エピソード

  • Season 6, Episode 6: Rick Robinson, Author and Documentary Filmmaker of 1968
    2026/09/22

    Send us Fan Mail

    Summary-

    In this episode, Rick Robinson shares his lifelong passion for baseball, his experiences growing up as a Reds fan, and insights into the 1968 baseball season and its historical significance. He also discusses his recent book and documentary on 1968, highlighting its impact on American history.

    Rick Robinson shares his deep love for Cincinnati Reds baseball, memorable moments, and insights into the game, players, and history. Join us for a lively conversation filled with personal stories, favorite players, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that celebrate the spirit of Reds baseball.

    Key Topics

    • Growing up as a Reds fan in Ludlow and Bromley
    • Lessons learned from Veda Pinson and Sparky Anderson
    • The significance of the 1968 baseball season
    • Rick Robinson's book and documentary on 1968
    • Memories of Crosley Field and player autographs
    • The evolution of ballparks and player-warmup traditions
    • Favorite Reds players and managers
    • Historical moments like the Tommy Smith Black Power salute
    • Trade stories and Reds legends
    • Reflections on baseball's cultural impact Memorable Reds moments and personal stories
    • Favorite Reds players and trades
    • Historical insights into Reds baseball
    • Food and traditions at Reds games
    • Notable baseball movies and announcers

    Sound Bites

    • "Sparky Anderson's hands in pockets was to prevent hitting umpires."
    • "Ted Davidson was shot by his wife in a bar."
    • "Chipper Jones was the Reds killer."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and guest background

    04:16
    Lessons from Veda Pinson and meeting players

    09:55
    Rick's baseball career and emulating players

    15:49
    The 1968 baseball season and its significance

    18:57
    Rick's book and documentary on 1968

    21:59
    Historical events of 1968 and their impact

    25:03
    Reflections on Reds trades and decisions

    28:02
    Players and teams Rick despises

    30:06
    Reds players on Mount Rushmore

    32:00
    Stratomatic baseball and favorite players

    33:01
    Guy Fieri dinner party with Reds legends

    33:53
    Rick shares a humorous story about bass players and baseball

    34:36
    Dreams of Reds players who can hit their weight

    34:56
    The importance of taking the first pitch and game strategies

    35:25
    Observations on Reds lineup and batting averages

    36:22
    Growing up with Reds legends and expectations

    36:30
    Rick’s ideal Reds player and historical context

    37:14
    Favorite ballpark foods and personal traditions

    38:36
    Memories of attending games and bringing own food

    40:47
    Rick recalls a White House moment involving Reds and baseball legends

    44:09
    Rick’s favorite baseball movies and actors

    45:27
    Walk-up songs and Reds uniforms of choice

    45:58
    Favorite Reds uniforms and jersey details

    46:55
    Favorite backup players and memorable moments

    52:34
    Greatest Reds moments and trades

    56:13
    Most exciting Reds players and race around the bases

    57:05
    Favorite announcers and baseball voices

    58:30
    Favorite Reds mascot and team traditions

    01:00:42
    Closing remarks and thanks

    Jack thanks the listeners

    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 3 分
  • Season 6, Episode 5: Covington, Ky Mayor Joe Meyer
    2026/09/15

    Send us Fan Mail

    Summary

    In this episode, Joe Meyer shares his lifelong passion for the Cincinnati Reds, his insights on leadership from his political career, and his favorite moments and players in Reds history. Discover fascinating stories, strategic reflections, and personal memories that highlight the rich baseball culture of Cincinnati.

    Key Topics

    • Reds' history and memorable players
    • Leadership lessons from political career
    • Favorite Reds moments and trades
    • Impact of managers Sparky Anderson and others
    • Cultural significance of Reds uniforms and mascots

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Joe Meyer's Reds fandom

    04:03
    Joe's favorite Reds players from the 1950s and 60s

    09:58
    Leadership influences from Joe's political career

    15:07
    Reflections on the Reds' strategic trades and team history

    20:00
    The rivalry with the Dodgers and Reds' dominance in the 70s

    24:54
    Joe's role as mayor and his impact on Covington

    30:03
    Favorite Reds uniforms and mascots

    35:11
    Memorable Reds moments and personal stories

    39:52
    Joe's favorite Reds players for clutch moments

    45:01
    Closing thoughts and appreciation for Reds history

    Jack thanks the listeners

    続きを読む 一部表示
    47 分
  • Season 6, Episode 4: There's a Bomber In The House, St. X's Tim Reilly
    2026/09/08

    Send us Fan Mail

    Summary

    In this episode, Tim Reilly, president of St. Xavier High School, shares his lifelong passion for Cincinnati Reds baseball, leadership insights, and the values that shape his approach to education and life.

