Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona Episode: March 19, 2025 Host: John Holmberg with Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo Platform: 98KUPD (97.9 FM, 98KUPD app, www.98kupd.com) Duration: 50 minutes

1. Call-In from Troy Hayden: Covering Executions

Timestamp: [07:10] – [12:35]

The episode begins with John Holmberg introducing Troy Hayden from Channel 12, who calls in while en route to cover this morning's execution. Troy shares his extensive experience, having covered multiple executions over 20 years. He emphasizes the importance of journalists providing accurate and fair reporting on such sensitive proceedings to ensure transparency and public understanding.

Troy Hayden: “I think it's important to get a set of eyes... to make sure that you come at it from right down the middle.”
[07:16]

John expresses his own ambivalence towards executions, revealing a lack of empathy but acknowledges the gravity of the situation.

John Holmberg: “I'm kind of oddly less interested in the execution because I feel exactly the same way as you.”
[08:10]

Troy recounts a particularly challenging execution in 2014 that was labeled "botched" due to procedural issues, highlighting the complexities and emotional toll of witnessing such events.

Troy Hayden: “He was on that table for two hours... it didn't go the way they wanted it to.”
[09:58]

Despite the heavy subject matter, Troy maintains professionalism, underscoring his commitment to unbiased reporting.

Troy Hayden: “If you're anti death penalty, you want to change the law, call your legislators.”
[09:38]

The segment concludes with John praising Troy's dedication and professionalism.

John Holmberg: “Troy, enjoy your day. You're my hero.”
[12:35]

2. Listener Email: Fear of Accidental Racism in Relationships

Timestamp: [15:27] – [29:00]

Following Troy's call, John transitions to addressing an email from a listener expressing deep concerns about internalized racism. The listener, possibly named Trent, fears that due to his upbringing in a racially charged environment, he might inadvertently use racist language, especially in his interracial relationship.

John Holmberg: “Recently, I've been dating an African American girl... I always thought racism, real racism, was gross.”
[16:00]

The discussion delves into the psychological struggle of avoiding racial slurs, the fear of saying something offensive during interactions, and the impact of cultural upbringing on subconscious language use.

John Holmberg: “You have an opportunity relationship... your body has that little release steam valve.”
[22:09]

Brady and Bret contribute by suggesting practical approaches, such as confronting these fears openly with partners and understanding that overthinking can exacerbate the issue.

Brady Bogen: “She should understand that, though.”
[23:32]

John offers empathy, sharing his own experiences with accidental slurs and the importance of self-awareness and communication in relationships.

John Holmberg: “You really like this girl. That's what I'm hearing.”
[34:26]

3. Discussion on Internalized Racism

Timestamp: [22:10] – [35:30]

The hosts engage in a deep conversation about internalized racism, societal pressures, and the challenges faced by individuals trying to navigate interracial relationships without perpetuating harmful language.

John humorously illustrates scenarios where internalized racism might surface inadvertently, such as during sleep talking or online gaming conversations, emphasizing the subconscious nature of such slips.

John Holmberg: “If you can't do it, that's fine... it lives inside us all the time. Be better.”
[25:07]

They discuss the impact of media and upbringing on ingraining certain behaviors and language, stressing the importance of continual self-reflection and education.

Brady Bogen: “Don’t watch American History X before you go to bed.”
[22:16]

4. Personal Anecdotes and Humor About Racial Slurs

Timestamp: [35:30] – [48:57]

The conversation transitions into lighter territory as the hosts share personal stories and humorous takes on the sensitive topic of racial slurs. John recounts instances where he accidentally used offensive language, reflecting on the repercussions and the importance of intent versus impact.

John Holmberg: “I've developed the ability to do that. I'm not cussing... it's just how one would go in real life.”
[31:54]

Brady and Bret add their own anecdotes, further highlighting the prevalence of accidental slurs in daily interactions and the need for accountability and growth.

Brady Bogen: “Tell Doug Emhoff to relax. He’ll be fine.”
[35:21]

The hosts use humor to navigate the discomfort surrounding the topic, making the discussion relatable while maintaining respect for the gravity of the issue.

John Holmberg: “Change the name of that little mountain. It's on maps and stuff.”
[46:18]

5. Musical Treats and Closing Remarks

Timestamp: [43:24] – [50:11]

As the show nears its end, Brady introduces the "Wake Up" song, sponsored by Action Ride Shop, featuring a list of bands and songs that resonate with the show's themes. The hosts continue their banter, blending humor with thoughtful insights on societal issues, effectively wrapping up the episode.

Brady Bogen: “Misfits. Azie. Randy Rhodes died this day...”
[44:34]

John reflects on past discussions, reinforcing the episode's core messages about self-awareness and the ongoing journey to combat internalized racism.

John Holmberg: “Be better.”
[46:57]

The episode concludes with laughter and a light-hearted exchange, leaving listeners with both reflective thoughts and entertainment.

Notable Quotes

• John Holmberg: “You have to be adults about it and act like I don't even know that word.”
  [22:10]

• Brady Bogen: “Don't watch any which way but lose nothing like that.”
  [22:16]

• Troy Hayden: “If you’re anti death penalty, you want to change the law, call your legislators.”
  [09:38]

• John Holmberg: “Most of the time I'm gonna be unconscious when I'm doing it.”
  [28:42]

Key Takeaways

• Ethical Reporting: Troy Hayden emphasizes the crucial role of journalists in providing accurate and fair coverage of executions to ensure public trust and transparency.

• Internal Struggles with Racism: The episode highlights the personal battles individuals face in overcoming internalized racism, especially within interracial relationships.

• Communication is Key: Open dialogue and self-awareness are vital in addressing and mitigating accidental use of offensive language.

• Humor as a Coping Mechanism: The hosts utilize humor to navigate and discuss sensitive topics, making the conversation more accessible while maintaining respect.

• Continuous Growth: The discussion underscores the importance of ongoing education and reflection in combating societal prejudices and fostering better understanding.

Tune in Next Week: Join John Holmberg and his team on 98KUPD weekdays from 5:30 AM to 10:00 AM for more engaging discussions, insightful debates, and entertaining banter.