Podcast Summary: "Alright, here’s a story" – The Tony Kornheiser Show

Release Date: May 19, 2025
Host: This Show Stinks Productions, LLC

1. Episode Overview

In the episode titled “Alright, here’s a story,” Tony Kornheiser engages in lively discussions covering the latest NBA conference finals, the Preakness Stakes, and notable performances in golf. The show features insights from regular guests Michael Wilbon and Steve Sands, as well as contributions from senior Murray student Harrison Todd. Throughout the episode, Tony shares personal anecdotes and interacts with listener emails, providing a mix of sports analysis, personal stories, and entertaining banter.

2. NBA Conference Finals Analysis

Time Stamp: 23:29

The episode delves into the NBA conference finals, with Michael Wilbon and Harrison Todd offering their perspectives on the matchups. The Minnesota Timberwolves face the Oklahoma City Thunder, who recently dominated Denver. Concurrently, the New York Knicks take on the Indiana Pacers.

Notable Discussion Points:

• Minnesota vs. Oklahoma City: Harrison Todd expresses confidence in Minnesota, highlighting their experience and team cohesion. He states, “Minnesota is a complete team, and they've been through it further” (23:41).

• Knicks vs. Pacers: The excitement around the Knicks’ performance is palpable, especially with key players like Jalen Brunson making significant impacts. Tony remarks on the bustling atmosphere in New York, saying, “Looked like Times Square on New Year's Eve” (25:41).

• Player Performances: The conversation touches on player dynamics, including Jamal Murray’s performance and Anthony Edwards’ influence on the Timberwolves. Harrison notes, “Jamal Murray is not a natural point guard” (30:08), sparking a debate on his suitability for the role.

Key Quote:
Harrison Todd reflects on the unpredictability of the series, stating, “I think what's cool is that we have some unknown. We don't go into this NBA semifinal, final Four like we do most years, where you have an absolute idea who you're going to side up with” (23:29).

3. Preakness Stakes and Horse Racing Insights

Time Stamp: 30:37

Steve Sands transitions the discussion to the Preakness Stakes, where Scotty Scheffler delivered a remarkable performance. The conversation highlights the excitement and unexpected turns in horse racing.

Notable Discussion Points:

• Scotty Scheffler’s Victory: Steve praises Scheffler’s resilience, saying, “He did something that the greats of all time do. He made an adjustment on the back nine and ended up running away with it” (41:02).

• Race Dynamics: The dramatic finish where the horse Journalism overtook sovereignty in the final moments is dissected. Harrison shares his enthusiasm, “It was just riveting” (32:14).

• Controversies and Regulations: Steve addresses recent controversies regarding driver conformations, advocating for transparency in the sport. He asserts, “Scotty Scheffler did not cheat. That's just wear and tear on the new technology of these drivers” (49:42).

Key Quote:
Steve Sands emphasizes the need for clear regulations, stating, “They need to change the old school way of thinking. If someone gets suspended, people should know why” (50:19).

4. Personal Anecdote: Tony’s New York Reunion

Time Stamp: 08:12

Tony Kornheiser recounts his experience traveling alone to New York for a high school reunion. The story highlights his interactions and the unexpected challenges he faced.

Notable Discussion Points:

• Reunion Experience: Tony describes the atmosphere and the people he met, including reconnecting with old classmates like Sherry Berman and JoJo Silverman. He humorously notes, “Girls don't pay” during dinner (09:07).

• Travel Mishaps: Sharing his ordeal with Amtrak, Tony details a series of delays and technical issues that disrupted his journey. He laments, “I want all my points. Am I wrong?” (17:45).

• Reflection on Travel: The story underscores the frustrations of relying on public transportation and the unpredictability of travel plans.

Key Quote:
Tony expresses his dissatisfaction with the train experience, saying, “I'm not bitter about it. But my feeling is, I'm in a point situation” (15:55).

5. Listener Emails and Community Engagement

Time Stamp: 53:07

The show features a segment where Tony reads and responds to listener emails, sharing humorous and heartfelt stories from the audience.

Notable Highlights:

• Tributes and Congratulations: Emails celebrate achievements like the Binghamton Bearcats' championship win and individual accomplishments in college softball.

• Humorous Narratives: Stories range from gardening tips for Tony’s intern Chris to playful jabs at everyday mishaps.

• Creative Writing: An intriguing poem-like submission reflects on nostalgia and personal growth, blending humor with poetic flair.

Key Quote:
From a listener named Rich Barajas: “My point is, I have no connection to the D.C. area at all... but this weekend I'm sitting on my couch watching the Cubs White Sox games” (55:38).

6. Golf Discussion: PGA Championship and Player Analysis

Time Stamp: 39:43

Steve Sands provides an in-depth analysis of the PGA Championship, focusing on Scotty Scheffler’s performance and the implications for other players like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau.

Notable Discussion Points:

• Scotty Scheffler’s Triumph: Steve commends Scheffler’s ability to maintain a seven-hole lead and his strategic adjustments on the back nine. “Scotty Scheffler is the best player in the world for a reason” (11:50).

• Jon Rahm’s Struggles: The episode discusses Rahm’s unexpected collapse under pressure, questioning his consistency. “He just didn't have it. He was taking chances and missing putts that you would not normally see” (42:26).

• Technology and Fair Play: The conversation addresses controversies around driver conformations, advocating for transparency and consistent testing to maintain fairness in the sport.

Key Quote:
Steve Sands urges, “The PGA of America is running that event and the rules are very vague. They need to change it quickly” (49:42).

7. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

Towards the end of the episode, Tony reflects on the day’s discussions, reiterating key points and expressing gratitude to his guests and listeners. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in sports regulations and the unpredictability that makes sports engaging.

Key Quote:
Tony concludes with a nod to personal resilience, “You don’t retire from noise. You drift far enough out to hear yourself again” (71:22).

8. Quotes and Highlights

• Tony Kornheiser: “What do you think, Lean into the microphone, say what you think” (18:17)

• Harrison Todd: “Minnesota is a complete team, and they've been through it further” (23:41)

• Steve Sands: “They need to change the old school way of thinking. If someone gets suspended, people should know why” (50:19)

• Tony Kornheiser: “I'm not bitter about it. But my feeling is, I'm in a point situation” (15:55)

• Steve Sands: “Scotty Scheffler is the best player in the world for a reason” (11:50)

Conclusion

In this episode of "The Tony Kornheiser Show," listeners are treated to a blend of sports analysis, personal storytelling, and engaging interactions with guests and the audience. From the highs of championship victories to the frustrations of travel mishaps, Tony and his panel provide an entertaining and insightful look into the world of sports and beyond.

For more episodes and updates, tune in to The Tony Kornheiser Show available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Audacy.