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  • Hollywood and Horsepower Show, February 26, 2026

    Hollywood and Horsepower Show, February 26, 2026
    2026/02/26
    Hollywood and Horsepower Show with Mark Otto Guest, Bryan Pettigrew, Vice President and GM of Texas Racing operations for Penn Entertainment- Sam Houston Park and Retama Park horse racing tracks Hollywood and Horsepower: Brian Pettigrew on the Global Evolution and Texas Revival of Horse Racing Hollywood & Horsepower: Bryan Pettigrew A career retrospective on sports marketing, global racing traditions, and the Texas revival. Mode: Editorial Core Perspective "The Breeders' Cup is like the Olympics, World Cup, and Super Bowl all combined into one international championship." Strategic Pillars • The "League Office" Model: Pettigrew pioneered the operational merger between NTRA and Breeders' Cup to market racing as a year-round national sport. • The Texas Horse Society: Successfully attracting the 25-35 demographic by emphasizing fashion, networking, and "dressing to the nines." • Legislative Strategy: Navigating the unique Texas biennial budget system to secure purse funding via the Horse Industry Escrow Account. The Guest Profile BP Bryan Pettigrew VP/GM, Texas Racing (PENN) Career Roadmap Remington ParkIntern → Mgr Sam HoustonMarketing Head NTRA / Breeders' CupGlobal VP PENN EntertainmentCurrent Key Tags #SportsMarketing #TexasRacing #BreedersCup #JohnDeere ⏱ 80 min interview📍 Sam Houston & Retama Park Hollywood & Horsepower Podcast In this episode of Hollywood and Horsepower, host Marc Otto sits down with Brian Pettigrew, Vice President and General Manager of Texas Racing for PENN Entertainment. The discussion spans Pettigrew’s illustrious career—from his early days in Oklahoma to the international stage of the Breeders' Cup—and explores the current legislative and social efforts to modernize horse racing in Texas. Detailed Point Summary The Foundation of a Racing Career Brian Pettigrew’s journey into the horse racing industry began somewhat unexpectedly during his junior year at the University of Oklahoma. Seeking a summer internship in sports management, he joined Remington Park, a facility then owned by the DeBartolo Corporation, which also held the San Francisco 49ers and Pittsburgh Penguins. This "crash course" in management exposed him to various equine disciplines beyond racing, including dressage and show jumping, providing a diversified foundation that would define his professional approach. The Texas Expansion and Marketing Innovation In 1995, Pettigrew moved to Sam Houston Race Park during the first wave of pari-mutuel wagering in Texas. At the time, the Houston market was largely unfamiliar with the betting side of the sport. Pettigrew led marketing efforts that utilized high-energy promotions, such as concerts and giveaways, successfully drawing crowds of over 25,000 people to the track. He emphasizes that horse racing is a multifaceted entertainment industry, encapsulating hospitality, music, and diverse equine disciplines rather than just the singular event of a race. Career Trajectory: Brian Pettigrew Remington Park Internship & Early Mgmt. → Sam Houston Marketing Leadership → NTRA / Breeders' Cup Global Strategy "A career built on the intersection of sports, entertainment, and international hospitality." The National Stage and International Diplomacy Pettigrew’s career eventually took him to Lexington, Kentucky, the "heart" of the industry, to work for the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) and the Breeders' Cup. This role elevated him to a global level, where he managed international sponsorships and recruited horses from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. He shares unique anecdotes from this period, including meeting Queen Elizabeth II through a partnership with John Deere and facilitating equipment deals for Sheikh Mohammed’s Meydan Racecourse in Dubai. He describes the Breeders' Cup as a "World Championship" that combines the prestige of the Olympics with the excitement of the Super Bowl. The Future of Texas Racing: Legislation and Youth Engagement Now back in Texas with PENN Entertainment, Pettigrew is focused on two primary fronts: legislative reform and audience diversification. He spends significant time in Austin advocating for updated gaming laws to include sports betting and casino games, which would bolster the industry's economic viability. Simultaneously, he is championing the "Texas Horse Society," an initiative targeting 25-to-35-year-old professionals. This program leverages the social and fashion aspects of racing—such as the tradition of dressing up in fascinators and fedoras—to introduce a new generation to the sport in a way that feels experimental and outgoing. Texas Racing: Strategic Pillars 🏛️ Legislative Advocacy: Pursuing gaming law changes in Austin to support industry growth. 🏇 Safety & Infrastructure: Investing capital to ensure tracks are safe for horses and jockeys. 🥂 Youth Outreach: The "Texas Horse Society" targeting the 25-35 executive demographic. 💰 Economic Model: Utilizing the Horse Industry...
