Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona
Episode: 02-26-25 - FULL SHOW - WEDNESDAY
Release Date: February 26, 2025
Host/Author: 98KUPD | Hubbard Radio
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Introduction
The episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness begins with a brief advertisement from Dick Toledo promoting FanDuel's bonus bets. The main discussion then kicks off with John Holmberg welcoming listeners to another episode alongside co-hosts Brady Bogen, Brett Vesely, and Dick Toledo. The primary focus of this episode revolves around the retirement of WNBA star Diana Taurasi, followed by tangential discussions on various social topics, charity announcements, and interactive segments.
1. Diana Taurasi's Retirement
Timestamp: 00:33 - 16:43
John Holmberg initiates the conversation by announcing Diana Taurasi's retirement, labeling her as the "Greatest of All Time" (GOAT) in women's basketball. The hosts reminisce about her illustrious 20-year career, comparing her departure to legends like Tom Brady and Michael Jordan retiring from their sports.
-
John Holmberg:
"I don't know how you even got through yesterday, Bray. How did you even manage to wander around and have any sort of energy at all with Diana Taurasi retiring?"
(01:13) -
Brett Vesely:
"There were so many. Which one?"
(03:52)
The discussion touches on Taurasi's impact on the WNBA, her contributions to increasing LGBTQ+ visibility in sports, and the cultural shifts she influenced over two decades. The hosts share personal anecdotes and memories of her iconic moments, such as game-winning shots and memorable plays.
- John Holmberg:
"I remember when Taurasi got her all-time points leader. Had to read it off my CVS receipt."
(05:22)
They also debate the future of the WNBA post-Taurasi, expressing skepticism about the league's sustainability without her presence. The conversation extends to the challenges faced by women's sports in gaining equal recognition and support.
2. Cannibal Released from Psychiatric Hospital
Timestamp: 16:43 - 35:00
A significant portion of the episode delves into the disturbing news of Tyre Smith, a convicted cannibal, being released from a high-security forensic hospital after serving 12 years. The hosts discuss the implications of his release on neighborhood safety and societal attitudes toward rehabilitation.
-
John Holmberg:
"This is the first time they're like, hey, we fixed it. Let him loose. I don't know that that's comforting."
(23:11) -
Brett Vesely:
"Do they have to go door to door arrested?"
(26:01)
The conversation highlights concerns about the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for violent offenders and the potential risks of reintegrating individuals with a history of severe violent crimes into the community. The hosts debate the balance between second chances and public safety, using hypothetical scenarios to illustrate their points.
3. Charity Segment – VETS Homeless Pets
Timestamp: 35:00 - 62:00
John Holmberg introduces a heartfelt segment promoting a charity initiative spearheaded by Fitz Madrid. The campaign aims to provide veterinary care for the pets of homeless veterans, recognizing the bond between veterans and their animals.
- John Holmberg:
"So 20 years of giving there. Fitz has got his whole thing going on. This is a pretty good one. Pets and homeless vets."
(56:11)
Listeners are encouraged to support the cause by texting the word "VETS" to 97936. The hosts express admiration for Fitz's efforts and emphasize the importance of community support for vulnerable populations.
4. WNBA Trivia and Team Highlights
Timestamp: 62:00 - 129:00
In an interactive segment, the hosts engage in a WNBA trivia game, testing each other's knowledge of players, teams, and historical achievements. This segment serves both as entertainment and a tribute to Diana Taurasi's legacy.
- John Holmberg:
"Let's start by making Brett laugh with Cynthia Cooper Dyke."
(116:59)
Notable moments include discussions about legendary players like Cynthia Cooper Dyke, Deanna Nolan, Tina Charles, and recent trades involving stars like Kelsey Plum. The trivia underscores the depth of Taurasi's influence and the rich history of the WNBA.
- Dick Toledo:
"New York Liberty."
(126:07)
The segment also touches on the challenges of maintaining memory and recognition of various teams and players, reflecting on the dynamic nature of professional women's basketball.
5. Streaming and Relationship Dynamics
Timestamp: 129:00 - 142:05**
A lively discussion ensues about the concept of "Netflix betrayal," where streaming shows without one's partner is perceived as a form of infidelity or neglect. The hosts debate the fairness and implications of this trend in modern relationships.
