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Darrel Chaney on Ernie Banks, the Big Red Machine, and a life in baseball:

Randy Freking and Jack Greiner sit down with Darrel Chaney, a 1975 World Champion Cincinnati Reds infielder and former Braves broadcaster, for a wide-ranging conversation about fandom, mentorship, and the big moments that shaped his career. Chaney shares the childhood influence of Ernie Banks, his path from Hammond, Indiana to the Reds, and what it was like inside one of baseball’s most iconic eras.

We discuss the players, managers, trades, and clubhouse memories that defined the Big Red Machine, plus Cheney’s favorite baseball movie, mascot, uniform, and the most unforgettable play he ever saw.

Key topics

• In this episode, Darrel Chaney explains how watching Chicago Cubs games after school turned him into an Ernie Banks fan for life.
• He tells the story of meeting Ernie Banks at age 12, getting a signed program, and being told, “I’ll see you in the big leagues.”
• Chaney recalls his own high school football career, including being named a Parade All-American quarterback and weighing college football against pro baseball.
• He talks about being drafted by the Reds, choosing baseball, and playing alongside names like Gary Nolan, Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Tony Perez, and Dave Concepción.
• He shares how he found out he was traded to the Atlanta Braves and why leaving the 1975 Reds felt like falling off the roof of his house.
• Chaney picks Dave Bristol as his favorite manager, praising Bristol’s baseball knowledge, honesty, and leadership.
• He says the Reds should have kept Tony Perez, arguing that Tony was one of the heart and soul players who made the machine work.
• He names the Dodgers as the team he disliked most, and tells a memorable story about a dugout-clearing brawl with the Pirates.
• Chaney breaks down the adjustment from grass to astroturf and explains why the short hop became such an important defensive tool.
• He recalls the most amazing play he ever saw: Roberto Clemente’s ridiculous catch-and-throw at Forbes Field.
• He names The Natural as his favorite baseball movie, with Field of Dreams as a close second.
• He says the San Diego Chicken is his favorite mascot of all time, and calls the old Reds sleeveless pinstripes his favorite uniform.

Timestamps

(00:00) Introduction, World Series credentials, and why Darrel Chaney matters
 (02:14) How a childhood Cubs fan became obsessed with Ernie Banks
 (04:23) Meeting Ernie Banks at age 12 and hearing the “big leagues” promise
 (06:30) The autograph that followed him for years and the meaning of Banks’ influence
 (07:53) Facing Ernie Banks in the majors and the moment it came full circle
 (11:21) From fan to friend, plus years of reconnecting with Banks after baseball
 (13:12) Growing up with Cubs broadcasts and why that shaped his baseball path
 (14:04) Chaney’s three-sport high school career and Parade All-American football honor
 (16:23) Choosing Ball State, then getting drafted by the Reds
 (18:19) Favorite managers: Dave Bristol, Sparky Anderson, and Bobby Cox
 (22:47) The trade from the Reds to the Braves and how he found out
 (26:07) If he could reverse one Reds decision, it would be keeping Tony Perez
 (28:05) The player and team he disliked most: Billy Buckner and the Dodgers
 (29:42) The big Pirates brawl and the kind of baseball they played in that era
 (32:10) His Mount Rushmore of Reds legends and why the great teams took 25 players
 (35:31) The ideal dinner party guests: Pete Rose, Dave Bristol, Sparky Anderson, and Bobby Cox
 (39:19) The 9-11 memory he will never forget and the Braves’ 1995 championship
 (42:35) Riding in the 1975 Cincinnati parade after winning the World Series
 (43:44) Favorite baseball movies: The Natural, Field of Dreams, Trouble with the Curve, and Bull Durham
(45:45) His walk-up song and the story behind the “Norton” nickname
(48:05) Favorite Reds uniform and why the sleeveless pinstripes stood out
(49:11) Adjusting to astroturf and learning to live with the bounce
(53:48) The greatest play he ever saw: Roberto Clemente’s unreal defensive sequence
(55:37) Pete Rose’s famous headfirst slide and the 1972 World Series ending
(59:20) Best trade memories, including George Foster arriving in Cincinnati
(61:40) Favorite mascot: the San Diego Chicken
(62:30) Closing thanks and reflections on a baseball life well lived

Notable quotes:

“When you go to work, I want you to work hard. When you go to play, I want you to play hard. When you go to pray, I want you to pray hard.”

