodes and former Deputy Secretary of State Tony Blinken discuss Brexit, tensions flaring in Gaza, Israeli PM Netanyahu's visit to DC, ISIS loses its territory, Russians in Venezuela and reporting on Russian's collusion charges. Then, Tommy is joined by Yasmeen Silva and Joe Cirincione to discuss their efforts to prevent nuclear war.

White supremacists radicalized online Mar 20, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben talk about the New Zealand terrorist attack and the rise of right-wing extremist groups and nationalist political parties, Huawei and Brazil's far-right President Jair Bolsonaro visiting Trump. Then the New York Times's Charlie Warzel joins to discuss how radicalization happens online, how we can stop it and how journalists should cover these communities.

Brexit and is Dick Cheney good now? (no) Mar 13, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben talk about the ongoing Brexit disaster, Dick Cheney's surprisingly accurate criticisms of Trump's foreign policy, the rollback of Obama-era rules about disclosing civilian casualties, and important updates from Venezuela. Then, Tommy talks with immigration and human rights activist Enrique Morones about his work on the US-Mexico border.

Antisemitism, the NSA, Khashoggi, then Fmr Dep Secretary of State Bill Burns Mar 06, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben Rhodes talk about the NSA shutting down its controversial metadata program, more accusations of antisemitism against Ilhan Omar, Trump's stonewalling of Congress about the murder of Jamal Khashoggi and his flipflop (again) on keeping troops in Afghanistan and Syria. Then, former Deputy Secretary of State Bill Burns joins to discuss his new book The Back Channel.

BONUS POD: North Korea summit Mar 01, 2019

Tommy and Ben explain why Trump's second North Korea summit was a total disaster. Then they discuss escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Justin Trudeau's troubles in Canada, a can't-miss rant about Jared Kushner and Netanyahu's indictment.

Trump's North Korea summit v.2, Venezuela, international LGBT rights Feb 27, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben Rhodes talk about India bombing Pakistan, Trump's second meeting with North Korea's Kim Jong Un, the ongoing turmoil in Venezuela and Netanyahu's latest hard-right turn. Then, Jessica Stern from Outright International joins to discuss her work advocating for human rights for LGBTIQ people globally.

How former National Security Advisor Tom Donilon views the world Feb 20, 2019

First, Ben Rhodes calls in from Europe to talk about the Munich Security Summit, Steve Bannon running around Europe, and Trump selling nuclear power plants to Saudi Arabia. Then, former National Security Advisor Tom Donilon joins Tommy for a ranging discussion of how he got the job, best and worst days, relations with China, Russia, Trump's second North Korea summit and more.

Ilhan Omar’s tweets spark a debate about anti-semitism Feb 13, 2019

First, Tommy talks with author Peter Beinart about the controversy around Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's tweets, which many viewed as anti-semitic. Then, former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Wendy Sherman joins to talk with Tommy and Ben about the time she spent negotiating with Iran and North Korea.

544 days in an Iranian prison Feb 06, 2019

Tommy and Ben talk with the Washington Post's Jason Rezaian about his book Prisoner, which details the 544 days he spent in an Iran's notoriously brutal Evin Prison. Jason was held hostage by the Iranian regime and held as leverage in the nuclear negotiations. Jason details his experience while Ben explains what the negotiations were like from his perch in the White House. It is a hell of a good episode.

Who is President of Venezuela? Jan 30, 2019

Tommy talks with Anthony Faiola, the Washington Post bureau chief for South America and the Caribbean, about the dire situation in Venezuela. Then Ben Rhodes joins to discuss the Trump administration's approach to Venezuela's leadership struggle, the Worldwide Threat Assessment hearings in Congress, a potential peace deal in Afghanistan, Ebola, Jared's security clearance (again) and bumbling spies.

Brexit breakdown Jan 23, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben talk with David Lammy, a member of parliament from the UK, about the slow-rolling disaster that is Brexit. Then they discuss Trump's announcement of a second meeting with Kim Jong Un, recent Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in Syria, and the latest from Afghanistan.

Owned by Russia but itching to bomb Iran Jan 16, 2019

First, Tommy and Ben discuss two stories about the Trump administration agitating to attack Iran. Then they discuss several unnerving reports about Trump potentially being compromised by Russia, followed by Brexit, the World Bank, and our Twitter troll ambassador to Germany. Then a Sudanese-American activist named Wafa May Elamin joins to discuss the ongoing protests in Sudan.

