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American Fever Dream

Author: Betches Media

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From under the desk to in your ears, V. Spehar joins Betches Media in a new podcast dedicated to curing the collective malaise brought on by our chaotic political environment. Every week, Spehar and co-host Sami Sage will tenderly guide you through the biggest moments in politics and pop culture with a healing dose of perspective and humor. Rather than spiral over the latest unprecedented event, the hosts dig for the 2024 political tea you *really* want to hear while offering all the information you need to be an empowered citizen, without the side of despair to keep you up at night.

For constant news updates, sign up for the Sup email newsletter at betches.com/newsletters and follow us on Instagram at @betches_news. And follow V on TikTok and Instagram @underthedesknews.

1059 Episodes
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Today V speaks with Angela Giampolo, aka Your Gay Lawyer, about the nine key documents every couple needs to protect their rights and assets. From healthcare power of attorney to trusts (and even planning for your pets), they cover how to safeguard your future, navigate family dynamics, and avoid probate headaches. Whether you’re LGBT or not, Giampolo's nine documents were created to help bind partners together, regardless of marital status. Visit www.prideplans.com to learn more Follow Angela on social media: www.instagram.com/yourgaylawyer www.tiktok.com/@gaylawyer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
From the latest on what happened to TikTok over the weekend to the inauguration, we're pushing our Tuesday episode to you Monday night. 00:00 - TikTok was gone for 12 hours over the weekend, and V reacts to creators who left a tear-filled goodbye, and why Trump is getting credit for bringing it back. 07:30 - Sami & V reflect on Biden's presidency, what was most disappointing about his term, and what Trump will take credit for. 14:00 - The status of the ERA, and why Biden's statement calling it the "law of the land" doesn't mean anything.  20:00 - Theories behind what everyone wore to the inauguration, including the unconventional choices by Lauren Sanchez and Senator Fetterman. 28:00 - Vivek Ramaswamy has been kicked out of DOGE, and is now looking to run for governor of Ohio. 32:20 - Sami tells V all about the inauguration, including the "off the record" speech he gave to the millionaires in attendance. V & Sami also discuss the hurdles Trump may face trying to end birthright citizenship. 43:00 - V shares some news on how Trump's cabinet is taking shape & Melania Trump's new meme coin. 46:30 - We have to address the rumors swirling around the Obama's Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We're days away from the TikTok ban being decided and Trump's inauguration --- Sami & V share how they're trying to take care of themselves, even if it just means lots of sugar and caffeine. Mourning the final days, V talks about what the future of TikTok could look like if it continues to exist, but no matter what, it'll probably never be the same. Then, last week Mark Zuckerberg went on the Joe Rogan show, and it's giving Sandra Dee at the sleepover vibes. From replacing fact checking with "community notes," to saying he wants to bring masculinity back to Facebook, the exchange between the two just felt...awkward. How much longer will millionaires like Zuckerberg hang out with the MAGA group, when they don't have to pretend anymore? Read Emily Amick's Substack - Why are we all feeling broken? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We're back, and we've got a lot to cover! From Jimmy Carter's death, to Ann Telnaes, cartoonist for The Washington Post, resigning and what it means for the paper that's been plagued by layoffs. MAIN STORY 12:30 Last week, the Department of Health and Human Services issued a new advisory, showing a direct link between alcohol consumption and increased cancer risk. Sami & V talk about why this information wasn't made public, how the misconceptions that some alcohol was "healthy" got started, and if they would have done anything differently if alcohol had been marketed the same way cigarettes were. 30:40 We're recording this episode on January 6th, and we can't help but reflect on what this day means (or used to.) Ending the episode, we talk about what's giving us joy; mainly the Buffalo Bills, Demi Moore's Golden Globe win/speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Happy New Years Eve, Fever Dreamers! We're wrapping up 2024 on a high note -- reading your emails. From the bourgeoisie, to how to navigate gender identity, Sami & V are answering all your questions (well, as many as they can.) Have questions for Sami & V? Email us at americanfeverdream@betches.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sami & V are back from The White House holiday parties! Despite too much eggnog, they're ready to share their highlights, which include getting to take a photo with Hunter Biden. Revisiting the controversy, V & Sami defend their position on their The Pitfalls of Popularity & Pod Save America episode. Plus, V dives into some holiday lore, recounting the time German and British troops called a ceasefire during WWI and ended up in a carol-singing battle—Pitch Perfect style. