Podcast Summary: Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona | Episode: March 31, 2025

Holmberg's Morning Sickness on 98 KUPD is Arizona's premier morning radio show, where host John Holmberg, alongside Brady Bogan, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo, delivers a blend of entertainment, sports commentary, and candid discussions to start listeners' days off right.

1. Rib Contest and Judging Experiences

The episode kicks off with a lively discussion about a recent rib-eating contest. Dick Toledo recounts his experience serving as a judge alongside his mentee, Josh Coleman. The trio evaluated various rib recipes from local caterers, notably Helping Vets Barbecue, which was awarded the best ribs by popular vote.

Toledo (02:16): "I had to judge 18 different ribs, and it was quite the challenge."

Bogan and Toledo engage in humorous banter about the rigors of judging, highlighting the subjective nature of taste and presentation.

Bogan (03:35): "You can't eat the whole bone. Just a bit."

2. Critique of Kids Performing the National Anthem

A significant portion of the show centers around the hosts' frustration with young children performing the national anthem at recent baseball games. They express disdain for the quality and appropriateness of these performances, emphasizing their belief that such acts undermine the solemnity of the anthem.

Bogan (09:21): "I can't trust the tins. You like it? Oh yeah. You're into the... It makes me feel like I need to find somewhere else to eat."

The conversation intensifies as they discuss specific instances, including performances by students from Solel Preschool in Paradise Valley. The hosts suggest severe repercussions for those responsible, displaying a blend of hyperbole and satire to underline their displeasure.

Toledo (16:34): "This is the worst. For the love of God, please stop saying that."

3. Sports Commentary: Diamondbacks vs. Cubs and the Torpedo Bat Controversy

Transitioning to sports, the hosts delve into Arizona Diamondbacks' and Chicago Cubs' recent performances. Bogan highlights the introduction of the Torpedo Bat, a new type of baseball bat that has caused a stir due to its unconventional design and the significant home run advantage it provides.

Bogan (59:17): "These guys were just mashing. So baseball's going to be sort of exciting again."

They discuss the implications of such equipment changes on the game's integrity and spectators' enjoyment, with Brinley adding that while some innovations can enhance the sport, others may disrupt its traditional essence.

Holmberg (61:01): "Baseball's going to be sort of exciting again."

4. Listener Interactions: Pet Adoption and Recycling Bin Vandalism

Listeners' stories provide a personal touch to the episode. One notable segment involves Tammy Kozner, who set up a GoFundMe to help an elderly waitress afford retirement. The hosts express skepticism about the authenticity and sustainability of such fundraisers.

Bogan (74:05): "You could have gone around with an accordion and collected money and a cup."

Another listener, Ed Roemer from Upstate New York, shares his ordeal with a neighbor repeatedly contaminating his recycling bins with urine-filled bottles. The discussion pivots to practical and humorous solutions, albeit presented in a tongue-in-cheek manner.

Bogan (78:14): "You're a dumb squid. St. Patrick's month is over today, who goes about."

5. Miscellaneous Banter: Bike Week and Modern Trends

The hosts venture into lighter topics such as the annual Bike Week in Cave Creek, critiquing the loudness of motorcycle displays and the accompanying presence of "mamas" on bike backs. They humorously lament how such festivities can disrupt peaceful surroundings.

Bogan (137:07): "But nobody speaks up. It takes me, it takes... He's an accomplice."

Additionally, they touch upon unconventional trends like "yarn makeup" and reflect on historical references to media portrayals of nudity, showcasing their eclectic range of interests and humorous perspectives.

Bogan (86:28): "It's horrifying. She just... That's the weirdest thing I've ever seen."

6. Relationship Advice and Personal Anecdotes

Towards the latter part of the episode, listener-provided relationship dilemmas are discussed. One instance involves a caller grappling with the aftermath of unintentionally misleading a partner about past romantic involvements with a sports figure. The hosts navigate the conversation with a mix of empathy and blunt honesty, offering unsolicited yet earnest advice.

Toledo (127:28): "He's a bigot. He's being a racist."

7. Promotional Segments and Community Highlights

While the primary focus remains on entertainment and discussion, brief promotional segments are interspersed, highlighting local businesses like Allprochade.com for patio shades and ReactDefense.com for self-defense training. These promotions are seamlessly integrated into the conversation, maintaining the show's casual atmosphere.

Bogan (144:07): "It's brought to you by our friends at ReactDefense.com..."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Bogan (02:16): "I had to judge 18 different ribs, and it was quite the challenge."
• Bogan (09:21): "I can't trust the tins. You like it? Oh yeah. You're into the... It makes me feel like I need to find somewhere else to eat."
• Bogan (59:17): "These guys were just mashing. So baseball's going to be sort of exciting again."
• Holmberg (61:01): "Baseball's going to be sort of exciting again."
• Toledo (78:14): "You're a dumb squid. St. Patrick's month is over today, who goes about."
• Bogan (86:28): "It's horrifying. She just... That's the weirdest thing I've ever seen."
• Toledo (127:28): "He's a bigot. He's being a racist."
• Bogan (144:07): "It's brought to you by our friends at ReactDefense.com..."

Concluding Thoughts

The March 31, 2025, episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness exemplifies the show's trademark blend of humor, candid commentary, and community engagement. From critiquing local sports events and unconventional performances to sharing and dissecting listeners' personal stories, the hosts maintain an engaging and often irreverent discourse. Their ability to weave together diverse topics—from culinary contests to modern-day social phenomena—ensures that listeners remain entertained and informed, albeit through a uniquely unfiltered lens.

For those who haven't tuned in, this episode offers a snapshot of the vibrant and often contentious conversations that define Arizona's #1 Morning Radio Show.