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    1 時間 20 分
  • Hollywood and Horsepower Show, February 19, 2026

    Hollywood and Horsepower Show, February 19, 2026
    2026/02/19
    Hollywood and Horsepower Show with Mark Otto Guest, Matthew “Whiz“ Buckley TOP GUN Graduate NAVY FIGHTER PILOT Founder of NO FALLEN HEROS From Top Gun to Total Healing: The Matthew "Wiz" Buckley Story From Afterburners to Breakthroughs The Journey of Matthew "Whiz" Buckley: Navy Pilot, Trader, and Healer. EDITORIAL SUMMARY The Profile Call Sign: "Whiz" Background: Top Gun Graduate, F-18 Pilot Foundations: Top Gun Options, No Fallen Heroes Critical Metrics 44 Est. Veteran Suicides Per Day 16 Brothers Lost (Non-Combat) $2.5M Profitable Trades (COVID Crash) #TopGun #PTSD #Ibogaine #SOT The "SOT" Methodology Buckley applies Navy combat training to finance and life through a three-tier framework: Strategic: Global context (Israel, China, Russia). Operational: National context (Fed, Interest Rates, DC). Tactical: Specific execution (The Trade/Action). Radical Healing: The Mexico Journey "Radical trauma requires radical healing." Buckley describes a life-changing "system reset" using Ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT alongside figures like Marcus Luttrell. He emphasizes that while the medicine is 5%, the 95% integration (journaling, exercise, coaching) is the true mission. Key Perspectives On Big Pharma: "There is no money in healing." Claims lobbyists block psychedelic progress to protect recurring revenue from antidepressants. On National Security: Veteran suicide is a recruitment crisis; veterans are steering their children away from service due to poor reintegration support. Source: Hollywood and Horsepower Podcast Visit: nofallenheroes.com This interview features Matthew "Wiz" Buckley, a former Navy fighter pilot and Top Gun graduate, discussing his transition from elite aviation to financial trading and his current mission to combat veteran suicide. Buckley shares his profound personal journey through trauma, addiction, and radical healing via psychedelic-assisted therapy. Detailed Summary The Path to the Cockpit Matthew Buckley’s aspiration to fly was sparked in childhood by a neighbor who flew F-106s and once performed a low-altitude max-afterburner flyover at Buckley's school bus stop. This drive led him through Navy ROTC and flight school in Pensacola, where he finished at the top of his class to select F-18 Hornets. During his sea tours, he deployed on the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Kitty Hawk, flying no-fly zone missions over Iraq before serving as a Landing Signal Officer (LSO) at Miramar. 9/11 and the Transition to Finance On the morning of September 11, 2001, Buckley was preparing for his first trip as an American Airlines pilot when the attacks occurred. He immediately raced to Naval Air Station Fort Worth, scrambling to defend the airspace in a "Lexington and Concord" moment with other part-time aviators. Following the post-9/11 airline industry collapse, he transitioned into finance, teaching himself to trade stocks and options by applying fighter pilot methodologies to the markets. He eventually moved to Chicago to help lead a multi-billion-dollar trading firm before founding his own company, Top Gun Options. The "SOT" Trading Framework Buckley applies military discipline to financial markets through a three-tiered approach: Strategic: Global landscape analysis (Geopolitics, macro trends). Operational: Domestic factors (The Fed, interest rates, earnings). Tactical: The execution of specific trades. "Trading is combat. You must brief the strategy before you act tactically." Trauma, Loss, and the Breaking Point Despite a successful career, Buckley carried immense "invisible" weight. He lost 16 squadron mates to accidents and three to suicide, alongside the childhood trauma of losing his sister to a drunk driver [184-192][215]. The disconnect of civilian life in Chicago led him into a spiral of alcohol and drug abuse to numb the pain [175]. He describes the military's failure to effectively reintegrate veterans, often leaving them with a "slap on the back" and a broken VA system after they have given their "pound of flesh". Radical Healing and "No Fallen Heroes" In 2020, after predicting the COVID market crash and generating significant profits, Buckley sought a way to address the veteran suicide epidemic. He traveled to Mexico to undergo psychedelic-assisted therapy using Ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT alongside Navy SEALs like Marcus Luttrell. He describes the experience as a "system reset" that instantly ended his alcoholism and allowed him to process decades of grief. This transformation led to the founding of the No Fallen Heroes Foundation, which provides healing grants to veterans, first responders, and their families. The Crisis in Numbers Buckley highlights the disparity between official government data and independent research regarding veteran welfare: 17-20Official VA Daily Suicides 44Actual Estimated Daily Suicides Source: Alabama and Duke University research Advocacy and the "We The People" Moment Buckley is a vocal critic of the "military-industrial complex" and the pharmaceutical industry,...