New year, same problems Jan 09, 2019

First, Tommy talks with Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin about Trump's Syria flip flops and how he's demoralizing the intel community. Then, Ben Rhodes joins to talk about Secretary Pompeo's middle east trip and Cairo speech, the new authoritarian President in Brazil, and the anti-BDS bill going through Congress.

Foreign policy in 2019 Dec 26, 2018

Tommy and Ben Rhodes talk about Trump pulling US troops out of Syria, the MLB and Cuba, and then talk about how US policy towards Israel, North Korea and Russia could change in 2019.

The French President and General Flynn had a bad, bad week Dec 19, 2018

Tommy and Ben Rhodes discuss General Flynn's trial and what the hell he was doing for the Turkish government. Then they discuss new Senate reports about Russia's propaganda efforts, China's muslim internment camps, and updates from Syria and Afghanistan. Then French journalist and activist Rokhaya Diallo joins to discuss the Yellow Vest protests in France.

U.S. policy towards Israel Dec 12, 2018

Tommy and Ben Rhodes talk with former U.S. Ambassador to Israel Dan Shapiro about his time in Israel, why the Middle East Peace process failed, Trump's approach to Israel, the BDS movement, whether support for Israel is getting politicized, Netanyahu's legal jeopardy, and Jared Kushner managing our relationship with Saudi Arabia.

The 2020 Democrats and foreign policy Dec 05, 2018

First, Tommy and Ben talk through George H.W. Bush's foreign policy record, the good the bad and the ugly. Then they discuss the news out of the G20, the latest on Saudi Arabia, and the Democrats' foreign policy messaging. Then Tommy is joined by Kelly Magsamen to discuss Elizabeth Warren's foreign policy speech and what issues 2020 democrats should be talking about.

War between Russia and Ukraine, Wikileaks, Brexit and more Nov 28, 2018

First, Tommy talks with former US Ambassador to Russia Mike McFaul about fighting between Russia and Ukraine. Then Ben Rhodes dials in to discuss the latest with Brexit, a reported meeting between Wikileaks’ Julian Assange and Trump stooge Paul Manafort, protests in France and the climate report, Saudi Arabia, and how the US caused instability in some Latin American countries.

Update on Jamal Khashoggi and monitoring right-wing extremism Nov 21, 2018

First, Tommy talks with Karen Attiah, the Washington Post Global Opinions Editor who used to edit Jamal Khashoggi’s work, about Trump’s statement Tuesday about Jamal's murder that essentially absolves Saudi Arabia. Then he talks with Jared Holt from Right Wing Watch about his work monitoring right-wing extremist groups.

Global news roundup and North Korea Nov 14, 2018

First, Tommy talks with Ben Rhodes about some major foreign policy news out of Israel, Trump's visit to France and the Russia investigation. Then Tommy talks with North Korea expert Lisa Collins about a new report detailing North Korea's ongoing development of its missile program.

We won the House! What does it that mean for the world? Nov 09, 2018

Tommy talks with foreign policy expert Jake Sullivan about what Democratic control of the House means for US foreign policy, including US relations with Saudi Arabia, the Iran deal, Trump's ties with Russia, trade and North Korea.

Saudi murders and the war in Yemen Oct 31, 2018

Tommy talks with The Intercept's Mehdi Hasan about the international community's response to murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the catastrophic Saudi-led civil war in Yemen.

Democrats Not Dictators Oct 24, 2018

Tommy's in Philadelphia for HBO! So Ben Rhodes reviews the latest on Trump’s refusal to hold Saudi Arabia accountable for brutally murdering a journalist. Then he talks to three candidates who could hold Trump accountable if Democrats take back the House: Rep. Stephanie Murphy, Minnesota's Dan Feehan, and New Jersey's Andy Kim. All of them have national security backgrounds. All of them are among the very best people. All of them (and America) need you to vote this election: votesaveamerica.com

The Great British Breakdown Show Oct 17, 2018

Tommy is in Austin with Beto O'Rourke for Pod Save America on HBO! So this week, Crooked contributor Ben Rhodes travels across the pond to sit down with David Lammy, a trail blazing long time Member of Parliament, to break down the looming catastrophe of Brexit, why Trump is as accepted in the UK as well as "a cold bucket of sick," and what progressives need to do to change course in Britain, the U.S. and across the West.

