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Jim Borgman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist and creator of the cartoon strip Zits, joins the podcast to discuss his love for the Cincinnati Reds. Growing up in Cincinnati in the 1950s and 60s, Borgman was immersed in Reds fandom from a young age. He recalls listening to games on the radio with his dad and going to Crosley Field for the first time. Borgman also discusses his favorite Reds player, Jim Maloney. Next, Jim details his career as a cartoonist, including his political and sports cartoons. He  discusses his experiences as a cartoonist in Cincinnati and his love for the city and its sports teams. He talks about how his cartoons about everyday life in Cincinnati resonated with people and made a connection with them. 
Jim also shares stories about his interactions with athletes and his collection of baseball cards. The conversation highlights the strong bond between Cincinnati and its sports teams, as well as the passion and pride of the city's residents.

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Republished During Winter Break: Amanda Brennaman, wife of former Reds broadcaster Marty Brennaman, shares her love for the Cincinnati Reds and her experiences as a fan. Growing up in Ashland, Kentucky, Amanda listened to Reds games on the radio and attended games with her family. She became a fan of players like Pete Rose and Paul O'Neill and has fond memories of the 1990 Reds team. 

Amanda also discusses her career, her interactions with Marty and Joe Nuxhall, and how her perspective as a fan changed after getting to know them personally. Ms. Brennaman discusses her experience as a fan of the Cincinnati Reds and the behind-the-scenes knowledge she gained as the spouse of Marty Brennaman. She talks about how her perspective as a fan changed after learning insider information and emphasizes the importance of not knowing all the inner workings of a favorite baseball team. 

Amanda also shares her favorite ballparks and announcers, as well as her thoughts on Marty's controversial comments and his decision to shave his head after a winning streak.

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Republished During Winter break: Kirk, Randy, and Jack discuss Kirk's Cincinnati Reds baseball memories, Davey Concepcion, Barry Larkin, keeping score as a young Cincinnati Reds fan, Major League Baseball rule changes, Matt McLain, Elle De La Cruz, TJ Friedl, Jake Fraley, Scott Rolen, Jonathan India, Eric Davis, Barry Bonds, Glenn Braggs, Paul O'Neil, Oakalnd A's, the 1990 World Series games 1 and 2.

Kirk also discusses Cincinnati as a baseball town and compares Reds fans with Ohio State University football fans. Finally, his dream: broadcasting at least some games for his favorite baseball team!  

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Before Jack and Randy take a break in launching new episodes until Spring Training, 2025, Willie Cunningham and Randy discuss "THE BIG RED MACHINE'S LAST HURRAH", a newly published book about the travesty of the 1981 MLB season. In that strike interrupted season, the Reds were denied a spot in the postseason despite having the Best record in Baseball. It's the true story of that infamous season, plus a fictional account of what should have happened. A court drama and an ensuing mythical World Series based upon simulations on WhatIf Sports.com

In this engaging conversation, Randy discusses his new book about the Cincinnati Reds, focusing on the team's historical significance and the controversial events of the 1981 season. The discussion covers the Reds' dominance in baseball, the impact of the 1981 strike, the resulting lawsuit, and the long-term effects on the team. Randy also highlights his involvement with the Reds Community Fund and expresses hope for the future of the team.

Takeaways

• Cincinnati was once the epicenter of baseball success.
• The Reds' 1981 season was marred by controversy and unfair rulings.
• A lawsuit was filed by law students to challenge the MLB's decisions.
• The Reds had a stellar team in 1981 but were denied playoff entry.
• Bowie Kuhn's decisions had lasting negative impacts on the Reds.
• The book aims to correct historical wrongs regarding the Reds' legacy.
• Community engagement is crucial for the Reds' future success.
• The Reds Community Fund provides vital educational opportunities for youth.
• Hope remains for the Reds' resurgence in future seasons.
• The conversation reflects on the nostalgia and passion for baseball in Cincinnati.

Sound Bites

• "It was a complete travesty."
• "The entire world would be different."
• "All we have is hope."