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rodi Glass was 4 years old when Nazi Germany invaded the Netherlands in 1936. Things would never be the same for her family, and the Jewish community she grew up in. Rodi shares the impact of Nazi occupation on daily life, and the fear and challenges faced by the Jewish community during that time.She also recounts her family's narrow escape from a killing center, reflecting on the choices made by her family and the broader Jewish community in the face of unimaginable adversity. She discusses the importance of taking risks, the impact of dehumanization, and the struggle for survival in ghettos and camps. Additionally, she emphasizes the need for resilience and the challenges of rebuilding lives after liberation, while also addressing contemporary issues of antisemitism and the illusion of safety. *This podcast episode mentions the topic of suicide; a warning to listeners that the content may be distressing. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sami & V are preparing to see their family for the holidays, and their insecurities are coming out. This week, Nancy Pelosi and Mitch McConnell's each took a big fall, RFK's started a war on corn syrup, and mysterious drones are flying over NJ. Plus, V and Sami take on the new crypto coin no one wants to talk about. We end the episode with Sami giving us some practical advice on how you can fight insurance when they deny your claim. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The more information that comes out about Luigi Mangione, the more questions we have. Sami & Stephanie Ruhle (host of the 11th Hour on MSNBC and NBC News Senior Business Analyst) explore the shooting's implications on society, public psychology, and how the systemic issues surrounding health insurance led some to idolize Mangione. Sami and Stephanie also discuss wealth inequality and the role businesses play in shaping regulations that ultimately serve their own interests. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kicking off the holiday season, V gives us a recap of the press Christmas party at Vice President Harris' home, and discusses the state of traditional media companies amidst massive layoffs. Next, we get the latest updates on the TikTok ban and potential sale. Sami and V also dive into the details of a New York Times article about Hunter Biden and his ex-girlfriend, including their significant age gap. Then, a Jane Doe who previously sued Diddy over rape allegations refiled the lawsuit over the weekend, adding that Jay-Z was at the party and participated in the assault. Is this just an attempt at extortion, or is there more to these accusations? (And what might Beyoncé have to say about it?) We end the episode by examining what we know about the UnitedHealthcare CEO shooter and speculate on the meaning behind the Monopoly money and his love of fast food. Have any stories or questions for Sami & V? Email us at americanfeverdream@betches.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, guest Jared Freid (comedian and co-host of Betches' U UP? podcast) dives into dating, cancel culture, and a world where your ballot might matter more than your Hinge bio. Jared also talks about turning dates into "content" (and vice versa,) as well as the ways sharing personal stories can sometimes backfire. Sami & V realize they may actually be "pick-me" girls, and consider a new approach to podcasting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Over the last few weeks, V has been getting messages from trans and non-binary folks about how to prepare for Trump's next presidency. While not comprehensive, and people may disagree, V shares their thoughts on the steps trans & non-binary people should consider taking. We also address policies under the Trump administration that may lead to increased discrimination against trans individuals under the 14th Amendment. Then, we introduce the first of Trump's Cabinet of Crazies: Stephen Miller. Sami breaks down Miller's upbringing including his involvement in the Duke lacrosse scandal, that time he threw a tantrum and flipped over a desk, and his work with Jeff Sessions. Sami & V end the episode by debating whether Trump will move into the White House, and the exorbitant price tag of becoming an ambassador. Have questions, thoughts, or just want to rant? Email us at americanfeverdream@betches.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week Sami & V are talking about everything from that viral photo of Musk, Trump Jr., and RFK eating McDonald's on Trump's private plane to the lady drinking raw milk that's been sitting in her fridge for six weeks. We also look back on the tension between Jill Biden and Kamala Harris over the years, including after a 2020 Democratic debate where Kamala pressed Biden on issues of race. Afterward, on a call with supporters, the now-first lady reportedly said, “With what he cares about, what he fights for, what he’s committed to, you get up there and call him a racist without basis? Go f*** yourself.” Are there things you don’t know that you feel like you should? In this week’s first installment of “Dumb Questions,” V asks Sami to explain what populism is and how the idea has been corrupted over the years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Looking at Trump's latest staff and cabinet picks, Matt Gaetz, Kristi Noem, and Marco Rubio are making headlines (again.) We’re breaking down what their roles could mean for Trump’s agenda and for the country, and we're asking the tough questions like -- Why pick these people? What message is he sending with each choice? And who is going to shake Pete Hegseth's hand now? Subscribe to Akilah Hughes' Substack Have questions, thoughts, or feelings around the 2024 election? Email us at americanfeverdream@betches.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We thought we'd be ok this week... but we're not. Sami & V discuss what it means to rebuild the Democratic party from the bottom up, and why it's time for people like Nancy Pelosi (and Bernie Sanders) to step down. V also fills us in on Trump's Chief of Staff, Susie Wiles, and why this pick might actually be a good thing for his administration, as well as how Trump's deportation plans could affect restaurants and the food industry (and why nonprofits like the James Beard Foundation should be taking action). Have questions, thoughts, or feelings around the 2024 election? Email us at americanfeverdream@betches.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's been over 24 hours since the results of the election have been announced, and Sami & V are trying to digest it. Of course we're upset, but we're also mad (and feeling a little petty.) Join us today as we vent about the things we feel like the Democratic Party did wrong, the role of influencers (and celebrities) in the campaigns, and the impact of immigration issues on voter sentiment, particularly within the Latino community. Where do we go from here? We're not quite sure yet. Next week we'll celebrate some of the wins from last Tuesday. But for now, maybe eat a donut. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Happy Election Day! Whether you listen to this episode before you hit the polls, or at the end of the day, Sami & V are here to keep you informed, and calm. First Sami breaks down the latest from J Ann Selzer's Iowa polls, and talks about why the results on election night could be a huge (and unexpected) win for Harris. Then we ask: Can Kamala pull an "Obama map" and win Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Michigan, Wisconsin, AND Florida?We end the episode by talking about the The Runbeck Election Services facility, which is set to print around 35 million ballots for eight states, and what they're doing to make sure these ballots stay safe and secure. Don't forget to tune in to @underthedesknews on TikTok/Instagram/YouTube to watch the election night pizza party and celebrate democracy!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With less than 24 hours left before election day, emotions and anxiety are high, but former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki reminds us it’s no time to cry. Instead, Sami, V, and Jen reflect on how people’s opinions and perspectives can evolve, as well as a generation that grew up knowing Donald Trump only as a presidential candidate. Jen also discusses how many of us have become addicted to the adrenaline Trump brings to the news cycle, and they debate whether we could ever return to "boring" news. Follow MSNBC & Jen Psaki: Instagram: MSNBC: @MSNBC Jen Psaki: @jenpsaki / @insidewithpsaki TikTok: MSNBC: @MSNBC Jen Psaki: @jenpsaki Twitter: MSNBC: @MSNBC Jen Psaki: @jrpsaki / @insidewithpsaki Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you're feeling anxious about the upcoming election, the best thing you can do is VOTE. That's the advice Symone Sanders Townsend gives V on this special pre-election episode. Just a few days before the 2024 election, V and Symone go over what we should expect this week -- from when they think the race will be called, to how to handle the various outcomes. We also take a look at what Kamala's first 100 days could look like. Symone Sanders Townsend, Charles Coleman Jr., Trymaine Lee, and Melissa Murray will host the MSNBC special, “Black Voters: The Road to the 2024 Election,” Sunday at 4pm ET on MSNBC where they’ll speak with Black voters about the issues that are most important to them in the lead up to the election. Follow MSNBC & Symone Sanders Townsend: Instagram: MSNBC: @MSNBC Symone Sanders Townsend: @symonedsanders / @theweekendmsnbc TikTok: MSNBC: @MSNBC Symone Sanders Townsend: @symonedsanders / @theweekendmsnbc Twitter: MSNBC: @MSNBC Symone Sanders Townsend: @symonedsanders / @theweekendmsnbc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Comments (6)

Melinda Davis Brown

Nancy doesn't want to support AOC because she followed a different path to get there. Nancy had kids, was older, and came from a political family, and AOC is none of that. Nancy may be a little resentful or jealous that she sees AOC as not having to sacrifice or struggle as much as she did to get where she is, and so many people love her. Women can be brutal to one another.

Dec 18th
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Genevieve S

best new political podcast. totally the fresh voices I have been looking for.

Feb 21st
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Amy

terrible audio from Amanda, why did no one mention it to her and fix it?

Jan 5th
Reply

Noor

Your initial reaction to her tweet is probably due to the fact that Americans perceive the US as the centre of the universe. Really disappointed that you’re not more critical of that notion...

Oct 11th
Reply

Jacqueline Lopez

I'm still hearing this harsh crackle...I hope you guys fix this because I LOVE the podcast but it's uncomfortable to listen to because of this crackle......I know it isn't my headphones because it happens on all of the podcasts and with different headphones....please fix

Jan 11th
Reply

Jacqueline Lopez

there is a harsh crackle noise on certain pitches of this audio. ..just hoping y'all can fix that, because I love this podcast! keep the news coming I love the commentary, I'm literally laughing as I listen

Jan 10th
Reply