Episode 17: Governor John Bel Edwards, Tariff Trouble and First Lady Britainy (+ Winnie!)

Welcome to another episode of the Andy Beshear Podcast! It’s Episode 17 and we’ve got not just one – but two – southern Democratic governors on the mic. We discuss the tariff troubles, bipartisanship vs. nonpartisanship, and welcome back our very special guest, First Lady Britainy Beshear (and Winnie! 🐾)

Our guest this week is former two-term Louisiana governor, John Bel Edwards. Governor Edwards answers Andy’s most frequently asked question: how did you win as a Democrat in a red state? His answer might surprise you. They talk all things Medicaid, doing the right thing even when it’s hard and the importance of righting historic wrongs every chance you get.

📰​​ ​​Next, John and Jon sat down with Andy to talk recent headline highlights. How will the new tariff deals impact Americans? Will it really cost our families an additional $2,900 a year? From gutting Medicaid to FEMA cuts— we’re talking about the real costs of putting politics and profit over our people.

🎙️ In this week’s In My Kentucky Accent, Andy shares what’s on his heart and mind. Sure, bipartisanship is important but what we really need is more nonpartisanship. A good job isn’t Democrat or Republican. A bridge isn’t red or blue, unless we paint it that way. Our first question should be will it work to improve lives? Not will it be a win for one party or the other.

It’s that time again for Ask Andy, plus Britainy and Winnie! Well... Winnie mostly just looks cute, so don't forget to catch the video version of this episode on YouTube. Kentucky’s First Couple shares favorite summer reads, secret superpowers, and a very Kentucky elevator pitch.

Around here, it’s all about curiosity over conflict and connection over controversy. Dive on into Episode 17 – and hit subscribe wherever you’re listening! And don’t forget to leave a review if you like what you’re hearing.

Episode 16: Senator Angela Alsobrooks, Epstein Files, Will's Grand Slam in South Carolina and Vogue

It’s Episode 16 – and we’re welcoming Senator Angela Alsobrooks, talking about the dangers of anger politics and diving head first into this week’s headlines. (Spoiler alert: Someone’s wearing Gap jeans in Vogue... 👀)

This week’s special guest is Senator Angela Alsobrooks – Maryland’s new junior Senator and a rising star in the Upper House. Senator Alsobrooks shares how her family’s history in the Jim Crow south led to her staunch commitment to justice for all. After a scrappy, no-punches-pulled campaign, she’s bringing her fight for Marylanders to the Senate floor – and she’s not backing down. And you definitely don’t want to miss her secret to the best Maryland barbeque!

Next up, the Johns and Andy are back to break down some of the latest national headlines. This week, it’s an update on the fallout from the airstrikes in Iran, the Epstein files debacle, Andy’s trip to South Carolina (shoutout, Will Beshear’s grand slam! ⚾) and even a surprise appearance in Vogue.

🎙️ In this week’s In My Kentucky Accent, Andy talks about how anger politics has taken over our headlines and too often, our leaders’ hearts. Where do we go from here? Andy lays out his tactics for overcoming anger politics and getting back to the real issue at hand – making life better for all American families.

This week on Ask Andy, John asks and Andy answers... Who are your strongest influences? How do you deal with a hard day? What’s a speech given that stands out in your mind? Have you ever been star-struck? You may be surprised who showed up at Derby and made even the governor a little nervous...

From barbeque to Vogue, this episode has heart, humor, and honest-to-goodness authenticity.

Tune in wherever you get your podcasts—and head to YouTube to catch every moment (and a matching outfit or two).

📲 Follow us for episode drops, behind-the-scenes content, and real conversations: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok | LinkedIn @AndyBeshearPodcast andybeshearpodcast.com

Let’s keep the conversation going—because this podcast isn’t about politics. It’s about people.

Episode 15: Liz Shuler President of the AFL–CIO, with Will Beshear Learning Gen-X Lingo!

Welcome to Episode 15 – Andy is talking all things labor unions with the first woman president of the AFL-CIO, the devastating impacts of the “Big Ugly Bill” on rural communities, and switching it up by “kicking it old school” with Will and John. 

This week’s guest is AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler! The AFL-CIO represents nearly 15 million working people from 63 national and international unions. Shuler is the first woman president of the organization, and as a visionary leader and longtime trade unionist, Shuler believes the labor movement is the single most powerful vehicle for progress in our everyday lives. She’s committed to busting labor union myths, leveraging the labor movement’s diversity for social justice, and sharing the benefits of a union voice on the job with working people everywhere. 

