Andy Beshear Podcast
🎙️ 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 p...
Roy Cooper, Carlos Espina and Doing Things Different
There are episodes that inform. There are episodes that inspire. And then there are episodes that do both at once.
This is one of those episodes.
This week on the Andy Beshear Podcast, Andy sits down with two of the most important voices in Democratic politics today. These two leaders show that regardless of your background, we can all stand united in delivering on the things that matter to our people.
First, Gov. Roy Cooper. The two-term Governor of North Carolina who won – twice – in a state Donald Trump carried both times. A four...
Kentucky Derby: Jayson Werth, Johnny V, and Brad Cox
It's Derby week and the Andy Beshear Podcast is celebrating in style. 🌹 Every year, on the first Saturday in May, the world stops.
The roses come out. The hats go on. And for two minutes, Churchill Downs becomes the center of the universe.
On this episode, Andy sits down with three extraordinary guests who know what it means to compete at the highest level of their craft. An owner, a trainer and jockey who will talk about the greatest two minutes in sports through their eyes.
Jayson Werth, World Series champion, postseason legend, and...
Andy Beshear Unpacks the War in Iran
It's a packed week at the Andy Beshear Podcast. We're breaking down the latest on the Iran war, including escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz and what Trump's next move might mean for the region. We're also digging into the mysterious deaths and disappearances of nuclear and space-linked scientists. Plus, Andy reflects on his recent trip to Michigan, his appearance at a Democratic Party fundraiser alongside Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and a behind-the-scenes look at his speech at the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund in DC this weekend where he was presented the organization's Allyship Award for standing firm on his...
Steve Schmidt and The Question Every 2028 Democrat Will Be Asked
Andy sits down with Steve Schmidt for a conversation that is as urgent as it is unflinching. Steve Schmidt is one of the most consequential figures in modern American politics. He ran John McCain's presidential campaign, architected Arnold Schwarzenegger's come-from-behind re-election, served as a top strategist in the Bush White House, and co-founded the Lincoln Project — the most politically effective Super PAC of the 2020 election cycle. He was the first person on American television to predict that Donald Trump could win in 2015 and he accurately predicted the political violence of January 6th more than three months before it happened.
...RaeShanda Lias, JD Shelburne and the Honest Truth About Internet Stardom
Kentucky has always had a way of finding people who are undeniably, authentically themselves and this week's guests are proof of that.
In this episode, Andy sits down with two Kentuckians who have taken their talent and grit and turned them into something extraordinary.
RaeShanda Lias is one of the most dynamic voices online and you may recognize her catchphrase "Let's check the board." She's an influencer, entrepreneur and storyteller who has spent her career sharing what matters to her most. RaeShanda joins Andy for a conversation about her incredible journey, what it means to...
David Pakman Cuts Through the Noise
In this episode, Andy sits down with the host of The David Pakman Show to talk about what it takes to stay grounded in the truth when the truth feels harder than ever to find. They dig into the current political moment, the state of American media, the rise of independent journalism, and why an informed public is one of the most powerful forces in a democracy.
It's an honest conversation about politics, press, and the responsibility we all share; as citizens, as leaders, and as people who still believe this country is worth fighting for.
<...Michael Bennet vs. Phil Weiser for Colorado Governor and Standing up for All of God's Children
Today we're heading west – to the Rocky Mountains, to be specific – because Colorado is one of the most fascinating political stories of our Primed for 2026 series. Gov. Jared Polis is term-limited and can't run again, which means for the first time in eight years, Colorado Democrats get to decide who their next leader is going to be. In a state where Republicans haven't won a governor's race since Bill Owens was reelected back in 2002, whoever wins that Democratic primary is almost certainly going to be the next governor. So the stakes? They're high.
Two candidates have emerged as t...
Dean Withers on Why Populism Works, Young Men Don’t Trust the System and Charlie Kirk’s Death
He grew up conservative in Grand Junction, Colorado. He did his own research. And somewhere along the way, he became one of the most compelling young voices in American politics.
