Pod Save America’s Jon Lovett wants to win an election and make money
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Deep Dive
Why did Jon Lovett decide to go on Survivor during an election year?
Lovett wanted to take a break from politics during a lull in the primary season and saw Survivor as an opportunity for a unique experience, especially as it aligns with democratic principles.
How did Jon Lovett feel about being the first person voted out on Survivor?
Lovett was initially nervous about the episode airing but felt it was better to be voted out first rather than later, as it allowed him to focus on promoting Vote Save America during the election season.
What was the reaction to Crooked Media suggesting replacing Joe Biden on the Democratic ticket?
The suggestion led to significant blowback, with some labeling them as 'Obama bros' trying to take Biden down. However, their audience grew during this time as people sought out honest conversations about the election.
How does Jon Lovett view Elon Musk's influence and behavior?
Lovett sees Musk as a complex figure, acknowledging his business acumen and success in companies like Tesla and SpaceX, while also criticizing his despicable political views and behavior.
What impact did the Tony Hinchcliffe Puerto Rico joke have on the election narrative?
The joke broke through due to the political context around Puerto Rico, including corruption and the Trump administration's involvement. It resonated with a broader narrative about the Republican campaign's vulgarity and bigotry.
How does Crooked Media aim to reach low-information voters?
Crooked Media tries to create a fun and engaging environment to attract new listeners, providing them with an on-ramp to learn about politics. They also arm their engaged audience with tools to influence less engaged voters in their lives.
What was Jon Lovett's experience like during his digital detox?
Lovett found the digital detox beneficial, noticing an improvement in his attention span and a sense of calm as he spent more time reading and reflecting without the constant distraction of his phone.
Why did Jon Lovett sell his Tesla?
Lovett sold his Tesla due to Elon Musk's behavior, which he found increasingly erratic and problematic, leading him to distance himself from the brand.
How does Jon Lovett feel about the Washington Post losing 10% of its subscriber base?
Lovett believes the anger is misplaced, as the decision not to endorse a candidate had no impact on Jeff Bezos but negatively affected the journalists working at the Post. He sees it as a reflection of broader frustration with politics.
What does Jon Lovett think about the future of political media post-Trump?
Lovett is unsure how much of the current media landscape is Trump-specific and how much will persist. He notes challenges faced by media organizations in reaching broader audiences and maintaining a shared reality.
- Crooked Media generates 25 million podcast downloads a month.
- The Washington Post lost 10% of its subscribers due to anger towards Jeff Bezos.
- There's a large, hyper-engaged audience interested in political podcasts.
Shownotes Transcript