Andy is back with John McConnell and Will Beshear to break down the latest national headlines—from what we know now about the response to the devastating Texas floods to the continued fallout of the “Big Ugly Bill” and Trump’s tumultuous relationship with Russia. 

 In this week’s In My Kentucky Accent, Andy shares how the “Big Ugly Bill” will impact healthcare in Kentucky – and across the country. It’s devastating to healthcare, our economy, and most importantly, our people.

In this episode, we’re flipping the script with Will Beshear asking John and Andy about Gen X lingo. Let’s just say, we’re kicking it old school… and you won’t want to miss it. 

Tune in wherever you get your podcasts—and head to YouTube to catch every laugh, cry and more.

Episode 14: New Orleans Saints Quarterback Tyler Shough, Big Beautiful Bill, Texas Flooding, & Will Beshear is Back!

It’s Episode 14—and we’re diving into big headlines, bigger heart, and a whole lot of laughs.

This week’s guest is New Orleans Saints quarterback and former Louisville Cardinal Tyler Shough, who opens up about his winding road to the NFL. From major injuries to major comebacks, Tyler shares how he found resilience, purpose, and even love (shoutout to that dining hall meet-cute) along the way. He also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the NFL Combine, the surprise of beating Josh Allen’s 40-yard dash time, and what he’s most excited about heading into his rookie season.

Meanwhile, the Johns and Andy are back to break down the latest national headlines—from the devastating Texas floods to the fallout of the newly passed “Big Ugly Bill” and its sweeping impact on healthcare and rural communities. And yes, there’s a little detour to the White House… where UFC fights may or may not be happening soon. (We have questions.)

🎙️ In this week’s In My Kentucky Accent, Andy calls out Congress’s lack of courage and the consequences of putting politics before people.

And you know Will Beshear is back with another round of Gen Z Lingo with the Johns—teaching them what “bars” really means, giving last week’s fashion choice a GOATED rating, and yes… finally helping them “catch the woah.” You’re welcome, internet.

From draft day memories to hot takes on tariffs, this episode has heart, humor, and just enough Gen Z flair to keep you guessing.

Tune in wherever you get your podcasts—and head to YouTube to catch every moment (and maybe even a woah or two).

Episode 13:

Griffin Johnson, Fourth of July Holiday Special Surprise Episode Drop

It’s Episode 13—and we’re dropping it a day early to kick off your Fourth of July with some red, white, and real talk.

This special holiday episode features a conversation with social media influencer turned entrepreneur Griffin Johnson, who opens up about his journey from a small town in Illinois to building a career across platforms, brands, and venture capital. From nursing school TikToks to his most viral moments, Griffin shares how authenticity, adaptability, and staying humble have shaped his success.

Meanwhile, the Johns are back—and dressed for the occasion. You’ll want to watch this one on YouTube to see the full glory of their patriotic outfits (spoiler: stars and stripes everywhere). And while Will Beshear did not participate in the fashion parade, he did return to the pod—and he’s bringing more Gen Z wisdom with him. In between roasting the Johns and teaching them new slang (“America is goated all the time”), Will reflects on his recent run for national Beta Club office and what it meant to represent Kentucky on a national stage.

🎙️ In this week’s In My Kentucky Accent, Andy reflects on the meaning of patriotism—not just as fireworks and flags, but as a responsibility to move our country forward, together. “This Fourth of July, let’s see how we can all move forward—as neighbors, not enemies.”

And yes—we dive into the headlines. From the Big Beautiful (or Big Ugly) Bill that could strip health coverage and stall economic progress, to the growing political pressure on university presidents, the guys break it down in a way that’s honest, human, and just the right amount of hot dog humor.

It’s another episode packed with heart, laughs, and insights—plus a few sweet stories about Derby Day, Beta Club, and what makes this country truly worth celebrating.

Episode 12: Governor Josh Stein, Diversity and Military Strikes on Iran

It’s Episode 12—and we’re not holding back.

This week, we’re joined by North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, a longtime friend and former fellow Attorney General. From flipping red seats blue to leading recovery efforts after natural disasters, Governor Stein breaks down what it really means to make government work for the people—and why common-sense leadership still matters.

We talk clean energy jobs, Medicaid expansion, and how the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” could derail critical programs like SNAP and FEMA while ballooning the national debt. Governor Stein also reflects on what it means to be immune to the toxicity of politics, and why disagreement doesn’t mean division.

Meanwhile, the Johns are fired up. We’re talking national security, the latest military strike on Iran, and what it means to ask patriotic questions about presidential decisions. Andy reminds us that we can support our troops and hold our leaders accountable—and that protecting democracy means participating in it.

🎙️ In this week’s In My Kentucky Accent, Andy takes on a tough topic: how the word “diversity” is being twisted into something it’s not. He reflects on why diversity is a strength—not a weakness—and shares his belief that our democracy is stronger when more voices are heard and more seats are pulled up to the table. He also discusses the importance of honoring Juneteenth, not only as a recognition of the end of slavery but as a celebration of the vital contributions African Americans have made to shaping this country.

Episode 11: Governor Wes Moore, The Big Beautiful Bill, & Addressing Political Violence

It’s Episode 11—and we’re digging deep.

This week, we’re sitting down with Governor Wes Moore of Maryland, a bestselling author, Army veteran, and self-described “improbable governor” who went from childhood adversity to national leadership. Wes gets real about what shaped him—losing his father at three, getting arrested at 11, and finding purpose in service—and how it prepared him to lead through crisis, including the recent collapse of Baltimore’s Key Bridge. From the economy to education to criminal justice reform, he lays out what common-sense, people-first leadership really looks like. And yes, we also talk workouts with the Naval Academy, crab cakes, and why he refuses to take his talking points from any political party.

Meanwhile, the Johns are back in action (and yes, we give a belated birthday shoutout to our John McConnell). Jon shares stories from his Alaskan fishing trip, we dig into the latest headlines—including the “Big Ugly Bill” and a Cinderella story out of Murray State baseball—and we don’t shy away from the big questions facing our country.

In this week’s In My Kentucky Accent, Andy addresses the heartbreaking political violence out of Minnesota. These were close friends of past podcast guests Governor Tim Walz and Senator Amy Klobuchar, and now Tim is helping lead his state through unimaginable grief. Andy reflects on the chilling effect of this moment and reminds us:

“If you disagree with me on any issue, you’re still my neighbor.”

Violence has no place in our democracy. We need to turn the temperature down, stop labeling opponents as enemies, and lead with decency—because good people won’t step up if they’re afraid for their families.

And yes—Ask Andy is back! This week’s questions are some of the most unexpected (and fun) we’ve ever had. Trust us—you’ve never heard Andy talk about these topics before.

From real talk on tragedy and public service to chocolate vs. cheese, this episode has it all. It’s exactly what we aim to deliver every week:

  • Be authentic

  • Talk like a human

  • No debating reality

  • Share your “why”

  • Have fun

Episode 10: VP Candidate Gov. Tim Walz & Pinterest CEO Bill Ready

It’s Episode 10, y’all—and we went big.

To mark this milestone, we brought in two major guests who know a thing or two about leadership, policy, and staying grounded in unpredictable times.

First up, it’s VP Candidate & Minnesota Governor Tim Walz—a teacher, veteran, and former congressman who gets real about everything from balancing budgets to raising teenagers. He talks about his time in the National Guard, losing his father at 19, and why public service isn’t about popularity—it’s about showing up for the people who need you most. And yes, we dive into Medicare, SNAP, disaster relief, and what it really means to lead during divided times.

Then we switch gears and welcome Pinterest CEO Bill Ready, who shares how he went from learning to code in high school to running one of the world’s biggest tech companies. He breaks down the future of AI, the dangers of addictive tech, and why some schools are going phone-free. Plus, he throws a little friendly shade at Andy for being a Vanderbilt grad...right after Louisville knocked them out of the College World Series. (Ouch.)

Meanwhile, Jon (the better-looking one—his words) is holding it down while the other John enjoys the wilderness of Alaska. The guys break down everything from NIL drama to global politics that look more like a bad high school breakup.

In My Kentucky Accent, Andy gets personal about the Rule of Law—why it’s the cornerstone of our democracy, what it means when presidents ignore it, and why he’s fighting to protect it for future generations.

From bipartisan dysfunction to AI ethics, teacher respect to trillion-dollar bills, this episode packs a punch—and brings the kind of honest conversation you won’t hear anywhere else.

As always, we follow our podcast rules:

  • Be authentic

  • Talk like a human

  • No debating reality

  • Share your “why”

  • Have fun

Episode 9: The Governors Table, Gov. Matt Meyer & Gov. Bob Ferguson

Two guest governors. One podcast. Zero teleprompters.

Episode 9 of The Andy Beshear Podcast hits the road to Portland, Oregon for a special on-location edition at the Democratic Governors Association—and you’re invited behind the scenes!

First up, meet Governor Matt Meyer of Delaware: a former middle school teacher, Teach for America alum, and passionate public servant who once volunteered on Joe Biden’s campaign. His goal as governor? Deliver more for working families than he ever could in the classroom. Plus, Matt drops a hot take about rooting for Trump (yes, really)—and shares the secret trick behind his famous fruit smoothies.

Then, Governor Bob Ferguson of Washington State joins the conversation. He’s a lifelong chess champion, avid rock climber, and the former Attorney General who famously filed the first lawsuit that defeated the Trump administration in court. He opens up about staying grounded, fighting for public safety, and the joy (and challenge) of keeping up with his kids—whether it’s scaling mountains or throwing heat on the softball field.

These two new governors bring big ideas, big heart, and big “why I serve” energy. From what drives them to what keeps them centered, this is a rare peek into the minds (and hobbies) of two of the country’s newest leaders.

This episode may be a little different, but it’s packed with purpose—and personality.

Episode 8: Mark Cuban, Mavericks, and Memorial Day

Self-made billionaire, chronic entrepreneur, Dallas Mavericks owner, and Shark Tank star Mark Cuban joins The Andy Beshear Podcast for Episode 8—and you’ll want to hear this one from start to finish. From his unconventional start in business (which includes disco dancing and sororities in college) to his take on today’s political landscape, Mark brings insight, energy, and authenticity.

He shares a heartfelt moment with his son when they found out the Mavericks landed the top spot in the NBA Draft. It’s a rare, personal side of Cuban—and the kind of conversation you won’t hear anywhere else.

Then, Jon and John return to break down the biggest headlines of the week: including continued fallout from Trump’s tariff policies, the lack of focus on small businesses, and the eyebrow-raising visit from South Africa’s president to the White House.

And yes—Will Beshear is back with another round of Gen Z lingo lessons, helping Andy and the Johns expand their vocab and stay just a little more "hip". (Spoiler: they try.)

In our segment In My Kentucky Accent, Andy reflects on Memorial Day, what the holiday means to the American people, and shares his own experience visiting the Kentucky National Guard Memorial.

As always, this is a real conversation that follows our podcast rules: Be authentic - Talk like a human being - No debating reality - Share your "why" - And have fun!

We hope you feel a little more grounded—and a little lighter—after listening.

Episode 7: Attorney General Aaron Ford + FEMA, Forecasts, and Fatherhood

A former math teacher turned Attorney General joins The Andy Beshear Podcast for Episode 7—and trust us, this conversation does not stay in the classroom. Nevada AG Aaron Ford shares his incredible journey from first-gen college grad to becoming one of the country’s leading voices for justice.

He also opens up about how he—and other AGs and governors—are pushing back when the rule of law is on the line. Then, it’s time to catch up with the Johns in another round of Conversations with the Johns. From Walmart price hikes and Joe Biden’s cancer diagnosis, to the emotional rollercoaster of graduation season, they’re unpacking the headlines with the honesty (and dad jokes) you’ve come to expect.

In My Kentucky Accent, Andy gets serious about FEMA, the National Weather Service, and why cutting these critical programs would be a disaster—literally.

And yes, Britainy is back for Ask Andy, and this time she’s sharing the story of how they met, plus a few unexpected gems about life behind the scenes. It’s heartfelt, it’s hilarious, and it’s full of moments you won’t want to miss.

Episode 6: Coach Calipari, Medicaid Cuts & Big Deals

A legendary basketball coach joins The Andy Beshear Podcast for Episode 6—and this conversation goes way beyond the court. From unexpected life lessons to personal stories you won’t hear anywhere else, this episode is packed with wisdom, heart, and a few laughs along the way.

Then, it’s time for the debut of our newest segment: Big Deal or No Deal—where Jon and John break down the biggest headlines in the news and ask the question that matters most: does this actually impact your life? From political shakeups to the newly elected American Pope (yes, seriously), they’re diving into it all.