Ernie Banks: “I’ll see you in the big leagues.”

“I went from becoming a fan to becoming a friend of Ernie Banks.”

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Summary

In this episode, Dennis "Wildman" Walker shares his incredible journey from a Reds fan and baseball card collector to a radio personality known as Wildman. He recounts his wild adventures including living on a billboard, flying banners, and his colorful experiences in Cincinnati sports history. In this episode, Wildman, Randy  and Jack delve into Cincinnati Reds history, memorable moments, and personal favorites, offering fans a rich tapestry of baseball insights and stories.

Key Topics

• Dennis Walker's journey from fan to radio personality
• Living on a billboard for 61 days during a Reds game
• Wildman’s wild adventures flying banners and protesting
• Memories of Reds players and managers like Pete Rose and Johnny Temple
• The story behind Wildman's nickname and radio career
• His experiences with Cincinnati sports teams and events
• The making of his book 'Wild Man: The Book'" and its sequel
• Notable moments like the last Royals game and Nate Archibald's ride home Reds Hall of Fame and Legends
• Memorable Reds Moments and Games
• Favorite Reds Players and Trades
• Ballpark Food and Mascots
• Baseball Movies and Personal Stories

Sound Bites

• "He fired him the next day."
• "Ted Giannolis is a genius."
• "The Philly fanatic is hilarious."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Wildman's Cincinnati Sports Journey

00:05
Introduction to Reds Legends and Stories

02:16
Early Memories and Love for Baseball

04:10
Meeting Johnny Temple and Reds Legends

07:21
Getting Started in Radio and the Wildman Nickname

14:43
Living on the Billboard for 61 Days

20:32
Protests, Banners, and the Pete Rose Banner Flight

26:54
Writing the Book 'Wild Man the Book' and Its Sequel

32:17
Decisions and Regrets in Reds History

34:21
Reds Players and Teams Wildman Dislikes

37:15
Wildman's Legacy and Final Thoughts

37:24
Reds Firing and Controversies

38:04
Favorite Reds Players and Hall of Fame Picks

38:38
Dream Dinner with Reds Legends and Celebrities

39:34
Reds Rookie of the Year and Player Development

40:08
Issues at Second Base and Team Weak Spots

40:36
Dream Reds Signings and Hall of Fame Aspirations

41:13
Favorite Reds Uniforms and Team Jerseys

45:21
Favorite Reds Backup Players and Bench Warmers

45:57
Memorable Visits to the Ballpark and Historic Moments

49:44
Pete Rose's Return and Reds History

50:51
Best Reds Trades and Trade Decisions

52:26
Hall of Fame and Reds Legends in the Hall

54:35
Favorite Reds Announcers and Broadcasters

55:36
Favorite Reds Mascots and Fan Engagement

58:11
Mascots and Team Identity in Baseball

59:27
Passion for Baseball and Reds Fandom

01:00:23
Reds Fan Stories and Personal Encounters

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Summary-

In this episode, Rick Robinson shares his lifelong passion for baseball, his experiences growing up as a Reds fan, and insights into the 1968 baseball season and its historical significance. He also discusses his recent book and documentary on 1968, highlighting its impact on American history. 

 Rick Robinson shares his deep love for Cincinnati Reds baseball, memorable moments, and insights into the game, players, and history. Join us for a lively conversation filled with personal stories, favorite players, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that celebrate the spirit of Reds baseball.

