Podcast Summary: KSR - Hour 2 (June 12, 2025)

Hosted by Matt Jones and the KSR crew from iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM), this episode of Kentucky Sports Radio, aired on June 12, 2025, delves into a variety of engaging topics ranging from local community discussions to significant developments in college sports.

1. Community Spotlight: Heritage Place

The episode kicks off with an insightful discussion about Heritage Place, clarifying misconceptions about it being a retirement community. Shannon The Dude shares, “[Heritage Place] is just a community of wonderful folks” (02:16). The hosts emphasize the vibrant and active nature of the community, dispelling any notions of it being solely for retirees.

2. Celebrating Milestones: Drew Franklin's 40th Birthday

A heartfelt segment honors Drew Franklin on his 40th birthday. Shannon reminisces about Drew’s longstanding role at KSR, saying, “He's been with KSR since he was working at Tony Roma's” (04:07). The duo reflect on Drew's dedication, especially highlighting his relentless work ethic during their early days covering numerous games and events.

3. New College Basketball Rules: Enhancing Game Flow

A substantial portion of the discussion revolves around the newly instituted college basketball rules aimed at reducing game delays caused by excessive challenges and replays. Shannon explains the changes: “Each coach gets one challenge. In the last two minutes of the game, the ref can look at goaltending on his own” (07:00). Both Matt and Shannon express approval, noting that these adjustments are expected to streamline the game and maintain its pace. Shannon adds, “This will make the college game go faster” (11:24), highlighting the potential positive impact on game dynamics.

4. Funding Debate: UK Football vs. UK Basketball

The conversation shifts to the contentious topic of funding distribution between UK’s football and basketball programs. Caller Jerry voices his frustration, stating, “Football fans in Kentucky have been getting their swift kick” (14:11). Shannon and Matt discuss the implications of reallocating funds to bolster the basketball program, considering the competitive landscape of the SEC and the challenges faced by UK football. Shannon posits, “Do we just take the little hit on football to ensure we can compete for a title in basketball?” (16:02), encapsulating the dilemma of resource allocation.

5. Political Underpinnings: Rand Paul and the White House Picnic

An intriguing segment explores the intersection of politics and personal relationships, focusing on Senator Rand Paul’s recent disinvitation from the White House picnic. Shannon narrates Rand’s frustration: “...he says, this is the pettiest thing I've ever heard” (30:00). The hosts reflect on past tensions and the human aspect behind political decisions, humorously suggesting, “Don't want to hurt my grandkids” (31:46), emphasizing the personal stakes involved.

6. Murray State's Remarkable Journey to the College World Series

A highlight of the episode features an interview with Dan Skirka, the coach of Murray State, who shares the team’s exhilarating experience advancing to the College World Series. Dan recounts a pivotal moment: “...there was a dog pile in the center of the thing, and then they say to you, hey, everybody, get up. Tuck your shirt in” (39:00). Shannon commends the team’s underdog spirit, stating, “These guys love the game... they really are a great group” (44:13). The conversation underscores the significance of teamwork, perseverance, and community support in achieving such milestones.

7. Listener Engagement: Chants and Community Spirit

Interactivity with listeners is evident as Janet from Heritage Place suggests a new chant inspired by Gloria Estefan's "Rhythm's Gonna Get You." The hosts embrace the idea, demonstrating live how the chant could be performed: “Away Away, away” (33:37). This segment showcases the vibrant community involvement and the hosts' willingness to engage creatively with their audience.

8. Upcoming Events and Sponsorships

Towards the end of the episode, Shannon promotes upcoming Lexington SC Men’s Home Matches, highlighting special events like National Bourbon Day with free bourbon samplings (37:20). Additionally, sponsorship mentions include Cornbread Hemp, which offers products such as gummies and seltzers, adding a local flavor to the show's promotions.

Notable Quotes:

• Shannon The Dude on Heritage Place: “[Heritage Place] is just a community of wonderful folks” (02:16).
• Shannon on Drew Franklin: “He's the guy that kind of keeps us all normal” (04:45).
• Shannon on New College Basketball Rules: “This will make the college game go faster” (11:24).
• Caller Jerry on Funding: “Football fans in Kentucky have been getting their swift kick” (14:11).
• Shannon on Rand Paul’s Disinvitation: “...this is the pettiest thing I've ever heard” (30:00).
• Dan Skirka on the College World Series: “It's amazing, I have to tell my team you're not an underdog, right?” (40:36).
• Janet’s Chant Suggestion: “The rhythm's gonna get you. And they say, away, away, away” (32:40).

Conclusion: This episode of Kentucky Sports Radio offers a rich blend of community insights, celebratory moments, in-depth sports analysis, and engaging listener interactions. From clarifying community initiatives and celebrating personal milestones to dissecting significant changes in college basketball rules and discussing the strategic funding of sports programs, Matt Jones and Shannon The Dude provide listeners with informative and entertaining content. The episode underscores the vibrant sports culture in Kentucky, the challenges and triumphs of local teams, and the deep-rooted community spirit that binds the listeners together.