Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams

Crooked Media
  • 4.5 (1.3K)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams

Let's face it, sometimes the world feels broken. We can see what needs fixing, yet more and more, it feels like the problems are too big and the bad guys are winning. But the truth is, they’re not. They’re just hoping we stop fighting. Welcome to Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams, a new podcast from Crooked Media and Democratic changemaker Stacey Abrams. Stacey knows better than anyone that societal shifts happen when a group of ordinary people decide that a problem is solvable, and are willing to pitch in and work towards the solution. Each week, Stacey will break down the biggest issues we face into digestible, actionable items, introduce us to the warriors for good already working towards solutions, strategize, and share tangible ways to get involved. Because we can't fix everything, everywhere, all at once; but we can each do something, somewhere, soon.

  1. 12H AGO

    Breaking America's Economy: Unpacking Trump's Tariff War

    Trump’s unhinged, unpredictable global trade war is causing chaos and confusion. In just one week, the President announced tariffs on the entire world, then paused some, upped others, and announced exemptions for certain goods. This capriciousness  has sparked fears that another economic recession may be looming. In this episode, Stacey is joined by Dean Baker, economist and cofounder of the Center for Economic Policy and Research to break down how tariffs affect the broader economy. Then, she hears from Beth Benike, founder of Busy Baby, and Richard R. Oswald, Vice President of the Missouri Farmers Union, about how these tariffs and the environment of uncertainty are already impacting their livelihoods.  Learn & Do More:  Be curious: Visit your local library, get a library card if you don’t have one, and check out a book from the banned books list. Fight back with curiosity. Want to do more? Check out Book Riot or PEN America’s guides on how to help fight book bans.  Solve Problems: call your representatives and senators, no matter their party. But don’t stop there. Local elected officials have power too—sometimes more than we realize. Visit USA.gov/elected-officials to find your federal, state, and local reps. Let them know how you feel about the rise in book bans, tariffs, and how these issues are affecting your community.  Do Good: If you have the means, support small businesses in your area—and encourage friends and family to do the same. Shop local, spend local. We're good with the clips.

    1h 9m

  2. APR 10

    Lessons from Ryan Holiday: How to Stay Grounded in Turbulent Times

    Whether your instinct now is fight or flight, many of us are searching for the way to navigate these turbulent times. In this episode, Stacey shares her practice of stoicism: an ancient philosophy built to make us more resilient, knowledgeable and grounded in the face of adversity. She’s joined by author, entrepreneur, and host of The Daily Stoic podcast, Ryan Holiday, to explore how we can apply the art of stoicism to this political moment —and use it as a tool to build our capacity and organize action. They talk about everything from lessons from past freedom fighters to smart media consumption, as well identifying the small ways we can make a difference and regain a sense of power and stability. Learn & Do More: BE CURIOUS: Check out our guest Ryan Holiday’s podcast The Daily Stoic for more ways we can harness stoicism to find stability and resilience. SOLVE PROBLEMS: Make sure to think about your news diet. Focus on constructive consumption of the news that helps you stay informed instead of being a consumer of endless information. Seek out other sources like historical biographies that can better help you understand the current moment. DO GOOD: In addition to trying to do big, audacious things to change the world, remember that small things can also make a difference. Picking up trash in your community, showing up to a city council meeting, or providing comfort to a friend who's having a hard time is all worthwhile.