    Key Topics

    • Tim Reilly's baseball memories and favorite players
    • Leadership lessons from baseball managers and players
    • The significance of 'Man for Others' in education and life
    • The journey from student to president of St. Xavier High School
    • The impact of sports championships on school spirit and community
    • Tim Reilly's insights on team management and individual talent
    • Memorable Reds moments and legendary players
    • Values and leadership principles inspired by baseball

    Takeaways:

    • Tim Reilly's lifelong Reds fandom rooted in childhood memories at Crosley Field.
    • Leadership in baseball and education both require understanding individuals and managing personalities.
    • The Jesuit principle of 'Man for Others' guides Reilly's approach to service and leadership.
    • Success in sports and school is built on teamwork, trust, and recognizing individual strengths.
    • Memorable Reds moments, like the 1972 NLCS, highlight the emotional power of sports.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Tim Reilly's Reds Connection

    652:45:47
    Leadership Lessons from Baseball Managers

    18333:19:15
    Growing Up in a Large Family

    20055:32:35
    Winning the State Baseball Championship

    23416:39:15
    Most Memorable Reds Moments

    28138:52:39
    Trade Decisions and Reds History

    31611:06:02
    Designing a Reds Mount Rushmore

    34999:59:25
    Favorite Reds Uniforms and Personal Style

    36666:39:25
    Most Amazing Reds Game Moment

    41777:46:07
    Visiting the Ballpark and Personal Memories

    44944:26:10
    Clutch Moments and Game-Winning Plays

    49916:39:33
    Favorite Baseball Movies and Cultural Touchstones

    51555:32:53
    Walk-Up Songs and Personal Anthem

    53249:59:33
    Best Reds Hair and Style

    56722:12:58
    Most Memorable Reds Victory

    59999:59:38
    Brawl and Tough Guy Moments

    61944:26:18
    Greatest Reds Trades and Legends

    63305:33:00
    Hall of Fame Reds and Notable Alumni

    65055:33:00
    Celebrating Reds Championships

    70194:26:21
    Final Reflections and Closing Remarks

    Jack thanks the listeners

    続きを読む 一部表示
    46 分
  • Season 6, Episode 3: "My Big Red Machine" With Terence Moore
    2026/09/01
    Send us Fan MailTerence Moore on My Big Red Machine and the stories behind the Big Red Machine.Randy Freking and Jack Greiner welcome sports journalist, columnist, professor, and author Terrence Moore to discuss his book "My Big Red Machine" and his lifelong baseball fandom that shaped it. Moore traces his journey from a Cubs fan in South Bend to a Reds-obsessed journalist in Cincinnati, with Pete Rose, Sparky Anderson, and Bob Howsam at the center of the conversation.We discuss Moore’s path into journalism, the inside stories he gathered from years covering the Reds, and the spiritual through-line he sees connecting his life, career, and the making of the book.Key topics:Moore’s childhood baseball fandom;Growing up in South Bend, Indiana, he was a Cubs fan because Chicago was the nearest pro baseball connection;He remembers watching snowy Cubs telecasts on WGN through a rooftop antenna;Why Hank Aaron was his first favorite player;As a kid, Moore idolized Hank Aaron;That early admiration later turned into a 40-year friendship and a book, The Real Hank Aaron;Pete Rose became his all-time favorite;Moore says Pete Rose was the player who changed everything for him;He tells the story of seeing Rose in person at Crosley Field in 1969, diving for a fly ball, running out a walk, and hustling into second base head first;The hustle lesson from Pete Rose;Moore says Rose’s effort became a lifelong model for how he played sports and approached work;He still teaches mentees to give the same effort in everything, not just journalism;Sparky Anderson as the best manager he ever covered;Moore has covered 19 managers and says Sparky Anderson was the best;He praises Sparky’s charisma, wisdom, and the way he treated a young reporter like a veteran;The Hall of Fame plaque moment in Cooperstown;Moore describes being at the Baseball Hall of Fame for My Big Red Machine and unexpectedly meeting Sparky Anderson’s niece at Sparky’s plaque;The encounter turned emotional and reinforced the book’s theme of fate and spiritual timing;The book’s major revelations came from Bob Howsam;Moore explains that a 2006 recorded conversation with Big Red Machine architect Bob Howsam became the closing chapter of the book;Howsam shared details about the Big Red Machine and the 1973 NLCS incident; with Pete Rose and Mets fans that Moore says had never been fully told before;Sparky’s view on whether the Big Red Machine could have won a third title;Sparky told Moore the team would not have won another championship because they were “bored” after their early success;Moore disagrees, saying Tony Perez was the glue that held the club together and that trading him was a major turning point;Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, and clubhouse friction;Moore says Bench and Rose had real tension, partly because Bench was more nationally known while Rose was more beloved in Cincinnati;He also shares Sparky’s blunt response when Dave Concepcion complained about being treated differently than the stars;What really happened when the Reds let Pete Rose go;Moore says Howsam told him law enforcement warned Rose was so involved with gamblers that keeping him in Cincinnati could have put him in danger;He frames the move as about more than money, despite Rose’s record salary at the time;Breaking into journalism and learning the old-school craft;Moore describes how a visit to Miami University at age 13 helped convince him where he wanted to go to school;He later became the first Black writer at the Miami Student and the first Black editor in the paper’s history;A tough lesson from Jim Schottelkotte;Moore shares the story of being reprimanded after covering a drag racing event and missing a nearby fire;The lesson was clear: a reporter is a reporter first, not just a sports writer;His experience as the first Black Reds beat writer;Moore explains the mix of support and hostility he faced in the Riverfront Stadium press box in the late 1970s;He recalls a moment when veteran columnist Paul Meyer supported him after a public jab from another writer;Favorite baseball book and movie;Moore names The Boys of Summer as his favorite baseball book besides his own; and for baseball films, he chooses The Pride of the Yankees for its old-school feel and Lou Gehrig connection.