Podcast Summary: "Covino & Rich - Joey Chestnut Joins C&R!"
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
- Episode: Covino & Rich - Joey Chestnut Joins C&R!
- Release Date: June 17, 2025
- Hosts: Covino and Rich
- Platform: Fox Sports Radio
Introduction of Joey Chestnut
The episode kicks off with hosts Covino and Rich welcoming their special guest, Joey Chestnut, the legendary competitive eater known for his record-breaking performances at Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. Broadcasting live from the Fox Sports Radio studio, Covino sets an enthusiastic tone, emphasizing the significance of Joey's return to the competition.
Notable Quote:
- Covino [01:26]: "When you only have two hours of greatness, you only make time for the goats."
Joey Chestnut's Return to Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest
Joey Chestnut discusses his decision to rejoin Nathan's contest after a hiatus. He elaborates on the challenges faced last year, primarily focusing on communication breakdowns and disagreements over promoting plant-based hot dogs alongside Nathan's traditional offerings.
Notable Quotes:
- Joey Chestnut [02:33]: "It absolutely didn't end the way we wanted to or expected. But it's been a little bit of work... Good things don't happen when you're not talking."
- Joey Chestnut [03:25]: "There was that issue with plant-based food... I’m gonna be the only hot dog I was promoting."
Overcoming Last Year's Challenges
The hosts delve into the specifics of the previous year's hurdles, highlighting the tension surrounding plant-based competitors. Joey explains how clear communication helped resolve these issues, ensuring his exclusive promotion of Nathan's hot dogs while still participating in initiatives like Meatless Mondays.
Notable Quote:
- Joey Chestnut [03:43]: "That's the way. I'm not gonna work with. I never wanted to eat plant-based hot dogs on the fourth of July."
Competition Overview and Patrick Bertoletti's Role
Covino and Rich shift the conversation to Joey's main competitor, Patrick Bertoletti, who won the contest in Joey's absence with a commendable 58 hot dogs. They discuss whether Patrick poses a significant threat this year, with Joey expressing confidence in his abilities.
Notable Quotes:
- Rich [04:02]: "The competition needs you."
- Joey Chestnut [04:15]: "My biggest competitor is some crazy guy and he's... If I'm doing everything right, I'm gonna annihilate everybody."
Joey Chestnut's Impact on American Culture
The discussion broadens to the cultural significance of Joey's participation in the contest, especially in a politically divided America. Covino suggests that Joey's presence brings unity and excitement back to a quintessential American tradition.
Notable Quotes:
- Covino [07:32]: "There's nothing more American than hot dogs with Joey Chestnut."
- Joey Chestnut [07:30]: "The people who follow me are from every corner of America, and I'm very happy."
Listener Interaction: Joey's Progress and Training
A listener question from Mercer in Pittsburgh sparks a conversation about Joey's impressive improvement from eating 32 hot dogs on his first attempt to 76. Joey attributes this success to gradual training, building his tolerance, and pushing his physical limits.
Notable Quotes:
- Covino [08:15]: "I heard a listener question about your progress from 32 to 76 hot dogs."
- Joey Chestnut [08:26]: "I was so nervous... But now it's an amazing stage on the Fourth of July."
Hot Dog Preparation Preferences
The hosts and Joey discuss the best methods to prepare hot dogs, contrasting grilling versus boiling. Joey strongly advocates for grilling, citing flavor and the quality of the hot dogs, while expressing disdain for boiled hot dogs.
Notable Quotes:
- Joey Chestnut [11:12]: "Boiled hot dogs, they're almost criminal."
- Joey Chestnut [11:15]: "You have to be on a grill... It's the way."
Physical Impact and Recovery from Competitive Eating
Joey candidly talks about the physical toll that competitive eating takes on his body, including dehydration and bloating. He shares his recovery process, which typically takes about two days to feel normal again.
Notable Quotes:
- Joey Chestnut [13:05]: "It takes two days to start feeling good."
- Joey Chestnut [13:30]: "I'm more bloated. I'm trying to take in more liquids."
Predictions for This Year's Contest
Covino and Rich invite Joey to predict the outcome of the upcoming Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. Joey remains confident, expecting to surpass his previous records and dominate the competition.
Notable Quotes:
- Covino [15:24]: "What's your prediction on the upcoming contest?"
- Joey Chestnut [16:10]: "I'm going to make a statement. This is my big comeback."
Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with Covino and Rich expressing their excitement for Joey's return and the anticipated energy he brings to the Fourth of July celebrations. They reiterate Joey's significance in American sports culture and extend their best wishes for his success in the contest.
Notable Quotes:
- Covino [20:18]: "Joey Chestnut, Nathan's, Tony Island. When he wasn't doing it, it did feel sort of whack."
- Rich [20:28]: "Joey Chestnut's back. Fourth of July. Nothing more American than hot dogs with Joey Chestnut."
Conclusion: This episode of "Covino & Rich - Joey Chestnut Joins C&R!" offers an in-depth look into Joey Chestnut's return to the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. The hosts effectively explore the challenges he overcame, his preparation strategies, and the cultural impact of his participation. Through engaging dialogue and insightful questions, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of Joey's journey and what to anticipate in this year's competition.