    59 min

  3. APR 3

    The Rise of Bad Medicine and Anti-Vaxxers: Combatting Trump’s Health Agenda

    Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy's so-called assault on medical science is putting Americans at grave risk. Measles has resurfaced, HHS is losing tens of thousands of staff, and medical research at the National Institutes of Health is being cut. Stacey is joined by infectious disease researcher and science communicator Laurel Bristow, along with associate professor and infectious disease expert Ghady Haidar, to break down the immediate and long-term impacts of the Trump administration’s dismantling of health infrastructure and skepticism of critical vaccines. They also share how we can protect ourselves and our communities from medical misinformation and disinformation. Learn & Do More: Don't spread misinformation: Be mindful of what you share on social media. It’s tempting to post a meme or video mocking conspiracy theories, but don’t be a spreader. Share the truth. Find content that debunks misinformation without amplifying it. Be a viral truth-teller. Use your resources: Vaccines are your best protection in this uncertain health climate. Free and low-cost vaccines are available, even without insurance. The HHS provides a list of state and local health departments to help you find them—visit hhs.gov/immunization. For example, if you're in Los Angeles, check publichealth.lacounty.gov for clinics offering free or low-cost vaccines for kids 18 and under. Stay informed: For health advice, trust medical professionals. Get information from doctors and scientists, and read research-backed articles. Social media isn’t always reliable—so seek out experts with real credentials. To stay informed and up to date on the latest scientific news check out the WHO newsletter at who.int/news-room/newsletters and for the latest science reporting check out STAT news at statnews.com and Scientific America at https://www.scientificamerican.com.

    52 min

  4. MAR 27

    Defying the Courts: Trump's Legal Battles and Our Fight for Justice

    The Trump Administration is openly defying the courts, racking up over 100 federal lawsuits due to its tyrannical actions. Trump and his allies have continuously sidestepped and ignored federal judges issuing multiple injunctions to reign in his power. From flouting a judge’s order to reverse the deportation of 250 Venezuelan immigrants without due process to unlawfully detaining and attempting to deport green card holders, this administration is pushing the boundaries of executive overreach. Stacey is joined by Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, to examine the state of our legal system and break down some of Trump’s most significant legal battles. Then, Stacey sits down with Mandela Barnes, President of Power to the Polls, to discuss the upcoming Wisconsin Supreme Court race—an election that could be the most pivotal of 2025.

    1h 2m

  5. MAR 20 · BONUS

    How John Legend Learned To Forgive His Mother (From Your Mama's Kitchen)

    Sharing another podcast we can’t get enough of: Your Mama’s Kitchen. It’s a show about cuisine and culture, ingredients and identities, and the meals and memories that make us who we are. Host Michele Norris talks to Michelle Obama, Glennon Doyle, Gayle King and so many other guests about the complexities of family life and how their earliest culinary experiences helped shape their personal and professional lives. And of course, each guest shares a recipe for a favorite dish from their youth so you can taste a bit of their story. In this episode, singer John Legend takes us back to his roots in Springfield, Ohio, where he was an academic overachiever and a musical prodigy. John opens up about his early rocky relationship with his mother and how, over time, they came together to nurture one beautiful family. Plus, we learn how to make his mama's special mac & cheese. Listen to Your Mama’s Kitchen wherever you get your podcasts.

    44 min

  6. MAR 13

    Why Trump’s Attack on Veterans Weakens America

    Our nation’s veterans are being disproportionately impacted by the Trump administration’s assault on government agencies, from cuts to the VA, to job and funding reductions across the board. Not only have Republicans turned their backs on those who  have dedicated themselves to serving our country, they are  also doing damage to a constituency that was already underserved. Stacey is joined by Jason Kander, an Afghanistan Veteran and former Secretary of State of Missouri to talk through the needs of veterans on everything from healthcare to housing. Then Stacey speaks to Laila Ireland, a transgender Army veteran and member of SPARTA Pride, about how Trump’s dehumanizing attacks on LGBTQIA+ service members degrade the effectiveness of our military and erode our core values.  Learn & Do More:  Check out or support organizations like Veterans Community Project, which builds tiny houses for veterans in need, and visit SPARTA pride which provides essential resources for transgender people who currently serve or have previously served in the military.  If you’re a veteran or know a veteran who has recently been fired due to mass layoffs, check out The Public Service Alliance for support in fighting back or finding new employment. Keep up to date by reading trusted sources like the Associated Press, the New York Times, and visiting CNN’s handy resource to track cuts to the federal workforce.