Key Topics

• Growing up as a Reds fan in Ludlow and Bromley
• Lessons learned from Veda Pinson and Sparky Anderson
• The significance of the 1968 baseball season
• Rick Robinson's book and documentary on 1968
• Memories of Crosley Field and player autographs
• The evolution of ballparks and player-warmup traditions
• Favorite Reds players and managers
• Historical moments like the Tommy Smith Black Power salute
• Trade stories and Reds legends
• Reflections on baseball's cultural impact Memorable Reds moments and personal stories
• Favorite Reds players and trades
• Historical insights into Reds baseball
• Food and traditions at Reds games
• Notable baseball movies and announcers

Sound Bites

• "Sparky Anderson's hands in pockets was to prevent hitting umpires."
• "Ted Davidson was shot by his wife in a bar."
• "Chipper Jones was the Reds killer."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and guest background

04:16
Lessons from Veda Pinson and meeting players

09:55
Rick's baseball career and emulating players

15:49
The 1968 baseball season and its significance

18:57
Rick's book and documentary on 1968

21:59
Historical events of 1968 and their impact

25:03
Reflections on Reds trades and decisions

28:02
Players and teams Rick despises

30:06
Reds players on Mount Rushmore

32:00
Stratomatic baseball and favorite players

33:01
Guy Fieri dinner party with Reds legends

33:53
Rick shares a humorous story about bass players and baseball

34:36
Dreams of Reds players who can hit their weight

34:56
The importance of taking the first pitch and game strategies

35:25
Observations on Reds lineup and batting averages

36:22
Growing up with Reds legends and expectations

36:30
Rick’s ideal Reds player and historical context

37:14
Favorite ballpark foods and personal traditions

38:36
Memories of attending games and bringing own food

40:47
Rick recalls a White House moment involving Reds and baseball legends

44:09
Rick’s favorite baseball movies and actors

45:27
Walk-up songs and Reds uniforms of choice

45:58
Favorite Reds uniforms and jersey details

46:55
Favorite backup players and memorable moments

52:34
Greatest Reds moments and trades

56:13
Most exciting Reds players and race around the bases

57:05
Favorite announcers and baseball voices

58:30
Favorite Reds mascot and team traditions

01:00:42
Closing remarks and thanks

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Summary

In this episode, Joe Meyer shares his lifelong passion for the Cincinnati Reds, his insights on leadership from his political career, and his favorite moments and players in Reds history. Discover fascinating stories, strategic reflections, and personal memories that highlight the rich baseball culture of Cincinnati.

Key Topics

• Reds' history and memorable players
• Leadership lessons from political career
• Favorite Reds moments and trades
• Impact of managers Sparky Anderson and others
• Cultural significance of Reds uniforms and mascots

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Joe Meyer's Reds fandom

04:03
Joe's favorite Reds players from the 1950s and 60s

09:58
Leadership influences from Joe's political career

15:07
Reflections on the Reds' strategic trades and team history

20:00
The rivalry with the Dodgers and Reds' dominance in the 70s

24:54
Joe's role as mayor and his impact on Covington

30:03
Favorite Reds uniforms and mascots

35:11
Memorable Reds moments and personal stories

39:52
Joe's favorite Reds players for clutch moments

45:01
Closing thoughts and appreciation for Reds history

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Summary

In this episode, Tim Reilly, president of St. Xavier High School, shares his lifelong passion for Cincinnati Reds baseball, leadership insights, and the values that shape his approach to education and life.

Key Topics

• Tim Reilly's baseball memories and favorite players
• Leadership lessons from baseball managers and players
• The significance of 'Man for Others' in education and life
• The journey from student to president of St. Xavier High School
• The impact of sports championships on school spirit and community
• Tim Reilly's insights on team management and individual talent
• Memorable Reds moments and legendary players
• Values and leadership principles inspired by baseball

Takeaways:

• Tim Reilly's lifelong Reds fandom rooted in childhood memories at Crosley Field.
• Leadership in baseball and education both require understanding individuals and managing personalities.
• The Jesuit principle of 'Man for Others' guides Reilly's approach to service and leadership.
• Success in sports and school is built on teamwork, trust, and recognizing individual strengths.
• Memorable Reds moments, like the 1972 NLCS, highlight the emotional power of sports.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Tim Reilly's Reds Connection