There are 20 days until the election: votesaveamerica.com

National security candidates Oct 10, 2018

First, Tommy ticks through some major news about UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, Saudi Arabia and Brazil. Then he interviews three candidates (Jesse Colvin, Abigail Spanberger, Lauren Baer) who have different national security backgrounds that all made them decide to run for Congress this cycle. They are inspiring and brilliant. You won't want to miss it.

Kim Jong-Un found love in a hopeless place Oct 03, 2018

Tommy talks with the Washington Post's David Ignatius about Trump's visit to the UN general assembly, including potentially explosive claims by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu about Iran's nuclear program, Trump's love affair with North Korea and some legitimately hopeful signs, and escalating tensions with China.

Is the Mueller investigation doomed? Sep 26, 2018

Tommy talks with The Atlantic's Natasha Bertrand about how the potential departure of Deputy AG Rod Rosenstein would impact the Mueller investigation and operations at DOJ. Then they discuss what we've learned about Russia's efforts to influence our elections over the past two years, and the shady right-wing characters that link Trump to Wikileaks.

John Kerry: Recording for Duty Sep 19, 2018

Tommy (with an assist from Jon Favreau) talks with former Secretary of State John Kerry about Iran, Israel, Trump's attacks and what he learned from the 2004 presidential campaign about how to respond to fake news.

War in Venezuela and Al Qaeda 17 years after 9/11 Sep 12, 2018

Tommy talks with new LA resident Ben Rhodes about the bizarre Trump NSC memo naming him leader of the Echo Chamber, the state of al Qaeda and the war in Afghanistan, talk of war in Venezuela and weird old John Bolton.

Foreign lobbying and what Bob Woodward taught us about Trump's foreign policy Sep 05, 2018

Two part show this week! First, Tommy talks with the Wall Street Journal's Julie Bykowicz about new and insidious ways foreign countries are lobbying the Trump administration. Then, Tommy is joined by Vox's Alex Ward to discuss North Korea, revelations in Bob Woodward's book, new theories about what harmed diplomats in Cuba, and Burma.

Trump's racist South Africa conspiracy theory Aug 29, 2018

Last week, President Trump tweeted about a segment on Tucker Carlson's Fox News show that claimed white farmers in South Africa are being murdered and that the government is taking away their land. The Economist's Africa bureau chief John McDermott joins to explain what the hell he's talking about and what he got wrong.

Revoking John Brennan's security clearance Aug 22, 2018

Tommy talks with former acting CIA director Michael Morell about President Trump's decision to revoke his opponents' security clearances. They discuss why the politicization of intelligence is so dangerous and why many former spy chiefs decided to speak out on Brennan's behalf.

"Space Force all the way!" Aug 15, 2018

Tommy talks with defense expert Katherine Charlet from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace about President Trump's plan to create a Space Force!!! How much is the military currently operating in space? Is this proposal smart, necessary or a gigantic waste of taxpayer money. Listen to this episode (which includes lasers) to find out!

Devastation in Syria and Yemen Aug 08, 2018

Tommy talks with VICE on HBO correspondent Isobel Yeung about her recent reporting trips to Raqqa, Syria and Yemen. Isobel talks about what it was like to interview two of ISIS's most brutal foreign fighters and to witness heroic efforts by average citizens to rebuild the city and find loved ones taken by ISIS.

Bassem Youssef: doctor, comedian, enemy of the Egyptian state Aug 01, 2018

Tommy talks with Egyptian comedian Bassem Youssef about his improbable path to comedy, fame, and becoming an enemy of the Egyptian state.

Wanted by Putin and rage tweeting at Iran Jul 25, 2018

Two part show today! First, Tommy talks with Ambassador Michael McFaul about Vladimir Putin's request to interrogate him and Trump's shocking refusal to immediately rule it out. Then Tommy talks with the Washington Post's Jason Rezaian about Trump's late-night rage tweet at Iran and the future of US/Iranian relations.

Trump's disastrous European vacation Jul 18, 2018

Tommy talks with Julianne Smith, a former Pentagon official and advisor to Vice President Joe Biden, about Donald Trump’s truly awful trip to Europe, and why his terrifying press conference with Vladimir Putin in Helsinki is only a piece of the lasting damage it might cause to some of America’s most critical relationships.

The politics of the World Cup with Roger Bennett Jul 11, 2018

Today's episode is two parts. First, Tommy talks with Politico's Nahal Toosi about North Korea, NATO and Trump's Putin meeting. Then, Roger Bennett from Men in Blazers joins to talk about the agony, ecstasy and politics of the World Cup.

