The Tony Kornheiser Show - Episode: "The 2 Cent Check" (Released June 4, 2025)

Hosted by This Show Stinks Productions, LLC

1. Introduction and Indiana Sports Discussion

The episode kicks off at [01:13] with Tony Kornheiser delving into the significance of the Indy 500 for Indiana's sporting culture. Highlighting that while teams like the Indiana Pacers, Indianapolis Colts, and Indiana University basketball contribute to the state's sports landscape, the Indy 500 stands paramount.

Tony Kornheiser ([01:13]):

"But if you take away the Indy 500, that would be the biggest loss in the sporting culture of Indiana."

Richard Justice ([01:37]):

"Oh, excuse my dog. My dog had an answer."

Though briefly interrupted by a dog, the conversation underscores the deep-rooted passion Indiana holds for the Indy 500, emphasizing its irreplaceable role in the state's identity.

2. Starbucks Name Change Debate

At [01:51], Tony raises a marketing concern about Starbucks transitioning from its iconic name to "Starbucks Coffee Company." This change mirrors Dunkin' Donuts' shift to "Dunkin'," sparking a debate on brand recognition and consumer perception.

Tony Kornheiser ([01:51]):

"When did Starbucks become the Starbucks Coffee Company with like a name change?"

Ron Flatter ([02:24]):

"They're trying to play on the nostalgia of old Starbucks and what it means to go into the store and unwind."

The discussion navigates the balance between brand evolution and maintaining recognizable identity, with Tony expressing his discomfort over the change.

Tony Kornheiser ([04:28]):

"It's a social revolution. Amazing."

The segment explores how Starbucks has transformed from a simple coffee shop to a multifaceted "bank" holding customer funds through its app, altering traditional customer interactions.

3. Firing of Tom Thibodeau and NBA Team Dynamics

Transitioning to sports management, Tony discusses the surprising firing of NBA coach Tom Thibodeau despite the team's recent successes under his leadership.

Tony Kornheiser ([05:18]):

"Feel everybody thought this would happen. Had they lost to Boston?"

Ron Flatter ([05:55]):

"They became the cultural phenomenon of the spring."

The conversation reveals the complexities behind managerial decisions in sports, questioning the rationale when a team's performance appears robust. They speculate on potential replacements and express skepticism about the team's direction post-Thibodeau.

Ron Flatter ([06:13]):

"Or Spike. Just give the job to Spike."

The segment concludes with Tony sharing his personal struggle with golf scores, providing a light-hearted contrast to the intense sports management discussion.

4. Golf Anecdotes and Personal Stories

Tony shares his golfing experiences, recounting a recent round where he improved his score but still faces challenges with fairway bunkers.

Tony Kornheiser ([06:51]):

"I have gotten to the point where I can 50% of the time get out of a green side bunker."

Ron Flatter ([07:52]):

"You were trying to pick this ball clean, but you really can feel like it's a fairway shot if it's a normally packed fairway bunker."

The exchange offers insights into golfing techniques and personal improvements, infused with humor and camaraderie among the hosts.

5. Intern Responsibilities and Planting Shenanigans

At [08:58], the conversation shifts to managing interns, specifically Chris Cullen, who has been sidelined with minimal tasks. The hosts humorously debate assigning him to heavier duties like lifting dog food bags or handling printer ink replacements.

Tony Kornheiser ([10:10]):

"We need to find something for Chris to do."

Ron Flatter ([11:02]):

"Very good at putting in printers."

The segment underscores the challenges of delegating effectively while maintaining a light-hearted tone about workplace dynamics.

6. Car Registration and Financial Transactions

The hosts discuss a mishap involving car registration and the complexities of modern financial transactions compared to traditional check-writing.

Tonny Kornheiser ([12:04]):

"She said the registrate. Well, she didn't say the registration."

Michael Kornheiser ([13:02]):

"Be a bit of a problem."

Tony contrasts his discomfort with digital payments against Ron's adeptness at handling modern banking solutions.

Tony Kornheiser ([15:18]):

"I mean, I'm paying. Pay as you go. I'm that guy."

The dialogue highlights generational differences in managing finances and the evolving nature of transactions.

7. Women's College Softball World Series Highlights

Shifting to collegiate sports, the episode covers the excitement surrounding the Women's College Softball World Series, featuring Texas Tech and Oklahoma. The hosts praise ESPN's role in elevating women's sports coverage.

Chris Cullen ([30:17]):

"It's one of the coolest things going on to watch what ESPN has done for women's sports."

The conversation delves into the narratives of standout players like Najee Kennedy and the strategic moves by coaches, emphasizing the athletic prowess and dedication of the participants.

8. Baseball Analysis: Tigers, Yankees, Dodgers, and Mets

A significant portion of the episode, starting around [21:52], is dedicated to analyzing Major League Baseball teams' performances and strategies.

Chris Cullen ([22:38]):

"The Tigers had seven straight losing seasons before winning 86 last year. They will make the most of their first-round draft picks."

Tony Kornheiser ([25:37]):

"What did we learn, if anything, from Yankees, Dodgers? What are we learning, if anything, from Mets, Dodgers?"

The discussion covers:

• Detroit Tigers: Their remarkable turnaround with strategic player development and management changes, positioning them as a formidable force in baseball.

• New York Yankees: Highlighting stars like Aaron Judge and Paul Goldschmidt, underscoring their consistent performance and investment in player development.

• Los Angeles Dodgers: Concerns over pitching injuries affecting their season despite their historical strength, leading to strategic challenges.

• New York Mets: Comparisons with other teams and insights into their current standing and future prospects.

Chris Cullen ([26:43]):

"Three of their four top relievers are on the injured list and, you know, it's unclear when they'll all come back."

The segment provides in-depth analysis of team dynamics, player performances, and managerial decisions, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the current baseball landscape.

9. Belmont Stakes Preview and Analysis

In the latter part of the episode, at [36:10], the focus shifts to the Belmont Stakes, discussing its relocation to Saratoga and its implications on the race's dynamics.

Richard Justice ([37:02]):

"The dirt at Saratoga is a little different than the sandy dirt at Belmont Park, and it can be a little bit more helpful for speed horses."

Tony Kornheiser ([42:53]):

"Do these Belmonts that are not run at a mile and a half, the great test of thoroughbred racing, and they're not run at Belmont, do they count the same?"

The debate centers on whether the change in venue and track characteristics affects the race's integrity and the horses' performance. Richard elaborates on the challenges faced due to the altered distance and track layout, questioning the comparability to traditional Belmont Stakes races.

Richard Justice ([44:43]):

"There has been some, and I am hard pressed now to remember who, because a lot of people might say so on background as opposed to on the record."

The discussion also touches upon strategic betting insights and the potential impact of external factors like weather on the race outcome, providing listeners with nuanced perspectives on horse racing events.

10. Musical Interlude and Listener Engagement

The episode features original music by Kyle Dillingham, interspersed with playful banter and ad segments. Listeners' contributions and shout-outs add a personal touch, enhancing the show's community feel.

Kyle Dillingham performs an original song titled "Old Souls," reflecting themes of love, perseverance, and building a life together. The musical segment, combined with listener emails, showcases the show's blend of sports commentary, personal stories, and artistic expression.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Tony wraps up the episode by reiterating upcoming segments, thanking guests Richard Justice and Ron Flatter, and encouraging listener participation through music submissions and reviews.

Tony Kornheiser ([48:17]):

"Remember, you can listen to us on Apple Podcast, Spotify and Odyssey. Get the show through Apple. Please leave us a review."

The episode concludes on a high note, blending humor, insightful sports analysis, and community engagement, making it a comprehensive and engaging listen for both regular followers and new audiences.

Notable Quotes:

• Tony Kornheiser ([01:51]):

  "When did Starbucks become the Starbucks Coffee Company with like a name change?"

• Ron Flatter ([02:24]):

  "They're trying to play on the nostalgia of old Starbucks and what it means to go into the store and unwind."

• Richard Justice ([37:02]):

  "The dirt at Saratoga is a little different than the sandy dirt at Belmont Park, and it can be a little bit more helpful for speed horses."

• Chris Cullen ([22:38]):

  "The Tigers had seven straight losing seasons before winning 86 last year. They will make the most of their first-round draft picks."

This episode of "The Tony Kornheiser Show" provides a rich tapestry of sports analysis, personal anecdotes, and engaging discussions, all anchored by Tony's distinctive commentary and interactions with his guests and co-hosts. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a fan of insightful debates, or simply seeking entertaining conversation, this episode offers a compelling listen.