652:45:47
Leadership Lessons from Baseball Managers

18333:19:15
Growing Up in a Large Family

20055:32:35
Winning the State Baseball Championship

23416:39:15
Most Memorable Reds Moments

28138:52:39
Trade Decisions and Reds History

31611:06:02
Designing a Reds Mount Rushmore

34999:59:25
Favorite Reds Uniforms and Personal Style

36666:39:25
Most Amazing Reds Game Moment

41777:46:07
Visiting the Ballpark and Personal Memories

44944:26:10
Clutch Moments and Game-Winning Plays

49916:39:33
Favorite Baseball Movies and Cultural Touchstones

51555:32:53
Walk-Up Songs and Personal Anthem

53249:59:33
Best Reds Hair and Style

56722:12:58
Most Memorable Reds Victory

59999:59:38
Brawl and Tough Guy Moments

61944:26:18
Greatest Reds Trades and Legends

63305:33:00
Hall of Fame Reds and Notable Alumni

65055:33:00
Celebrating Reds Championships

70194:26:21
Final Reflections and Closing Remarks

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Terence Moore on My Big Red Machine and the stories behind the Big Red Machine.

Randy Freking and Jack Greiner welcome sports journalist, columnist, professor, and author Terrence Moore to discuss his book "My Big Red Machine" and his lifelong baseball fandom that shaped it. Moore traces his journey from a Cubs fan in South Bend to a Reds-obsessed journalist in Cincinnati, with Pete Rose, Sparky Anderson, and Bob Howsam at the center of the conversation.

We discuss Moore’s path into journalism, the inside stories he gathered from years covering the Reds, and the spiritual through-line he sees connecting his life, career, and the making of the book.

Key topics:
Moore’s childhood baseball fandom;
Growing up in South Bend, Indiana, he was a Cubs fan because Chicago was the nearest pro baseball connection;
He remembers watching snowy Cubs telecasts on WGN through a rooftop antenna;
Why Hank Aaron was his first favorite player;
As a kid, Moore idolized Hank Aaron;
That early admiration later turned into a 40-year friendship and a book, The Real Hank Aaron;
Pete Rose became his all-time favorite;
Moore says Pete Rose was the player who changed everything for him;
He tells the story of seeing Rose in person at Crosley Field in 1969, diving for a fly ball, running out a walk, and hustling into second base head first;
The hustle lesson from Pete Rose;
Moore says Rose’s effort became a lifelong model for how he played sports and approached work;
He still teaches mentees to give the same effort in everything, not just journalism;
Sparky Anderson as the best manager he ever covered;
Moore has covered 19 managers and says Sparky Anderson was the best;
He praises Sparky’s charisma, wisdom, and the way he treated a young reporter like a veteran;
The Hall of Fame plaque moment in Cooperstown;
Moore describes being at the Baseball Hall of Fame for My Big Red Machine and unexpectedly meeting Sparky Anderson’s niece at Sparky’s plaque;
The encounter turned emotional and reinforced the book’s theme of fate and spiritual timing;
The book’s major revelations came from Bob Howsam;
Moore explains that a 2006 recorded conversation with Big Red Machine architect Bob Howsam became the closing chapter of the book;
Howsam shared details about the Big Red Machine and the 1973 NLCS incident; with Pete Rose and Mets fans that Moore says had never been fully told before;
Sparky’s view on whether the Big Red Machine could have won a third title;
Sparky told Moore the team would not have won another championship because they were “bored” after their early success;
Moore disagrees, saying Tony Perez was the glue that held the club together and that trading him was a major turning point;
Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, and clubhouse friction;
Moore says Bench and Rose had real tension, partly because Bench was more nationally known while Rose was more beloved in Cincinnati;
He also shares Sparky’s blunt response when Dave Concepcion complained about being treated differently than the stars;
What really happened when the Reds let Pete Rose go;
Moore says Howsam told him law enforcement warned Rose was so involved with gamblers that keeping him in Cincinnati could have put him in danger;
He frames the move as about more than money, despite Rose’s record salary at the time;
Breaking into journalism and learning the old-school craft;
Moore describes how a visit to Miami University at age 13 helped convince him where he wanted to go to school;
He later became the first Black writer at the Miami Student and the first Black editor in the paper’s history;
A tough lesson from Jim Schottelkotte;
Moore shares the story of being reprimanded after covering a drag racing event and missing a nearby fire;
The lesson was clear: a reporter is a reporter first, not just a sports writer;
His experience as the first Black Reds beat writer;

