The Daily Beans Podcast Summary
Episode: Refried Beans | Fight On And You Will Prevail (feat. Marie Yovanovitch)
Release Date: March 23, 2025
Host/Author: MSW Media (Alison Gill and Dana Goldberg)
Introduction
Refried Beans, hosted by Alison Gill and Dana Goldberg of MSW Media, sets the stage by nostalgically revisiting a past episode from The Daily Beans. This unique format allows listeners to reflect on how events have unfolded over the years. The hosts infuse their characteristic snark and progressive perspectives, promising an engaging blend of news, personal anecdotes, and insightful interviews.
News Highlights
Supreme Court Nomination: Ketanji Brown Jackson
The episode begins with the top story of the day: Ketanji Brown Jackson's confirmation hearings for the Supreme Court. Alison Gill underscores the historical significance by noting, “Ketanji Brown Jackson is the first Black woman nominated to the Supreme Court of the United States."
Alison Gill [01:11]: "Ketanji Brown Jackson is the first Black woman nominated to the Supreme Court of the United States."
January 6th Committee Testimony
A major segment covers the latest developments in the January 6th Capitol events. According to Hunter Walker from Rolling Stone, former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, alongside campaign officials, allegedly orchestrated efforts to incite a march on the Capitol. This testimony, provided by Scott Johnston, suggests a premeditated strategy to overwhelm law enforcement and influence the certification of the 2020 election results.
Scott Johnston [05:30] (paraphrased): "Mark Meadows, Katrina Pearson, and Kylie Kramer deliberated on directing people to the Capitol, making it appear as if they acted independently."
Amidst discussions about Meadows' involvement, Alison humorously notes the complications surrounding the use of burner phones in these endeavors.
Reuters' Controversial Partnership with TASS
The hosts delve into Reuters' ongoing partnership with the Russian state-controlled media outlet TASS. Multiple Reuters journalists express discontent over distributing unverified and potentially propagandistic content, highlighting internal conflicts and concerns about editorial integrity.
Dana Goldberg [14:30]: "Reuters is bro. And you're a Getty image, by the way. I've seen."
In-Depth Interview: Marie Yovanovitch
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to an exclusive interview with Marie Yovanovitch, former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine and author of Lessons from the Edge. The conversation explores her extensive career, the challenges she faced during political turmoil, and her perspectives on current geopolitical tensions.
Marie Yovanovitch's Career and Values
Yovanovitch shares her immigrant parents' legacy and the values instilled in her, emphasizing public service and anti-corruption efforts.
Marie Yovanovitch [18:42]: "We have been given so much from the United States, and we need to give back."
Facing Political Retaliation
Discussing her removal from the State Department, Yovanovitch expresses feelings of betrayal and the broader implications for diplomatic integrity.
Marie Yovanovitch [25:32]: "It felt like a betrayal that I had been loyal and tried to do my job..."
Current Russian Invasion of Ukraine
Yovanovitch provides an analysis of the ongoing Russian invasion into Ukraine, highlighting Ukrainian resilience and the complexities of potential peace talks.
Marie Yovanovitch [34:08]: "That is what Ukraine is brought up on. Fight on and you will prevail."
Good News Segment
Transitioning from heavy news, the hosts introduce a lighter segment featuring listener submissions. This includes heartwarming stories, pet photos, and shout-outs to small businesses.
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Listener Correction: Barbara Cohen clarifies her name was mistakenly called as Barbara Jones, adding a humorous touch.
Alison Gill [40:04]: "Imagine my bemusement when I heard AG on today's episode refer to the SDNY special master as Barbara Cohen."
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Pet Tacks: Listeners share adorable photos of their pets, fostering a sense of community and warmth.
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IT Crowd Appreciation: Jeff, a listener, commends the podcast for highlighting the behind-the-scenes efforts that ensured Y2K passed smoothly.
Jeff [42:30]: "At age 23, I got to spend that New Year's Eve in a darkened operations center..."
Final Thoughts and Farewell
As the episode winds down, Alison and Dana reflect on the emotional highlights, particularly the inspiring confirmation hearing of Ketanji Brown Jackson. Dana underscores the importance of emotional expression and championing the women in our lives.
Dana Goldberg [49:10]: "Embrace that part of yourself, because there's so many people... saying, you shouldn't cry. Boys don't cry."
Alison and Dana bid farewell, teasing future content and encouraging listeners to stay engaged with their stories and adventures.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Alison Gill [01:11]: "Ketanji Brown Jackson is the first Black woman nominated to the Supreme Court of the United States."
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Scott Johnston [05:30] (paraphrased): "Mark Meadows, Katrina Pearson, and Kylie Kramer deliberated on directing people to the Capitol, making it appear as if they acted independently."
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Marie Yovanovitch [18:42]: "We have been given so much from the United States, and we need to give back."
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Marie Yovanovitch [25:32]: "It felt like a betrayal that I had been loyal and tried to do my job..."
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Marie Yovanovitch [34:08]: "That is what Ukraine is brought up on. Fight on and you will prevail."
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Dana Goldberg [49:10]: "Embrace that part of yourself, because there's so many people... saying, you shouldn't cry. Boys don't cry."
Conclusion
This episode of The Daily Beans masterfully balances serious political discourse with personal stories and community interactions. Through incisive analysis, heartfelt interviews, and engaging listener segments, Alison Gill and Dana Goldberg deliver a comprehensive and entertaining news roundup tailored for the progressive listener.
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