Podcast Summary: KSR - Hour 2 (May 29, 2025)

Hosted by Matt Jones and the KSR crew from iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM), this episode of Kentucky Sports Radio delves into a variety of topics ranging from local sports updates and NCAA discussions to a shocking exposé on a local roofing company's questionable practices. Below is a comprehensive summary capturing all key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

1. Opening Remarks and Upcoming Events

[02:05] Drew Franklin kicks off the second hour with a warm welcome, inviting listeners to the KS Bar and Grill for lunch and promoting the upcoming KSR Golf Scramble. They discuss the weather forecast, anticipating possible rain but expressing optimism about the event proceeding despite potential delays.

Notable Quote:

Drew Franklin [02:38]: "But there is... we should be thankful. It's better now than it has been to be alive at any point in human history."

2. Reflecting on Historical Events and Current Times

The hosts engage in a reflective conversation about the Vietnam Draft Lottery, reminiscing about the era and contrasting it with today's world. They emphasize the importance of appreciating current freedoms and advancements compared to historical hardships.

Notable Quote:

Drew Franklin [03:44]: "We should be thankful... it was better to be alive now than it has been to be alive at basically any point in human history."

3. NIL's Impact on College Sports

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations in college sports. Drew and Shannon debate the positives and negatives, highlighting how NIL has been beneficial for college basketball by allowing players to monetize their skills, leading to increased retention and improved team performances. Conversely, they express concerns about NIL's impact on college football, suggesting it may introduce challenges that need time to address.

Notable Quotes:

Drew Franklin [05:42]: "Nil has caused a lot of problems for college football... but I think, and now we have three or four years to show this, that for college football, basketball, Nil has been almost a universal positive."

Shannon The Dude [06:18]: "It makes the sport so much better. It's gotten older and it's better for the kids."

4. Exposé on Lexington Blue Roofing Company

One of the most compelling segments involves a deep dive into the controversial practices of Brad Pagel, the owner of Lexington Blue Roofing Company. The hosts reveal accusations against Pagel for running his firm as a cult of personality, defrauding homeowners and insurance companies by taking payments without delivering services. Employees have come forward describing Pagel's unorthodox and manipulative management style, which included encouraging the use of psychedelic drugs and delivering lengthy lectures on metaphysical beliefs.

Notable Quotes:

Drew Franklin [09:19]: "Brad Pagel encouraged employees to take psychedelic drugs, lectured them for hours about his metaphysical beliefs..."

Shannon The Dude [11:07]: "This dude's like an absolute psychopath... hundreds of people that he took advantage of."

Ryan Lemond [21:34]: "He always had my back... he would stand up for me."

The discussion highlights eerie details such as Pagel's insistence on being called "Reverend" and his bizarre motivational sessions that mixed business with pseudo-religious teachings. Listener Ryan Lemond shares his personal experience working for Lexington Blue, corroborating the allegations and painting a picture of Pagel as an erratic and domineering figure.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Lemond [21:34]: "He always had my back... but at the same time, he didn't care about me in particular."

5. Listener Interactions and Personal Stories

Throughout the episode, listeners call in to share their experiences and opinions. Tevis recounts his time at Lexington Blue, providing first-hand accounts of the toxic work environment. Other callers discuss the broader implications of such fraudulent businesses on the community and seek advice on handling similar situations.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Lemond [21:34]: "I thought he was a bit crazy... part of the reason I wanted to call in at least isn't to vouch for the guy."

6. NCAA Tournament Expansion Debate

The hosts shift focus to college basketball, discussing Charlie Baker's announcement about expanding the NCAA tournament to 72 teams. Shannon expresses skepticism, fearing that an increased number of teams might dilute the quality of competition, while Drew speculates that the move is financially motivated.

Notable Quotes:

Drew Franklin [32:30]: "The president of the NCAA says their goal is to try to expand the NCAA tournament to 72 teams, hopefully by this season."

Shannon The Dude [32:47]: "I don't like that... let's just stop adding more."

7. Breeders Cup Return to Lexington

Excitement builds as the hosts announce the Breeders Cup's return to Lexington, highlighting the positive reception from previous events. They reminisce about past performances by notable horses like American Pharaoh and Justified, emphasizing the event's success and its benefit to the local community.

Notable Quote:

Shannon The Dude [27:03]: "I'm glad he's enjoying our town."

8. NBA Playoffs and Player Highlights

A lively discussion unfolds around the NBA playoffs, particularly focusing on Zesty Carl and his rising popularity. The hosts analyze his performances and the viral moments that have endeared him to fans, debating his impact on the team's dynamics and overall likability.

Notable Quotes:

Drew Franklin [44:37]: "I think it's... making him likable now. I think... people are embracing him a little bit."

Shannon The Dude [45:05]: "I love Carl. I don't even like bringing it up, but it's everywhere."

9. Real Estate Spotlight: Smith Mansion

The episode features a segment on the Smith Mansion in Livingston County, Kentucky. Listener Ryan Lemond shares his connection to the property and its enigmatic history, noting the recent purchase by a new owner despite the mansion's long-standing vacancy and local legends about hidden tunnels.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Lemond [46:33]: "It's known that there's, like, tunnels. There's all kinds of stuff with it."

10. Country Music Review: "Holy Smokes" by Bailey Zimmerman

In a lighter segment, the hosts critique Bailey Zimmerman's new country song "Holy Smokes." They humorously dissect the lyrics, highlighting perceived clichés and the song's attempt to blend traditional country themes with modern elements.

Notable Quote:

Drew Franklin [43:07]: "This man is comparing his woman to God to a pack of cigarettes at 17."

11. Closing Remarks and Promotions

As the episode winds down, the hosts remind listeners of upcoming events like trivia night at the KS Bar and Grill and extend their gratitude to guests and callers. They also briefly mention ongoing promotions and advertisements, seamlessly integrating them into the conversation.

Conclusion: This episode of Kentucky Sports Radio offers a captivating mix of local sports commentary, in-depth investigations into community issues, and engaging listener interactions. From unraveling the dubious operations of a local roofing company to debating the future of college sports and celebrating Lexington's hosting of the Breeders Cup, Matt Jones and the KSR crew deliver a well-rounded and informative show. Notably, the exposé on Brad Pagel stands out as a critical highlight, shedding light on unethical business practices and their broader impact on the community.

Note: The timestamps provided correspond to the transcript excerpts from the episode and serve to locate specific discussions and quotes within the show.