Podcast Summary: "Here's the Scoop" – Episode: My Time in Kerrville

Release Date: July 14, 2025
Host: Morgan Chesky
Producer: NBC News

1. Tragic Floods Devastate Kerrville, Texas

Overview: In this emotionally charged segment, host Morgan Chesky provides an in-depth report on the catastrophic floods that struck Kerrville, Texas, over the July 4th weekend. The disaster has left at least 129 people dead and 166 missing, with many of the casualties being children at summer camps.

Personal Connection and Community Impact: Chesky, a native of Kerrville, shares a heartfelt perspective on the tragedy:

"This one absolutely feels different because this one doesn't hit close to home. It is home." (01:26)

He recounts personal losses, including a high school football teammate who lost his daughter at Camp Mystic and his mother's connection to Jane Ragsdale, the beloved camp director who perished in the floods.

Critical Examination of Emergency Response: The segment delves into the community's scrutiny of the emergency response, particularly the role of the National Weather Service (NWS):

"Did people get flash flood alerts, and if so, from whom? And by the time officials acted, was it already too late?" (03:00)

Chesky highlights conflicting accounts regarding the adequacy of the NWS’s warnings. While Texas Emergency Management head W. Nim Kidd criticized the NWS for being understaffed, the NWS defended its actions, stating that they issued a flood watch and flash flood warnings in a timely manner.

Interview with Kerrville City Manager, Dalton Rice: Chesky interviews Dalton Rice, the Kerrville City Manager, who is unable to confirm whether official flood alerts were received:

"I honestly don't know." (04:55)

Rice explains the reliance on emergency teams and communication networks, emphasizing that alerts are typically managed by city and county officials rather than individual managers.

Ongoing Investigations and Future Preventative Measures: As the community grapples with grief, attention turns to preventing future disasters. State lawmakers, including Representative Wes Videl, are exploring enhanced alert systems for campgrounds. Chesky advocates for improved cell tower infrastructure to ensure better communication during emergencies.

"I'm going to be requesting that some of the cell phone companies work on putting towers in that area for the future." (05:26)

Resilience and Community Support: Despite the devastation, Chesky highlights the resilience of Kerrville’s community. He observes the collective effort to rebuild and support one another, underscoring the strength and solidarity emerging from the tragedy.

"If there's any silver lining here, any at all, it's that I get to see firsthand just how resilient and tough my community is." (06:15)

2. National and International Headlines

a. U.S.-Russia Tensions Escalate: President Donald Trump has issued threats of imposing new secondary tariffs on Russia if a ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict is not achieved within 50 days. Secondary tariffs target countries that continue to engage in business with the sanctioned nation.

"It's very simple and they'll be at 100%." (08:55)

Additionally, the U.S. is bolstering its support for Ukraine by sending more Patriot missiles, reinforcing its commitment to NATO allies.

b. Wildfires Ravage the Grand Canyon: A significant wildfire has destroyed multiple structures, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim. This loss forces the National Park Service to close the North Rim for the remainder of the 2025 season.

c. Box Office Triumph for "Superman": Director James Gunn's "Superman" has achieved a record-breaking box office performance, grossing $122 million domestically and $217 million worldwide in its opening week. It marks the highest solo Superman launch and the third-best opening of 2025, receiving high praise from critics and fans alike.

d. Miller High Life Launches "Spaghettzicle": Miller High Life introduces a new boozy popsicle called "Spaghettzicle," inspired by the viral Spaghett cocktail. This limited edition treat combines beer, Aperol, and lemon, boasting a 5% alcohol content. It’s set to release online on July 16, targeting summer festivities.

"Spaghett Sickle. Ok, turns out it's a boozy popsicle..." (08:55)

3. Notable Quotes

• Morgan Chesky on Personal Impact:

  "This one absolutely feels different because this one doesn't hit close to home. It is home." (01:26)

• Dalton Rice on Alert Status:

  "I honestly don't know." (04:55)

• Morgan Chesky on Community Resilience:

  "If there's any silver lining here, any at all, it's that I get to see firsthand just how resilient and tough my community is." (06:15)

Conclusion

In this episode of "Here's the Scoop," Morgan Chesky delivers a poignant and thorough report on the devastating floods in Kerrville, Texas, weaving personal narratives with critical analysis of emergency response systems. The episode also covers significant national and international news, providing listeners with a comprehensive update on current events. Through its blend of heartfelt storytelling and informative journalism, the podcast offers both depth and clarity on the issues that matter most.

Timestamps:

• [01:26] – Morgan Chesky introduces the flood tragedy and personal connections.
• [03:00] – Discussion on flood alerts and National Weather Service’s role.
• [04:55] – Interview segment with City Manager Dalton Rice.
• [05:26] – Future preventative measures and infrastructure improvements.
• [06:15] – Highlighting community resilience and support.
• [08:55] – Transition to national and international headlines, including tariffs and product launches.