Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona: Detailed Episode Summary (June 17, 2025)

Host: John Holmberg
Co-Hosts: Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, Dick Toledo
Air Time: Weekdays, 5:30a-10a
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Podcast Platform: 98KUPD (97.9fm, 98KUPD app, www.98kupd.com)

1. National Mascot Day Celebrations and Insights

The episode kicks off with a discussion on National Mascot Day, highlighting the often-overlooked personalities behind beloved sports mascots.

• John Holmberg initiates the conversation by noting the prevalence of mascots in sports, referencing familiar figures like the San Diego Chicken and Philly Phanatic.

• Brady Bogen, sharing his personal experience, delves into his time as the Diamondbacks' mascot, "Drew Hey Batta." He humorously reflects, "I went kind of Chris Farley-esque" (03:20).

• The hosts explore the scarcity of visual evidence and memorabilia from Brady's mascot days, with John humorously lamenting, "I've been saying that for 20 plus years. There is no evidence of Drew Hey Better existing at all online" (07:51).

• Brady shares anecdotes about promotional materials and the challenges of maintaining mascot recognition without extensive documentation.

Notable Quote:

Brady Bogan: "Wombat poop is cube shaped. Scientists think it keeps their droppings from rolling away, which they use to mark their territory." (09:56)

2. Gen Z's Workplace Trends: The Emergence of 'Sex Rooms'

Transitioning to generational shifts in workplace dynamics, the hosts discuss Gen Z's unconventional requests for work environments.

• A recent poll indicates that 47% of Gen Zers are engaging in sexual activities while working remotely, leading to 38% advocating for private spaces designated for hookups and solo activities (14:23).

• John Holmberg reacts with mock dismay, stating, "All the Gen Zers that work here have requested that we turn one of the offices into a slut house" (15:06), highlighting the tension between traditional workplace norms and emerging generational preferences.

• The conversation evolves into humorous banter about the feasibility and appropriateness of such spaces, with Brady and John exchanging witty remarks on workplace morale and productivity.

Notable Quote:

John Holmberg: "You can't even say a lady looks nice in her clothes at work anymore without meeting with HR." (16:10)

3. Environmental Concerns: The Impact of Hummingbird Feeders

A segment dedicated to environmental stewardship discusses the unintended consequences of hummingbird feeders on local populations.

• Brady Bogan presents findings from a Vox article, explaining how improperly maintained feeders can lead to bacterial or fungal infections in hummingbirds (16:46).

• John Holmberg underscores the importance of regular maintenance, advising, "Every day or two" cleaning schedules to prevent disease outbreaks (17:37).

• The hosts share personal anecdotes about hummingbird predators and the challenges of maintaining safe feeding environments, adding a lighthearted twist to the serious topic.

Notable Quote:

Brady Bogan: "Your hummingbird feeder. The sugar water spoils faster than you think, especially in warmer weather." (16:46)

4. Community Concerns: Misuse of 911 Services

A serious discussion unfolds around the abuse of 911 services by a specific individual, highlighting broader issues of mental health and community safety.

• Brady details the case of Samuel Thomas, a 72-year-old arrested for making 3,400 911 calls in a year, including 647 directed at a specific neighbor's barbecue activities (22:01).

• The conversation touches on the legal and social ramifications of such behavior, with John Holmberg speculating on potential violent outcomes if intervention fails: "DJ Yellow is going to kill his neighbors" (25:18).

• The hosts express concern over the limitations of law enforcement in addressing repeated misuse of emergency services, pondering the balance between individual rights and community protection.

Notable Quote:

Brady Bogan: "According to the police records, Samuel's made 3,400 calls to 911 this year alone." (22:08)

5. Political Commentary: Trump Merchandise and Legislative Implications

The hosts pivot to a lighthearted yet pointed discussion on Trump-branded merchandise, touching upon political and legal nuances.

• Brady introduces the topic of the "Trump Mobile" phone, questioning its manufacturing origins and pricing strategy (29:05).

• Dick Toledo raises concerns about the Emoluments Clause, debating whether the merchandise constitutes a conflict of interest for former President Trump (30:03).

• The banter includes mock advertisements for Trump-branded items, blending humor with critical analysis of political commercialization.

Notable Quote:

John Holmberg: "It's Timu. Don't liberal C. Trump's phone." (31:08)

6. Humorous Interlude: Acupuncture and Visual Gags

Injecting humor into the episode, the hosts engage in a playful discussion on acupuncture, accompanied by vivid and comedic descriptions of visual gags.

• John Holmberg narrates a fictional scenario involving extreme acupuncture treatments, leading to exaggerated and humorous imagery (40:14).

• The segment serves as a comedic break, showcasing the hosts' chemistry and ability to entertain through imaginative storytelling.

Notable Quote:

John Holmberg: "He's got a couple in his stomach. Oh, I got him through the shaft, running it up the side of his penis, and they're working them all the way up." (40:24)

7. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Features

As the episode nears its end, the hosts tease upcoming segments, including an appearance by comedian David Spade and promote local events.

• Brady Bogan announces David Spade's upcoming shows in Tucson and Phoenix, encouraging listeners to attend (43:10).

• The episode concludes with light-hearted banter and a reminder of the podcast's affiliation with 98KUPD, Arizona's leading rock radio station.

Notable Quote:

John Holmberg: "We're looking forward to talking to David Spade in just a little bit." (43:10)

Episode Highlights

• Mascot Memoirs: Brady's reflection on his role as the Diamondbacks' mascot reveals the often invisible efforts behind sports entertainment.

• Gen Z Workplace Trends: The discussion sheds light on evolving workplace expectations and the challenges they pose to traditional office environments.

• Environmental Responsibility: The importance of maintaining hummingbird feeders underscores the delicate balance between human enjoyment and wildlife preservation.

• Community Safety: The troubling case of 911 abuse by Samuel Thomas highlights systemic issues in emergency service management and mental health support.

• Political Satire: The segment on Trump merchandise combines humor with critique, illustrating the intersection of politics and consumerism.

Conclusion

This episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness masterfully blends humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful discussions on a variety of topics ranging from sports mascots to environmental concerns and political satire. Through engaging dialogues and witty exchanges, the hosts provide a comprehensive and entertaining overview of contemporary issues affecting the Arizona community.

For more episodes and updates, visit 98KUPD or tune in daily on 97.9fm.