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Terrence Moore, Reds roots, and the new book01:59 - Growing up a Cubs fan in South Bend with a snowy WGN signal03:22 - Hank Aaron as his first favorite player and later lifelong friend04:25 - Pete Rose becomes the defining baseball hero05:49 - First trip to Crosley Field and the Pete Rose moment that sealed it08:17 - How Pete Rose’s hustle shaped Moore’s own playing style09:24 - The managers Moore covered and why Sparky Anderson stood above the rest11:11 - Bob Howsam’s revelations and the real story behind the Big Red Machine13:19 - What made Sparky special with young reporters in the clubhouse14:16 - Cooperstown, Sparky’s plaque, and the emotional niece ...
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 15 分
  • Season 6, Episode 2: Joe Zerhusen, the Voice of the Reds at GABP
    2026/08/25
    Send us Fan MailSummary:The voice behind Cincinnati's Reds—Joe Zerhusen—reveals the stories, moments, and lessons from nearly three decades at GABP that make him one of baseball's most recognizable voices. Imagine walking into Crosley Field as a kid and turning into the iconic voice announcing every batter at Great American Ballpark for the past 24 years. Joe Zerhusen, the beloved Reds public address announcer, shares how his journey from a local Kentucky kid to the voice of a historic franchise was fueled by passion, perseverance, and a love for the game—and music.In this episode, Joe takes us through his early memories as a Reds fan growing up in Park Hills, Kentucky, and how those childhood moments developed into a lifelong career. You'll discover how a chance conversation at a gas station kickstarted his radio journey in the late 70s, and how his unique voice became a Cincinnati staple, from local stations to the Reds' ballpark. Joe discusses the art of introducing players, the fun and challenges of handling memorable moments in live broadcasts, and how he navigated his battle with cancer in 2017—all while keeping the spirit of baseball alive. We break down: The legendary figures and managers who shaped Reds history, from Sparky Anderson to Dusty Baker, and how they influenced Joe’s perspective. The quirky, heartwarming, and sometimes hilarious behind-the-scenes moments that make game days unforgettable—like Mr. Red’s mishaps and the fire on the power stacks. The subtle craft of engaging fans, making every introduction meaningful, and the importance of consistency and passion in live announcing. The inspiring story of overcoming health challenges and returning to the mic, reminding us why Team Voice is vital to the game. This episode is essential listening for baseball fans and aspiring broadcasters alike—whether you're curious about what makes the perfect game intro, or how a voice can become as iconic as the players themselves. Joe’s reflections remind us that behind every pitch and hit is a voice that amplifies the magic of baseball—it’s about more than just words; it’s about creating moments that fans carry in their hearts forever.Join us for an inspiring, humorous, and heartfelt conversation with one of baseball’s most beloved voiceovers. Perfect for Reds fans, sports enthusiasts, or anyone who believes live moments are about connecting stories, voices, and memories that last a lifetime. Key TopicsJoe Zerhusen’s early baseball memories and local roots in Park Hills, KentuckyHow he got into radio and transitioned into the Reds' PA announcer roleInfluences from legendary announcers like Paul Summercamp and Harry KalasMemorable moments at GABP, including debuting Ken Griffey Jr. and the 2017 cancer battleHis favorite Reds players, managers, and uniform stylesUnique stories and humorous mishaps during broadcastsFuture plans and reflections on his voice being part of Reds historyTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to Joe Zerhusen, voice of the Reds at GABP 02:08 - Joe’s earliest memories at Crosley Field and childhood baseball experiences 05:33 - Favorite Reds players over the years, including Joey Jay, Pete Rose, and Joey Votto 09:34 - Influence of legendary managers and mentors like Sparky Anderson and Dusty Baker 12:23 - How Joe entered the radio industry and transitioned into a public address role 16:12 - Career highlights, including first game at GABP and working at WLQA 22:23 - Impact of Paul Summercamp and influence of announcers like John Facenda and Harry Kalas 26:52 - Joe’s cancer diagnosis in 2017, his treatment journey, and return to broadcasting 30:57 - Interactions with Reds players like Joey Votto and special moments on air 32:40 - Memorable introductions, including Ken Griffey Jr. and favorite broadcast highlights 36:10 - Challenges with pronunciations, technical bloopers, and funny moments at the ballpark 41:30 - Historic trade decisions and rivalries that shape baseball passions 45:27 - Reds players or teams Joe despises, especially Wrigley Field visitors and the Cubs 49:06 - Players Joe would invite to a fantasy dinner including Sean Casey and Joe Knoxau 53:11 - Favorite baseball movies: For Love of the Game and others that inspire him 55:47 - Top play-by-play commentators, with praise for Tommy Thrall and Jeff Brantley 56:23 - Joe’s walk-up song: Midnight Rider by the Allman Brothers 56:44 - Favorite Reds uniform from 1961, with a focus on sleeveless styles 62:50 - Balancing game observation with announcing duties and in-game focus 66:32 - Who would win a baserunning race: Deion Sanders, Billy Hamilton, or Ellie Daylock? 69:35 - Joe’s future at GABP; thoughts on retirement and legacy plans 70:16 - Final words, gratitude, and induction into the "We Love Our Team Hall of Fame"Resources & LinksPaul Summercamp’s Reds Announcing Style (Search for related broadcasts)[Ken Griffey Jr. Biography](https://www.mlb.com/player/...
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 13 分
  • Season 6, Episode 1: Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Lifelong Reds Fan
    2026/08/18