Order the book at www.freakingoutabout.com for prompt delivery, or at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other book sites for late January delivery. And leave a review on Amazon even if you purchase it elsewhere.  

Special thanks to WLW radio and Tony Bender!

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The Bunning brothers—David, Bill, Jim, and Mark—share their experiences growing up in a family with a Hall of Fame pitcher and a U.S. Senator, Jim Bunning. They discuss their father's illustrious baseball career, his impact on the sport, and the family dynamics that shaped their lives. The conversation delves into memorable games, personal anecdotes, and the legacy of Jim Bunning, highlighting the intersection of sports and politics. The brothers also reflect on their own baseball journeys and the current state of the Cincinnati Reds, providing listeners with a rich tapestry of stories and insights from a unique family.

Takeaways

• Jim Bunning was a Hall of Fame pitcher and U.S. Senator.
• The Bunning family had a unique upbringing centered around baseball.
• David Bunning shares insights on his father's impact on the Players Union.
• Memorable games from Jim Bunning's career are discussed.
• The brothers reflect on their own experiences in baseball.
• Jim Bunning's legacy continues to influence the sport today.
• The family dynamics among the Bunning brothers are explored.
• Current players of the Cincinnati Reds are evaluated by David.
• The importance of family support in sports is emphasized.
• The podcast highlights the intersection of sports and politics.

Sound Bites

• "David's a Cincinnati Reds expert."
• "Dad pitched 11 innings."
• "Our dad threw a perfect game on Father's Day."

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In this episode of WE LOVE OUR TEAM, Bob Herzog, co-anchor of Good Morning Cincinnati, shares his journey from law school to broadcasting, his deep-rooted love for the Cincinnati Reds, and memorable moments from his childhood as a fan. He discusses the origins of his popular segment, Dance Party Fridays, and reflects on the significance of Opening Day in Cincinnati. The conversation also touches on the future of the Reds, Joey Votto's legacy, and Herzog's favorite baseball movies and broadcasters, culminating in a fun word association game.

takeaways

• Bob Herzog transitioned from practicing law to a successful broadcasting career.
• His love for the Cincinnati Reds began in his childhood, despite the team's struggles during that era.
• Dance Party Fridays started as a spontaneous moment and became a beloved segment.
• Opening Day holds a special place in Cincinnati culture and should be recognized as a holiday.
• Joey Votto is seen as a potential Hall of Famer by Herzog.
• The Sandlot is Herzog's favorite baseball movie, reflecting his family memories.
• Herzog fondly remembers the 1990 World Series and the excitement it brought.
• He emphasizes the importance of family ties to the West Side of Cincinnati.
• Herzog's broadcasting style is influenced by his comedic approach and love for the sport.
• The conversation highlights the nostalgia and emotional connections fans have with their teams.

titles

• From Law to Broadcasting: Bob Herzog's Journey
• Cincinnati Reds: A Fan's Perspective

Sound Bites

• "I was a weak arm second baseman!"
• "I love the Sandlot!"
• "I still love Major League!"

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Summary

Jack and Randy welcome Kevin Murphy, a seasoned attorney and passionate baseball fan. They explore Kevin's journey from being a Yankees fan to embracing the Reds, his memorable experiences at various World Series, and his insights into the world of sports law, particularly his representation of umpires. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by umpires, the controversies surrounding the implementation of technology in officiating, and Kevin's deep-rooted love for baseball.

Takeaways

• Kevin Murphy transitioned from a Yankees fan to a Reds supporter.
• He has a rich history with baseball, playing shortstop and pitching.
• Memorable moments from the 1975 and 1976 World Series are highlighted.
• Kevin expresses his frustration with the Reds' recent performance.
• He has represented several sports figures in legal matters.
• The conversation delves into the challenges faced by umpires in baseball.
• Kevin discusses the implications of an automatic strike zone in MLB.
• He shares a humorous story about attending a Red Sox game.
• The importance of umpires in maintaining the integrity of the game is emphasized.
• Kevin's passion for baseball is evident throughout the conversation.

