Cully

Cully

By Steve CullySociety & Culture
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Cully episodes

  • Reminiscing
    Mr Wells and I discuss the sensational interview we just had with Joe D’Ambrosio, the Voice of UConn athletics. He was kind enough to give us his time and surprisingly, he remembered me well. Mr Wells talks about my freshman year and how I adjusted. I said for 2 weeks I couldn’t get in the way of anyone. Then watching practice film, I had no idea what it was until OL coach Norries Wilson would be perplexed at how not only did I miss my block, but fell on the ground where the RB tripped over me . It was a masters class in football and I was coming from a GED program, I took a long time to catch up. We talk about my relationship with coach Edsall and I struggled early on. Randy said that I was not a great athlete. For me to have success, I have to play at 100 percent, if I played at 90 percent, I would get beat . That always stuck with me because some guys can give 75 percent effort and being so talented, they would succeed. Loved being able to interview Joe D, I admired and thought he was one of the best simply because of his versatility. Amazing stories and a top notch episode.
    1 hr 8 min
  • Joe D'Ambrosio
    Probably, the most fun and entertaining episode we've ever had on our podcast. Co-Host Mr. Wells speaks softly and carries a big stick. Our special guest and Mr. Wells got after it occasionally. They disagreed a few times, in the end, we had an incredible discussion.
    However, I was able to interview the voice of UConn athletics for over 20 years, the man, the myth, the legend, himself......Mr. Joseph D'Ambrosio who is the voice of the University of Connecticut and playing a huge part in putting us on the map. Showing what a true pro Joe is, he remembered by number in college, along with a few memorable quotes and he knew I was the guy who was always going to be brutally honest and never duck a question.
    Preparation was a big part of his success. On television, he has producers in his ears throwing out suggestions on what to say. Working for WTIC 1080AM radio, Joe became the voice of the Huskies. Men's and Women's Basketball, Football, Baseball, then throwing hockey into the mix.
    Known as the VOICE OF THE HUSKIES, he is also doing Men's and Women's Lacrosse. Joe D is the definition of developing a hard work ethic and taking time to learn your craft. All you have to do is look at his resume, he is called all 8 National Championships between the UConn Men's and Women's Basketball teams. Joe was instrumental promoting UConn Football when we moved to Division 1 FBS and filling Rentschler Field.
    Firmly, I believe Joe knows where the Civil Conflict trophy is that was created to start a rivalry between Central Florida and UConn being in a new conference. Joe, when I can get subpoena power, I want answers! We had a fantastic interview, he gets along with all the coaches from Geno to Mora, Hurley, it takes a special personality because we all have egos. I was definitely not his favorite players, he witnessed me drop a bowl of ice cream in the Tupper ware of hot fudge the night before a game, making a mess all over. Junior and Senior years, Joe came to me for quotes, and I really appreciated the attention he gave a broken-down tackle.
    Joe was named Connecticut Sportscaster of the year 9 times by the National Sports Media Association, and is like fine wine, only getting better with age. I am beyond thank full, appreciative, grateful, and truly humbled Joe took time to come on our podcast. Knowing the show is a year old, he always is supportive, liking and sharing the podcast on Facebook.
    This is a different level. When a talent like Joe who is capable of doing anything, joins as a guest and was more than happy to come on the show... I asked him exactly one time and he got right back to me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you and I hope we can do this again! After all, I am a WTIC 1080 Alum if you recall. I scared the hell out of Jewel at her concert in the summer of 2002, now that's a story for another time!
    33 min
  • David Weller
    Mr. Wells returns to co-host as we interview Coach David Weller from the Herkimer OGs basketball team of the ABA.
    Coach Weller took over an 0-5 team and immediately turned things around. He allowed players equal time to perform until he found his best starting 5 and would go 8 deep overall. The OG's had an amazing turn around, winning 4 games in a row under the guidance of Coach Weller. Ultimately, they finished 8-3 in games he coached, also winning a play in game to go to the play-offs in Binghamton.
    Coach Weller installed a press zone which trapped offenses and was very effective when used. The team put an Empasis on defense and was not going to allow high scoring matchups. Coach Weller admitted he was not going to teach any of his players techniques they didn't already know, but he put them in the best position to succeed and that us why the season turned around.
    David credits his ownership group and several people who had an impact on his life with helping to make a decision to take the job coaching the OG's. He is here to stay and already recruiting some new talent. A good coach who has an outstanding attitude and wants to build something special with the Herkimer OG's.
    After talking OG basketball, Mr. Wells, Coach Weller and I make our picks out of the sweet 16. We will see who makes the Final 4. Anyone who mentions this podcast will receive a free meal and drink at Frank Cristiano's new bar, Smoking Guns Saloon. A fantastic show and we definitely missed Mr. Wells!
    1 hr 8 min
  • Moneyline

    Moneyline is back with the return of Frank Cristiano. He was too busy for us last week as he opened up a new bar, Smoking Guns Saloon. Mention Moneyline to him and receive a free drink, along with a free meal!