    Send us Fan Mail

    We Love Our Team with Governor Andy Beshear

    Jack Greiner and Randy Freking welcome Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a lifelong Reds fan, for a fast-moving conversation that blends baseball memories, Reds history, and a few political leadership takeaways. Beshear shares why the Reds have been part of his life since childhood, names his all-time favorites, and weighs in on everything from the pitch clock to favorite announcers.

    In this episode, the governor also talks about the players and moments that shaped his fandom, including Barry Larkin, Ken Griffey Jr., the 1990 World Series, and the impact of Louisville and Lexington talent in MLB. The result is a playful but thoughtful Reds-centric conversation with a true fan who knows the team and the game.

    Key topics

    • Beshear explains that baseball was the sport he loved most growing up and says he played with “good fundamentals,” mostly at third base, first base, and eventually pitcher.
    • He recalls going to Reds games with his dad, including zoo visits in Cincinnati and doubleheaders fueled by chili cheese coneys.
    • When asked about managers, he points to Lou Piniella and Davy Johnson as winners who built strong culture and got the most from their players.
    • For the Reds decision he would change, he chooses the Ken Griffey Jr. signing, arguing that the contract eventually became too costly and hurt roster flexibility.
    • His Reds Mount Rushmore is Tony Pérez, Johnny Bench, Eric Davis, and Barry Larkin, with Larkin singled out as his favorite player of all time.
    • For dinner party guests, he picks TJ Friedl, Jose Canseco, and Freddie Freeman, saying Friedl can help him get the scoop on John Calipari and Freeman’s practice habits are worth studying.
    • His go-to ballpark food is the hot pretzel, not multiple chili cheese coneys.
    • His most memorable Reds memory is Game 2 of the 1990 World Series, when Joe Oliver delivered the winning hit in extra innings at Riverfront Stadium.
    • If he needs a clutch Reds hitter, he wants a pre-injury Ken Griffey Jr. at the plate, with Tony Pérez or Barry Larkin as backups.
    • On the mound in the ninth, he calls for Rob Dibble, praising the intimidation and velocity of one of the Nasty Boys.
    • His favorite baseball movie is The Natural, though he acknowledges Field of Dreams and Major League as worthy rivals.
    • For a walk-up song, he chooses Tyler Childers’ “Universal Sound,” which he also used at his inauguration.
    • He supports several modern baseball changes, including the pitch clock, challenges on balls and strikes, and the double first base.
    • For a fight, he picks Jim Thome, calling him built like a tree trunk.
    • His nicest player is Andy Green, and his favorite current Reds hair belongs to the towering first baseman who came from the Rockies.
    • Favorite announcer: John Smoltz, for his pitch-by-pitch analysis.
    • Favorite mascot: Mr. Red, chosen as the traditional pick.
    • In a speed race, he says Deion Sanders beats Billy Hamilton and Elly De La Cruz, based on seeing Sanders turn a routine single into a triple.