This week, Governor Andy Beshear sits down with Dean Withers, the Gen Z content creator, debate champion, and civic advocate who went from viral Jubilee appearances to millions of followers on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, to the stage at the Aspen Ideas Festival. Dean brings sharp wit and nuance to some of the toughest conversations in America: racial justice, climate policy, voting rights, and education reform. And...
Who Are the Democrats Running for Governor in Georgia?
With incumbent Governor Brian Kemp term-limited and unable to seek re-election, Georgia Democrats are taking a serious run at the Governor’s office.
Andy sits down with the leading candidates vying for the Democratic nomination: former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, former Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, former DeKalb County CEO Mike Thurmond and former Georgia State Senator Jason Esteves. These are the kind of honest, substantive conversations Georgia voters deserve heading into the May 19th primary.
They dig into the issues hitting Georgians hardest right now: the cost of living, access to health care, the fu...
Young Professionals on the American Dream, Division & What Gives Them Hope
This week marks a milestone: Episode 51 and nearly one year of the Andy Beshear Podcast. To celebrate, we're taking a break from our Prime for 2026 series to hear from the people who will shape what comes next.
Andy sits down with four young professionals for candid conversations about what the American dream means to their generation. From a middle school math teacher who immigrated from East Africa to a civil engineer navigating Louisville's infrastructure, a young entrepreneur building businesses at the intersection of gaming and politics, and a community advocate giving away prom dresses and fighting for...
Rep. Cyndi Munson, Sam Bregman and Democracy Forward CEO Skye Perryman Take on Trump
This week on the Andy Beshear Podcast, Governor Andy Beshear sits down with leaders on the front lines of the biggest fights shaping our country, from statehouses to courtrooms.
First, New Mexico gubernatorial candidate Sam Bregman joins the conversation to talk public safety, constitutional policing, and building safer communities – plus a little baseball pride as the father of MLB star Alex Bregman.
Then, Oklahoma Democratic leader and candidate for governor Cyndi Munson shares her powerful story. Fom growing up in a working-class family to flipping a Republican-held seat she explains what it takes to run (an...
Meet Maine's Highly Contested Governor's Race Candidates
This week on the Andy Beshear Podcast, we’re looking north to the great state of Maine for a conversation with five Democratic primary gubernatorial candidates stepping up to shape the future of the Pine Tree State.
Andy sits down with Shenna Bellows, Angus King III, Hannah Pingree, Troy Jackson, and Nirav Shah for an honest conversation about leadership, rural communities, economic opportunity, and what it means to govern with integrity in a politically divided era.
From protecting reproductive freedom and strengthening public education to supporting working waterfronts, small businesses, and the people who keep Ma...
Coach Rick Pitino, Leadership Lessons, and More Bad Bunny
We're back in the Big Apple at the SiriusXM HQ for a brand new episode featuring Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about legacy, loyalty, and what it really means to lead.
From growing up in New York to becoming the face of Kentucky basketball, Pitino opens up about arriving at the University of Kentucky in the late ’80s when the program was climbing out of one of its toughest chapters, and what rebuilding trust with players, fans, and an entire commonwealth looked like day-by-day. He reflects on his time at University of...
Dr. Amy Acton, Bad Bunny and Refusing to Look the Other Way
Amy’s story is deeply Ohio-rooted and anything but easy. Raised in Youngstown, she grew up facing poverty, abuse, hunger, and periods of homelessness. She put herself through college and medical school, completed her residency and went on to serve as a doctor, public health expert, and Director of the Ohio Department of Health. Across party lines, Amy built a reputation for steady leadership, problem-solving, and putting people first.
We dig into the rising stakes of the Ohio governor’s race – from new polling and the economic pressures facing working families, to Vivek's baffling choice to call Medica...
Deb Haaland in New Mexico, A Deadly Shooting in Minnesota and What's at Stake
Season 2 of the Andy Beshear Podcast continues with a powerful conversation featuring former Congresswoman and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland – now running for Governor of New Mexico.
Raised in a military family, a single mom who relied on programs like SNAP and Medicaid, and the first Native American Cabinet Secretary in U.S. history, Deb Haaland brings lived experience to public service and a clear-eyed vision for what government should do for people who are doing everything they can to get by.
Andy and Deb talk about what it means to lead wi...
Beau Bayh, the Next Generation of Leaders, and Indiana Football
We're all about the next generation of leaders here at the Andy Beshear Podcast so this week we're talking to Beau Bayh. Beau is an attorney, former Marine, and now a candidate for Secretary of State in his home state of Indiana.
Beau joins the show fresh off a record-breaking $1.8 million Q4 fundraising haul to share why this race is resonating with so many people right now. From growing up around the brutal realities of public service to debunking the assumption that come along with with a well-known last name, Beau reflects on the moments that shaped...
Colin Allred, ICE and Doing the Right Thing When It's Hard
In this brand-new episode in the Primed for 2026 series, Andy is joined by former NLF player and congressman Colin Allred – running for Texas' freshly gerrymandered District 33.
From ground zero of gerrymandering in Texas, Colin talks about the importance of restoring trust in democracy and what exactly it looks like to put impact over ego, including his decision to shift from a Senate run back to a congressional race in one of Texas’ newest districts. It’s a frank conversation about doing the right thing, even when it’s hard. Colin talks about growing up with a single mom who...
Michigan's Gubernatorial Primary: Garlin Gilchrist, Jocelyn Benson and Chris Swanson
This is one of the most important governor’s races in the country in 2026 — the open-seat race in Michigan.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is term-limited, which means for the first time in eight years, Michigan voters will choose a new governor without an incumbent on the ballot. And anytime you have an open seat in a true swing state, the national stakes are high.
For Democrats, this is shaping up to be a competitive primary. Several well-known statewide and local leaders are making their case to voters, emphasizing experience, competence, and continuing progress on issues like jobs...
Chris Pappas for Senate, A Converstion with College Students, and a New Year
Welcome to 2026 – we’re kicking off a brand-new series, Primed for 2026, with Congressman Chris Pappas of New Hampshire.
In this episode, Pappas reflects on the experiences that shaped his leadership — from growing up in Manchester to helping run his family’s iconic Puritan Backroom Restaurant, where chicken fingers were famously invented. He shares how his small-business background influences his approach to governing, and why working families remain at the center of his priorities.
We dive into the biggest challenges facing small businesses today, the rising cost of health care and prescription drugs, and the work still ne...
BONUS: Mark Cuban and Coach Cal
Merry Christmas and happy holidays, Podcast family! We’re throwing it back today to two of our favorite interviews from the past year – straight shooter Mark Cuban and legendary Coach Cal.
Mark Cuban talks about his journey from selling garbage bags as a kid to successful entrepreneur many times over including his new ventures in transparent drug pricing and AI innovation. Coach Cal gives an inside look at coaching basketball at one of the most prestigious programs in the country. And as always, Andy goes beyond the professional to the personal — because that’s what really matters.
Put...
Aaron Parnas, Walker Montgomery and Being Real Online
This episode is the epitome of the Andy Beshear Podcast: we're talking politics – but we're talking a lot more than that. We start out with journalist/content creator Aaron Parnas and then pivot to country music star Walker Montgomery. From online political discourse to country music, we're bringing people together.
Aaron shares how he moved away from Trump and became one of the most influential Democratic content creators online with more than 4 million followers on TikTok. We talk about normalizing talking like real people, explaining complex topics, and reaching the other side from behind the screen. From aff...
