KSR Podcast Episode Summary

Title: KSR
Host/Authors: Matt Jones and the KSR Crew (iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790, WKRD-AM)
Episode: 2025-07-24 - KSR - Hour 1
Release Date: July 24, 2025

1. Opening Remarks and Light Banter

The episode begins with Matt Jones welcoming listeners on a sunny day in Lexington, Kentucky. He engages in casual conversation with co-hosts Drew Franklin and Ryan Lemond, sharing his experiences from extensive radio and podcasting sessions the previous day. Matt humorously expresses his frustration with the overemphasis on the Dallas Cowboys in ESPN coverage, stating:

"I just can't stand them because every single time something happens, it's cowboys, cowboys, cowboys."
(01:38)

Ryan empathizes, highlighting the persistent spotlight on the Cowboys and suggests a need to shift focus.

2. Dive into the TV Show "Gilded Age"

The hosts transition to discussing Matt's unexpected new interest in the HBO series Gilded Age. Matt admits embarrassment over his enjoyment of the show, comparing it to his previous disdain for reality TV phenomena like Love Island:

"This is more embarrassing than watching Love Island. I'm kind of into Gilded Age on HBO."
(03:39)

Shannon The Dude and Ryan express curiosity and amusement, with Ryan suggesting the idea of launching a Gilded Age podcast. Matt shares an interesting historical fact he learned from the show about the Statue of Liberty:

"The Statue of Liberty... France only sent us the torch initially. It stood in a park for six years because funding the rest was a challenge."
(05:22)

This segment blends entertainment with educational insights, enriching the conversation with historical anecdotes.

3. Kentucky Sports Updates and Analysis

The focus shifts to Kentucky sports, particularly basketball. Matt references a recent press conference by Coach Mark Pope, where Pope criticized the team’s defense:

"He said we couldn't guard anybody and that he was disappointed."
(11:58)

Ryan discusses the implications of this critique, noting the impact on the team's performance. They delve into player developments, highlighting prospects like Cam Williams and the ongoing recruitment efforts:

"We have a Cam Williams on the team and are actively recruiting another top-ranked Cam Williams."
(13:32)

A humorous yet critical analysis emerges as Matt questions the depth of the team's roster:

"If you're going to say this is a national championship contender, you gotta have three dudes."
(23:30)

The discussion emphasizes the necessity for standout players to elevate Kentucky's standing in the NCAA.

4. Caller Interactions and Discussions

Listeners engage with the hosts through calls, bringing diverse topics to the table.

Jake’s Call:
Jake inquires about basketball teams that could have won the title, specifically mentioning the overlooked COVID-affected team.

"I don't think we were one of the four best teams in 1998, but we won it."
(21:26)

Steve’s Call:
Steve introduces psychological concepts like cognitive dissonance and confirmation bias, prompting a brief foray into behavioral psychology. Matt and Drew humorously grapple with defining these terms, reflecting the casual and interactive nature of the show.

"Cognitive dissonance is like holding conflicting beliefs... I would just call that brain fog."
(31:16)

Eric’s Call:
A caller from southern Indiana suggests the possibility of hosting a remote show, highlighting the widespread Kentucky fan base beyond Lexington.

"We've done one before, but it's been a long time, so I'll see what we can do."
(41:34)

These interactions showcase the hosts' ability to handle a variety of topics while maintaining listener engagement.

5. Notable News and Updates

The hosts provide updates on recent sports news and personal anecdotes:

Antonio Reeves' NBA Deal:
Matt shares exciting news about Antonio Reeves signing a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets, emphasizing his potential impact on the team.

"He was the most efficient player on their team and went 29 of 29 from the free throw line."
(38:11)

Mark Stoops on ESPN:
A pivotal moment occurs when Matt cites Coach Mark Stoops' fiery response on ESPN regarding the competitiveness of the SEC:

"If he wants to take a crack at it, come on, strap it on."
(27:30)

The team praises Stoops for his assertive stance, which they believe signals his readiness to elevate the SEC's reputation in college football.

"That's a great drop right there. We could use that a lot."
(28:55)

6. Promotional Segments

Throughout the episode, Matt integrates promotional content seamlessly into the conversation. Notably, he mentions:

• WashablesOfAs.com: Highlighting Annabe sofas' machine-washable features suitable for families with pets and children.

  "Experience cloud-like comfort with high resilience foam that's hypoallergenic and never needs fluffing."
  (00:00)

• DraftKings Sportsbook: Encouraging listeners to participate in betting with a promotional code for bonus bets.

  "Download the DraftKings sportsbook. Use the code KSR for new customers. $150 in bonus bets."
  (35:01)

These segments are crafted to feel part of the natural flow, ensuring listeners receive relevant information without disrupting the conversation.

7. Closing Remarks and Future Plans

As the hour progresses, the hosts discuss future plans, including the possibility of touring the southern states for the upcoming sports season:

"We're touring the south this year, so we're going to go. Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama."
(42:00)

Matt expresses enthusiasm about exploring new regions, while Drew and Ryan support the idea, anticipating a refreshing change from their usual routes.

The episode concludes with a discussion on potential changes to the NCAA tournament format, advocating for a best-of-three series in the Final Four to ensure the best teams prevail:

"Having the championship game be two out of three would make financial sense and increase ratings."
(43:59)

Ryan and Drew agree, citing the excitement and fairness such a format would introduce to the tournament.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Matt Jones: "I just can't stand them because every single time something happens, it's cowboys, cowboys, cowboys."
  (01:38)

• Matt Jones: "This is more embarrassing than watching Love Island. I'm kind of into Gilded Age on HBO."
  (03:39)

• Matt Jones: "He said we couldn't guard anybody and that he was disappointed."
  (11:58)

• Matt Jones: "If you're going to say this is a national championship contender, you gotta have three dudes."
  (23:30)

• Mark Stoops: "If he wants to take a crack at it, come on, strap it on."
  (27:30)

• Matt Jones: "Having the championship game be two out of three would make financial sense and increase ratings."
  (43:59)

Conclusion

This episode of KSR masterfully balances sports analysis, entertainment discussions, and interactive segments, all while maintaining an engaging and conversational tone. The hosts' dynamic interplay with each other and their listeners creates an inclusive atmosphere, making the podcast both informative and enjoyable for a wide audience.