“Abdi American” Jul 05, 2018

Tommy talks with Abdi Nor Iftin, the author of “Call Me American,” about his incredible story of survival in war-ravaged Somalia and literally winning the lottery to make it to America.

Cyber war Jun 29, 2018

Tommy talks with New York Times reporter David Sanger about the new world of cyber warfare. From North Korea's attack on Sony to targeting of Iran's nuclear program and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, cyber attacks are increasingly used first in war even though there's no rules of engagement and little public debate.

Hunting terrorists Jun 19, 2018

Tommy talks with the outgoing National Counterterrorism Center chief Nick Rasmussen. Nick worked in senior counterterrorism roles for Presidents Bush, Obama and Trump, and they discussed how weird the transition from Obama to Trump was, how you hunt terrorists, how you fight ISIS propaganda, Trump's North Korea summit and more.

North Korea nothingburger? Jun 13, 2018

Tommy talks with defense and Asia policy expert Kelly Magsamen about Trump's just-completed summit with North Korea's Kim Jong-un. What did they accomplish? Are we safer? Should we worry about the optics of meeting with a dictator?

Obama's legacy after Trump Jun 06, 2018

Tommy talks with Ben Rhodes, author of the new book "The World as It Is", which documents Ben's eight years working in the White House. They talk about Ben's criticisms of Obama, leading talks with Cuba and going to dinner with Raul Castro, becoming a target of right-wing attacks and more.

White House extremists Jun 01, 2018

Tommy talks with journalist Mehdi Hasan about a troubling series of hires on Trump's National Security Council staff of individuals with far-right, paranoid, Islamaphobic views. Then they talk about the situation in Gaza now that the protests have ended and TV cameras have left.

Trump's hostage policy May 23, 2018

Tommy talks with NewYorker.com executive editor David Rohde about the way Trump is handling - and showcasing - hostage negotiations as President. Rohde was held hostage by the Taliban for over seven months until he escaped in 2009.

North Korea and Gaza May 17, 2018

Tommy talks with Washington Post reporter Anne Gearan about the on again, off again North Korea summit, the situation in Gaza and the Trump administration's response, and Rex Tillerson's harsh criticism of President Trump.

Trump shreds the Iran deal May 08, 2018

Trump just tore up the Iran deal. Tommy talks with Ben Rhodes about what happens next. Then Tommy talks with Russia expert Mike McFaul about his new book, From Cold War to Hot Peace, about his time working at the White House and as US Ambassador to Russia.

Ronan Farrow May 02, 2018

Tommy talks with Pulitzer Prize winning author Ronan Farrow about his new book War on Peace and the militarization of American foreign policy.

The CIA's tortured history Apr 27, 2018

Tommy talks with ACLU political director Faiz Shakir about the nomination of Gina Haspel to lead the CIA despite her role in the Bush-era torture of terrorism suspects. They also discuss the politics of national security in the Trump era, and whether Obama did enough to hold the CIA accountable for its actions.

Syria strikes and North Korea talks Apr 18, 2018

Tommy talks with foreign policy expert Kelly Magsamen about Trump’s strikes on Syria’s chemical weapons site, his lack of a broader strategy, and her attempt to “red team” the policy options during the Obama administration. Then they talk about CIA Director Mike Pompeo’s trip to North Korea.

Madeleine Albright’s warning about fascism Apr 11, 2018

Tommy talks with former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright about the rise of fascism around the world and her concerns about how it is being enabled (and emulated) by Donald Trump. Then they talk about how Trump should respond in Syria, and Albright’s visit to North Korea in 2000 for meetings with Kim Jong-Il.

Mr. Putin goes to Washington? Apr 05, 2018

Tommy talks with New Yorker writer Robin Wright about Putin’s possible visit to Washington, his relationship with Trump, and what we know about Trump the negotiator vs what’s required for success. Then they discuss Robin's visit to North Korea, the situation in Gaza, Syria and John Bolton.

Nowhere to hide: Facebook, encryption, and privacy Mar 30, 2018

Tommy talks with Wired editor in chief Nick Thompson about the insane amount of data that Facebook and other tech companies collect on us and what we can do to erase or prevent it. Then they talk about how to use encryption to protect your communications and scary new developments that allow you to make fake videos of real people.

Fresh Prince of Saudi Arabia Mar 22, 2018

Tommy talks with Washington Post columnist David Ignatius about Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the United States and his "reform agenda". Then they discuss Trump’s call with Putin, reports that he ignored his staff’s plea to be tougher, and the risk of North Korea negotiations.