Moore explains the mix of support and hostility he faced in the Riverfront Stadium press box in the late 1970s;
He recalls a moment when veteran columnist Paul Meyer supported him after a public jab from another writer;
Favorite baseball book and movie;
Moore names The Boys of Summer as his favorite baseball book besides his own; and for baseball films, he chooses The Pride of the Yankees for its old-school feel and Lou Gehrig connection.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Terrence Moore, Reds roots, and the new book

01:59 - Growing up a Cubs fan in South Bend with a snowy WGN signal

03:22 - Hank Aaron as his first favorite player and later lifelong friend

04:25 - Pete Rose becomes the defining baseball hero

05:49 - First trip to Crosley Field and the Pete Rose moment that sealed it

08:17 - How Pete Rose’s hustle shaped Moore’s own playing style

09:24 - The managers Moore covered and why Sparky Anderson stood above the rest

11:11 - Bob Howsam’s revelations and the real story behind the Big Red Machine

13:19 - What made Sparky special with young reporters in the clubhouse

14:16 - Cooperstown, Sparky’s plaque, and the emotional niece encounter

17:48 - Sparky’s firing and the newsroom reaction in 1978

19:53 - How a visit to Miami University helped shape Moore’s future

22:53 - Why Miami’s student newspaper changed everything

25:24 - Getting his first Cincinnati Enquirer internship

27:43 - Jim Shadakati’s old-school standards and the drag racing lesson

32:04 - The 2006 Bob Howsam interview that became a book centerpiece

34:56 - Tracking Howsam down in Arizona and uncovering new details

38:21 - Finding the old cassette in the basement and realizing its value

40:35 - Sparky’s surprising claim that the Big Red Machine was too bored to win again

44:25 - Pete Rose and Johnny Bench’s friction, plus the ego battle in Cincinnati

46:23 - Sparky’s blunt response to Dave Concepcion’s complaint

47:42 - The real reason the Reds moved on from Pete Rose

49:31 - Being the first Black Reds beat writer and what the press box felt like

51:31 - Covering the Reds with Ray Buck and the old newspaper workflow

55:23 - The hostile press box moment and Paul Meyer’s unexpected support

59:44 - A painful Reds memory away from the ballpark: the 1975 World Series ending

60:44 - A joyful radio memory: Hal King’s comeback homer in 1973

62:41 - Favorite baseball movie: The Pride of the Yankees

63:45 - Favorite baseball book: The Boys of Summer

65:38 - First time at Crosley Field and the family’s shift from Cubs to Reds

68:43 - Where to get My Big Red Machine and the hardcover option

70:59 - Praise from Marty Brennaman and Hal McCoy

71:40 - Closing thanks, Miami University connection, and final sign-off

Notable quotes

“Everything happens for a reason.”

“You’re a reporter first. You’re not a sports reporter. You’re a reporter first.”

“I was bored.”

SPONSORED BY CITY VIEW TAVERN It's a New Era At City View!

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Summary:

The voice behind Cincinnati's Reds—Joe Zerhusen—reveals the stories, moments, and lessons from nearly three decades at GABP that make him one of baseball's most recognizable voices.
Imagine walking into Crosley Field as a kid and turning into the iconic voice announcing every batter at Great American Ballpark for the past 24 years. Joe Zerhusen, the beloved Reds public address announcer, shares how his journey from a local Kentucky kid to the voice of a historic franchise was fueled by passion, perseverance, and a love for the game—and music.

In this episode, Joe takes us through his early memories as a Reds fan growing up in Park Hills, Kentucky, and how those childhood moments developed into a lifelong career. You'll discover how a chance conversation at a gas station kickstarted his radio journey in the late 70s, and how his unique voice became a Cincinnati staple, from local stations to the Reds' ballpark. 