    We talk about the Big East conference being slighted with only 3 teams in the tournament, while the Mountain West conference got 6 spots. UConn, Creighton, and Marquette all went 6-0 while the Mountain West teams faired 3-3.

    Frank picked 14 of the 16 teams remaining in the tournament, and we break down this weeks games and who we think will make it to the Final 4. Last week, Worcester Academy coach and co-host Jeremy Bandy gave up a huge secret that every leap year a team with a Wildcat nickname wins the tournament. Arizona, Hello! But can anyone stop UConn? Don't miss Moneyline and remember to mention it to Frank if you stop in at Smoking Guns Saloon for that free drink, along with a meal!

    1 hr 29 min
  • Chris Bellamy

    Chris Bellamy joins the show and shares a spectacular journey leading to a successful career. I did not know what I was getting into before our interview and at the end, I left with a smile on my face.

    Chris hails from "Hard Hitten" New Britan, Connecticut, which the best podcast host in the universe thought was a white-collar city. I could not have been more wrong; Chris grew up in one of the toughest places in Connecticut.

    Gangs were prominent and Chris joined in early before being arrested at 12 years old. This led to a stint in Juvenile detention where he made a decision to change his life. A mentor took notice of Chris being a dynamic athlete and encouraged him to play sports. He saw potential in football because there were more scholarship opportunities.

    His senior year, a new offensive coordinator showcased Chris. Offers from Hawaii, South Carolina, and Auburn followed. Who wouldn't want a 6'2 athlete with potential to play multiple positions? Denauld Brown recruited Chris at UConn, as he waited on eligibility from the NCAA. It came late, a day after National signing day!

    Coach Brown told Chris early on in the recruiting process they were leaving a scholarship open. It was loyalty which brought him to UConn, along with being close to home. Chris had a young daughter and was a dedicated father.

    Blue collar work ethic, running back coach Terry Richardson and a positive attitude defined his time at UConn. Chris credits senior starting running back Taber Small for taking him under his wing. Taber made a huge impact on learning the different responsibilities of the position.

    Nobody had to overcome more obstacles and adversity than Chris Bellamy. Put in an extremely talented group, he did not see the field immediately. It becomes heart breaking because football becomes our identity, as I know all too well. Chris had a rough stretch where he suffered through depression and even considered transferring.

    In 2003 and 2004, we witnessed how special of a player Chris was. After being moved to wide receiver, injuries put him right back in the backfield where he finally received his chance to shine. He was instrumental in 2003 as the team went 9-3. In 2004, first year in the Big East, Chris played a huge role in leading UConn to an 8-4 record and Motor City Bowl, which was our first bowl ever. He ended his career rushing for 87 yards and a touchdown destroying Toledo.

    After college, Chris was interested in learning how to manage money and provide a great life for his family. Self-taught, he became a Mortgage Broker, got a license to sell insurance and with his strong work ethic, he grew his portfolio.

    These days, Chris built an incredible career working for TEKsystems as a Marketplace Diversity Leader. Living in Boston with a wife and young son, Chris still focuses on giving back by starting a program to teach kids how to be IT professionals. He wants people to have access, raise awareness and do the best he can for everybody he can because that was what was done for him.

    Chris has a podcast, much better than mine, called All Black Men Need Therapy, which started in 2020. His platform exists in 143 countries that unpack past and present issues affecting black men's mental health, along with well-being. Chris and his brothers engage in honest, vulnerable dialogue surrounding the complexities of life as black men. They are committed to helping black men grow comfortable having difficult conversations while encouraging them to strive daily to become the best version of themselves. Chris speaks all over the country, most recently at Morehouse College and the Aspen Challenge, committed to making a difference.