The worst Secretary of State in history, Rex Tillerson Mar 16, 2018

Tommy giddily discusses Rex Tillerson’s firing by tweet with Politico foreign affairs correspondent Nahal Toosi. Then they discuss suspected assassination of Putin enemies in London and Nahal’s exclusive report about Trump administration attacks on career State Department staffers.

Can’t out-crazy Kim Jong-un Mar 07, 2018

Tommy talks with Asia expert Danny Russel about reports that North Korea is willing to begin negotiations with the US about abandoning its nuclear weapons.

The Deep State Strikes Back Mar 02, 2018

Tommy talks with Jake Sullivan and Ben Rhodes about their new organization to oppose Trump’s foreign policy and promote a progressive vision of American leadership. Then they discuss what it means for Jared Kushner to have his security clearance downgraded, the status of the Iran deal, and the NSA Director’s plea for a directive to combat Russian hacking.

Bribes, Bibi and the future of Israel Feb 23, 2018

Tommy talks with Nathan Guttman, the Washington bureau chief of The Forward, about the corruption scandals swirling around Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. They walk through the facts, what happens next, and what it means for US/Israeli relations and the Middle East peace process.

Nuclear-armed frenemies Feb 16, 2018

Tommy talks with Steve Coll, author of Directorate S: The C.I.A. and America's Secret Wars in Afghanistan and Pakistan, about why the hell we’re still fighting in Afghanistan after 17 years and the destabilizing influence of our nuclear-armed frenemy, Pakistan.

Held hostage in Syria Feb 09, 2018

Tommy talks with war photographer Jonathan Alpeyrie about being held hostage by rebel fighters for nearly three months in Syria.

Inching closer to nuclear war Feb 02, 2018

Tommy talks with New York Times editor and writer Max Fisher about disconcerting signs that the Trump administration is seriously considering a military attack on North Korea. Then they talk about how ambiguous demands about US credibility can lead us to make terrible foreign policy decisions, and the changing expectations in Afghanistan.

Why China loves Jared Jan 26, 2018

Tommy talks with New Yorker staff writer Evan Osnos about China’s frantic post-election efforts to build a relationship with Jared Kushner, and why the “Kushner channel" makes American counterintelligence officials so nervous. They also discuss the shockingly-wide distribution of sensitive intelligence in the Trump White House, and how Evan feels about the threat from North Korea roughly six months after his visit to Pyongyang.

Pod Save the World Live! Jan 19, 2018

Tommy talks with Ben Rhodes, Ambassador Samantha Power and Greg Barker about the documentary The Final Year, which follows President Obama’s foreign policy team during the final year of his administration. They discuss Obama’s foreign policy legacy, ruptures over Syria, and how Trump’s election upended everything. The Final Year is in theaters and available on iTunes starting Friday, January 19th.

Watch Now on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/the-final-year/id1324474039?ls=1

The Terrorist Interrogator Jan 12, 2018

Tommy talks with former FBI Special Agent Ali Soufan about his work interrogating terrorists and investigating the bombing of the USS Cole and the 9/11 attacks. They discuss the changing threat from al Qaeda and ISIS and what we need to know about these terrorist groups to stop them.

Iranian revolution Jan 05, 2018

Tommy talks with former top Obama foreign policy advisor Ben Rhodes about the protests sweeping across Iran, Trump’s response, how today compares with the 2009 Green Revolution and Obama’s response, and what it could mean for the Iran deal. Then they vent about how terrible the discussion about Iran is in DC / on Twitter.

Drumbeat of war with North Korea Dec 22, 2017

Tommy talks with Republican foreign policy expert Kori Schake about the eery similarity between the Trump administration’s comments about North Korea and the Bush administration’s rhetoric in the run-up to the Iraq war.

Infiltrating al Qaeda Dec 15, 2017

Tommy interviewed undercover FBI agent Tamer Elnoury about his work penetrating and disrupting an al Qaeda cell plotting attacks in Canada and the United States. They discussed what it was like to live with and pretend to become a terrorist, including having to visit the Ground Zero memorial with a man who took pride in the 9/11 attacks and wanted to repeat them. His book, AMERICAN RADICAL, is great - read it!

Jerusalem went to Jared Dec 08, 2017

Tommy talks with Politico’s foreign affairs correspondent Nahal Toosi about Trump’s controversial decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Then they discussed news reports indicating Rex Tillerson’s disastrous tenure as Secretary of State may be coming to a close. It was lit.