Joe discusses the art of introducing players, the fun and challenges of handling memorable moments in live broadcasts, and how he navigated his battle with cancer in 2017—all while keeping the spirit of baseball alive. We break down:

• The legendary figures and managers who shaped Reds history, from Sparky Anderson to Dusty Baker, and how they influenced Joe’s perspective.

• The quirky, heartwarming, and sometimes hilarious behind-the-scenes moments that make game days unforgettable—like Mr. Red’s mishaps and the fire on the power stacks.

• The subtle craft of engaging fans, making every introduction meaningful, and the importance of consistency and passion in live announcing.

• The inspiring story of overcoming health challenges and returning to the mic, reminding us why Team Voice is vital to the game.

This episode is essential listening for baseball fans and aspiring broadcasters alike—whether you're curious about what makes the perfect game intro, or how a voice can become as iconic as the players themselves. Joe’s reflections remind us that behind every pitch and hit is a voice that amplifies the magic of baseball—it’s about more than just words; it’s about creating moments that fans carry in their hearts forever.Join us for an inspiring, humorous, and heartfelt conversation with one of baseball’s most beloved voiceovers. Perfect for Reds fans, sports enthusiasts, or anyone who believes live moments are about connecting stories, voices, and memories that last a lifetime.
 

Key Topics

• Joe Zerhusen’s early baseball memories and local roots in Park Hills, Kentucky
• How he got into radio and transitioned into the Reds' PA announcer role
• Influences from legendary announcers like Paul Summercamp and Harry Kalas
• Memorable moments at GABP, including debuting Ken Griffey Jr. and the 2017 cancer battle
• His favorite Reds players, managers, and uniform styles
• Unique stories and humorous mishaps during broadcasts
• Future plans and reflections on his voice being part of Reds history

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction to Joe Zerhusen, voice of the Reds at GABP

 02:08 - Joe’s earliest memories at Crosley Field and childhood baseball experiences
 05:33 - Favorite Reds players over the years, including Joey Jay, Pete Rose, and Joey Votto
 09:34 - Influence of legendary managers and mentors like Sparky Anderson and Dusty Baker
 12:23 - How Joe entered the radio industry and transitioned into a public address role
 16:12 - Career highlights, including first game at GABP and working at WLQA
 22:23 - Impact of Paul Summercamp and influence of announcers like John Facenda and Harry Kalas
 26:52 - Joe’s cancer diagnosis in 2017, his treatment journey, and return to broadcasting
 30:57 - Interactions with Reds players like Joey Votto and special moments on air
 32:40 - Memorable introductions, including Ken Griffey Jr. and favorite broadcast highlights
 36:10 - Challenges with pronunciations, technical bloopers, and funny moments at the ballpark
 41:30 - Historic trade decisions and rivalries that shape baseball passions
 45:27 - Reds players or teams Joe despises, especially Wrigley Field visitors and the Cubs
 49:06 - Players Joe would invite to a fantasy dinner including Sean Casey and Joe Knoxau
 53:11 - Favorite baseball movies: For Love of the Game and others that inspire him
55:47 - Top play-by-play commentators, with praise for Tommy Thrall and Jeff Brantley
56:23 - Joe’s walk-up song: Midnight Rider by the Allman Brothers
56:44 - Favorite Reds uniform from 1961, with a focus on sleeveless styles
62:50 - Balancing game observation with announcing duties and in-game focus
66:32 - Who would win a baserunning race: Deion Sanders, Billy Hamilton, or Ellie Daylock?
69:35 - Joe’s future at GABP; thoughts on retirement and legacy plans
70:16 - Final words, gratitude, and induction into the "We Love Our Team Hall of Fame"

Resources & Links

• Paul Summercamp’s Reds Announcing Style (Search for related broadcasts)
• [Ken Griffey Jr. Biography](https://www.mlb.com/player/ken-griffey-jr- строг)
• Harry Kalas - NFL Films Voice
• John Facenda NFL Films
• For Love of the Game (Movie)

Connect with Joe Zerhusen

• Twitter
• LinkedIn
• GABP Official Website

Celebrating decades of Reds baseball and storytelling — thank you, Joe, for sharing your voice and stories!

