KSR Podcast Episode Summary – June 3, 2025
Hosted by Matt Jones and the KSR crew from iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM), this episode of Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR) delves into a variety of topics ranging from local business updates and sports analyses to community engagement and special guest insights.
1. Local Business Updates: KS Bar Adjustments
The hosts discussed recent changes at KS Bar for the summer season. Drew Franklin shared insights into the strategic menu adjustments:
"We’re going to keep the wings, the cheese logs, the beer cheese, like the catfish. They’ve been really popular since we brought them back, so we're keeping those," [02:08] Drew Franklin.
Shannon The Dude elaborated on the necessity of these changes to improve the establishment's appeal during the off-season, emphasizing the balance between maintaining customer favorites and introducing new offerings.
2. Major League Baseball: Reds vs. Brewers Analysis
A significant portion of the episode was dedicated to analyzing the ongoing rivalry between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. The hosts expressed skepticism about the Reds' performance streak:
"The Reds are going to lose again tonight, I’m sure," [03:46] Drew Franklin.
Shannon The Dude countered with a more optimistic viewpoint, highlighting potential opportunities if the Reds can break their losing streak:
"But don’t you see it as an opportunity? Let’s say you win two against the Brewers, you’re back on track," [04:10] Shannon The Dude.
The discussion included statistical analysis of the Reds' historical performance when losing the first game of a series, revealing a concerning trend of consecutive losses.
3. Kentucky Basketball: Future Projections
Drew Franklin introduced an analysis of C.J. Moore's projection for Kentucky's next basketball season lineup. The projected starters include Jalen Lowe and Denzel Aberdeen, among others. The hosts debated the implications of these projections:
"Absent that I think he's right that we are better defensively and we have more playmaking, but we won't be as good at shooting," [07:39] Drew Franklin.
Matt Jones emphasized the critical role of Jalen Lowe in the team's success:
"You cannot have a bust from Jalen Lowe. He’s the most important person on the team to me," [07:18] Matt Jones.
4. Community Engagement: Honoring Veterans at Games
Listener Larry called in to commend Kentucky Clemson's gesture of honoring veterans during a baseball game, suggesting that Kentucky might adopt a similar practice in the future.
"I think if you start like things like that, that’s a very cool thing to do in the playoffs in that moment," [12:02] Drew Franklin.
The hosts agreed that such moments should be reserved for special occasions to maintain their significance.
5. Concerns Over Kentucky Football
Joe, a caller, expressed worries about the state of Kentucky football, pointing out declining season ticket sales and predicting a potential coaching change. Drew Franklin and Matt Jones discussed the challenges faced by the current football team and the importance of upcoming performances to alter public perception.
6. Upcoming Event: Kentucky Chambers Young Professional Summit
Promoted by Matt Jones, the Young Professional Summit organized by the Kentucky Chambers offers networking opportunities and career advancement resources.
"If you want to level up your career or hang out with other people doing cool things around the state and help your network, check out kychamber.com/events," [16:30] Drew Franklin.
7. The "KSR Curse" Phenomenon
A lighthearted segment where the hosts joked about the so-called "KSR curse" affecting their interactions and events globally. This playful superstition was linked to the unexpected resignation of the Netherlands' Prime Minister shortly after a meeting with Drew Franklin.
"The KSR curse will get you. It might take a month and a half to catch up to you, but it will eventually get you," [40:05] Ryan Lemon.
8. Special Guest: Murray State Baseball Coach Dan Skurka
In a highlight of the episode, Dan Skurka joined the show to discuss Murray State's impressive performance in the college baseball tournament. The team’s recent victories and progression to the super regional stage were celebrated enthusiastically.
"It was electric there last night, that environment there. I mean they are very passionate fans and just, just so happy for our guys," [26:23] Dan Skurka.
Skurka shared valuable insights into the team’s strategy, player dedication, and the challenges of competing in high-stakes environments like Oxford against fan-fueled teams such as the Duke Blue Devils.
"These guys here are awesome. From every player to the assistant coaches. I mean, it truly is a family," [27:23] Dan Skurka.
The conversation also touched upon the logistical aspects of tournament play, team morale, and future aspirations to reach the College World Series.
9. Listener Call-In: Meditation and Community Support
A heartfelt segment featured a listener from Hindman sharing his meditation routine and expressing gratitude towards the hosts. The caller also celebrated Rhiannon Hayes' birthday, highlighting the community's resilience and support.
"I just sit and meditate and think about all the good that’s happening in my life. And your show is one of them," [40:30] Caller.
The hosts responded warmly, encouraging practices like meditation for personal well-being and acknowledging the positive impact of their community.
This episode of KSR successfully blended sports analysis, community issues, and engaging conversations, offering listeners a comprehensive view of both local and collegiate sports landscapes along with meaningful interactions from the community.