Podcast Summary: Hour 1 - Keep 'Em Off the Pages

Release Date: March 8, 2025
Podcast: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. Introduction

In Hour 1 - Keep 'Em Off the Pages, hosts Covino and Rich dive into a multifaceted discussion blending sports analysis with cultural commentary. The episode primarily focuses on the evolving standards of professional conduct for women in sports and other professions, the latest NBA game highlights, NFL updates, and a somber moment addressing the passing of actor Gene Hackman.

2. Professional Conduct and Societal Expectations

a. Changing Standards for Women in Professional Roles

Covino and Rich engage in a heated debate about the recent incidents involving women in professional settings—specifically, a flight attendant and an NYPD detective—who faced termination due to socially suggestive behavior on social media platforms.

Notable Discussion Points:

• Yankees' Facial Hair Policy Update:
  Timestamp [25:30]
  Covino: "The Yankees finally accepted that it's 2025 and young men want the freedom in facial hair. It was a compromise, not everyone was on board, but it reflects societal shifts."

• Flight Attendant and Detective Incidents:
  Timestamp [27:45]
  Rich: "A flight attendant twerking for four seconds got her fired. Similarly, an NYPD detective's participation in a rap video where she shook her booty is now under scrutiny."

Notable Quotes:

• Rich: "We have to understand young women in 2025 should not get fired for a little twerking action."
  [28:15]

• Covino: "If you're representing the NYPD, don't be showing your ass in your spare time."
  [29:50]

b. The OnlyFans Debate in Sports

The hosts explore the hypothetical scenario of female athletes turning to platforms like OnlyFans to supplement their income, questioning the ethical implications and contractual boundaries.

Notable Discussion Points:

• Potential Impact on WNBA Players:
  Timestamp [35:20]
  Covino: "WNBA players are underpaid. What if stars like Kelsey Plum or Angel Reese start OnlyFans? The league might be torn between attracting attention and maintaining professionalism."

Notable Quotes:

• Red: "If a WNBA star makes more on OnlyFans in a week than her entire career, what does that say about the league?"
  [36:05]

• Covino: "There's a sliding scale. There's a time and place. If you're an NYPD officer, it doesn't align with your role."
  [38:30]

3. NBA Game Highlights: Lakers vs. Knicks

The episode shifts focus to a thrilling NBA matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks, described by Covino as possibly the "game of the year."

Key Highlights:

• Intensity and Playoff Atmosphere:
  Timestamp [45:10]
  Both teams exhibited playoff-level intensity, with standout performances from Jalen Brunson and LeBron James.

Notable Quotes:

• Rich: "When you look into some of these players' eyes, you can tell they're playing with playoff intensity even in a regular-season game."
  [46:00]

• Covino: "LeBron is 100% trusting his teammate. That's what makes it magical."
  [47:30]

4. NFL Updates

Brief updates are provided on recent moves within the NFL, including player retirements, contract extensions, and significant trades.

Key Updates:

• Michael Gallup's Retirement and Potential Comeback:
  Timestamp [50:25]
  Released by the Raiders to pursue a comeback.

• Terrell Bernard's Contract Extension with the Bills:
  Timestamp [51:40]
  Signed a four-year, $50 million deal.

• Titans and Commanders Roster Changes:
  Timestamp [52:15]
  Titans release Harold Landry III; Commanders part ways with Jonathan Allen.

Notable Quotes:

• Rich: "These moves aren't as headline-grabbing as Luka to Lakers, but they're significant for the teams involved."
  [53:00]

5. Gene Hackman's Passing

A brief moment of reflection is given to honor the late actor Gene Hackman, alongside the tragic passing of his wife.

Notable Quotes:

• Covino: "Gene Hackman lived a great life, but losing his wife to a disease is just terrible."
  [55:45]

• Rich: "He spent a week with his wife after her passing—a truly sad and weird story."
  [56:10]

6. Cultural Commentary: Reality TV and Public Perception

The hosts touch upon the influence of reality TV shows like "Love Is Blind," critiquing their impact on societal norms and individual behavior.

Notable Discussion Points:

• Impact of 'Love Is Blind':
  Timestamp [58:30]
  Covino expresses disdain for the show's content, while Rich discusses the awkward dynamics featured.

Notable Quotes:

• Covino: "If you watch a stupid show, you'll get it. If not, we're moving on."
  [59:05]

• Rich: "Sports is the best reality TV. Last night's game felt like a playoff environment—far more engaging than most reality shows."
  [59:45]

7. Conclusion

Covino and Rich wrap up the episode by emphasizing the balance between personal freedom and professional responsibility. They encourage listeners to engage thoughtfully with evolving societal norms while maintaining professionalism in their respective fields.

Notable Quotes:

• Covino: "We want individuals to enjoy their freedom, but when you're paid to represent a company or a team, there are standards to uphold."
  [1:02:10]

• Rich: "It's about finding that balance. Society is progressing, but respect and class shouldn't be abandoned."
  [1:02:35]

8. Final Thoughts and Teasers

Before signing off, the hosts tease upcoming topics, including more in-depth NBA discussions and additional NFL analysis. They also mention a special segment called "Quote Me," inviting listener participation.

Notable Quotes:

• Covino: "Stay tuned for our next episode where we'll break down more NBA action and NFL strategies."
  [1:03:20]

• Rich: "Don't forget to participate in 'Quote Me' by calling in at 877-99-FOX."
  [1:03:45]

Key Takeaways:

• Evolving Professional Standards: The episode highlights the tension between personal expression on social media and maintaining professional decorum, especially for women in high-profile roles.

• Economic Pressures on Athletes: The discussion underscores the financial challenges faced by female athletes and how alternative income streams like OnlyFans could impact leagues like the WNBA.

• Sports as a Reflection of Society: Covino and Rich use sports discussions to mirror broader societal changes, emphasizing the role of sports as both entertainment and a platform for cultural commentary.

• Balancing Freedom and Responsibility: The overarching theme stresses the importance of balancing individual freedoms with the responsibilities that come with representing organizations and the public.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Covino: "The Yankees finally accepted that it's 2025 and young men want the freedom in facial hair."
  [25:30]

• Rich: "We have to understand young women in 2025 should not get fired for a little twerking action."
  [28:15]

• Covino: "If you're representing the NYPD, don't be showing your ass in your spare time."
  [29:50]

• Rich: "If a WNBA star makes more on OnlyFans in a week than her entire career, what does that say about the league?"
  [36:05]

• Rich: "These moves aren't as headline-grabbing as Luka to Lakers, but they're significant for the teams involved."
  [53:00]

• Covino: "Gene Hackman lived a great life, but losing his wife to a disease is just terrible."
  [55:45]

• Rich: "Sports is the best reality TV. Last night's game felt like a playoff environment—far more engaging than most reality shows."
  [59:45]

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a deep dive into the intersection of sports and societal norms, presenting thoughtful discussions on professionalism, economic disparities in athletics, and the ever-evolving landscape of public conduct in the digital age.