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We Love Our Team with Governor Andy Beshear

Jack Greiner and Randy Freking welcome Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a lifelong Reds fan, for a fast-moving conversation that blends baseball memories, Reds history, and a few political leadership takeaways. Beshear shares why the Reds have been part of his life since childhood, names his all-time favorites, and weighs in on everything from the pitch clock to favorite announcers.

In this episode, the governor also talks about the players and moments that shaped his fandom, including Barry Larkin, Ken Griffey Jr., the 1990 World Series, and the impact of Louisville and Lexington talent in MLB. The result is a playful but thoughtful Reds-centric conversation with a true fan who knows the team and the game.

Key topics

• Beshear explains that baseball was the sport he loved most growing up and says he played with “good fundamentals,” mostly at third base, first base, and eventually pitcher.
• He recalls going to Reds games with his dad, including zoo visits in Cincinnati and doubleheaders fueled by chili cheese coneys.
• When asked about managers, he points to Lou Piniella and Davy Johnson as winners who built strong culture and got the most from their players.
• For the Reds decision he would change, he chooses the Ken Griffey Jr. signing, arguing that the contract eventually became too costly and hurt roster flexibility.
• His Reds Mount Rushmore is Tony Pérez, Johnny Bench, Eric Davis, and Barry Larkin, with Larkin singled out as his favorite player of all time.
• For dinner party guests, he picks TJ Friedl, Jose Canseco, and Freddie Freeman, saying Friedl can help him get the scoop on John Calipari and Freeman’s practice habits are worth studying.
• His go-to ballpark food is the hot pretzel, not multiple chili cheese coneys.
• His most memorable Reds memory is Game 2 of the 1990 World Series, when Joe Oliver delivered the winning hit in extra innings at Riverfront Stadium.
• If he needs a clutch Reds hitter, he wants a pre-injury Ken Griffey Jr. at the plate, with Tony Pérez or Barry Larkin as backups.
• On the mound in the ninth, he calls for Rob Dibble, praising the intimidation and velocity of one of the Nasty Boys.
• His favorite baseball movie is The Natural, though he acknowledges Field of Dreams and Major League as worthy rivals.
• For a walk-up song, he chooses Tyler Childers’ “Universal Sound,” which he also used at his inauguration.
• He supports several modern baseball changes, including the pitch clock, challenges on balls and strikes, and the double first base.
• For a fight, he picks Jim Thome, calling him built like a tree trunk.
• His nicest player is Andy Green, and his favorite current Reds hair belongs to the towering first baseman who came from the Rockies.
• Favorite announcer: John Smoltz, for his pitch-by-pitch analysis.
• Favorite mascot: Mr. Red, chosen as the traditional pick.
• In a speed race, he says Deion Sanders beats Billy Hamilton and Elly De La Cruz, based on seeing Sanders turn a routine single into a triple.

Timestamps

(00:00) Governor Andy Beshear joins the Reds podcast and explains why he is a lifelong fan
 (01:14) Childhood baseball background and his son’s Division III commitment
 (02:10) Going to Reds games with his dad and favorite ballpark memories
 (03:02) Favorite managers and what winning culture looks like
 (04:04) The Reds decision he would reverse: the Ken Griffey Jr. signing
 (05:34) Reds Mount Rushmore: Pérez, Bench, Davis, and Larkin
 (06:28) Dinner party guests: TJ Friedl, Jose Canseco, and Freddie Freeman
 (09:11) Favorite ballpark food and why the hot pretzel wins
 (09:50) Remembering Game 2 of the 1990 World Series
 (11:29) Clutch Reds hitter: pre-injury Ken Griffey Jr.
 (12:13) Best bullpen arm: Rob Dibble and the Nasty Boys
 (13:18) Favorite baseball movie: The Natural
 (14:05) Walk-up song and why Tyler Childers fits the moment
 (16:25) The pitch clock, replay challenges, and the double first base
 (19:27) Jim Thome as the guy you want in a bench-clearing brawl
 (19:54) Nicest Red: Andy Green
 (20:22) Best head of hair on a Reds player
 (22:28) Favorite announcer: John Smoltz
 (23:23) Favorite mascot: Mr. Red
 (24:05) Deion Sanders vs. Billy Hamilton vs. Elly De La Cruz in a base race

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Summary

In this episode, Tommy Thrall shares his journey from childhood baseball fan to Reds play by play announcer, highlighting lessons learned from legendary figures and his approach to broadcasting for the Reds. In this episode, Tommy shares his insights on baseball broadcasting, legendary players, and memorable moments that define the sport. Discover the stories behind the microphones and the players that have left a mark on his career.

