All the Best

The George and Barbara Bush Foundation is proud to announce All the Best, a brand new weekly podcast hosted by grandson, Sam LeBlond. All the Best features interviews with George H. W. and Barbara Bush’s family, friends, former colleagues and fellow Points of Light with a special emphasis on service to others.

100. The First 100 03/31/2022

100. The First 100 This episode of All the Best, features a look back at our first 100 Episodes. Sam LeBlond takes a stroll through some favorite highlights of our many guests. We listen in as former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice speaks of making popcorn with Mrs. Bush, and an incident of extended grace during a lobster mishap with a young Ben Mulroney. Sam also takes us back to Brad Meltzer’s endearing relationship with the Bushes, and a touching tribute from our nation’s 61st Secretary of State, James A. Baker, III. Join us as we reminisce about some of our favorite moments. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/22641491

99. Down In Front! 02/16/2022

99. Down In Front! On this episode of All the Best, Sam LeBlond is joined by Canadian television host turned advocate, Ben Mulroney. They reminisce about the years Ben’s father, former Canadian Prime Minister, Brian Mulroney overlapped with the Presidency of George H. W. Bush. Ben speaks of the special times he was able to share with George and Barbara Bush during these years, and the remarkable friendship his father had with President Bush. You’ll also hear Sam and Ben express fond memories of Maine and enjoy a big laugh regarding a near mishap with Barbara Bush during an international summit. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/22151774

98. The Making of “41” 02/02/2022

98. The Making of “41” In this episode of “All the Best”, Sam LeBlond speaks with executive producer and director Jeffrey Roth about making the George Herbert Walker Bush documentary "41". They discuss President Bush and Mr. Roth's touching first meeting…and how the project almost didn't happen. Mr. Roth shares what he learned from the Bush family and how two years of filmmaking blossomed into a trusting friendship, allowing him to tell the story of "41". /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/21987758

97. Band of Brothers 01/19/2022

97. Band of Brothers In this episode, Sam LeBlond talks with author Don J. Snyder about the Caddie School for Soldiers, which was founded by Mr. Snyder. They discuss the importance of helping the modern veteran, the parallels between soldiers and caddies, and remembering that while “we can never do enough, we can always try to do more.” /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/21821210

96. Measuring Up to Expectations 01/07/2022

96. Measuring Up to Expectations In this episode, Sam LeBlond talks with Congressman Bill Archer about his friendship with George Herbert Walker Bush. They discuss their shared history in Texas politics, the importance of giving back, their political parallels, how Archer counseled GHWB when seeking out the Vice Presidency, and how fiscal responsibility may have cost GHWB re-election. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/21710627

95. The Plane Waits For No One 12/15/2021

95. The Plane Waits For No One In this episode of All the Best, Sam LeBlond is joined by Tom Frechette, the former personal aide to George H. W. Bush during his post-presidency years. Frechette discusses his early years working for George and Barbara Bush in Kennebunkport, recalls the logistical challenges of traveling with the president, and fondly looks back and laughs about one of his early gaffes as an aide to Bush 41. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/21494729

94. In Memory of Robert J. Dole, Former Senator of the United States 12/07/2021

94. In Memory of Robert J. Dole, Former Senator of the United States This episode was originally released on May 5, 2021. In this encore presentation, Sam LeBlond is joined by former Kansas Senator Bob Dole. Listen as they discuss how Dole and George H. W. Bush transformed a political rivalry into a friendship, legislation that they crafted together, the importance of service, and his salute that captured the nation. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/21410063

93. One of the Best Jobs in the World 11/24/2021

93. One of the Best Jobs in the World In this episode of All the Best, Sam LeBlond is joined by Jim Appleby, the former personal aide to George H. W. Bush during his post-presidency years. They discuss Jim’s introduction to George and Barbara Bush as a teenage ‘yard lad’ and reminisce about the various international trips he embarked on with the former President. Jim also reflects on the “41” legacy documentary, boat trips with the former president, and the iconic picture of George H. W. Bush with the U.S. Women’s water polo team at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/21260399

92. Would You Look at That Tie? 11/10/2021

92. Would You Look at That Tie? In this episode, Sam LeBlond is joined by the Honorable Sigmund Rogich, Las Vegas businessman, former Ambassador to Iceland, and close friend of George H. W. and Barbara Bush. They discuss Rogich’s work on Bush 41’s 1988 presidential campaign (including his famous “Revolving Door” ad), explore his passion for business and education, and laugh over a story involving a necktie. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/21109082

91. To Whom Much Is Given, Much Is Required 10/21/2021

91. To Whom Much Is Given, Much Is Required This week, Sam LeBlond sits down with former White House nurse Paula Trivette. They discuss her journey from being one of 18 siblings to her time in the military and eventually serving as nurse to Presidents Reagan and Bush 41. Paula also talks about George H. W. Bush’s fateful trip to Japan and a secret fan club spotlighting the fun President Bush loved to have and share. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20895422

90. Humbly and Quietly Faithful 10/13/2021

90. Humbly and Quietly Faithful In this episode, Sam LeBlond is joined by Reverend Russ Levenson, Rector of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Houston and close personal friend of George and Barbara Bush. Reverend Levenson shares his experience growing close with the Bush family spiritually and shares some hilarious personal stories from the perspective of a friend. Reverend Levenson also recounts the 2018 funerals of the former president and first lady and discusses why he believes their faith is the most underappreciated aspect of their characters. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20807585

89. Two Honorary Astros 10/07/2021

89. Two Honorary Astros This week, Sam LeBlond speaks with Drayton McLane, a Texas businessman, the former owner of the Houston Astros, and a close friend of George and Barbara Bush. Mr. McLane elaborates on his sports-centered friendship with George and Barbara Bush, from boat rides in Kennebunkport to hundreds of Astros home games in Houston. Mr. McLane also recounts the Bush’s unique approach to watching baseball and their utmost loyalty to the Astros, the team they loved. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20733764

88. Anchor to Windward 09/29/2021

88. Anchor to Windward This week, Sam LeBlond is joined by the senior United States Senator from Maine, Susan Collins, who has been a friend of the Bush family for many years. Senator Collins shares how she got her start in public service as a high school senior, reminisces about George and Barbara Bush’s love for the state of Maine, and offers valuable advice to any young listeners looking to pursue a career in public service. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20642876

87. Making the World Better for Future Generations 09/22/2021

87. Making the World Better for Future Generations In this episode, Sam LeBlond talks with former Secretary of State and former National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice. They discuss her path to public service, her relationships with both George and Barbara Bush, and being in the White House when the Cold War ended. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20566004

86. Global Leadership: A New Path Forward 09/04/2021

86. Global Leadership: A New Path Forward This week, Sam LeBlond sits down with former Secretary of Defense and former CIA Director Robert Gates. They discuss his path to service, his storied career, and how BUSH 41 used a classic “bait and switch” to lure him to Texas A & M University. Secretary Gates also offers insight into the United States’ role on the global stage, securing our borders, and the ongoing threat of international terror. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20365598

85. The Best Job in Politics 08/25/2021

85. The Best Job in Politics This week, Sam LeBlond talks with Gian-Carlo Peressutti, former aide and press secretary to George H. W. Bush. They focus on the years following his presidency… a busy period filled with international travel, speeches, and quite a bit of fun. Gian-Carlo also shares stories about rubbing shoulders with world leaders, Barbara Bush’s surprisingly disarming nature, George H. W. Bush’s amazing sense of humor, and the humility shared by the couple. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20263469

84. Cheeseburger Diplomacy 08/13/2021

84. Cheeseburger Diplomacy In this episode, Sam LeBlonde sits down with Matthew Wendel, who started as a dishwasher and ended up entertaining and cooking for the First Family during the George W. Bush administration at The White House, Camp David, and at the family’s ranch in Crawford, Texas. They also discuss his role as the General Manager of The Blair House, offering barbeque tips to world leaders, how food is a great equalizer, and his cookbook (and how it was partially inspired by Laura Bush’s mother). /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20136419

83. Compromise and Action 08/04/2021

83. Compromise and Action In this episode, Sam LeBlond talks with the Presidential Historian and President/CEO of the Lyndon B. Johnson Foundation, Mark Updegrove. They discuss preserving Presidential legacies during a pandemic, the consequential father-son relationship of Bush 41 and Bush 43 (and why it is so historically significant), the importance of compromise, and valuable advice from Barbara Pierce Bush. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/20028377

82. The "A-Team" of the East Wing 07/28/2021

82. The "A-Team" of the East Wing In this episode, Sam LeBlond sits down with Peggy Swift White, who served as the Personal Aide to First Lady Barbara Bush from 1989 until 1993. In addition to being responsible for the First Lady’s daily schedule, she also orchestrated domestic and international travel plans for Mrs. Bush to over 30 countries and all 50 states. They talk about Mrs. Bush’s remarkable commencement speech at Wellesley College, the unique relationship between Mrs. Bush and Mrs. Gorbachev, and they remember George H. W. Bush, the man… and the statesman. They also recall the Bush’s transition from the White House to private life and the solid (yet practical) wisdom of Barbara Pierce Bush… as seen from a true insider. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/19957508

81. The USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) 06/16/2021

81. The USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) This week on All The Best, Sam LeBlond talks with Captain Robert Aguilar, the Commanding Officer of The USS George H. W. Bush, a Nimitz class nuclear powered aircraft carrier. They discuss the captain’s unlikely path to being a CO, how a ship’s namesake can inspire, the way the ship honors the former president, and the bright future for the mighty warship. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/19492403