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    1 時間 29 分
  • Hollywood and Horsepower Show, February 12, 2026

    Hollywood and Horsepower Show, February 12, 2026
    2026/02/12
    Hollywood and Horsepower Show with Mark Otto Guest, John Barbour of Talk Movies and John Barbour's World https://johnbarboursworld.com/ Hollywood Legend John Barbour: The Bumpy Road from Canadian Dropout to Reality TV Pioneer John Barbour: Hollywood & Horsepower The Bumpy Life of the "Father of Reality TV" & Sinatra’s Secret Writer Editorial Abstract Core Narrative From a Salvation Army charity ward in Toronto to the heights of Hollywood, John Barbour’s career was built on "accidents" and raw wit. A high-school dropout and former Vegas gambler who became a 5-time Emmy winner. "Television is the only industry in America where competition does not improve the product." KEY MILESTONES • Created Real People (1st Reality Show) • 4.5 years as Sinatra’s private writer • Directed definitive JFK documentaries • Discovered/Mentored Pat Morita LIFE PHILOSOPHY • "Better to be liked than talented" • Atheism at 12 (The "God's Will" debate) • Success through accidental timing The Inner Circle FS Frank Sinatra "The Chairman" & Employer JG Jim Garrison JFK Investigator & Mentor RF Redd Foxx Lifelong Friend & Mentor FEATURED WORK "Your Mother's Not a Virgin" The definitive autobiography of a Canadian dropout. #RealityTV #JFKConspiracy #Sinatra Interview Date: Feb 12, 2026 • 105 min read This interview explores the extraordinary life of John Barbour, the "Father of Reality TV," tracing his journey from a dysfunctional childhood in Toronto to the heights of Hollywood success. Barbour shares candid anecdotes about his "accidental" career, his time as Frank Sinatra’s private writer, and his groundbreaking work on the first reality show, Real People. The conversation also delves into his deep involvement in investigating the JFK assassination alongside Jim Garrison. Detailed Summary 1. Roots of Resilience: A Troubled Beginning John Barbour’s life began in a Salvation Army charity ward in Toronto in 1933, born into a severely dysfunctional environment. His father left to fight in WWII when John was six and never returned, later surfacing as a successful advertising executive in Scotland. Raised by an alcoholic mother in an abusive household, Barbour found refuge in two places: the local hockey rink and the cinema, where he developed a lifelong love for storytelling and movies. His early life was marked by poverty and minor delinquency, including stints in jail, which he balanced by spending his free time in libraries. 2. The Accidental Path to Fame Barbour attributes his greatest successes to "accidents." At 17, he became a professional gambler after memorizing books on dice and cards, eventually winning enough to buy a suit and a bus ticket to the United States. A train delay led him to Lake Tahoe, where he witnessed the arrival of Frank Sinatra and mobster Sam Giancana—a precursor to his future role as Sinatra’s private writer for four and a half years. After moving to Hollywood, he transitioned from gambling to comedy, inspired by the conversational wit of Jack Paar. The "Accidental" Career Timeline 1933: Born in Toronto charity ward. 1950: Moves to US; witnesses Sinatra in Tahoe. 1960s: Mentors Pat Morita; breaks into stand-up comedy. 1979: Creates Real People, the first reality TV show. Present: Investigative documentarian (JFK/Jim Garrison). 3. Mentorship and the Comedy Scene Barbour played a pivotal role in the careers of other icons, most notably Pat Morita. He encouraged Morita to embrace his Japanese heritage in his act, providing the specific cultural jokes that helped Morita find his unique voice in comedy. Barbour also shares a deep, lifelong friendship with Redd Foxx, whom he describes as his mentor. Despite his success, Barbour remained a "controversial" figure in the industry, often clashing with network executives and fellow hosts like Johnny Carson over creative integrity and political outspokenness. 