Key Topics

• Tommy Thrall’s early memories and love for baseball
• Influence of radio announcers like Denny Matthews
• Favorite players and moments that shaped Tommy’s career
• The impact of legendary managers like Tito and Jim Riggleman
• The process of becoming a Reds broadcaster and learning from Marty Brannaman
• Signature calls and moments that define Tommy’s broadcasting style
• The significance of iconic baseball moments and their storytelling
• Tommy’s insights on managing and team dynamics Tommy Thrall's broadcasting journey
• Mount Rushmore of Reds players
• Favorite baseball movies and moments
• Dream team and walk-up songs
• Memorable baseball stories and encounters

Takeaways

• Authenticity in broadcasting creates a genuine connection with fans
• Preparation and detailed knowledge are key to great commentary
• Legendary figures like Marty Brannaman leave lasting legacies
• Signature calls are born from the moment, not forced
• Emulating successful players and managers can inspire your style
• Memorable moments often come from unexpected game-changing plays
• Building a career in sports broadcasting requires perseverance and adaptability
• Understanding the history and characters of the game enriches storytelling

Sound Bites

• "Radio has a magic to it."
• "Marty’s preparation was meticulous."
• "Talking with Tito is a daily treat."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Tommy Thrall and his role with the Reds

02:48
Tommy’s earliest memories and love for baseball

05:12
Influence of radio announcers and childhood inspirations

08:40
The rumored trade that could have changed Reds history

10:51
George Brett’s hand-eye coordination and legendary moments

14:35
Favorite managers and what makes them great

19:40
Tommy’s journey into radio and sports broadcasting

25:13
Learning from Marty Brannaman and his legacy

29:28
Signature calls and memorable game moments

32:54
Tommy’s greatest moments as Reds’ play-by-play announcer

35:18
The San Diego game after COVID and its electric atmosphere

37:32
Interaction with Tito and behind-the-scenes insights

41:14
The hypothetical question: reversing Reds organization decisions

42:03
Regrets about trades and player moves

43:29
Players or teams Tommy truly dislikes or despises

Jack thanks the listeners

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In this episode, Mike McConnell shares his lifelong passion for baseball, his career in radio, and his favorite moments and players from the sport. Discover insights into the game, broadcasting, and personal stories that highlight a true fan's journey.

Key Topics

Mike McConnell's early baseball memories and fandom

• His career in radio and transition to Cincinnati Reds broadcasting
• Favorite players and managers in baseball history
• Memorable moments and iconic games
• Insights into baseball culture and broadcasting

Sound Bites

• "I loved the colorful ballpark."
• "The Phillies' 1964 collapse crushed me."
• "I'm conservative fiscally, not morally."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and guest background

01:12
Early memories of Phillies games and the 1964 collapse

04:30
Transition from Phillies to Reds fandom

07:34
Playing Little League and emulating favorite players

08:52
Favorite baseball managers and team dynamics

11:46
Getting into radio and career beginnings

14:13
Name origin and career after retirement

15:07
Post-retirement activities and travel plans

16:12
Golf and sports broadcasting experiences

18:44
Handling politics on radio shows

21:00
Reversing Reds organization decisions

21:52
Players or teams he despises

22:50
Favorite Reds and baseball players

25:50
Dinner party guests and social connections

27:49
Favorite ballpark foods and media dining experiences

29:58
Memorable moments outside the ballpark

40:53
Most amazing moments in baseball

42:42
Hall of Fame players he believes are overlooked

44:54
Favorite Reds uniform and team apparel

46:39
Fastest runners and base running skills

48:44
Final thoughts and appreciation

Jack thanks the listeners