American Fever Dream
by Betches Media
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. Watch American Fever Dream On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetchesnews
Episodes
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Sydney Sweeney American Eagle Ad Controversy
In the final episode of American Fever Dream, V Spehar and Sami Sage go out with their hottest grab bag of takes. First, they dissect Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad and its alleged white supremacist undertones. Then, they deep dive on Hunter Biden’s interview and the weight of American...
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Inside Trump & Epstein’s PR Machine
In this episode of American Fever Dream, V and Sami critique Jubilee’s YouTube debate platform and react to the latest episode of Surrounded with Medhi Hasan. Then, they deep dive into how digital dependency has eroded our attention span across generations. And finally, they unpack Jeffrey...
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Why Trump Doesn’t Want the Epstein Files Released
In this episode of American Fever Dream, V and Sami deep dive into the dark, unresolved legacy of Jeffrey Epstein. They unpack how Epstein groomed girls from elite institutions and the power structures that protected him. And finally, with Ghislaine’s court appeal and Trump’s constant media...
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Books We Read to Cope Ft. Molly Jong-Fast and David Litt
On this episode of American Fever Dream, V and Sami have their first book club of ‘AFD approved’ beach reads. They’re first joined by author Molly Jong-Fast of How To Lose Your Mother to chat about grief, sobriety, and how to get through the ‘worst year of your life.’ Then, switching gears, David...
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The Senate's Medicaid Meltdown & How to Stay Sane Ft. Mallory McMorrow
This week on American Fever Dream, V and Sami are joined by Michigan Senate candidate Mallory McMorrow to talk burnout, billionaires, and why Democrats keep losing the narrative. They unpack the myth of self-made tech moguls and why political performance matters more than ever to take dems out of...
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The Left Needs a Pep Rally Ft. Akilah Hughes
This week on American Fever Dream, V and Sami are joined by Akilah Hughes to break down the mess that is the Democratic Party. They unpack their political atrophy, their lack of authenticity, and how Republicans have mastered political theater over them. And finally, the talk about the power of...
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America Joined a War and VidCon Was Hell
This week on American Fever Dream, V and Sami unpack hell on earth - Hawk Tuah’s live podcast at Vid Con. Then, they deep dive into how President Trump bombed Iran without telling anyone (including Congress) and the implications of Christian nationalism in politics. It’s all getting very 2003…
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Why the “No Kings” Protests Hit Different
This week, V and Sami unpack the No Kings protests and explore how a grassroots movement sent a powerful message across the country. Then, they discuss what made these demonstrations feel different, why small-town actions mattered, and what Democrats must learn from the moment. Finally, they take…
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The Crypto Grift That Could Break America ft. Charlotte Howard
This week, V and Sami unpack the ICE protests in LA and dig into the disinformation spreading through on-the-ground reporting and the media ecosystem at large. Then, they’re joined by Charlotte Howard, Executive Editor of The Economist and co-host of the Checks and Balance podcast, for a deeply...
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NJ Governor Race EXCLUSIVE: Mikie Sherrill on Trump, Congress & the Future and We Can’t Afford To Wait
In this bonus episode of American Fever Dream, Sami Sage sits down with New Jersey Congresswoman and gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill for a candid conversation about why Congress is stuck, what it’s like trying to change a broken system from the inside, and why the Democratic Party needs a...
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The Truth About Trump, Sex Addiction, and Religious Trauma Ft. Jennifer Welch and Angie Sullivan
This week, V and Sami are joined by Jennifer Welch and Angie Sullivan, hosts of the I’ve Had It podcast, to talk about their new book Life Is a Lazy Susan of Sh*t Sandwiches. They dig into dealing with religious trauma, marriage to a sex addict, and what it’s really like being progressive in the...
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How The Supreme Court Got Hijacked: Leah Litman Breaks It Down
This week, Sami sits down with Strict Scrutiny's Leah Litman to discuss her new book, Lawless: How the Supreme Court Runs on Conservative Grievance, Fringe Theories, and Bad Vibes. They unpack the chaos that is the Supreme Court and what can be done to fight back. Watch this and more today at...
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Biden's Health, Vatican Controversy & Chasten Buttigieg On LGBTQ Lit
This week, Sami and V talk about the breaking news on Biden’s health. Then, they unpack the Pope’s comments on marriage and the Louisiana plantation that burned down. And finally, they’re joined by Chasten Buttigieg to talk about his new children’s book Papa’s Coming Home.
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Democrats Are Getting This One Thing Right With Alyssa Mastromonaco
In this bonus episode, Sami and V are joined by former White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Barack Obama, Alyssa Mastromonaco, to chat about jam-making, Gen Z Catholicism, and key messaging strategies for Democrats. Then, they reveal their picks for Delulu Girlie Of the Month and make 2028...
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Tara Palmeri Talks Lindy Li Showdown
This week, Sami and V are joined by independent journalist Tara Palmeri to talk about her recent interview with Lindy Li, a Democratic commentator turned MAGA enthusiast. Then, they deep dive into content creator journalism and Tara unpacks her experience covering the Jeffrey Epstein case. And...
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Rep. Jasmine Crockett Slams MTG, DOGE & Donald Trump
This week, Sami sits down with Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett to discuss how she is giving her constituents “something to vote for.” They deep dive into what Republicans are afraid of, DOGE cuts, and fights with the one and only, Marjorie Taylor Greene. And finally, Rep. Jasmine Crockett...
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A Sleepy White House Correspondents' Dinner, A 2024 Election Tell-All, And Democratic Hope With Amanda Litman
This week, V and Sami unpack why the "Democratic Party is a delusional circle jerk." Well, kinda! They cover the very quiet White House Correspondents' Dinner and deep dive into Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes's 2024 election cycle book, Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House. Then,...