4. The JFK Investigation and Jim Garrison A significant portion of Barbour's later career has been dedicated to the JFK assassination. After reading Jim Garrison’s Heritage of Stone, Barbour became a close associate of the New Orleans District Attorney. He produced definitive documentaries on the subject, arguing that Garrison had essentially solved the case in 1967. Barbour remains a vocal critic of the official Warren Commission narrative, a stance that he admits has occasionally made him persona non grata in mainstream Hollywood circles. Key Industry Connections John Barbour's influence spanned multiple generations of talent. Frank Sinatra: Private writer for 4.5 years. Pat Morita: Gave him his "Japanese comic" concept. Redd Foxx: Lifelong friend and comedy mentor. Jim Garrison: Partner in JFK investigative media. Key Data Birth Year: 1933. Sinatra Collaboration: 4.5 years as a private writer. Peak Earnings: $23,000 per week during the height of Real People. JFK Special Date: November 22nd, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Pacific Time. To-Do / Next Steps Read John Barbour’s autobiography...
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    1 時間 46 分
  • Hollywood and Horsepower Show, February 5, 2026

    Hollywood and Horsepower Show, February 5, 2026
    2026/02/05
    Hollywood And Horsepower Show with Mark Otto Guest, Billy Koch Grandson of Film Producer Howard Koch Billy Koch is known for Jerry Maguire (1996), Little Nicky (2000) and Wayne's World (1992). Son of Rita (Litter) and Hawk Koch. Father of Cooper Koch and Payton Koch. Brother of Robby Koch and Emily Koch. Brother-in-law of Annie Meyers-Shyer and Hallie Meyers-Shyer. Grandson of Howard W. Koch. He is of Russian Jewish and Polish Jewish descent. Hollywood Legacy Meets the Sport of Kings: A Conversation with Billy Koch Hollywood & Horsepower The Story Behind the Story: A Conversation with Billy Koch Interview Abstract The Koch Family Dynasty Howard W. Koch: Legendary producer (Airplane!, Ghost) and former Academy President. Known for bringing Hollywood stars to the "Director's Room" at Hollywood Park. "My grandfather had a hat that said: 'I didn't write Casablanca' — to distinguish himself from the writer with the same name." Key Discussion Points ✦The Intersection: The historical weave between Santa Anita, Del Mar, and Hollywood Park as playgrounds for industry executives. ✦Industry Evolution: Addressing the "contraction" of racing (loss of Hollywood Park, Golden Gate) and the need for positive messaging. ✦Animal Welfare: Billy's role as President of CARMA and the push for better aftercare and safety statistics. Little Red Feather Racing Founded by Billy Koch to democratize horse ownership through syndication. 500+ Active Partners 2004 Singletary BC Mile The Next Generation #CooperKoch (Monsters) #PeytonKoch (Editor) #TheOwnersBox #AftercareAdvocate "If you do something that you love, it's not work. Surround yourself with people smarter than you." Duration: ~57 mins • Host: Mark © 2026 Hollywood and Horsepower This episode of Hollywood and Horsepower features Billy Koch, the founder of Little Red Feather Racing, discussing the profound intersection between the film industry and thoroughbred racing. The conversation spans three generations of the Koch family, from legendary producer Howard W. Koch to a new generation of Hollywood stars, while exploring the challenges and thrills of modern horse ownership. Detailed Key Points The Koch Family’s Dual Heritage The discussion highlights the legendary status of the Koch family in both Hollywood and horse racing. Billy’s grandfather, Howard W. Koch, was a prolific producer and director known for films like Airplane! and Ghost, as well as his long-standing service to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. A notable piece of family trivia involves the middle initial "W," which Howard used specifically to distinguish himself from the Howard Koch who wrote Casablanca. This legacy of storytelling and competition naturally transitioned into the racing world, where Howard served on the board of directors at Hollywood Park and introduced countless celebrities to the track. 