Governor Laura Kelly, Governor Katie Hobbs and a Big Announcement
Two great governors, two great conversations and one big announcement. Our latest episode comes to us from on-site at the Democratic Governors Association conference in Phoenix, Arizona. Andy joins Governor Katie Hobbs as she runs for re-election in the Grand Canyon state. She shares more about her track record, her social work roots and what exactly it is that makes Arizona so special. It's one of the top races to watch in 2026, tune in now as the race heats up. 🔥
Then Governor Laura Kelly of Kansas hops on the mic to share her insights with Andy as he...
America's Kids, A Thanksgiving Crashout and a Deepdive into AI
This week on The Andy Beshear Podcast, our guests are some of America’s kids. Hear directly from teenagers about the issues they are worried about, where they get their news and how they view our crazy world. Their answers may surprise you. It’s their turn to talk and our turn to listen. And for everyone in our inbox, comments and DMs asking where Andy got his Andy Beshear Podcast hat, you're not going to want to miss the big announcement at the end. 👀👕
And we're back with John McConnell and Jon Rabonowitz – the Jo(h)ns – to talk...
The Best Of: Top Moments, Best Guests and a Look Back at the Laughs
Welcome to a special bonus episode! Looking for a quick recap of the best moments of the Andy Beshear Podcast so far? We've got you. From music to horses to politics, Season 1 had been a wild ride in trying new things, having real conversations and bringing people across the country together. 🎧
A few moments you won't want to miss: Meet Kentucky Derby winning trainer Kenny McPeek on-site at Churchill Downs, Senator Amy Klobuchar talks about Trump's attacks on farmers, Coach Cal deep dives about his legendary time at the University of Kentucky, movie producer and author Nicole Ava...
Congressman Clyburn, Learning from the Past and an Upsidedown Week in Politics
This week on The Andy Beshear Podcast, Andy sits down with one of the most influential voices in modern American politics — Congressman James E. Clyburn — to talk leadership, legacy, and his new book, The First Eight. It's a special Thanksgiving episode so Rep. Clyburn and Andy kick it off with a few things we are thankful for this season. This living legend shares his why, how politics has changed since he started out and his hopes for the future of this beautiful nation.
From Trump's meeting with Zohran Mamdani to Margerie Taylor Green's shocking announcement, it's been a to...
Rob Sand, Phil Weiser and Government That Actually Works
Top race to watch in 2026? Don't sleep on Rob Sand running to flip Iowa blue. He's a no-nonsense guy with a passion for getting things done.
Andy welcomes Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand running for governor of the Hawkeye state. Sand’s story stretches from small-town Decorah to leading major corruption prosecutions, uncovering tens of millions in misspent taxpayer dollars, and creating the popular PIE program to boost government efficiency. They explore how Sand approaches accountability, why Iowa isn't what outsiders might expect, and how transparency in government matters now more than ever. He opens up about fa...
Keith Edwards On Going Viral, Getting Real, and Building Bridges
This week on The Andy Beshear Podcast, Andy sits down with viral content creator and political strategist Keith Edwards, the mind behind one of the fastest-growing YouTube political channels in America. Keith opens up about his unlikely journey from television to politics, the moment he decided to take on Trump-era politics, and how he built a following of millions by blending humor, honesty, and humanity.
Together, Andy and Keith talk about the power of authenticity in campaigns, content and conversations, and how to bring people together in a time of deep division. They swap stories about mistakes...
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, heal...
Jen Psaki and the Future of Journalism
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...
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 th...
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...
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 si...
Kentucky's Brit Taylor and Miles Miller at Bourbon & Beyond Music Festival
This week, we’re bringing you a special edition of the Andy Beshear Podcast from one of the largest music festivals in America: Bourbon & Beyond. 🥃🎵 No politics, no headlines – just music, stories, and the heart of Kentucky.
Andy sits down with two incredible country artists with Kentucky roots: Brit Taylor, a daughter of Eastern Kentucky whose soulful, throwback sound has taken her from Hindman to the Grand Ole Opry, and Miles Miller, a Woodford County native who went from posting drum covers on YouTube to touring the world with Sturgill Simpson and Tyler Childers.
🎼 Together, they share the...