On the ground in Burma Dec 01, 2017

Tommy talks with Senator Jeff Merkley about his fact-finding mission to Burma and Bangladesh to learn more about the ongoing ethnic cleansing and refugee crisis. They also discussed the Trump administration’s almost non-existent response, how social media has exacerbated the problem, and what Congress is trying to do to help.

Mugabe is the George Washington of Zimbabwe Nov 24, 2017

Tommy talks with Africa expert Ambassador Johnnie Carson about the coup in Zimbabwe that toppled Robert Mugabe, and the recent political turmoil in Kenya.

WTF happened in Lebanon and ISIS update Nov 17, 2017

Tommy talks with Middle East and ISIS expert Rob Malley about the resignation of Lebanon’s Prime Minister and how it plays into a broader middle east proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Then they talk about the fight against ISIS and the major NYT magazine story about civilians casualties in Iraq.

Trump’s adventures in Asia Nov 10, 2017

Tommy and Asia expert and career diplomat Danny Russel discuss President Trump’s five nation, 13 day trip to Asia. They cover North Korea, Trump’s decision to meet with a mass murderer in the Philippines, and China’s political system.

Middle East Peace Nov 01, 2017

Tommy talks with former Senator Majority Leader and US Special Envoy for Middle East Peace George Mitchell and Alon Sachar about their book A Path to Peace, which details the history of the Middle East peace process and their efforts to forge an agreement during the Obama administration.

Hunting Osama bin Laden Oct 25, 2017

Tommy sits down with Michael Morell, the former acting Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. They discuss his experience as President Bush’s briefer on 9/11, hunting Osama bin Laden, the state of ISIS, North Korea and the impending release of the JFK assassination files. It was sick.

A civil, bipartisan foreign policy discussion (aka clickbait) Oct 18, 2017

Tommy talks with Republican Congressman and Air Force veteran Adam Kinzinger. They discuss Trump’s decision to decertify the Iran deal, North Korea, Senator Corker’s criticism of Trump, the war in Afghanistan and how to understand our fight against terrorism.

A republican critique of Trump’s foreign policy Oct 11, 2017

Tommy and Eliot Cohen, a counselor to Condoleezza Rice during the Bush administration, talks about his Atlantic piece “How Trump is Ending the American Era” and try to figure out what constitutes a Republican and Democratic foreign policy worldview in 2017.

Mystery attacks in Cuba and the man who ran the Navy Oct 04, 2017

First, Tommy talks with Ben Rhodes about the mysterious attacks on our diplomats in Havana and the Trump administration’s decision to expel Cuban officials in response. Then, he’s joined by former Navy Secretary Ray Mabus to discuss his eight years leading the Navy as well as his time as the US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia.

The rise of the European far-right Sep 27, 2017

Tommy talks with Europe expert Dr. Karen Donfried about the German elections and the rise of the far-right AfD party. They also discuss why Russian hacking efforts didn’t work in Germany, what European capitals will do if Trump pulls out of the Iran deal, and how they view his war of words with North Korea.

Crisis in Burma Sep 20, 2017

Tommy talks with New York Times columnist Nick Kristof and Nexus Fund Executive Director Sally Smith about the ongoing ethnic cleansing happening right now in Burma.

Republican Congressman Will Hurd Sep 13, 2017

Tommy talks with Will Hurd, a Republican representing Texas’s 23rd Congressional District, who served in the CIA for nearly a decade. They discussed Hurd’s role at the CIA, what motivated him to run for office, the Iran deal and ISIS.

War Policy Sep 06, 2017

Tommy talks with former Lieutenant General and Ambassador to NATO Doug Lute about his six years managing the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan for Presidents Bush and Obama.

North Korea update then the Army’s CEO Sep 01, 2017

Tommy gets an update on North Korea’s latest provocations from Asia expert Evan Medeiros. Then he talks with Eric Fanning, the former Secretary of the Army and the first openly gay head service secretary in history, about Trump’s transgender ban and his career at the Pentagon.

Crisis in Venezuela Aug 30, 2017

Tommy speaks former AP correspondent Hannah Dreier about the ongoing humanitarian and political crisis in Venezuela. Dreier was the last American journalist to get a permanent work visa when she arrived in Venezuela in 2014 and reported from the capitol until June.

Trump's new war plan Aug 23, 2017

Tommy talks with defense policy expert Kelly Magsamen about President Trump's speech announcing his Afghan war policy. They evaluate the substance of his plan and discuss whether any approach can actually improve the situation on the ground and allow us to get out.

