The Musers The Podcast: Episode 3 - "Unlimited Free Beer"
Release Date: July 9, 2025
Host/Author: Cumulus Podcast Network
Introduction
In Episode 3 of The Musers The Podcast, George Dunham, Craig “Junior” Miller, and Gordon Keith delve deep into their shared history, reminiscing about their college days, early adventures at The Ticket radio station in Dallas-Fort Worth, and the unforgettable escapades fueled by unlimited free beer. This episode, titled "Unlimited Free Beer," is a rich tapestry of humor, camaraderie, and heartwarming moments that highlight the unbreakable bond between the hosts.
Revisiting the Past: College Memories and Friendship Formation
The episode kicks off with George reflecting on Episode 2, sharing how re-listening to their previous conversations brought back fond memories from their college years. At [02:04], George mentions, “It brought back a lot of good memories from our college years." This sets the tone for a nostalgic journey through their formative years.
Gordon reminisces about meeting George during their freshman year when Kelly, a mutual friend, was dating a neighbor. At [04:11], he shares, “I took off my sabbatical year from North Texas. When I would call him on the Metro line to talk to him at the yearbook office, I would always ask, hey, is Kelly in the office?” This encounter not only introduced Gordon to George but also laid the foundation for their enduring friendship.
Craig adds depth to the narrative by discussing the evolution of their friend group. At [05:13], he states, “We made our lifetime best friends in college. I've got a good buddy from high school I still keep in touch with and have made a lot of friends after college.” This highlights the importance of their close-knit circle in shaping their personalities and humor.
Early Days at The Ticket Station: Bullpen Adventures and Show Building
Transitioning to their professional journey, the trio dives into their early days at The Ticket radio station. Gordon vividly describes the bullpen area, where much of the show's foundational humor was born. At [09:43], he recalls, “In the bullpen area, in the cubicle area was when bits started. And that's where I got to know you guys, because I would be hanging around up there all day.” This environment fostered creativity and camaraderie, essential elements that defined their unique on-air chemistry.
George humorously critiques the evolution of their podcast, noting the loss of the interactive bullpen vibe due to technological advancements. At [50:01], he muses, “I don't know if we can bring back the compound, but maybe we should bring up the bullpen area, because I think you're right that it would be great.” This reflection underscores the nostalgia for simpler times when face-to-face interactions were central to their creative process.
Road Trip to Colorado: Unlimited Free Beer and On-Air Memories
One of the episode's highlights is the recounting of an epic road trip to Colorado, epitomizing the "Unlimited Free Beer" theme. Craig narrates the spontaneous decision to embark on the journey during Labor Day weekend. At [30:06], he shares, “It was a holiday weekend. We had Monday off. And that Friday morning before we went in for the afternoon show, we just decided, let's take a road trip.”
The trip was marked by heavy drinking and hilarious mishaps. At [21:04], Gordon humorously describes their drunken antics: “We were jammed into a phone booth and we're in there real tight together, cracking up, calling you.” The following morning, Craig recounts the consequences of their overindulgence during the show: “I was afraid to talk because I thought I'd slur my words. But eventually, like by 6:30 or something, I was okay.”
A particularly memorable moment occurs when Craig accidentally drives his Honda Accord into the pool at the Ticket compound. At [15:35], he laughs, “I went straight into the pool.” The incident not only provided endless laughter but also cemented their reputation for unpredictable fun.
Road Trip to Port Aransas: More Drinking Escapades and Mishaps
Continuing the theme of adventurous road trips, George and Gordon recount their trip to Port Aransas. Craig sets the scene at [39:46], “We thought, well, we've been in Austin for a while. Let's do something fun. Do you want a road trip down to the beach to go to Port Aransas?” The journey is fraught with challenges, including getting their car stuck in the sand and navigating through snowy conditions at Raton Pass.
Gordon humorously describes an encounter at a dance club in Port Aransas: “We were trying to dance with them and drink beers with them and all of that. And somehow we end up taking this one girl, giving her a ride back to her place.” This anecdote showcases their knack for turning every situation into a memorable (and often hilarious) story.
The trip culminates in an encounter with a friend in San Antonio, where their lack of hygiene after nights of partying is humorously highlighted. At [44:53], Gordon reflects, “He looks over at his little cubby there on the driver's side door, and it was just stuffed full of empty sixlets. Package.” The episode paints a vivid picture of youthful exuberance and the trials of balancing work with personal adventures.
Reflections on Friendship and Show Dynamics
Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the strength of their friendship and its impact on their professional collaboration. At [48:33], Craig shares a poignant moment from his mother's funeral where Gordon's presence provided comfort: “I looked out at the audience and saw all my friends and all my relatives, and I held my composure really well until I looked at you, and I teared up.” This heartfelt moment underscores the deep emotional bonds that transcend their on-air personas.
George acknowledges Gordon's pivotal role in enhancing the show's dynamic. At [46:32], he praises, “You changed everything for our show. And I've always said you are our secret weapon, starting from that first bit with Ribby.” Gordon humbly adds, “Believe me, it makes zero sense because I didn't grow up a sports fan.” This mutual respect and appreciation highlight the synergy that has kept The Musers The Podcast vibrant and engaging over the years.
Personal Anecdotes and Emotional Moments
The podcast also ventures into more personal territories, sharing intimate stories that reveal the hosts' vulnerabilities. Craig recounts delivering a heartfelt eulogy at his mother's funeral, where George's support was instrumental: “I had to reach for the Kleenex because I thought I was about to lose it, but that's how close we had become.” Gordon adds a touch of humor to the emotional narrative, joking about their future eulogies: “I said, no, never been attracted to a girl until now. So horrible.”
These moments of sincerity interspersed with humor provide a balanced and authentic portrayal of the hosts' relationships, making the episode both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
Looking Forward: Upcoming Episodes and Continued Camaraderie
As the episode draws to a close, the hosts hint at future content, including more interviews and personal stories. Craig teases Episode 4, where he will interview George and Gordon about their relationship: “So we are doing this round robin.” This format promises to delve deeper into their interpersonal dynamics, offering listeners a more comprehensive understanding of the trio's synergy.
George concludes with a heartfelt affirmation of their enduring friendship: “We still all love each other all these years later. Best friends.” This closing remark serves as a testament to the resilience and longevity of their bond, ensuring listeners are eager for more episodes that continue to explore their rich history and shared experiences.
Conclusion
Episode 3 of The Musers The Podcast, "Unlimited Free Beer," is a captivating blend of humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments. Through engaging storytelling and candid conversations, George, Craig, and Gordon provide listeners with an intimate look into their lives, showcasing the deep-rooted friendships that have fueled their on-air brilliance for decades. Whether reminiscing about wild road trips or reflecting on personal milestones, this episode encapsulates the essence of what makes The Musers The Podcast a must-listen for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.