    1 hr

  7. MAR 6

    Decoding Trump’s Address to Congress w/ Jen Psaki

    Trump’s speech to a joint chamber of Congress was the longest in history, clocking in at nearly 100 minutes. Instead of providing viable solutions to problems like our affordability crisis or the current trade war , he used his platform to push his ongoing dangerous narrative on immigration, crime, and transgender rights. Stacey is joined by Jen Psaki, Host of MSNBC’s “Inside with Jen Psaki” and the MSNBC original podcast “The Blueprint with Jen Psaki” to recap, respond, and strategize ways that Democrats, and average citizens can prepare for the additional chaos to come and push back. Learn & Do More: Keep yourself informed. To understand what’s true and what’s not from Trump’s speech, visit politifact.com or the Associated Press. Make your voice heard. There’s a great toolkit for the week of Congressional recess at https://indivisible.org/muskorus Mutual aid remains an excellent way to "do good" in your community. As prices rise due to Trump's policies, making it even harder for families to make ends meet, consider visiting your local food bank or shelter and volunteering or making a donation.

    1h 3m

  8. FEB 27

    Trump’s Crypto Presidency: What It Means For You

    President Trump’s affinity for crypto currency has emerged as another vehicle for profit and peddling influence. On today’s episode, we break down the basics of crypto and how the industry infiltrated Trump's world, unpacks the ways this administration is creating a friendly environment for this unregulated market in ways that might impact our economy more broadly, and questions its ethics. Stacey is joined by Zeke Faux, investigative reporter for Bloomberg Businessweek, and Annie Lowrey, staff writer at The Atlantic, to explore the good, the bad, and the gray areas of digital currency. Learn & Do More: · If you want to learn more about cryptocurrency and its newly entwined relationship with our government, check out both Annie and Zeke’s work at Bloomberg and The Atlantic. · If you are considering, or know someone else who is thinking of investing in cryptocurrency or other high-risk assets, prioritize safety. Invest in what you understand—avoid following trends blindly. Always research companies, funds, or assets before committing your money—and encourage other people in your life, especially those who may be most vulnerable to financial losses, to do the same. · Start asking questions of your elected officials. Since we’re showing up in their inboxes and at their town halls, put them to the test. Ask about their positions on crypto and pay attention to how they respond. We have a number of urgent issues, but truly can’t afford to let this one escape our attention or theirs.

    1 hr
See All (35)

Trailer

Shows with Subscription Benefits

  • Pod Save America is a no-b******t conversation about politics hosted by former Obama aides Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer, and Tommy Vietor. It cuts through the noise to break down the week’s news and helps people figure out what matters and how they can help. They’re regularly joined by journalists, activists, politicians, entertainers, and world leaders. You can watch on YouTube or listen to new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Pod Save America and Pod Save the World, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts. For a transcript of an episode of Pod Save America, please email transcripts@crooked.com.

    • 4.5 (81815)
    • POLITICS

  • Roberto Calvi, a man guarding a dangerous secret about the Vatican Bank’s criminal activities, sends a threatening letter to the Pope. A week later on June 17th, 1982 he’s found dead hanging from a bridge in London. British police call it suicide, but questions and conspiracies swirl. Forty years on, lawyer Nicolo Majnoni gets a tip there might be more to the story and embarks on a quest to uncover the truth. Was Roberto Calvi, aka God’s Banker, killed? And if so, by whom? Shadow Kingdom is a new series from Crooked Media and Campside Media. Each season starts with a crime, and as the layers are peeled back to find out who or what is at the center of it, a larger system at play is revealed.  Get early access to the full season by joining Crooked’s Friends of the Pod at crooked.com/friends. Hear the Italian language version of Shadow Kingdom: God’s Banker by subscribing to Il Banchiere di Dio wherever you get your podcasts.

