Podcast Summary: "The Tony Kornheiser Show" – Episode “Not an Ice Cream Night”

Release Date: May 29, 2025
Host: Tony Kornheiser
Guests: Steve Sands and Ann Hornaday

1. Rory McIlroy's Absence from the Memorial Tournament

Timestamp: 20:39 - 24:40

Tony Kornheiser opens the episode discussing Rory McIlroy's decision to skip the Memorial Tournament, drawing insights from guest Michael Wilbon.

• Tony Kornheiser expresses his surprise and disappointment:
  "[22:58]... for me, I think, wow, is there some sort of implosion going on in the life of Rory McIlroy?"

• Michael Wilbon shares his perspective on McIlroy's responsibility as a leading figure in golf:
  "[23:42]... you have a responsibility to the sport... you could debate whether it should be mandatory... but Rory is so good at it..."

• Discussion Highlights:

  • McIlroy's Decision: Tony and Michael delve into whether McIlroy's absence stems from personal struggles or dissatisfaction with PGA rules, particularly the ruling on his driver.
  • Golf Rule Changes: They debate the fairness and consistency of equipment checks, emphasizing the need for uniform enforcement to maintain integrity in the sport.
  • Tour Championship Adjustments: The conversation transitions to recent changes in the Tour Championship, including the removal of the 10-stroke lead advantage, which both hosts support as a move towards fair competition.

2. Tour Championship Rule Changes in Golf

Timestamp: 25:37 - 30:04

Tony and Michael discuss the significant adjustments made to the Tour Championship format, moving away from granting stroke advantages based on previous performance.

• Tony Kornheiser advocates for equal starting conditions:
  "[28:07]... you don't stagger the start... it's the right move by a million."

• Michael Wilbon agrees, comparing it to track and field events:
  "[28:07]... you can't give somebody a staggered start... it's what you're supposed to do in sports."

• Key Points:

  • Fairness: Both agree that starting all players on equal footing ensures that the best performance determines the winner.
  • Player Engagement: Emphasize that all 30 players have an equal chance to win, enhancing the competitiveness and excitement of the tournament.
  • Historical Context: Reference past tournaments where rule inconsistencies led to confusion and dissatisfaction among players and fans.

3. Washington Commanders' Name Change and Public Reception

Timestamp: 30:04 - 32:18

The discussion shifts to the Washington NFL team's rebranding from the Redskins/Skins to the Commanders, highlighting changes in public perception and approval ratings.

• Tony Kornheiser expresses his strong dislike for the new name despite the team's recent successes:
  "[31:07]... I think the name stinks. I can't stand it."

• Michael Wilbon provides a nuanced view, acknowledging the historical attachment while recognizing the growing acceptance due to the team's performance:
  "[31:30]... I like football team better than I like Commanders."

• Discussion Highlights:

  • Approval Ratings: Transition from 25% to over 50% approval, largely influenced by the team's performance rather than the name itself.
  • Cultural Shift: The renewed success under Coach Jaden Daniels has softened some of the initial resistance to the name change.
  • Personal Preferences: Both hosts express a preference for the traditional names and discuss the emotional attachment long-time fans have to the team's legacy.

4. Ann Hornaday's Project on "All the President's Men"

Timestamp: 33:00 - 50:00

Ann Hornaday joins the conversation to discuss her year-long project centered around the iconic film "All the President's Men," offering an in-depth look at its creation and impact.

• Ann Hornaday shares her experience researching and interviewing key figures:
  "[46:07]... Bob Woodward still has one of the copies of the script... They were very generous with their time."

• Insightful Quotes:

  • "[48:03] Ann Hornaday: Jane Alexander's portrayal... one of the most beautiful scenes ever filmed."
  • "[49:22] Ann Hornaday:... discussing with supporting players and crew members who take pride in the film's legacy."

• Key Points:

  • Historical Significance: The project explores how the film captured the essence of investigative journalism and its role in depicting real historical events.
  • Collaborations: Ann highlights her interactions with original cast members and crew, shedding light on behind-the-scenes narratives.
  • Cultural Impact: Emphasizes the film's contribution to American cinema and its enduring legacy as a masterpiece that blends entertainment with substantial storytelling.

5. The Evolution of Summer Blockbuster Movies

Timestamp: 35:09 - 44:02

Tony Kornheiser and Ann Hornaday engage in a deep discussion about the current state of summer blockbuster movies, examining their evolution and cultural relevance.

• Tony Kornheiser laments his disconnection from modern blockbusters:
  "[35:52]... I haven't been to the movie theater in five or six years and I doubt I'm ever going."

• Ann Hornaday reflects on the shift from diverse storytelling to effect-driven films:
  "[37:07]... Jaws was the opposite... focus on characters and realism rather than special effects."

• Discussion Highlights:

  • Historical Context: Comparison of early blockbusters like "Jaws" and "Star Wars" with contemporary releases focused more on visual effects and super-hero narratives.
  • Cinematic Quality: Concerns about the decline in diverse genres and substantive storytelling, with a preference for character-driven narratives over spectacle.
  • Audience Engagement: Observations on how younger generations consume media differently, favoring serialized television over standalone films, impacting the nature and quality of movies produced today.

6. Listener Interactions and Community Engagement

Timestamp: 50:50 - 63:29

Tony Kornheiser fields emails and listener interactions, addressing various topics ranging from local businesses to personal anecdotes.

• Tom Brown Tribute:
  "[53:00]... Honoring the legacy of Tom Brown, a pioneer two-sport athlete and community builder through his youth sports organization."

• Local Recommendations and Personal Stories:

  • Home Depot Flowers: Listeners share positive experiences based on Tony's recommendations.
  • Golf Highlights: Recognition of college golf achievements and local team successes.

• Key Points:

  • Community Focus: Emphasis on supporting local businesses and celebrating individual achievements within sports and community service.
  • Personal Touch: Tony connects with listeners by sharing personal stories and responding to their contributions, fostering a sense of community and engagement.

7. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: 63:29 - End

The episode wraps up with musical segments and final remarks from Tony, blending reflections on the day's discussions with light-hearted interactions.

• Musical Dedications:
  "Can I help it if I fall in love with you... Suzanne this is our time tonight."
  Tony concludes with a heartfelt rendition of a song dedicated to a listener’s sister, adding a personal and emotional closure to the episode.

• Final Remarks:
  "[68:06]... It's a special kind of power that cinema has..."
  Tony thanks guests and listeners, encouraging continued engagement and support.

Notable Quotes:

• Tony Kornheiser on Tour Championship Changes:
  "[28:07] 'You don't stagger the start... it's the right move by a million.'"

• Michael Wilbon on Fairness in Golf:
  "[30:04] 'Whenever you watch track and field in the Olympics... you don't give someone a staggered start.'"

• Ann Hornaday on "All the President's Men":
  "[46:07] 'It has been a wonderful dive into that creative process and just the genius that went into making that movie.'"

This episode of "The Tony Kornheiser Show" offers a rich blend of sports commentary, cinematic exploration, and community engagement, providing listeners with insightful discussions and personal connections that highlight Tony's distinctive perspective and his guests' expertise.