🎬 The Howard W. Koch Legacy A titan of the "Golden Era," Howard W. Koch's influence bridged the gap between the silver screen and the finish line. Film HighlightsAirplane!, Ghost, The Odd Couple Racing RolesHollywood Park Director, Owner of Telly's Pop Memories of Hollywood Park and the "Golden Era" Billy shares nostalgic anecdotes about growing up at Hollywood Park, which he describes as a "playground" for the industry. He recalls the vibrant atmosphere where stars like Bing Crosby, Walter Matthau, and Telly Savalas were regular fixtures. One particularly vivid memory involves Telly Savalas (famous for his role as Kojak) tasking a young Billy with handing out lollipops to girls at the track. The conversation also touches on the "infectious" nature of the sport, noting that the same competitive drive required to succeed in Hollywood often fuels the passion for horse racing. The Evolution of Ownership: Little Red Feather Racing Inspired by his grandfather's bedtime stories about a fictitious Indian chief, Billy founded Little Red Feather Racing to make horse ownership accessible through fractional syndicates. He emphasizes that while horse racing is often called the "Sport of Kings," modern partnerships allow fans to participate with disposable income rather than massive wealth. The syndicate’s breakthrough came with Singletary, who won the 2004 Breeders' Cup Mile, proving that small-scale investors could compete at the highest levels. Billy is candid about the risks, advising potential partners to view the experience as entertainment rather than a traditional ROI-driven investment. 🏇 Little Red Feather Racing Founded: Inspired by Howard W. Koch's bedtime stories. Mission: Lowering the barrier to entry for thoroughbred ownership. Key Milestone: 2004 Breeders' Cup Mile Winner (Singletary). Community: Over 500 active investors participating in fractional shares. Addressing Industry Challenges and Equine Safety A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the current state of the industry, specifically animal welfare and the impact of negative media. Billy expresses ...
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    57 分
  • Hollywood and Horsepower Show, January 29, 2026

    Hollywood and Horsepower Show, January 29, 2026
    2026/01/29
    Hollywood and Horsepower Show with Mark Otto Guest, Kerry Earnhardt ( Dale Earnhardt Sr. Son ) Interview Summary: Kerry Earnhardt on Legacy, Racing, and Life Beyond the Track The Podcast Abstract • Hollywood & Horsepower The Kerry Earnhardt Chronicle Reconnecting with a legend, the reality of the "Intimidator," and building a life beyond the racetrack. THE JOURNEY The Reunion at Age 16 Adopted by stepdad Jack; didn't meet biological father Dale Earnhardt Sr. until obtaining a driver's license. The first meeting happened in the famous garage behind Martha Earnhardt's house. The Junkyard Beginning Kerry and Dale Jr. bought a Monte Carlo from a junkyard to build their first race car. Dale Sr. initially forbade it, then insisted on joining the build. The Mentor's Method Dale Sr. was a strict teacher. He once made Kerry sit out two races for choosing a date over wiping down the car. Taught driving by instinct: "Stop looking in the mirror." Life After Racing Retired to prioritize family stability. Now focuses on Earnhardt Outdoors and Schumacher Homes (custom timber frame designs). PROFILE: DALE SR. Business Acumen First driver to license his own name/brand, creating the DEI empire before it was industry standard. The Duality The "Intimidator" on track vs. the farmer who loved bulldozing trees and family Christmases off track. "He said, 'I know everything.' And he did. That man knew everything... He could tell I was looking in the mirror just by my lap times."