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The Pope Passed, The Market Crashed, And A Free Press Is Somehow Still Intact with Catherine Rampell + Stephanie Ruhle
This week, Sami and V are joined by MSNBC co-host of The Weekend: Primetime Catherine Rampell to discuss the difficulties of a free press in 2025. Then, they unpack top headlines of the Pope’s passing and Harvard vs. Paul Weiss. And finally, Sami interviews MSNBC host of The 11th Hour, Stephanie...
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Bernie At Coachella, Luxury Good Chinese Propaganda, And Talking Gen Z with Rachel Janfaza
This week, Sami and V cover Bernie at Coachella and the Chinese propaganda machine that is making social media users distrust European and American brands. Then, they unpack the latest updates on how the Trump administration is literally trying to buy Greenland. Spoiler: it’s as insulting as you...
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How Are Trump's Tariffs Are Affecting Me with Chris Hayes
This week, V and Sami deep dive into yet another financial crisis millennials will live through due to Trump tariffs. Can we not live through an unprecedented time, just once? And then, they play a game called, Delululu Derivatives, where they guess if an economic theory is ‘girl math’ or 'MAGA...
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More Guts, Less BS: Alencia Johnson Says It's Time To Flip Tables
Alencia Johnson dives into her new book, Flip the Tables, shaking up the status quo of political activism with a heavy dose of spirituality. She talks about why communities need to get messy, the raw journey of self-discovery, and why self-worth shouldn’t be defined by society's bullshit…
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WHCD Cancels Amber Ruffin, Trump Wants Greenland, And Snuffleupagus Joins OnlyFans
This week, V and Sami are joined by the self-proclaimed “Hatch of morning television”, MSNBC host Ali Vitali. Together, they cover the White House Correspondents’ Dinner cancelling of Amber Ruffin, PBS and NPR DOGE cuts, and the Trump administration’s obsession with Greenland. And finally, in an...
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Jillian Olmsted On Serving The Homeless Population, NIMBYism, And Running The Inn Between
In this interview, V sits down with Jillian Olmsted, the Executive Director of The Inn Between, an organization that serves unsheltered individuals by giving them a place to stay, providing necessary medical attention, as well as hospice care. They deep dive into the intersection of end-of-life...
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Democracy Dies At The White House Easter Egg Roll: Cyber Checks, Katie Phang On Paul Weiss, And DMs Leaking War Plans
This week, V and Sami unpack “cyber checks” while traveling and Sami describes her recent experience returning from Paris. Then, they do a deep dive into the Easter ‘Egg Roll’ on the White House lawn that is now brand sponsored like a NASCAR race, because we do, indeed, live in hell. Following...
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Trump Is Applying His Make Up Wrong Ft. Suzanne Lambert
V and Sami are joined by comedian Suzanne Lambert as they dive headfirst into the chaotic collision of humor, politics, and culture. Joined by guests Suzy and Bruce, they dissect everything from potential government shutdowns and the political power of fashion, to the hilariously awkward…
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Everything's Computer: Trump Bought A Tesla, Hallow App Celebrity Endorsements, Meta A.I. Slop + Carlos Eduardo Espina Speaks To Covering Immigration
Today, V and Sami dive into the Hallow App and its god-fearing celebrity endorsements. Then, they cover Trump’s purchase of a Tesla and his parade of it on the White House lawn. And to top off our coverage of fascist men that failed upwards, Sami and V break down Sarah Wynn-Williams’s Facebook...
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USAID Cuts, The Future Of Telemedicine, and Trump Eying Canada
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...
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Putin, Politics, and the Billionaire Puppet Show
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...
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Authoritarianism And Codependency Of The American Voter Ft. Marianne Williamson
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...
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Is Everyone At DOGE An Intern??
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...
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How You Can Push Back In The New Trump Era Ft. Senator Tammy Baldwin
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...
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What Vance Got Wrong At The Munich Security Conference
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…
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Kathleen Martinez on Immigration Law & Deportation Realities
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…
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Why Humor Is The Secret Weapon
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...
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The Ethics of AI and the Path to Safe Innovation Ft. Reid Hoffman
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...
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Can the US Dollar Survive Geopolitical Turmoil?
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...
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Governor JB Pritzker on Immigration Reform and Fighting Climate Change
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...
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The Nine Documents - Legal Must-Haves for LGBT Couples, ft. Angela Giampolo
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...
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12 Hours Without TikTok, Trump's Inauguration & What Comes Next
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...
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TikTok's Final Days and Rogan & Zuckerberg Awkwardly Bro Out
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,...
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Is It Time To Give Up Drinking? & Looking Back On Jan 6th
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…
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From Bathtub HRT to Latkes: Your Questions Answered
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 [email protected]
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Hunter Biden: Rizzler In Chief, Eggnog Hangovers & The Ghost of Christmases Past?
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...
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Remembering the Holocaust, With Rodi Glass
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...
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Pelosi & McConnell Fall (again,) Banning HFCS, & How To Fight Insurance Companies
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...
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What The Manhunt For Luigi Mangione Says About Society, ft. Stephanie Ruhle
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...
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The Latest On The TikTok Ban, The UnitedHealthcare CEO Shooter & Jay Z's 99 Problems
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…
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Pick-me Girls, Politics, & Cancel Culture ft. Jared Freid (U Up? podcast)
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...
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Preparing For Uncertain Times & Stephen Miller Flipping Tables
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...
About this show
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.
Watch American Fever Dream On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetchesnews
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Betches Media
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