    Coach Randy Edsall was tough, we thought he just didn't like us. It was because coach knew life would hit tougher and he taught us to overcome adversity. Coach said play every play like it's the last one you will ever play. We all apply that philosophy to this day and are grateful for the impact coach had on our lives.

    1 hr 34 min
  • Moneyline Mayhem

    An outstanding new episode of Moneyline this week. Ernest Floyd has put together the best programming in Worcester, including Moneyline, the highest rated local sports show in the 508 talking Worcester Railers HC.

    Jeremy Bandy, head football coach at Worcester Academy, along with Mike Binkoski co-host as we interview Broadcasting and Media Relations Coordinator Tim Foley. The team is on the road ready to put together a winning streak. Tim explains player movement with Bridgeport of the AHL can happen at anytime. The Railers have a 5 game home stretch coming up and they are closing in on a playoff spot. Tim does a phenomenal job as a broadcaster, and we thank him for joining us.

    Jeremy Bandy talks about Kirk Cousins being signed to 180 million dollar contract and being miffed he got paid that much despite only 1 playoff win. Mike Binkoski thinks it’s a good fit and the Falcons can make a run. A lot of laughs and fun but both did their research in preparation for the show.

    We discuss the Russell Wilson situation, Justin Fields, along with Kenny Pickett. Finally the guys give us their Final 4 picks and reveal who will win the national championship. Jeremy gives out a secret and knows for sure who will win the National Championship. Don't miss the hottest sports show in Worcester!

    1 hr 28 min
  • Tommy Collins

    What was supposed to be an episode with the coach, Joe Villipiano, UConn basketball analyst Chris Hill, former teammate and longtime friend Tommy Collins turned into the gold standard of entertainment.

    Running for 2 hours, there is not a single minute that is boring. From stories about our arrival to UConn, through a difficult freshmen camp, nothing is off limits. Ed Injaychock being the only student on campus with an air conditioner and dehumidifier, along with refusing to be on the show. We recount Ed's career of 3 plays against Colgate, as well as his Legendary high school highlight tape narrated by NFL films.

    Chris Hill breaks down the NCAA tournament with Tommy, both believe UConn is the best team and put in the most challenging bracket when they should have received an easier path. Chris has UConn, UNC, Houston, and Tennessee in the FINAL 4. Tommy goes with UConn, Baylor, Houston and Purdue. Both pick UConn vs Houston for the National Championship with UConn repeating,

    Lots of laughs, amazing guests, Tommy Collins steals the show. Sit back or listen in your car, they are GOLD

    2 hr 26 min
  • Free Karen Read! Turtleboy is FREE!

    Karen Read was watching friends turn on her, flip flopping at court hearings while innocent until proven guilty may as well not exist. Karen and boyfriend Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe met friends for drinks at The Waterfall bar in January 2022. After, they went to a party at Brian Alberts house, another police officer. Karen didn't see him enter the because of the show but called his phone, several times, no answer and she assumed his got in okay.


    After several hours of not hearing from him, she contacted "friend" Jen McCabe and they went driving to search for John. Hours passed since she dropped him off and John was in grave danger. Karen performed mouth to mouth, asked for blankets to warm him, nurses were in the Albert home and were contributing what they could.

    EMTs rushed John to Good Samaritan Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 7:50am from hypothermia. HOWEVER, John had gashes on his arm that looked like a dog attacked. Also, blunt force trauma to the back of the head was pictured in photos

    The Prosecution theory was Karen and John has been arguing at the Waterfall and Karen Read backed into him purposefully after dropping him off.

    Karen Read needed medical attention because she was beside herself, she didn't want to leave picturing in her head life without John.

    Aidian Kearny broke this case open for the defense because he is one of the few people who cares about the truth and Justice for John O'Keefe. Also known as "Turtleboy", this case did not pass the smell test.

    Tutrtleboy found Lucky Loughran who has worked for the Canton DPW for many years. The Commonwealth's theory is John O'Keeffe never entered the house and Karen Read ran him over. Lucky said he did not see a body at 12;30pm or when he plowed at 2:30am, very little show was on the ground and a body would most be visible.

    The McCabe's and Alberts denied being friends, denied knowing each other and pictures posted were not with their kids. I've never seen such careless, egregious, lying for the purpose of allegedly covering up a murder. There are videos and wedding pictures galore, along with recent pictures of their kids posing together.

