KSR Podcast Episode Summary Episode Title: KSR - Hour 1
Release Date: May 5, 2025
Hosts: Matt Jones, Drew Franklin, Mario, Shannon The Dude
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Sponsored by: Stockton Mortgage

1. Introduction and Travel to Scottsdale

The episode kicks off with Matt Jones introducing the Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR) crew, live from Scottsdale, Arizona. Drew Franklin and Matt Jones set the scene, mentioning the early morning arrival at 7:03 a.m., with Shannon participating remotely from Louisville and Mario managing tasks at the gift shop.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones [02:37]: "Welcome, everyone. This is Kentucky Sports Radio live from beautiful Scottsdale, Arizona."

2. Preparations for the Barstool BET Gala

The hosts discuss their unexpected trip to Arizona, expressing uncertainty about the event's specifics. They decide to arrive by 3 a.m. but plan to be fully present by around 4:35 a.m., targeting prime time.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [03:28]: "We don't really know what we're going to. Still don't really know."
• Mario [03:22]: "Yeah. So did you ever figure out exactly why you're in Arizona?"

3. Arrival and Resort Impressions

Upon arriving at the resort provided by DraftKings, the hosts marvel at the beautiful scenery dominated by cacti and palm trees. They share their first impressions, with Billy appreciating the mountainous backdrop and Drew commenting on the vibrant surroundings.

Notable Quotes:

• Billy [06:22]: "It's a beautiful area. Just the mountains in the backdrop. We've been to Arizona, went to Sedona, but I've never been to the Phoenix Scottsdale area."
• Drew Franklin [06:41]: "It's beautiful. Nice flight here... What do you think of the place so far?"

4. Navigating Airport Chaos Post-Derby

Reflecting on their travel experience, the hosts recount the hectic scene at Cincinnati airport post-Kentucky Derby. Mario nearly misses the flight due to long security lines exacerbated by the influx of derby attendees.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [07:05]: "If you've ever been to Cincinnati airport... That looked like chaos."
• Mario [07:31]: "Everybody probably hungover, you know, from the derby."

5. The Oaks Derby Experience

The conversation shifts to their experiences at The Oaks Derby. Drew shares how fans mistook them for owners of Simply Joking, leading to numerous photo requests. Despite their excitement, the race ends disappointingly as their horse, Simply Joking, finishes last due to an unexpected decision by the jockey.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [09:10]: "We didn't say, you know, we own one fraction of a hair. We were like, yeah, you're talking to a simply joking owner."
• Billy [12:44]: "In the barn. For the last two months, that's what we've been saying."
• Drew Franklin [12:56]: "All of a sudden, as the horses started making their move, he made an odd decision, which was to go backwards."

6. Reflections on Betting and Trifecta Success

Drew discusses his successful trifecta system, detailing how he selects top horses and strategically excludes long shots. He attributes his recent success to this method, highlighting a significant win that stacked six out of the last nine years.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [43:04]: "I came up with this. Like I said like nine or ten years ago."
• Billy [35:06]: "That was an impressive hit, especially because you tweeted it long before the race."

7. High Ratings and Growing Popularity of the Derby

The hosts delve into the Kentucky Derby's soaring ratings, surpassing major sports events like the NBA Finals and the Masters. They speculate on factors contributing to its popularity, including fashion, celebrity attendance, and the event's inclusive appeal to both men and women.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [31:01]: "Why do you think it is that this has become. Because everyone is watching it."
• Billy [31:16]: "Horse racing is really in a great place."

8. Celebrity Encounters and Event Highlights

During the gala, the crew interacts with various celebrities, including Randall Cobb and Livy Dunn. They share amusing anecdotes, such as Livy Dunn's awkward attempt to announce "Riders up," which caught the hosts off guard.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [37:48]: "Livy Dunn looked like she forgot the two words you're supposed to say."
• Mario [38:06]: "Yeah. Yeah."

9. Mike Tirico's Peanut Allergy Incident

A significant moment at the event involves broadcaster Mike Tirico experiencing a severe allergic reaction to peanuts. The hosts describe the immediate concern upon noticing his distress and the subsequent announcement about his condition.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [46:38]: "I knew something was wrong with him."
• Billy [48:05]: "Peanut takes him down."

10. Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Events

As the episode wraps up, the hosts tease upcoming topics, including Travis Perry's school selection and a preview of their Barstool BET gala. They also humorously discuss the challenges of their off-air conversations making their way into the podcast.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Franklin [49:21]: "We also have the event tonight will preview our Barstool BET gala with my new jacket."
• Billy [49:24]: "We're doing this on the air. We're doing this off the air."

Key Insights and Conclusions

• Derby's Massive Appeal: The Kentucky Derby has achieved unprecedented ratings, outpacing traditional sports events, largely due to its glamorous fashion, celebrity presence, and broad demographic appeal.

• Effective Betting Strategies: Drew Franklin's discussion on his trifecta system underscores the importance of strategic horse selection in betting, emphasizing the value of avoiding overfavored long shots.

• Event Management and Safety: The incident with Mike Tirico highlights the importance of health and safety protocols at large events, ensuring quick responses to emergencies.

• Audience Engagement: The hosts' interactions with fans and celebrities demonstrate KSR's strong connection with its audience, enhancing listener engagement and community building.

Notable Highlights

• Dress Code Mishaps: Drew's unconventional suede jacket sparked humorous reactions, illustrating the lighthearted banter among the hosts.

  Quote:

  • Billy [04:16]: "You gotta see this thing, Shannon."

• Airport Chaos Post-Derby: Mario's near-miss at the airport served as a relatable anecdote about the challenges of traveling after major events.

  Quote:

  • Drew Franklin [07:05]: "That looked like chaos."

• Successful Betting Outcomes: Drew's trifecta success showcases KSR's expertise in horse racing betting strategies, providing listeners with valuable insights.

  Quote:

  • Drew Franklin [33:32]: "It's crazy because I'm not a great... but for some reason, big race mad."

Conclusion

This episode of KSR offers listeners an engaging blend of live event coverage, personal anecdotes, strategic insights into horse racing betting, and humorous exchanges among hosts. From the bustling atmosphere of Scottsdale's Barstool BET gala to the high-stakes thrill of The Oaks Derby, Matt Jones and the KSR crew deliver a comprehensive and entertaining narrative that captures the essence of Kentucky sports culture.