    • 4.7 (3987)
    • TRUE CRIME

  • “Pod Save America” cohost Tommy Vietor thought foreign policy was boring and complicated until he got the education of a lifetime working for President Obama’s National Security Council. On “Pod Save the World,” he and former deputy national security adviser Ben Rhodes break down the latest global developments and bring you behind the scenes with the people who were there. New episodes every Wednesday. Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Pod Save America and Pod Save the World, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts.

    • 4.8 (23832)
    • POLITICS

  • Is the internet slowly breaking our brains, and if so, what can we do about it? Offline with Jon Favreau is a place where you can take a break from doom-scrolling and tune in to smarter, lighter conversations about the impact of technology and the internet on our collective culture. Intimate interviews between Pod Save America host Jon Favreau and notable guests like Stephen Colbert, Hasan Piker, Chimamanda Adichie, ContraPoints, Margaret Atwood, and Rachel Maddow spark curiosity and introspection around the various ways our extremely online existence shapes everything from the ways we live, work, and interact with one another. Together we’ll figure out how to live happier, healthier lives, both on and offline. New episodes drop every Thursday, wherever you get your podcasts and on the Offline YouTube channel. Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Offline with Jon Favreau, Pod Save America, Pod Save the World, and Lovett or Leave It, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts.

    • 4.7 (2052)
    • SOCIETY & CULTURE

  • Former Obama speechwriter, comedian and Pod Save America co-host Jon Lovett takes the stage for a new season of the hit show that dared guests from Danny DeVito to Amy Klobuchar to ask “What is this?” and “Where am I?” Each week, Jon breaks down the biggest and dumbest stories in politics to help you keep up with and laugh at the news. And this season, stay tuned for big guests and surprising conversations you won’t find anywhere else. New episodes every Saturday morning on your podcast feed and on YouTube. And if you’re in LA, come to a taping. You’ll be amazed by what we cut from the live show. Subscribe to Friends of the Pod! Your subscription makes Crooked’s work possible and gives you access to ad-free episodes of Lovett or Leave It, Pod Save America, Pod Save the World, and Offline with Jon Favreau, plus exclusive content and a lively Discord community. Learn more and subscribe at crooked.com/friends or on Apple Podcasts.

    • 4.7 (24675)
    • NEWS

  • Does every new poll make you want to crawl under your desk and get into the fetal position? Do you hate the polls but can’t quit them? Well, we have a podcast that’s just for you (and us!). Pollercoaster is Crooked’s new home for exclusive in-depth analysis across the biggest national polls, latest voter trends, and closest races up and down the ballot. Join former White House Communications Director and Pod Save America host Dan Pfeiffer and a series of expert guests to break down the polls, unpack what they actually mean, and whether or not it’s time to hit the panic button. New exclusive episodes of Pollercoaster drop twice monthly for Friends of the Pod subscribers. Subscribe to Friends of the Pod on Apple Podcasts now to get access to exclusive episodes from Pollercoaster, Inside 2024 and Terminally Online or learn more about the Friends of the Pod community at crooked.com/friends.

    • 3.8 (28)
    • GOVERNMENT

Ad-free episodes + exclusive bonus pods

$9.99/mo or $119.99/yr after trial

View Subscription FAQs

Hosts & Guests

4.5
out of 5
1,298 Ratings

About

Let's face it, sometimes the world feels broken. We can see what needs fixing, yet more and more, it feels like the problems are too big and the bad guys are winning. But the truth is, they’re not. They’re just hoping we stop fighting. Welcome to Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams, a new podcast from Crooked Media and Democratic changemaker Stacey Abrams. Stacey knows better than anyone that societal shifts happen when a group of ordinary people decide that a problem is solvable, and are willing to pitch in and work towards the solution. Each week, Stacey will break down the biggest issues we face into digestible, actionable items, introduce us to the warriors for good already working towards solutions, strategize, and share tangible ways to get involved. Because we can't fix everything, everywhere, all at once; but we can each do something, somewhere, soon.

Information

More From Crooked Media

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada