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American Fever Dream
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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.
1053 Episodes
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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!
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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
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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
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In a special episode with MSNBC's Katy Tur and Alex Wagner, Sami and Katy talk about election day safety precautions, and why rally attendance does not always reflect voter enthusiasm.
Then, Alex Wagner shares her experience reporting on the ground, and why she expects the results of the 2024 election to be a "marathon not a sprint." Sami & Alex reflect on the psychological factors influencing voters, particularly the emotional resonance of Trumpism and the alienation felt by many Americans.
MSNBC’s Katy Tur, Alex Wagner and Stephanie Ruhle will be a part of MSNBC’s “Decision 2024” special programming on Election Day, Nov. 5, 2024
Instagram:
MSNBC: @MSNBC
Katy Tur: @katyturnbc
Alex Wagner: @itsalexwags / @wagnertonight
TikTok:
MSNBC: @MSNBC
Katy Tur: @katy_tur
Alex Wagner: @wagnertonight
Twitter:
MSNBC: @MSNBC
Katy Tur: @katyturnbc / @katyonmsnbc
Alex Wagner: @alexwagner / @wagnertonight
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Sami dives into America's economy with Stephanie Ruhle, MSNBC’s senior business analyst and host of The 11th Hour. Together, they unpack the many layers of the economy and the upcoming election, exploring everything from billionaire influence to the complex position Kamala Harris faces in explaining her economic stance.
MSNBC’s Katy Tur, Alex Wagner and Stephanie Ruhle will be a part of MSNBC’s “Decision 2024” special programming on Election Day, Nov. 5, 2024
Follow MSNBC & Stephanie Ruhle:
Instagram:
MSNBC: @MSNBC
Stephanie Ruhle: @stephruhle
TikTok:
MSNBC: @MSNBC
Stephanie Ruhle: @stephruhletv / @11thhourmsnbc
Twitter:
MSNBC: @MSNBC
Stephanie Ruhle: @sruhle / @11thhour
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1Legendary journalist Bob Woodward dives into his latest book War, which pulls back the curtain on U.S. foreign policy and reveals what’s really going on behind the scenes. The book also gives us a closer look at President Biden's leadership and the relationship between VP Harris and the president. Woodward shares his thoughts on the state of journalism today, why context matters in reporting, how Biden’s foreign policy stacks up against past presidents, and who falls short. He also talks about Biden’s complex relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, the role of Kamala Harris in shaping U.S. foreign policy, and the lasting impact of Trump’s ties with Putin.
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T-1 week to go until the 2024 election, Sami & V are here trying to keep you informed and sane(ish.)
TEMP CHECK
5:00 - The lowlights of Trump's rally at Madison Square Garden, including the repercussions of Tony Hinchcliffe's "jokes," and Hulk Hogan comparing Harris to the hawk-tuah girl.
VIBE CHECK & MAIN NEWS
24:45 - Election updates! From updates on what's happening on Polymarket (where those outside the US can bet on the outcome of the US election) to voters being illegally purged in Virginia, there's a lot to cover this week. But maybe there's some hope too?
AMERICAN'T
46:45 - The brologarch is here. Both the Washington Post & the LA Times refuse to officially endorse Kamala for president. What does this mean -- and more importantly, why won't they?
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This week we are joined by former astronaut, Senator Mark Kelly to talk about all things Kamala Harris, and his family's personal experience with gun violence and IVF. Kelly also reflects on how new laws are effecting OBGYNs in Arizona, and the danger of qualified doctors closing their practices and moving out of state. We end the the interview by asking Kelly our most burning question about space.
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It's 2 weeks till the election and things are ramping up. With early voting in full swing, Sami & V break down the latest data and see what the results are showing in NC, GA, VA. Trump shuts down a McDonalds and pretends to work the fryer, and why they will never be able to drink an Arnold Palmer again. (Though we could go for a burger right now.)
Elon Musk also runs a questionable $1 million giveaway in Pennsylvania, which may put him in legal trouble (if Trump doesn't win.)
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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.
best new political podcast. totally the fresh voices I have been looking for.
terrible audio from Amanda, why did no one mention it to her and fix it?
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...
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
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