Right-wing radicals and CIA secrets Aug 16, 2017

Tommy talks with former Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano about her efforts to combat right-wing extremists. Then he is joined by former Deputy CIA Director David Cohen to talk about what it was like to learn the world’s most closely guarded secrets, how the CIA works, and hear his David’s views on North Korea and Iran’s nuclear programs.

Emergency North Korea update then Putin’s #1 enemy Aug 09, 2017

Former Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes talks through Trump’s promise of “fire and fury” if North Korea threatens the US and today’s reports on advances in North Korea's nuclear program. Then Tommy is joined by Bill Browder, a businessman who became Putin’s #1 enemy after exposing corruption in Russia. Browder was the driving force behind the Magnitsky Act sanctions to punish Russian human rights abusers.

Are they gonna’ nuke us? Aug 02, 2017

Tommy talks with former Deputy Secretary of State Tony Blinken about the Iran deal, whether it’s working, and if we can apply the lessons learned to the dangerous situation in North Korea. Then they talk about Secretary Tillerson’s record at State and tensions in Israel and Venezuela. Both of them really miss Joe Biden.

The worst humanitarian crisis since WWII Jul 26, 2017

Tommy talks with David Miliband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and former UK Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, about the famine in four countries that has put 20 million people at risk of starvation. He also offers concrete ways that all of us can help. You can learn more or donate at: https://www.rescue.org/.

Why did Putin do it? Jul 19, 2017

Tommy talks with journalist and Russia expert Julia Ioffe about not if but why Putin interfered in our election. What was Putin’s motivation and goal? Are we giving him too much credit or are we not responding forcefully enough?

Russians, guns and Mosul Jul 12, 2017

Tommy talks with former top defense official Derek Chollet about Donald Trump Jr.’s keystone cops collusion with Russia before transitioning to a conversation about the fight against ISIS in Mosul, Syria and the Trump administration’s policy in Afghanistan. It was incredible. Tell your friends.

Ambassador Susan Rice Jul 05, 2017

Tommy talks with former Obama National Security Advisor Susan Rice about her transition to civilian life, Syria, ISIS, Russia and Trump's approach to Africa.

Europe, Nukes, and Cybersecurity Jun 21, 2017

Tommy talks with former Deputy Secretary of Energy, defense policy and Europe expert Dr. Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall about the future of Europe in the wake of Brexit. Then they discussed nuclear weapons in the US and Pakistan, cybersecurity, the advanced science being done at our National Labs, and how government can recruit more women into national security jobs.

Illegal Wars with Senator Tim Kaine Jun 14, 2017

Tommy talks with Senator Tim Kaine about how it’s possible that sixteen years after the 9/11 attacks, the congressional authorization that allowed us to respond with military force is the legal basis for wars against groups like ISIS that didn’t even exist at the time.

NATO, mistakes we made in Libya, and lessons from Iraq and Afghanistan Jun 07, 2017

Tommy talks with former US Ambassador to NATO Ivo Daalder about Trump’s disastrous trip to NATO before transitioning to a broader conversation about when the global community should use military force. Ivo offers an unvarnished take on the mistakes the US and NATO made in Libya, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Deputy Secretary of State Bill Burns May 31, 2017

Tommy talks with former Deputy Secretary of State Bill Burns about his three decades at the State Department. They discuss US relations with Russia and Jared Kushner’s backchannel, Trump’s trip to Europe, Bill’s role in leading the Iran talks and what it means to be loyal to a President and country.

Turkey and 28 Hours Pinned Down by ISIS with Arwa Damon May 24, 2017

Tommy talks with CNN International correspondent Arwa Damon about Turkey's descent into a dictatorship and President Erdogan's visit to the White House. Then they discuss the 28 hours Damon spent pinned down by ISIS fighters in Mosul, her coverage of refugees fleeing Syria, and her nonprofit organization INARA

Love, Africa with Jeffrey Gettleman May 16, 2017

Tommy and Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and New York Times East Africa bureau chief Jeffrey Gettleman discuss his new book Love, Africa. They talk about the risks that come with working in places like Somalia and South Sudan, including Jeffrey (repeatedly) being held at gunpoint, and the balance between reporting facts and telling stories to that help create empathy for people suffering.

Trump Fired Jim Comey?!? May 10, 2017

Tommy talks with former DOJ Official Matthew Miller about Trump's decision to fire FBI Director Jim Comey.