    Chris Albert's son Colin Albert did not get along with John O'Keefe. Karen Read missed John run into the house because it was cold outside. Former Bridgewater State football player and others, allegedly attacked O'Keefe , including Sicking their German Sheppard Cloe on him, unfortunately causing significant injuries, then dragged his lifeless body into the snow, allowing him to succumb to hypothermia hours later.

    Turtleboy smelled a rat. investigated, he is the only reason this case gained national notoriety and a federal investigation is ongoing to show the incompetence of Meatball Morrissey, along with the Canton Police Department.

    Turtleboy organized rally's at each hearing, a rolling rally to show where everything took place in Canton. Despite being arrested on counts of federal witness intimidation; Aidan knows the first amendment protects him. He doesn't deny making mistakes, didn't he deserve to go to jail for 60 days because a mentally unstable jilted lover was used by the police to put him away. Aidan exposed the truth and because Lindsey Gaetani is a liar who needs help Turtleboy is the main reason this case was reported on, he is also the reason hundreds of thousands of people support him, believe in him, and corruption in Canton will be catastrophic. Yuri Bukaki is sweating. Michael Proctor is being investigated by the federal government for his conduct. Meatball Morrissy and Ken Mello, please get in some cardio. I am fat and at least started mine!

    1 hr 12 min
  • Chaos

    We have an unprecedented episode of Moneyline, becoming heated and everyone is fired up! Frank Cristiano makes his return and wants to know who listens to our show, along with if they know where Utica, NY is located.

    Mr. Wells has a lot to say about LSU and South Carolina's women's team having a brawl, along with how each coach handled it.

    Thomas Andrew "The Skull" Hartmann returns, disagreeing and interrupting everyone.

    We talk NFL free agency, the value of quarterbacks growing out of proportion while runningbacks salaries are stagnated or declining.

    Fired up arguments all around, especially when analyzing Frank and I broadcasting the last few ABA games. This show was entertaining, pure chaos, don't miss it tonight at 7pm.

    1 hr 23 min
  • Storming The Court/Recruiting/NIL Deals

    Don't miss a new episode of Moneyline, only on 97.9 Unity Radio. Ernest Floyd has put together a team that provides you with the best sports programming in Worcester. Frank Cristiano, Tom Wells are two of the most successful coaches at the collegiate and high school level, offering unique insight on top news in the sports world.
    We talk about a hot button issue of students storming the courts after college basketball games. Frank believes passionate fans have every right to celebrate a huge upset. Tom Wells said his daughter Stacy Wells Shea, Ed.D had her proudest moment when Syracuse had a big upset and rubbed Dickie Vitales head as she ran on the court. He feels each conference has to step up to put in rules for when this happens and get the visiting team off safely.
    We discuss the recent court ruling that NIL deals can be used in recruiting. Frank thinks the NCAA dropped the ball from the start by not putting a policy in place to regulate NILs. I brought up title 9 being an issue because male athletes are receiving more money and the majority of NIL deals to begin with. Mr. Wells believes all conference commissioners will meet down the road to break away from the NCAA all together because it's an obsolete, useless organization.
    The UFL starting up, Frank thinks spring football is a mistake. He said if the NFL wants a true developmental league, it needs to run in the fall, parallel to an NFL season. This way teams who have needs or injuries can sign players, already in game shape who are ready to contribute, play games on Tuesday nights. Mr. Wells feels football is the most popular sport, people will watch whenever they can, and a spring league could work if given several years to establish.
    Ernest Floyd hosts Unity In the Community the flagship show on 97.9 which covers important challenges facing Worcester.
    Qurán Avery, is heating up Worcester with the WOO 508 for your Hip Hop music fix
    Mike MacInnis talking about the Kiva Center which helps people in need of treatment for trauma, mental health, and addiction.
    And always, Ernest Floyd provides Smooth Grooves to kick back and enjoy the best Jazz music.
    Tonight at 7pm, check out an amazing episode of Moneyline for your sports fix, laughs and entertainment.

    1 hr 2 min

About Cully

From the publisher's feed

Steve Cully speaks with alumni from the University of Connecticut. Husky Talk is our flagship show, we catch up with alums, where they share their journey through college and life after graduating. Our graduates are strong, successful, have families and we reconnect. We talk about winning back-to-back National Championships in basketball being astonishing. Everyone wants football returning to having consistent success, Coach Mora has an incredible staff built to win.