— Kerry Earnhardt Key Relationship Jack (Stepdad) & Dale Sr. eventually bonded, watching Kerry race together from the Goodyear Tower at Daytona. #NASCAR #EarnhardtLegacy #AdoptionStory #Business Earnhardt OutdoorsRural HeartSchumacher Homes Introduction In this episode of Hollywood and Horsepower, the host interviews Kerry Earnhardt, the eldest son of NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Sr. The conversation explores Kerry’s unique upbringing as an adoptee who reconnected with his biological father later in life, his own journey through professional racing, and the enduring legacy of the Earnhardt family. They also discuss Kerry’s transition from the track to successful business ventures in home design and outdoor living. Detailed Summary Early Life and Reconnecting with the Earnhardts Kerry shares his background as an adoptee, raised primarily by his stepfather, Jack, and mother, Latane. He did not have a relationship with Dale Earnhardt Sr. until he was 16 years old. His reentry into the Earnhardt family began when he met his grandmother, Martha, and cousins at his baseball games. This eventually led to a pivotal meeting with Dale Sr. in the famous garage behind Martha's house, where the tension broke immediately when Dale greeted him simply as "son." Despite the initial separation, Kerry emphasizes that he holds no resentment, viewing his upbringing with Jack as a blessing while cherishing the later relationship he built with Dale. Racing Career and Dale Sr.’s Mentorship Kerry’s racing career began humbly when he and his half-brother, Dale Jr., bought a junkyard Monte Carlo to build a street stock car. Although Dale Sr. initially scolded them, he eventually joined in to help build it. Kerry progressed from Street Stocks to the Goody’s Dash Series, ARCA, and the Busch Series. The interview highlights Dale Sr.’s unique, often "tough love" coaching style. Notable stories include Dale Sr. forcing Kerry to hold the throttle wide open at Daytona despite Kerry's fear, and scolding him mid-race at Pocono for looking in the rearview mirror too often—advice that helped Kerry win the race. Dale Sr. also instilled strict discipline; he once benched Kerry for two races because Kerry skipped a Friday night at the shop to go on a date. 🏁 Dale Sr.'s Coaching Philosophy Daytona Trust the Equipment Instructed Kerry to hold the car "wide open" in corners during Goody's Dash, taking him from 17th to 2nd in practice. Pocono Focus Forward Noticed Kerry checking his mirror too often while leading. Ordered him to stop looking back, securing the win against Ryan Newman. The Shop Work Ethic First Benched Kerry for two races for choosing a date night over prepping the car, teaching him that dedication comes before driving. Family Dynamics and The "Intimidator" Persona The conversation dispels the myth of Dale Sr. being solely the "Intimidator," revealing a man who was deeply loyal, emotional, and family-oriented. A touching anecdote describes Dale Sr. inviting Kerry’s adoptive father, Jack, into the Goodyear tower at Daytona and introducing Kerry as "our son," which solidified a friendship between the two fathers. Kerry also touches on the current state of the family, noting he remains close with siblings Dale Jr. and Kelley, though he has drifted apart from his sister Taylor. He emphasizes that despite the celebrity status, the Earnhardts faced normal family struggles and tragedies just like anyone else. Business Ventures and Life After Racing After retiring ...
