Podcast Summary: "Murder on the Towpath with Soledad O’Brien"
Episode: "Just Say Yes"
Release Date: May 21, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Murder on the Towpath, host Soledad O’Brien delves into one of America's greatest unsolved mysteries—the 1964 murder of Mary Pinchot Meyer. The narrative intertwines crime, art, and political intrigue, highlighting the complex relationship between Mary and President John F. Kennedy (JFK). Through interviews with experts and the examination of historical documents, O’Brien unravels the layers of this enigmatic case and its lasting impact on American socio-political landscapes.

The Love Letter: A Presidential Secret

[03:00] Soledad O'Brien begins the episode by presenting a poignant artifact—an unsent love letter written by JFK to Mary Meyer in October 1963. The letter reveals JFK's deep emotions and vulnerability, contrasting sharply with his public persona as the most powerful man on earth.

"You say that it's good for me not to get what I want after all of these years. You should give me a more loving answer than that."
— JFK, [03:00]

O'Brien discusses the unusual nature of the letter, emphasizing its raw honesty and the mystery surrounding its non-delivery. The letter was eventually held by JFK's personal secretary, Evelyn Lincoln, and sold at auction decades later for nearly $89,000. The unanswered questions about their relationship lay the groundwork for the ensuing tragedy.

Mary Pinchot Meyer: The Artist

Mary Meyer's artistic endeavors form a significant part of her identity and legacy. [09:27] Howie Mandel expresses his fascination with her story, prompting an exploration of her work and its significance.

[09:44] Alina Cohen, a writer for an online art gallery, describes one of Mary's notable paintings, Half Light:

"Two sets of colors fill the canvas. Moss green, mud brown, situated diagonally from each other... The more you stare at it, the more it changes."
— Alina Cohen, [09:44]

Art curators Sue Scott and Helene Posner from the Neuberger Museum of Art emphasize the uniqueness of Mary's artistic style, particularly her use of the circular "tondo" form, which was rare among her contemporaries. Mary's paintings, including pieces showcased at the Smithsonian, reflect her mature and serene artistic vision.

An Affair with the President

The heart of this episode revolves around Mary Meyer's clandestine affair with JFK. The relationship is depicted as complex and mutually influential, extending beyond mere physical attraction.

[05:21] Howie Mandel reveals that JFK valued Mary's opinion so highly that she became "almost part of the Oval Office furniture," highlighting her frequent presence in the White House.

O'Brien narrates how their affair was not just a simple liaison but a partnership where Mary exerted a significant influence over the President:

"Mary wasn't just being pursued; she was also choosing him."
— Soledad O'Brien, [43:48]

[24:13] Sue Scott adds depth to their dynamic:

"Even Mary's boyfriend, Kenneth Nolan, didn't take her painting seriously... she was more or less an afterthought compared to their male counterparts."
— Sue Scott, [23:48]

Despite the power imbalance, Mary's confidence and artistic prowess made her an indispensable confidante for JFK, especially during critical geopolitical events.

Mary's Artistic and Personal Transformation

After her divorce from Cord Meyer and the tragic loss of her son Michael, Mary immersed herself in her art as a means of healing and self-discovery. Her involvement with the Colorists in Washington D.C. and her relationship with artist Kenneth Nolan marked a period of intense personal growth and creative exploration.

[16:55] Sue Scott reflects on Mary's dedication:

"Half Light is exactly right. She was creating a style that was distinctly hers... she was on a separate trajectory."
— Sue Scott, [16:55]

Mary's commitment to her art led her to establish a studio with her friend Anne Truitt, further embedding herself into the Bohemian art scene of Washington D.C.

Intersections with Psychedelic Culture and Geopolitics

Mary's experimentation with LSD and her association with prominent figures like Timothy Leary introduced a layer of complexity to her character and her influence on JFK. She believed that psychedelics could aid global leaders in making more empathetic and peaceful decisions.

[26:12] Soledad O'Brien narrates Mary's involvement with psychedelic research:

"Mary thought LSD could be put to use on the men who ruled the world, helping them remove their ego and personal interests from their executive decisions."
— Soledad O'Brien, [26:12]

This intersection of art, personal transformation, and political ambition positioned Mary at the forefront of both creative and intellectual circles, further complicating her relationship with JFK.

The Assassination and Its Aftermath

The assassination of JFK on November 22, 1963, profoundly affected Mary, propelling her deeper into grief and suspicion regarding her own impending fate. The episode teases the connection between her murder and broader political intrigues, setting the stage for future discussions.

[50:56] Soledad O'Brien hints at the mysterious circumstances following the assassination:

"Mary continued her daily walks to clear her head and stoke her creativity. In the months following JFK's assassination, she reported feeling as if she were being followed."
— Soledad O'Brien, [50:56]

Mary's eventual murder remains entangled with unanswered questions about her relationships and the political tensions of the era.

Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode

O’Brien wraps up the episode by acknowledging the persistent mysteries surrounding Mary Meyer's death. She hints at uncovering new facets of the case in subsequent episodes, particularly focusing on the legal battles and testimonies that challenge the prevailing narratives.

"Next time on Murder on the Towpath, we learn Ray's fate... you can't convict him."
— Soledad O'Brien, [51:54]

Notable Quotes

• JFK's Love Letter:
  "Why don't you just say yes?"
  — John F. Kennedy, [03:00]

• Sue Scott on Mary's Art:
  "The colors are also very feminine and... evoke a serenity and almost a spirituality."
  — Sue Scott, [11:35]

• Soledad O'Brien on the Affair:
  "Mary put JFK in the unusual position of not having all the power."
  — Soledad O'Brien, [43:48]

• Sue Scott on Gender Dynamics:
  "Women have been sidelined because they're considered just somebody's girlfriend, somebody's wife, somebody's student, or somebody's assistant."
  — Sue Scott, [24:48]

Key Takeaways

• Complex Relationships: The affair between Mary Meyer and JFK was not merely romantic but deeply intertwined with political and intellectual exchanges, influencing both their personal lives and broader national events.

• Artistic Legacy: Mary’s dedication to her art, particularly her unique style and participation in the Colorists movement, highlighted her as a significant yet underappreciated artist of her time.

• Political Intrigue: Mary's connections with influential figures and her interest in psychedelics suggest a possible involvement in broader political strategies, adding layers to the mystery of her murder.

• Gender and Power: The episode sheds light on the challenges faced by women like Mary during the 1960s, navigating societal expectations while asserting their own identities and ambitions.

This episode of Murder on the Towpath intricately weaves personal narratives with historical events, presenting a nuanced exploration of Mary Pinchot Meyer's life, her untimely death, and the lingering questions that continue to captivate historians and enthusiasts alike.