The Tony Kornheiser Show

Episode: “There Goes Billy”
Release Date: February 21, 2025
Host: Tony Kornheiser
Guests: PK Subban, Bob Ryan
Produced by: This Show Stinks Productions, LLC

1. Opening Segment: Customer Service Frustrations

The episode kicks off with Tony Kornheiser expressing his frustrations with AT&T's customer service practices. He delves into his recent struggles with their billing system, highlighting the inflexibility and lack of personal support.

• Tony Kornheiser [02:07]: "With AT&T and all large organizations now, total lack of customer service. They don't want you to pay by check. They want to deduct the money immediately out of one of your accounts."

He elaborates on his attempts to resolve the issue, emphasizing his preference for traditional payment methods and his discomfort with automated deductions.

• Tony Kornheiser [05:17]: "They’re trying to pressure me into something I don’t want."

This segment underscores Tony's broader critique of modern customer service trends, favoring automation over personalized assistance.

2. Discussion with PK Subban: Hockey Insights

Tony welcomes PK Subban, the renowned Canadian hockey player, to discuss Team Canada’s overtime victory against Team USA. Their conversation spans various aspects of the game, player performances, and the state of the NHL.

• Tony Kornheiser [08:58]: "And it is the most exciting thing that hockey has done in years. You’re a hockey player, I would imagine there’s a lot of pride for somebody like you to see the NHL do this."

PK Subban praises the NHL's recent developments, highlighting the players' commitment and the growing popularity of the sport.

• PK Subban [16:24]: "The game has never been bigger than where it is right now... It delivered to the fans who showed up."

He commends Jordan Biddington’s performance, asserting his crucial role in Canada’s success.

• PK Subban [19:00]: "Jordan Biddington is a big part of the reason why Canada’s still on the top of the mountain."

The discussion also touches on the influence of legends like Wayne Gretzky and the impact of players’ dedication on the sport's growth.

• PK Subban [20:41]: "Wayne Gretzky... how much he cares about the game, how much he cares about the players and wanting to see the game do well."

Tony and PK debate the potential for future tournaments and the inclusion of more nations to expand the game’s reach.

• Tony Kornheiser [23:32]: "This doesn’t mean it’s an invention, because the All-Star Game ratings were sagging... We have to do it again."

3. Mailbag Highlights: Listener Engagement

Tony transitions to the mailbag segment, reading and responding to listener emails. The submissions range from humorous anecdotes to thoughtful critiques, showcasing the diverse audience engagement.

• Jeff Barger from Hillsborough, NC [44:11]: "The vomit and the poop are hot. How in the wide world of sports are you not receiving Kelsey Brother money for this fine podcast?"

• Carl in Oswego, NY [49:58]: "I have about 38 inches of snow in February so far, which is about how much we had all of last winter."

Tony humorously interacts with listeners, addressing their comments and sharing related stories.

4. Conversation with Bob Ryan: Sports Analysis and More

Bob Ryan, the quintessential American sportswriter, joins the show post-break to delve deeper into recent sports events and broader industry trends.

a. NHL Tournament Analysis

Bob provides an in-depth analysis of the recent NHL tournament, focusing on the aggressive play and standout performances.

• Bob Ryan [13:10]: "The nonstop aggression, the intensity, it was riveting... Jordan Biddington... his performance was so great."

He discusses the decline in Canadian goaltenders' representation in the NHL and the rise of international players.

• Bob Ryan [32:27]: "The percentage has shrunk dramatically in the last 25 years... we could be talking about Team USA being the head of the hockey world."

b. NBA All-Star Game Critique

Transitioning to basketball, Bob criticizes the NBA All-Star Game's lack of competitiveness, contrasting it with the NHL's passionate participation.

• Bob Ryan [34:52]: "I am angry with them. They are truly reprehensible... I boycotted the weekend. I did not watch one second of their game."

He laments the NBA players' disinterest in showcasing genuine skill and competitiveness during the All-Star festivities.

c. Victor Wembanyama’s Health Diagnosis

Bob expresses concern over the recent thrombosis diagnosis in Victor Wembanyama's shoulder, emphasizing the potential impact on his promising career.

• Bob Ryan [36:40]: "I just wish him the very best because he's a treasure... we haven’t had someone like him before."

d. MLB Broadcasting and Salary Cap Discussions

The conversation shifts to Major League Baseball's broadcasting changes, with Bob sharing his support for implementing a salary cap to ensure competitive balance.

• Bob Ryan [40:30]: "I'm for it. I think they should have it... I doubt the players will give it up voluntarily."

He anticipates potential lockouts and expresses apprehension about the future of baseball broadcasting on ESPN.

5. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with Tony summarizing the discussions and expressing gratitude towards his guests and listeners. He reiterates the importance of community engagement through the mailbag and hints at future topics of interest.

• Tony Kornheiser [43:33]: "Thanks as well to today's sponsors... love cheeser. David Della Brita, thank you so much for that."

Listeners are encouraged to continue sending in their thoughts and participate in upcoming shows.

Notable Quotes

• Tony Kornheiser [05:17]: "They're trying to pressure me into something I don't want."

• PK Subban [20:41]: "Wayne Gretzky... how much he cares about the game, how much he cares about the players and wanting to see the game do well."

• Bob Ryan [34:52]: "I am angry with them. They are truly reprehensible... I boycotted the weekend. I did not watch one second of their game."

• Bob Ryan [36:40]: "I just wish him the very best because he's a treasure... we haven’t had someone like him before."

Conclusion

This episode of "The Tony Kornheiser Show" offers a rich blend of sports commentary, personal anecdotes, and listener interactions. From deep dives into hockey dynamics with PK Subban to critical analyses of the NBA All-Star Game with Bob Ryan, Tony ensures a comprehensive and engaging discussion. Additionally, the episode highlights common consumer frustrations, enriching the conversational depth. For listeners seeking insightful sports analysis combined with relatable host experiences, this episode serves as a valuable resource.