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    1 時間 24 分
  • Hollywood and Horsepower Show, January 22, 2026

    Hollywood and Horsepower Show, January 22, 2026
    2026/01/22
    Hollywood and Horsepower Show with Mark Otto Guest, Anthony “ Big A “ Stabile Anthony “the Big A” Stabile was born at the racetrack. His parents met at Aqueduct, he worked as a hotwalker, groom and jockey agent at the NYRA tracks throughout high school and college before becoming a writer and handicapper for the New York Post in May 1999. At the Post, Anthony handicapped six or seven tracks a day, covered both the Thoroughbred and harness scenes and shattered all public handicapping records by showing an $88 profit at the 1999 Saratoga meet, his first as a public handicapper. Anthony has contributed to both the Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup editions of The Bloodhorse, was co-host of “Thoroughbred Central” for the New York City OTB Television Network, hosts seminars for some of racings’ biggest days throughout the New York City area and is the Virtual Race Track announcer at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. Anthony is best known for selecting the New York bred gelding Funny Cide to win the 2003 Kentucky Derby at 12-1. Anthony had “the gutsy gelding” at 150-1 in a Vegas future book as well as in all three Kentucky Derby Future Pools. Anthony was the ghost writer for Funny Cide in a series of columns that appeared in the Post and authored “Through the Binocs,” a daily recap of the day’s action at NYRA racetracks. Hollywood and Horsepower: The Story Behind the Story with Anthony "Big A" Stabile PODCAST TRANSCRIPT#HorseRacing #Broadcasting #Friendship Hollywood & Horsepower: The Big A Story A conversation with Anthony "Big A" Stabile on the art of the race call, iconic Italian dining, and the defining moments of a career. The Origin Story The "Chicken Parm" Incident At Anthony's Runway 84, Mark swapped his massive chicken parm portion with Anthony's smaller one without hesitation. This "romantic gesture" cemented their friendship instantly. Career Pivot Points EARLYAspired to be a writer (NY Post) or announcer. Idolized Tom Durkin & Dave Johnson. CRISISVocal Cord Collapse (2015): Almost quit the industry to become a realtor. Stayed after Tonalist won the Cigar Mile (a "sign"). NOWTrack Announcer at Finger Lakes; NYRA TV Personality. Mentored by Frank Mirahmadi. Big A's Top 4 Tracks 1. Aqueduct ("The Big A")The Namesake / Home 2. SaratogaHistoric Magic 3. Finger LakesFirst Announcing Gig 4. Monmouth ParkChildhood Summers The Racetrack Dining Guide Anthony's Runway 84 (FL) Plane fuselage decor • Meatballs & Chicken Parm Don Peppe (Ozone Park) Near Aqueduct • Baked Clams • No Menu King Umberto's (Elmont) Near Belmont • Fried Capellini (Must try) "If you want to be successful at this, you have to be genuine. I call a race the same way I scream at my TV during a Mets game." — Anthony Stabile on Broadcasting Introduction Host Mark welcomes his long-time friend and new regular contributor, Anthony "Big A" Stabile, to the show. The episode explores the deep bond between the two, forged over a shared passion for horse racing and Italian food, while detailing Big A's emotional journey from a racing fan to a professional track announcer. Detailed Summary The "Chicken Parm" Bond The friendship between Mark and Anthony began long before they met in person, with Mark listening to Anthony's radio shows during long drives. However, their relationship was cemented during their first dinner at Anthony's Runway 84 in Fort Lauderdale. In a moment described as a "romantic gesture," Mark swapped his massive portion of chicken parmesan with Anthony's significantly smaller one, instantly establishing a brotherhood based on generosity and a shared love for food. The two discuss how authenticity is their shared trait—what you see on air is exactly who they are in person. 🍽️ The Racing & Dining Circuit The hosts emphasized that horse racing culture is a triad of Racing, Restaurants, and Music. Here are their "Hall of Fame" spots mentioned: Fort Lauderdale (FL): Anthony's Runway 84 – Famous for its airplane fuselage interior and meatballs. Aqueduct (NY): Don Peppe's – A legendary cash-only spot near the stable gate with a "mafia culture" vibe. Belmont (NY): King Umberto's – Big A's "home base" since 1976, famous for Fried Capellini. Miami (FL): The Palm – Mark's regular spot. The Culture of Tracks and Mentorship Anthony reflects on his favorite racetracks, placing Aqueduct ("The Big A") at number one due to his deep personal history there—it is where his parents met and where he launched his career. He recounts his transition from a writer to a track announcer, crediting mentors like Frank Mirahmadi and John Imbriale. Mirahmadi, in particular, played a pivotal role, training Anthony in the announcer's booth before his radio shows and eventually pushing him to call his first live race. The First Call and Career Milestones Anthony vividly describes his first professional race call on December 13, 2018. Overcome with emotion, he stood alone in the booth realizing he was living his ...
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    1 時間 2 分
  • Hollywood and Horsepower Show, July 9, 2025

    Hollywood and Horsepower Show, July 9, 2025
    2025/07/09
    Guest, Anthony 'Big A' Stabile
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    1 時間 4 分
  • Hollywood and Horsepower Show, May 8, 2025

    Hollywood and Horsepower Show, May 8, 2025
    2025/05/08
    Hollywood And Horsepower Show with Mark Otto
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    50 分