Podcast Summary: "The Five Guys Expedition" | The Tony Kornheiser Show

Episode Information:

• Title: The Five Guys Expedition
• Host: Tony Kornheiser (This Show Stinks Productions, LLC)
• Release Date: May 12, 2025
• Description: In this episode, Tony Kornheiser engages with guests Michael Wilbon and Craig Laughlin to discuss a variety of topics ranging from the excitement surrounding the new Pope, recent baseball games at Madison Square Garden, to in-depth analyses of the NHL playoffs featuring Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals.

1. Gardening Insights: Planting Potatoes

• Timestamp: [01:00 - 03:00]

Tony kicks off the episode by sharing his enthusiasm for gardening, specifically his love for planting potatoes. He discusses his plans to grow three varieties: purple, Yukon Gold, and Russet potatoes. With the help of Michael Wilbon, Tony delves into the techniques of planting and maintaining potatoes, ensuring a healthy yield throughout the season.

Notable Quote:

• Tony Kornheiser [02:16]: "I have chosen three spots in my front yard for potatoes. There will be the purple potatoes, the Yukon Gold, and russet potatoes."

2. Guest Spotlight: Craig Laughlin and Harrison Todd

• Timestamp: [03:00 - 06:00]

Tony introduces his guests, Craig Laughlin and Harrison Todd, highlighting Craig's background in the NHL and his role as an announcer. The conversation shifts to Harrison Todd's extensive family history, emphasizing his status as the 37th grandchild in a large Irish Catholic family.

Notable Quote:

• Harrison Todd [05:31]: "It's very much like, if somebody off the bat asks you to name all 50 states, I can get pretty close."

3. Baseball at Madison Square Garden: A Day with Michael Wilbon

• Timestamp: [06:00 - 10:00]

Michael Wilbon shares his experience attending a pivotal baseball game at Madison Square Garden. The discussion covers the performance of the Nets' pitchers, the standout game by Mackenzie Gore, and the overall electrifying atmosphere of the venue. Tony also touches on personal anecdotes, including potty training challenges during the game.

Notable Quote:

• Michael Wilbon [07:10]: "We got to see Gore on the sidelines down the right field line doing his pregame warmups."

4. Golfing Adventures on Mother's Day

• Timestamp: [09:00 - 12:00]

Tony recounts his golfing experience on Mother's Day, highlighting a serene day on the course with minimal crowds. He praises the rise in women's participation in golf post-COVID and shares his satisfaction with the golfing conditions and community.

Notable Quote:

• Tony Kornheiser [09:24]: "I had the whole course to ourselves. Played in 340."

5. The Five Guys Expedition: A Culinary Journey

• Timestamp: [12:00 - 17:00]

Tony ventures into the realm of fast-casual dining by visiting Five Guys. He narrates his experience ordering a little bacon cheeseburger, discussing pricing, service quality, and comparing it to other popular chains like In-N-Out. The segment includes humorous interactions with fellow customers and reflections on the evolution of burger joints.

Notable Quotes:

• Tony Kornheiser [13:27]: "I just ordered the little bacon cheeseburger. It was okay, not great for $11."
• Craig Laughlin [16:14]: "We have stopped ordering burgers out for the most part because we just feel like we can do this better at home."

6. The New Pope from Chicago: Community Reactions

• Timestamp: [24:00 - 27:00]

The conversation shifts to the excitement surrounding the new Pope, who hails from Chicago. Craig Laughlin discusses the humorous memes and community reactions, drawing parallels to Chicago's rich sports culture. The guests reflect on how the Pope's background intertwines with local traditions and identities.

Notable Quote:

• Craig Laughlin [25:08]: "If there were people still in offices in America, it'd be the best water cooler conversation you could have in Chicago."

7. NHL Playoffs Analysis: Capitals vs. Carolina Hurricanes

• Timestamp: [40:00 - 51:11]

In an in-depth discussion, Craig Laughlin provides expert analysis on the Washington Capitals' performance in the NHL playoffs against the Carolina Hurricanes. The conversation delves into Alex Ovechkin's remarkable career, his comparison to hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, and the strategic challenges the Capitals face.

Key Points:

• Ovechkin's Impact: Craig praises Ovechkin as the greatest goal scorer of all time, highlighting his resilience and scoring prowess, even at an advanced age.
• Team Dynamics: The Capitals' reliance on Ovechkin and the need for them to adapt their strategies to counter Carolina's shot volume.
• Future Prospects: Discussions about Ovechkin's potential retirement and his legacy within the NHL.

Notable Quotes:

• Craig Laughlin [44:03]: "I said, 'No way. How can a guy score close to 900 goals like Gretzky did? And Obi’s going to get there.' And now look what he's done."
• Tony Kornheiser [42:24]: "I saw Ovechkin get knocked down a couple of times. Where's Tom Wilson?"

8. Listener Interactions and Mailbag

• Timestamp: [57:00 - 63:30]

The episode incorporates humorous listener emails and creative content, including poetry and personal anecdotes. Tony engages with audience submissions, sharing amusing stories and playful banter with his guests about the creative inputs.

Notable Quote:

• Tony Kornheiser [60:24]: "They never do [photographs do not do justice]."

9. Musical Interlude: "Pope Deep Dish" by Dan Byrne

• Timestamp: [24:00 - 64:00]

Dan Byrne delivers a playful song titled "Pope Deep Dish," blending themes of Chicago culture, sports, and the newly elected Pope. The lyrics humorously intertwine iconic Chicago elements with religious undertones, celebrating the city's unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Notable Lines:

• "To the Vatican from Lake Michigan, Pope deep dish."
• "Pope Leo is a Sox fan, you get what you pay for."

10. Closing Reflections and Final Thoughts

• Timestamp: [64:00 - End]

Tony wraps up the episode by reflecting on the day's discussions, expressing gratitude to his guests and listeners. He emphasizes the show's role as a source of joy and community for many, and hints at upcoming segments and interactions.

Notable Quote:

• Tony Kornheiser [63:17]: "As I walk across Spain, please know that you are all in my prayers, grace, and peace."

Conclusion:

"The Five Guys Expedition" episode of The Tony Kornheiser Show offers a rich tapestry of conversations spanning sports analysis, personal anecdotes, and community interactions. Through engaging dialogues with guests Michael Wilbon and Craig Laughlin, Tony explores the intersections of sports, culture, and personal experiences, all while maintaining his signature wit and charm. Notable highlights include an insightful examination of Alex Ovechkin's legacy in the NHL, humorous culinary adventures at Five Guys, and a heartfelt appreciation for gardening and family.

For those who haven't tuned into this episode, the detailed discussions provide a comprehensive look into the multifaceted topics that Tony Kornheiser masterfully navigates, making it a must-listen for fans of sports, culture, and engaging conversation.