80. Dr. Anthony Fauci 06/09/2021

80. Dr. Anthony Fauci In this episode, Sam LeBlond talks with Dr. Anthony Fauci, the Director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Dr. Fauci, who has served as a medical advisor under seven U.S. Presidents, talks about his “accidental friendship" with George H. W. Bush and how George and Barbara Bush positively impacted the war on HIV/AIDS. They also shed light on COVID-19, pandemic preparedness, the important legacy of George W. Bush, and the solid foundation that only family can provide. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/19414124

79. Journey of a Lifetime 06/03/2021

79. Journey of a Lifetime In this episode of "All the Best," Sam LeBlond talks with former Secretary Tommy Thompson about how his respect for George H. W. and Barbara inspired his career of lifelong service, which began at a very young age. Secretary Thompson tells the story of his journey from the military, to being a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, becoming the 42nd Governor of Wisconsin, to serving under George W. Bush’s administration as the Health and Human Services Secretary. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/19338590

78. Serving Honorably 05/12/2021

78. Serving Honorably In this episode of "All the Best," Sam LeBlond talks with Ohio Senator Rob Portman to discuss how George H. W. Bush served as Senator Portman's mentor early in his career. They also discuss the importance of service, the president as a friend, and how Senator Portman added to Bush 41's lasting legacy. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/19082204

77. Service To Country 05/05/2021

77. Service To Country In this episode of "All the Best," Sam LeBlond is joined by former Kansas Senator Bob Dole. Listen as they discuss how Dole and George H. W. Bush transformed a political rivalry into a friendship, legislation that they crafted together, the importance of service, and his poignant final goodbye to his longtime friend. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/18990707

76. Live, Love, Serve 04/28/2021

76. Live, Love, Serve In a special family episode of "All the Best," Sam LeBlond talks to his cousin and George W. Bush's daughter (and granddaughter of George H.W. Bush) Barbara Bush. Listen as the cousins discuss Barbara's passionate drive to give back, the bestselling book that she wrote with her sister Jenna Bush Hager, the legacy of sharing her name with her grandmother, and reflections on the third anniversary of the passing of their grandparents. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/18901064

75. When the Cameras Were Off 04/21/2021

75. When the Cameras Were Off In this episode of "All the Best," Sam LeBlond is joined by former U.S. Senator from Wyoming Alan Simpson, and his wife, champion of the arts, Ann Simpson. In an intimate conversation, the Simpsons remember how they came to meet George and Barbara Bush and forge a lifelong friendship, what they were like outside of the public eye, and the importance good humor played in their relationships. Plus, the Simpsons share the secret to their long and happy marriage. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/18811454

74. Telling Their Stories 04/14/2021

74. Telling Their Stories In this episode of "All the Best," host Sam LeBlond chats with New York Times Bestselling Author Brad Meltzer about his longtime friendship with George H. W. and Barbara Bush...that actually began when the president wrote him a fan letter. Sam and Brad also talk about the importance of literacy, the unlikely comedic duo he formed with Barbara Bush, and his touching last moments with George HW Bush. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/18728315

73. Standing Where Duty Requires 03/31/2021

73. Standing Where Duty Requires On this episode of “All the Best,” Sam LeBlond speaks with former Marine and veterans advocate Cole Lyle. Listen as the two discuss how Lyle battled PTSD and how taking in a service dog has helped him. After taking in his service dog Kaya, Lyle was inspired to propose congressional legislation in the form of the PAWS Act to benefit other veterans. Lyle also talked about his time at Texas A&M University, his love of the Bush library, and meeting George H. W. Bush. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/18556241

72. Together Everyone Achieves More 03/24/2021

72. Together Everyone Achieves More On this episode of All the Best, Sam LeBlond talked with legendary football coach R.C. Slocum about his journey from a shoeshine boy to becoming the all-time winningest coach in Texas A&M football history. They also discuss his long-standing friendship with George H. W. Bush, which included hunting with the president, traveling with the president, witnessing the formation of his presidential library, and singing with Reba McEntire. /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/18456113

71. Front Row Seat 03/17/2021

71. Front Row Seat This week on "All the Best," host Sam LeBlond talks with former President George W. Bush's White House Photographer, Eric Draper. The two discuss everything from how Eric landed the job, the historical importance of the role, and the way photographic technology has advanced during his tenure. Eric also shares the amazing experience of photographing two living Presidents together, who were father and son. Plus, Eric reflects on being by George W. Bush's side as the events of September 11, 2001 unfolded. To read the full transcript of this episode visit . /episode/index/show/allthebestbush/id/18369773

All the Best

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