Podcast Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Episode: Hour 1 - Progressive Steve
Release Date: February 25, 2025

1. Introduction and Tributes

The episode begins with hosts Steve Covino and Rich Davis welcoming listeners back to "Covino and Rich's Playhouse." They extend heartfelt tributes to several notable figures who recently passed away:

• Ms. Yvonne: Described affectionately by Steve Covino as "one of my first weekend crushes" and a beloved character from "Muppet Babies."
  "Rest in peace to the most beautiful woman In Puppet Land, Ms. Yvonne, who passed away over the weekend."
  (04:15)

• Roberta Flack: Remembered through her timeless hits like "Killing Me Softly."
  "Roberta Flack passed away at 88 years old. Killing me softly."
  (04:18)

• Larry Dolan: The 94-year-old owner of the Cleveland Indians, now known as the Guardians.
  "Larry Dolan, Indians owner, 94 years old."
  (04:45)

• Al Trotwig: A legendary broadcaster remembered fondly by both hosts.
  "Al Troutwig, broadcaster passed away at 68 from cancer, which sucks. I was sad to hear that."
  (04:45)

2. Recent Sports Events and News

The hosts delve into recent sports highlights and developments:

• Dimitri Bivel's Victory: Celebrating Bivel's triumph as the new undisputed light heavyweight champion at 175 pounds.
  "We have a big weekend with Dimitri Bivel becoming the new light heavyweight champ at 175, undisputed, beating Arthur Beth."
  (05:12)

• Henry Cejudo's Injury: Discussing Cejudo's unfortunate eye injury caused by a poke, affecting his ability to continue in the match.
  "He got poked in the eye by Song and couldn't go back out. Turns out his eye was really damaged."
  (06:15)

3. Yankees' Facial Hair Policy Change

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the New York Yankees' decision to relax their strict facial hair policy, a move that has garnered mixed reactions:

• Background: The Yankees traditionally maintained a clean-shaven look as part of their team image. Recent changes were influenced by player Devin Williams, who voiced his discomfort with the policy.
  "Devin Williams was the catalyst. Apparently, he talked openly about not shaving his face in years and lacking confidence."
  (07:24)

• Hosts' Perspectives:

  • Steve Covino embraces the change, dubbing himself "Progressive Steve" for his willingness to adapt.
    "Progressive Steve is what they're calling me. I'm willing to adjust to change."
    (08:35)

  • Rich Davis also supports the move, highlighting its positive reception among fans and players alike.
    "The ladies love it, too. Facial hair is good."
    (09:23)

• Notable Quotes:

  • "I am surprised, much like most things in this world were split down the middle."
    (09:10)

  • "The stiffest organization in sports back on top."
    (15:18)

4. Embracing Change in Sports and Life

The conversation transitions into a broader discussion about embracing change, both in sports and personal life:

• Fashion and Comfort:

  • Steve Covino shares his shift from traditional denim to stretchy jeans, emphasizing comfort.
    "I was reluctant with stretchy jeans, but now I can't go back. They feel like cardboard."
    (18:56)

  • Rich Davis adds his preference for stretchy denim, aligning with Covino's stance.
    "If you wear old school jeans, you're uncomfortable. I prefer stretchy denim."
    (20:09)

• Technology Adaptations:

  • The hosts discuss adopting new technologies like QR codes and mobile ordering, initially hesitant but ultimately beneficial.
    "I was so reluctant with ordering on apps like Starbucks, but now I've changed my mind."
    (21:35)

• Crocs Controversy:

  • A listener call from Tom in Portland sparks a humorous debate over the practicality and style of Crocs, with both hosts maintaining their skepticism despite acknowledging their comfort.
    "Crocs are the gateway drug to lazy sloppiness."
    (35:04)

5. Personal Stories and Listener Calls

The episode features engaging personal anecdotes and interactions with listeners:

• Coaching Kids' Sports:

  • Rich Davis recounts a heartfelt story about coaching his son's T-ball game, highlighting the emotional moments of young athletes experiencing their first successes and overwhelming cheers.
    "My son's first at bat, he hits a ground ball and starts crying from the overwhelming cheers."
    (48:10)

• Face ID Challenges:

  • A caller named Randy shares his initial apprehension towards using Face ID on his phone, only to realize its necessity and convenience.
    "I was afraid of Face ID tracking me, but now I can't access my bank without it."
    (36:25)

6. Listener Engagement and Interactive Segments

• Last One Standing Game:

  • The hosts announce a game called "Last One Standing," offering listeners a chance to win prizes.
    "We're playing last one standing later in the show. Your chance to win some prizes."
    (03:04)

• Appreciation for Changes:

  • Through listener feedback, Covino and Rich discuss various changes they've welcomed, encouraging the audience to reflect on their own experiences with embracing change.
    "What changes in sports and life have you welcomed with open arms?"
    (17:05)

7. Tributes and Closing Remarks

As the episode nears its end, the hosts continue to honor beloved figures and recap the day's discussions:

• Guardians Ownership Legacy:

  • Reflecting on Larry Dolan's legacy with the Cleveland Guardians, the hosts express their admiration and respect.
    "Larry Dolan was a guy we grew up knowing. A legendary broadcaster on the East Coast."
    (05:25)

• Yankees' Song Changes:

  • They discuss the Yankees' shift from playing "New York, New York" by Frank Sinatra to "That's Life" when the team loses, appreciating the practicality of the change.
    "Now they're going to play 'That's Life,' which fits how you feel when the Yankees lose."
    (15:00)

• Final Thoughts:

  • The hosts encourage listeners to embrace change and stay open-minded, both in sports and personal endeavors.
    "A lot of it is app related, Rich. Like, I now make my haircut appointments via the app, where I was not into doing that at all."
    (37:34)

Conclusion

"Hour 1 - Progressive Steve" of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" (as presented by Covino and Rich) offers a dynamic blend of sports commentary, personal stories, and thoughtful discussions on embracing change. From honoring legends to dissecting the Yankees' evolving policies, the hosts provide an engaging and insightful experience for both dedicated fans and casual listeners.

Notable Quotes:

• "Rest in peace to the most beautiful woman In Puppet Land, Ms. Yvonne, who passed away over the weekend."
  — Steve Covino (04:15)

• "Devin Williams was the catalyst. Apparently, he talked openly about not shaving his face in years and lacking confidence."
  — Rich Davis (07:24)

• "Progressive Steve is what they're calling me. I'm willing to adjust to change."
  — Steve Covino (08:35)

• "Crocs are the gateway drug to lazy sloppiness."
  — Rich Davis (35:04)

• "Now they're going to play 'That's Life,' which fits how you feel when the Yankees lose."
  — Steve Covino (15:00)

Timestamps:

• Tributes Begin: (04:15)
• Dimitri Bivel's Victory: (05:12)
• Henry Cejudo's Injury: (06:15)
• Yankees' Facial Hair Policy: (07:24)
• Embracing Stretchy Jeans: (18:56)
• Adopting Mobile Ordering: (21:35)
• Crocs Discussion: (35:04)
• Coaching Kids' Sports Story: (48:10)
• Face ID Challenges: (36:25)
• Last One Standing Game Announcement: (03:04)
• Yankees' Song Change: (15:00)

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of "Hour 1 - Progressive Steve," highlighting the key discussions, personal anecdotes, and notable insights shared by the hosts. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the show, this overview provides a clear and engaging glimpse into the episode's content.