Governor Jared Polis, Attorney General Rayfield, and Protecting Free Speech
Welcome back to the Andy Beshear Podcast, a proud member of the SiriusXM Podcast Network. This week marks our 25th episode—and while silver is the traditional gift, we’re bringing you something even better: solid gold conversations. 🥇
First up, Andy sits down in Colorado with Governor Jared Polis, a tech entrepreneur turned public servant known for his bold ideas, record investments in education, and (yes) an enviable sneaker collection. 👟 They dive into what inspired his shift from business to politics, how the Affordable Care Act reshaped healthcare, and why governors are uniquely positioned to cut through partisan n...
Katie Couric on Donald Trump, the State of Journalism and Why She's Still Hopeful
Welcome back for Episode 24! In this episode, we're thrilled to bring you a special interview with legendary journalist Katie Couric. Andy asks Katie about the most defining moments of her career – from Colombine to 9/11, Katie has covered some important and painful moments in American history. And she's done it with humanity. We talk about the future of journalism in a polarized era, lessons she’s learned from personal loss, and why empathy matters in leadership. You’ll hear stories behind the headlines that shaped her remarkable journey. 🗞️
Then Andy sits down with Jon Rabinowitz and Louisville Mayor Craig Green...
Live from New York with Leader Hakeem Jeffries
We took the Andy Beshear Podcast to the heart of New York City 🏙️ – 36 floors up at NY Studio 1 – to sit down with a history-maker: House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. He’s the first Black leader of a party in Congress, a Brooklyn guy through and through, and a master of fighting hard while keeping the door open for consensus.
This conversation has everything: why Jeffries still gets out of bed ready to throw punches (political ones, of course), what’s really going on with redistricting, and what it's going to take to reclaim the House. We also get into the...
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in New Mexico
🚨 Big announcement time! 🚨 The Andy Beshear Podcast has officially joined the SiriusXM family — and we couldn’t be more excited! This means millions more Americans can join in as we turn down the temperature, bring people together, and have some honest, real conversations about the challenges we all face.
Then we dive right into a powerhouse interview with New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (aka “MLG”) — a governor, former congresswoman, health secretary, local official, and all-around political force. From getting trolled in her first congressional race, to fixing broken infrastructure with bipartisan teamwork, to delivering universal Pre-K, child car...
Episode 22: Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham
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🚨 Big announcement time! 🚨 The Andy Beshear Podcast has officially joined the SiriusXM family — and we couldn’t be more excited!
This means millions more Americans can join in as we turn down the temperature, bring people together, and have some honest, real conversations about the challenges we all face.
Then we dive right into a powerhouse interview with New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (aka “MLG”) — a governor, former congresswoman, health secretary, local official, and all-around political force. From getting trolled in her first congressional rac...
Episode 21: Steve Zahn
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This week on The Andy Beshear Podcast, Andy hosts a down-to-earth conversation with one of Kentucky’s most beloved transplants – Steve Zahn. 🎬
Andy sits down with acclaimed actor and comedian Steve Zahn, who has made Kentucky his home. They talk about rural life, Hollywood versus homegrown humor, and why he chose to raise his family outside of the hustle and bustle of LA in the Bluegrass State. Zahn shares stories from early acting days, reflects on his eclectic film career, and talks about his favorite role yet: Dad. 📺 Fr...
From Hollywood to Kentucky with Steve Zahn
This week on The Andy Beshear Podcast, Andy hosts a down-to-earth conversation with one of Kentucky’s most beloved transplants – Steve Zahn. 🎬
Andy sits down with acclaimed actor and comedian Steve Zahn, who has made Kentucky his home. They talk about rural life, Hollywood versus homegrown humor, and why he chose to raise his family outside of the hustle and bustle of LA in the Bluegrass State. Zahn shares stories from early acting days, reflects on his eclectic film career, and talks about his favorite role yet: Dad. 📺 From star struck by Tom Hanks to months away for Planet...