Sound Bites

• "I pull for the Reds big time. 
• "I think I was an asshole."
• "He's got some great stories."

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In this engaging conversation, Dean Gregory shares the rich history of Montgomery Inn, an iconic Cincinnati restaurant founded by his family in 1951. He recounts personal anecdotes about his family's journey in the restaurant business, legendary stories about his father, and the establishment's connections with Cincinnati sports legends like Pete Rose and Johnny Bench. 

The discussion also touches on the evolution of the restaurant industry, the introduction of their famous barbecue sauce, and the friendly rivalry between local culinary staples like Skyline and Gold Star. Dean's warmth and humor shine through as he reflects on the legacy of Montgomery Inn and its place in the Cincinnati community.

Takeaways

• Montgomery Inn has been a family-run establishment since 1951.
• Dean's family history is deeply rooted in the restaurant business.
• The restaurant's famous ribs were inspired by a jazz club experience.
• Dean's father had a legendary funeral story involving cigars.
• Pete Rose was a regular at Montgomery Inn, drawing in fans.
• The restaurant has evolved with the changing dining landscape.
• Montgomery Inn's barbecue sauce became a retail success in the 90s.
• Dean shares fond memories of Cincinnati sports legends visiting the restaurant.
• The restaurant industry has seen significant changes over the decades.
• Dean emphasizes the importance of community and family in their business.

Sound Bites

• "Montgomery Inn is an iconic Cincinnati restaurant."
• "My mom kicked the lady out of the kitchen."
• "Pete Rose became a regular fixture with us."

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In this episode, Jack and Randy welcome George Vincent, a corporate attorney and part-owner of the Cincinnati Reds. George shares his journey from being a Detroit Tigers fan to becoming a Reds supporter after moving to Cincinnati. He reflects on his childhood memories of baseball, particularly the 1968 World Series, and discusses his transition into the Reds ownership group. The conversation also touches on the challenges of small-market teams, recent rule changes in baseball, and George's community involvement. He shares insights on his favorite players and expresses optimism for the Reds' future.

Takeaways

• George's first baseball experience was with the Detroit Tigers.
• The 1968 World Series was a pivotal moment in George's childhood.
• George became a Reds fan after moving to Cincinnati in 1981.
• He believes small-market teams can achieve sustained success.
• The pitch clock has improved the pace of baseball games.
• George admires Joey Votto and Adam Duvall as players.
• He values community involvement and philanthropy.
• George reflects on the importance of analytics in baseball.
• He has a deep appreciation for the history of the Reds.
• George expresses optimism for the Reds' future and young talent.

Sound Bites

• "I fell in love with the Tigers from that point on."
• "That was one of the great, great moments of my life."
• "If you can't play baseball, being a part owner is beyond belief."

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We apologize!: The original episode contained a few minutes of dead air at the end! Listen to this one!

In this episode of 'We Love Our Team', host Jack and Randy Freaking welcome Courtis Fuller, a veteran broadcaster, who shares his journey from battling cancer to becoming a beloved figure in Cincinnati. Courtis reflects on his early days as a Pirates fan, his admiration for Roberto Clemente, and his transition to supporting the Reds. The conversation highlights the importance of community, personal struggles, and the rich history of baseball in Pittsburgh and Cincinnati.

Takeaways


Courtis Fuller has a 44-year career in broadcasting.
He openly discussed his rare cancer diagnosis to raise awareness.
Courtis underwent extensive treatment but is now cancer-free.
He moved to Cincinnati and fell in love with the city.
Courtis's grandfather was a Reds fan, influencing his journey.
The rivalry between the Reds and Pirates shaped his childhood.
Roberto Clemente is Curtis's all-time idol and inspiration.
Courtis has memorabilia of Clemente throughout his home.
He recently joined the board of directors for the Reds Hall of Fame.
The Hall of Fame in Cincinnati is highly regarded.
Sound Bites


"I wish I had lottery luck like that."
"Life is good, life is good."
"I fell in love with this town."

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