In My Kentucky Accent, Andy gets real about what proposed Medicaid cuts could mean for families across the nation—and why it’s not just policy, it’s personal. And don’t worry, Lila Beshear is back with another round of Gen Z Lingo 101, attempting to teach her dad (and the Johns) a little something about what the kids are saying these days. The results? Predictably chaotic. It’s one of our most wide-ranging episodes yet—don’t miss it.

Episode 5: Inside the Kentucky Derby

Derby Day may be in the rearview, but the stories (and the laughs) are still fresh. In Episode 5, The Andy Beshear Podcast takes you on location at Churchill Downs for our biggest and boldest episode yet. Trainer Kenny McPeek joins us to reflect on his unforgettable 2024 Oaks-Derby double and the history-making moments that made headlines.

Then, Charlie O'Connor of Coolmore America gives us a peek behind the curtain into the world of breeding, sales, and how champions are made long before they ever see the starting gate. Next up, we switch gears with former NFL pro and Louisville native Eric Wood, who shares his passion for Kentucky traditions and what Derby week means beyond the track.

Finally, Churchill Downs GM Mike Ziegler joins Andy and John for a little friendly competition. Let’s just say our Derby trivia skills… need some work. Whether you're a racing insider or just love the magic of the first Saturday in May, this Derby Special is packed with unforgettable moments, real conversations, and plenty of Kentucky heart.

Episode 4: Chris Coons

Senator Chris Coons of Delaware joins The Andy Beshear Podcast for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation to kick off Episode 4. From his work on bipartisan ethics to founding the Chicken Caucus (yes, really), Senator Coons shares what drives him, how his faith and values shape his approach to politics, and why service still matters in a fractured political world.

Then, it’s time for a check-in with Jon and John, where the group breaks down the ripple effects of Trump’s first 100 days—from the stock market to layoffs, and what it really means for working families. (Don’t worry, there’s time to celebrate Jon’s favorite NFL Draft pick, too.) In My Kentucky Accent, Andy gets fired up about the mass federal firings, explaining what these moves mean beyond the headlines—and how they could impact everyday Americans across the country.

And finally, it’s the premiere of our brand-new segment: Ask Andy. Andy’s joined by Britainy Beshear to answer your questions—and let’s just say, we’re finally addressing the single most-asked question across all our social media platforms. (Yes, that one.) Trust us—you’ll want to stick around for this one.

Episode 3: Amy Klobuchar

This week’s episode brings big names, real talk, and a few unexpected laughs. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar joins Andy for a candid conversation about her Minnesota upbringing, how her family’s values shaped her career, and the real impact of tariffs on farmers across the country.

Plus—don’t miss her hilarious story about a turkey that refused to be pardoned. Later, Louisville Commonwealth Attorney Gerina Weathers shares powerful insights on public safety, attacks on diversity, and what it means to lead through change. Jon and John return to break down the week’s federal shakeups, agency firings, and the loss of Pope Francis—and yes, they have thoughts.

And finally, Britainy Beshear makes her first full appearance, sharing five things you probably didn’t know about Andy. (Spoiler: horses, Ale-8, and a cowboy hat all make an appearance—and she doesn't hold back.) It’s another week of big issues, meaningful moments, and conversations with heart. Let’s make sense of the chaos, together.

Episode 2: Nicole Avant

In this episode of The Andy Beshear Podcast, Andy is joined by Nicole Avant, former U.S. Ambassador, producer of the recent Netflix film The Six Triple Eight, and daughter of legendary music executive Clarence Avant. Later, Andy reunites with his friends John and Jon for a grounded, honest conversation about tariffs, what they really mean for everyday Americans, and weighs in on the disturbing rise of politically motivated violence, including the recent attack on Governor Josh Shapiro and his family.

Finally, things take a lighter turn as Andy’s daughter Lila gives him another crash course in Gen Z slang… but let’s just say, it gets way too cringe for her to stick around!

Episode 1: Pilot

In the very first episode of The Andy Beshear Podcast, the ground rules are set: be real, be curious, and above all—be human.

With an unexpected mix of guests—from a self-made billionaire and the CEO of one of the country’s most well-known law firms, to Andy’s own son and a longtime public servant—this episode kicks things off with stories, laughs, and just enough chaos to let you know this isn’t your typical show.

They talk about everything from the business behind a powerhouse law firm, to March Madness loyalties, to Gen Alpha slang none of the grown-ups can quite get right.

This isn’t about politics. It’s about people. And it’s just the beginning.

🎙️ 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.