Jim Messina, the SNAP Crisis and a Gen Z Lingo Pop Quiz
In this week’s episode, Andy sits down with Jim Messina, the strategist known as “the fixer” behind President Barack Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign. From his days in the West Wing to managing one of the most data-driven campaigns in history, Messina shares what still matters most in politics today — trust, leadership, and connecting with working families. He reflects on lessons from President Obama’s steady hand, the future of political communication, and what gives him hope for American democracy. 🇺🇸The Jo(h)ns round up the week’s biggest headlines, including new developments on SNAP benefits, tariff debates, healthcare costs, Ohio’s redistricting fight, and housing affordability. Plus, a quick recap from the world of sports including Tyler Shough's first start in the NFL, the end of the World Series, and special remembrance of former Governor Martha Layne Collins. And as a bonus, Andy's Halloween costume. Let's just say, it's a beautiful day in the neighborhood. 🏘️This week's In My Kentucky Accent is all about healthcare. Jesus said "A doctor is for the sick" and right now that human right is being stripped from rural communities and costs are increasing for Americans everywhere. We're better than this and Congress needs to act now. And in a very special edition of Gen Z Lingo, Andy's daughter Lila challenges the team to a pop quiz and you may be surprised who emerges as the winner... we promise it wasn't rigged! 🏆 It’s a brand new episode about leadership, resilience, and restoring the chance at the American dream for all. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Episode 30: Jen Psaki
Welcome to Episode 30 of the Andy Beshear Podcast! 🎂 This week, we’re unpacking a whirlwind of headlines and heart — from the White House to working families...This week, Andy sits down with Jen Psaki, Host of MSNBC’s “The Briefing” and the MSNBC Original podcast “The Blueprint” for an honest conversation about leadership, communication, and staying grounded in the political spotlight. Jen shares stories from her time behind the podium, lessons learned from navigating high-stakes moments, and her thoughts on how public officials can rebuild trust in government.Together, Andy and Jen dive into the human side of politics—what it takes to serve with empathy, the importance of truth in public life, and how to keep perspective when the cameras are always rolling.Next up, First Lady Britainy Beshear crashes this week's “Conversation with the Jo(h)ns,” diving into Trump’s controversial renovation plans for the White House East Wing, new Canadian tariffs sparked by a Reagan ad dispute, and the looming expiration of SNAP benefits as the government shutdown drags on. Finally, AFGE President Everett Kelley joins to talk about the impact of the federal shutdown on America’s public servants, what solidarity means in action, and why the people who keep our government running deserve our gratitude and support. ✊🎙️ It’s a packed episode of policy, perspective, and partnership — with a little extra Winnie along the way. 🐾 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Episode 29: Governor Kathy Hochul and American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten
This week, Andy sits down with New York's first woman Governor and Buffalo Bills fan, Kathy Hochul. 🗽 Governor Hochul's faith guides her to make good policy and to fight for the underdog. She talks about how many women sell themselves short and how she unexpectedly ended up in running for office – and winning. From town board to the top elected in the Empire State, she knows that the best kind of government is the kind that problem solves and works together to get the job done, for everyone.📖 Next up, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten joins the pod to share her brand new book and the issues facing some of our most important public servants: our teachers. Public education is under attack and has never been more important. 🍎 Andy and Randi talk about how we can get our teachers the resources they need to help our kids be the best they can be, the challenges of AI and why 'teachers union' is not a dirty word.🎧 In this episode, we're talking people over party, public education and de-politicizing our policy. Let's dive on in. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Episode 28: Gov. Maura Healey and DOJ Whistleblower Liz Oyer on Leadership, Integrity, and the Rule of Law
In this powerful episode, Andy sits down with Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey to talk about leadership, teamwork, and resilience. From her days as a Division I basketball player and pro-athlete overseas to steering her state through turbulent political times, Governor Healey is an All-Star. 🏀👩⚖️ The two former Attorneys General share lessons from public service, the challenges of governing under pressure, and why fundamentals – on and off the court – still matter.Then, Andy welcomes Liz Oyer, a former Department of Justice attorney who was fired for refusing to compromise her principles. Liz recounts her experience standing up for the rule of law, testifying before Congress, and speaking out against the politicization of justice. ⚖️🤔 The episode closes with Ask Andy, featuring questions from viewers like you! Andy weighs in on Bad Bunny at the SuperBowl, his favorite restaurants and maybe even a little sneak peak at his Halloween costume...Dive in now, wherever you listen to podcasts or watch the Exclusive video content on YouTube. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Episode 27: Steve Kerr, National Guard Deployment and More Tariffs
This week on The Andy Beshear Podcast, we might just have our biggest episode yet. Andy sits down with nine-time NBA champion and Team USA coach Steve Kerr for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, authenticity, and courage – on and off the court.Kerr opens up about what he learned from legends like Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, David Robinson, Phil Jackson, and Gregg Popovich, how those lessons shaped his coaching philosophy, and what it takes to unite a team of stars toward one goal. He also shares deeply personal reflections on gun violence prevention, the toxic side of social media, and what true collaboration could look like in American politics.In this week's Statement of the Case, Andy is joined by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul to unpack the legality of the president’s plan to deploy troops or the National Guard to Illinois and what that means for states’ rights.Plus, Jon Rabinowitz and John McConnnell are back with takes on the government shutdown, health care, and a new round of tariffs that could make everything from kitchen cabinets to couches more expensive.🏀 Leadership lessons. 🇺🇸 Honest talk. 💬 Conversations that matter.All in one episode — don’t miss this one. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
🎙️ The Andy Beshear Podcast Real people. Real conversations. Real connection.Hosted by Andy Beshear, this independent and professionally produced weekly show goes far beyond politics. Each episode features open, unscripted conversations with fascinating guests from all walks of life—leaders, educators, innovators, creators, and everyday people with extraordinary stories to tell.This isn’t a political podcast—it’s a human one. We talk about what’s really going on in the world: family, faith, current events, pop culture, hope, hardship, and the things that connect us. In a time when the news cycle is heavy and the world feels divided, this podcast offers something different—a space to listen, learn, grow, and laugh together.Expect honest dialogue, diverse perspectives, and a host who brings empathy, curiosity, and kindness to every mic check.
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