100 Days of foreign policy with Eli Lake May 03, 2017

Tommy and Bloomberg columnist Eli Lake review Trump’s first 100 days on foreign policy. They cover Trump’s staffing decisions, US relations with Russia, willingness to stand up for US values, management of North Korea, ISIS, Syria and the Middle East peace process.

What the hell is happening in France with Dr. Karen Donfried Apr 26, 2017

Tommy talks with Europe expert Dr. Karen Donfried about the French Presidential elections and the rise of far-right nationalist candidates like Marine Le Pen. They also discuss the potential for Russian interference in France, comparisons to Trump and why the French presidency could have major implications for the US.

Chief of Staff Stuff with Denis McDonough Apr 19, 2017

Tommy talks with former White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough about the Bin Laden operation, Iraq, Syria and Russian hacking of our election.

The Russian Investigation with Senator Mark Warner Apr 12, 2017

Senator Mark Warner talks with Tommy about why the Intelligence Committee's investigation into Russian interference in our election is the most important thing he’s done in public life. He also takes us behind the scenes of the Committee’s TOP SECRET work.

Understanding the Syrian Civil War Apr 10, 2017

Tommy and Middle East expert Colin Kahl discuss the Syrian civil war from when the protests first erupted in 2011 to President Trump’s cruise missile strike last week. They cover the roots of the conflict, Syria’s chemical weapons, Obama’s red line and Trump’s policy options going forward.

China’s Rise with Evan Medeiros Apr 05, 2017

Tommy and China expert Evan Medeiros preview Trump’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. They discuss the meticulous planning and choreography that goes into these talks, tensions in the South China Sea, Taiwan, human rights, and how the Chinese view Russian hacking of our election.

Gayle Smith, former USAID Administrator Mar 29, 2017

“Tommy is joined by Africa expert and former USAID Administrator Gayle Smith to discuss the crisis in South Sudan and the impact of Trump’s proposed budget cuts on the State Department and USAID.”

North Korean Nukes with Mark Lippert Mar 22, 2017

Former US Ambassador to South Korea Mark Lippert talks about the threat from North Korea’s nuclear program, Trump’s “new” approach to the DPRK, the assassination of Kim Jong Nam and the attack on his life while serving as Ambassador.

Snowden and Surveillance with Glenn Greenwald Mar 15, 2017

Intercept editor Glenn Greenwald joins to respond to criticism of Edward Snowden and to discuss his views on intelligence collection.

Of Russia with Love with Mike McFaul Mar 08, 2017

Tommy and former US Ambassador to Russia Mike McFaul talk about the US-Russia relationship. We cover pop culture and Rocky IV, arms control, Russian harassment of US diplomats, Mike’s assessment of Putin’s leadership and when relations turned bad, if Romney was right to call Russia our number one geopolitical foe and the lessons America can learn from Putin’s rise.

Running the State Department with Heather Higginbottom Mar 01, 2017

Tommy and Heather Higginbottom to discuss her journey from political campaigns to becoming the first woman to serve as Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources. We cover refugee vetting, pandemic response, women in foreign policy and Heather’s reflections on Secretary Kerry’s career.

Scary Sh*t with Lisa Monaco Feb 22, 2017

Tommy talks with Obama’s former Homeland Security and Chief Counterterrorism Advisor Lisa Monaco about terrorism, encryption, cyber security, the Boston bombings, Trump’s dysfunctional national security team and lots more scary stuff.

8 Years in the Situation Room with Ben Rhodes Feb 15, 2017

Tommy and Obama’s former Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications Ben Rhodes discuss Ben’s career path, Obama’s Cairo speech, the damage Trump is doing, counterterrorism, restoring diplomatic relations with Cuba, Wikileaks, Snowden, Israel, Syria and more.

Half the World with Dan Restrepo Feb 08, 2017

Tommy is joined by Dan Restrepo, who served as a top Latin America advisor to President Obama. They discuss the historic opening between the US and Cuba, Mexico, immigration, Colombia’s civil war and Venezuela.

Secret Iran Talks with Jake Sullivan Feb 01, 2017

Tommy is joined by former top Clinton aide and former Biden National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. They discuss Jake’s experience leading the secret Iran deal negotiations, Russian hacking, Trump’s attacks on the intelligence community, Benghazi and more.

Pod Save the World Teaser Episode Jan 27, 2017

"Pod Save the World" launches Wednesday, February 1st!

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