American Fever Dream

Today, V and Sami dive into some 1990's level political gossip and what it says about today's circus of American politics. Then, they take a wild turn north, wondering if Trump has his sights set on annexing Canada (because, of course, that’s a thing now). From political blunders to healthcare nightmares, they break down why our neighbors might not be so friendly for long. Plus, a look at Canada’s new prime minister, the future of telemedicine, and why USAID cuts could make things even messier. X: @senatorslotkin Threads and IG: @SenSlotkin Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/slotkin.senate.gov Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, V and Sami break down Zelensky’s U.S. visit and what it means for foreign policy—because nothing screams “global alliance” like a right wing reporter playing fashion police in the Oval Office. They also dive into Zelensky's visit to King Charles's house, the European response, and why billionaires just can't resist meddling in politics. And because reality isn’t unhinged enough, they explore the bizarre collision of celebrity culture and space travel—because apparently, launching influencers into orbit is the next big power move. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, V and Sami are talking to Marianne Williamson as she dives into the challenges and dynamics within the Democratic Party, the evolving political landscape, and how paving the way for Trump has been in works since the 1990’s. She shares her opinion on immigration, explaining why no amount of private charity or personal transformation will ever compensate for true social justice. With a deep focus on America’s foundational ideals, historical struggles for equality, and the intersection of spirituality and activism, Williamson calls for a collective awakening. She critiques media representation, highlights the urgency of addressing societal despair and mental health crises, and urges individuals to reclaim the moral compass of politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, V Spehar and Sami Sage unravel the absurdities of modern politics—from AI-generated satire to the Senate’s latest Voterama. As federal budget cuts hit local communities and far-right movements surge across Europe, they draw unsettling parallels to history in the making. Plus, who is Big Balls and why does everyone working at DOGE act like an intern?? With sharp analysis, biting humor, and a deep dive into the power of creativity as resistance, V and Sami break down the chaos and make sense of the madness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, V sits down with Senator Tammy Baldwin to discuss the chaos of the first few weeks of the new Trump era and the influence of power players like Elon Musk. Baldwin calls for bold action against unconstitutional moves and stresses the need for constituents to demand change in assertive and creative ways. Baldwin also dives into the shocking Senate confirmations that are shaping public health and the potential for harm, urging transparency and accountability from political leaders. Plus, why Baldwin thinks the mass layoffs at the FBI is particularly chilling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, V and Sami are explaining what went down at the Munich Security Conference and why the United States is like a toxic ex that needed to go. There were literal tears shed by political leaders and JD Vance gave a very weird, and unnecessary, speech in response to the war in Ukraine. They delve into visa and immigration concerns, generational political perspectives, and the complexities of evolving Middle Eastern politics. Plus, why everyone should be paying attention to what is happening to US farmers and the importance of community engagement in today’s political climate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, V and Tik Tok's favorite immigration lawyer, Kathleen Martinez, discuss the current climate of immigration law and the realities deportation. Kathleen shares her journey to becoming an immigration lawyer, the importance of understanding rights, and the implications of recent legislation like the Laken Reily Act. Plus, she explains why she thinks building a wall is 'so dumb.' The discussion rounds outs with an emphasis on the need for awareness and advocacy, while addressing the value of US citizenship and the hope that remains within the immigration system. https://www.martinezimmigration.net https://www.nilc.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, V and Sami explain why satire, empathy, and individual action are the best tools for resistance; emphasizing a balance between activism and personal well-being. They go on to break down the power dynamics between Trump and Musk, explaining the not-so-complex psychological games that may be at play. They also delve into the absurdities of how social media shapes perceptions, behaviors, and the complexities of generational differences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Sami is joined by Reid Hoffman, Co-Founder of LinkedIn, to discuss the optimistic future of AI, emphasizing its potential to enhance daily life and work. Hoffman addresses public's trust in technology, the importance of regulation, and the ethical dilemmas posed by AI. He advocates for a balanced approach to regulation that fosters innovation while ensuring safety. The conversation reflects on whether humans a inherently good and the role of AI in amplifying human capabilities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Sami and V talk 2025 Grammy Awards before they break down the implications of recent changes in the Democratic National Committee's leadership. The conversation touches on Project 2025, Project Russia, and how geopolitical strategies, economic shifts, and cultural influences are re-shaping the modern world. They discuss the implications of hybrid warfare, the potential destabilization of the US dollar, and the religious underpinnings of power on societal change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, V and Sami sit down with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to discuss a range of crucial topics, including climate change, renewable energy, and immigration policies. From Illinois' commitment to phasing out fossil fuels and investing in wind energy to the challenges faced by immigrant communities, Pritzker shares his insights on how the state is moving forward. He also reflects on the role of empathy in public policy, offering personal stories that have shaped his values and leadership style. The conversation delves into the need for cultural shifts around money, economic justice, and the growing impact of dis- and misinformation. Pritzker emphasizes the importance of building trust and infrastructure within communities to create a more equitable future for all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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