- John Holmberg:
"You cussed this bitch steep crocheted."
(Date not provided)
The conversation highlights generational differences in media consumption and the evolving nature of couple dynamics in the digital age. They explore how shared viewing experiences impact relationship bonding and communication.
- John Holmberg:
"It's called Netflix betrayal. Don't start putting weight on this."
(15:02)
6. Restaurant Tipping Anecdotes
Timestamp: 142:05 - 157:55**
The hosts recount personal experiences and shared stories about zero tipping in restaurants, examining the reasons behind such actions and the repercussions they have on service industry workers.
- John Holmberg:
"Don't leave notes on receipts. If someone calls your husband sweetheart and it pisses you off, look in the mirror and realize why you're mad."
(150:03)
They discuss societal expectations around tipping, customer service etiquette, and the emotional toll of negative interactions between patrons and servers. The anecdotes serve as a critique of both consumer behavior and service industry standards.
7. Rock Wars and Musical Segment
Timestamp: 157:55 - 159:00**
Transitioning to a lighter topic, the hosts introduce a "Rock Wars" segment where they compete to select the best song to welcome a reformed cannibal into the neighborhood. They debate choices like Fine Young Cannibals' "She Drives Me Crazy," Marilyn Manson's "Eat Me, Drink Me," and Rob Halford's "Eat Me Alive."
- Brett Vesely:
"Mine is also welcoming. I went with Marilyn Manson's Eat Me, Drink Me."
(149:14)
This segment blends humor with the ongoing theme of the cannibal's release, showcasing the hosts' playful banter and ability to intertwine serious topics with entertainment.
8. Closing Remarks and Final Discussions
Timestamp: 159:00 - End**
As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts wrap up with reflections on the day's discussions, reiterate the importance of supporting local charities, and tease upcoming segments. John Holmberg emphasizes Fitz Madrid's charitable efforts once more and encourages listeners to engage with community initiatives.
- John Holmberg:
"Good things. We're going to name more streets after her."
(80:56)
The episode ends with a mix of humor, ongoing debates about societal norms, and acknowledgments of the various topics covered throughout the show.
Notable Quotes
-
John Holmberg:
"Morning sickness. The old method of treatment for a person in this condition was to throw him in jail."
(00:00) -
John Holmberg:
"But still, I mean, she played 20 years for now. Well, there are more lesbians now than there were in 2004. Maybe she had something to do with that."
(01:35) -
Brett Vesely:
"I can't nail it down to just one."
(05:26) -
John Holmberg:
"If you hear her get called the goat one more time, I'm gonna throw a brick through every television in America."
(08:55) -
Dick Toledo:
"It's not weird. It's pretty cool, actually. No membership fee."
(Repeated Throughout) -
John Holmberg:
"It's the city needs to reflect on what is being called the greatest of all time. And of course, with that comes memory after memory."
(05:40) -
John Holmberg:
"We need more WNBA streets named after her."
(Varied throughout sections) -
John Holmberg:
*"Never ever get a kid to walk his ass." (Also interspersed)
Conclusions and Insights
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Legacy of Diana Taurasi: The episode underscores Taurasi's monumental impact on the WNBA and highlights the challenges facing women's professional sports in maintaining momentum post the departure of a legacy player.
-
Societal Reflections: Through the discussion about the released cannibal, the hosts critique societal approaches to rehabilitation and public safety, revealing tensions between compassion and pragmatic security concerns.
-
Community and Charity: The focus on charity initiatives like supporting pets of homeless veterans showcases the show's commitment to addressing local community issues beyond sports.
-
Cultural Commentary: Topics such as "Netflix betrayal" and tipping etiquette reflect broader societal changes and the evolving dynamics of personal relationships and consumer behavior.
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Entertainment Integration: Segments like Rock Wars illustrate the hosts' ability to blend serious conversations with entertainment, maintaining listener engagement through humor and interactive content.
-
Recurring Themes: The show's recurring mantra, "It's not weird. It's pretty cool, actually. No membership fee," serves as a comedic anchor amidst diverse and often intense discussions.
Overall, this episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness navigates a blend of sports tributes, social commentary, community support, and lighthearted debates, encapsulating the show's aim to entertain, question, and engage its Arizona-based audience.