    Timestamps

    (00:00) Governor Andy Beshear joins the Reds podcast and explains why he is a lifelong fan
    (01:14) Childhood baseball background and his son’s Division III commitment
    (02:10) Going to Reds games with his dad and favorite ballpark memories
    (03:02) Favorite managers and what winning culture looks like
    (04:04) The Reds decision he would reverse: the Ken Griffey Jr. signing
    (05:34) Reds Mount Rushmore: Pérez, Bench, Davis, and Larkin
    (06:28) Dinner party guests: TJ Friedl, Jose Canseco, and Freddie Freeman
    (09:11) Favorite ballpark food and why the hot pretzel wins
    (09:50) Remembering Game 2 of the 1990 World Series
    (11:29) Clutch Reds hitter: pre-injury Ken Griffey Jr.
    (12:13) Best bullpen arm: Rob Dibble and the Nasty Boys
    (13:18) Favorite baseball movie: The Natural
    (14:05) Walk-up song and why Tyler Childers fits the moment
    (16:25) The pitch clock, replay challenges, and the double first base
    (19:27) Jim Thome as the guy you want in a bench-clearing brawl
    (19:54) Nicest Red: Andy Green
    (20:22) Best head of hair on a Reds player
    (22:28) Favorite announcer: John Smoltz
    (23:23) Favorite mascot: Mr. Red
    (24:05) Deion Sanders vs. Billy Hamilton vs. Elly De La Cruz in a base race

    Jack thanks the listeners

    続きを読む 一部表示
    28 分
  • Season 5, Episode 24: Tommy Thrall, The Voice of the Reds
    2026/08/11

    Send us Fan Mail

    Summary

    In this episode, Tommy Thrall shares his journey from childhood baseball fan to Reds play by play announcer, highlighting lessons learned from legendary figures and his approach to broadcasting for the Reds. In this episode, Tommy shares his insights on baseball broadcasting, legendary players, and memorable moments that define the sport. Discover the stories behind the microphones and the players that have left a mark on his career.

    Key Topics

    • Tommy Thrall’s early memories and love for baseball
    • Influence of radio announcers like Denny Matthews
    • Favorite players and moments that shaped Tommy’s career
    • The impact of legendary managers like Tito and Jim Riggleman
    • The process of becoming a Reds broadcaster and learning from Marty Brannaman
    • Signature calls and moments that define Tommy’s broadcasting style
    • The significance of iconic baseball moments and their storytelling
    • Tommy’s insights on managing and team dynamics Tommy Thrall's broadcasting journey
    • Mount Rushmore of Reds players
    • Favorite baseball movies and moments
    • Dream team and walk-up songs
    • Memorable baseball stories and encounters

    Takeaways

    • Authenticity in broadcasting creates a genuine connection with fans
    • Preparation and detailed knowledge are key to great commentary
    • Legendary figures like Marty Brannaman leave lasting legacies
    • Signature calls are born from the moment, not forced
    • Emulating successful players and managers can inspire your style
    • Memorable moments often come from unexpected game-changing plays
    • Building a career in sports broadcasting requires perseverance and adaptability
    • Understanding the history and characters of the game enriches storytelling

    Sound Bites

    • "Radio has a magic to it."
    • "Marty’s preparation was meticulous."
    • "Talking with Tito is a daily treat."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction to Tommy Thrall and his role with the Reds

    02:48
    Tommy’s earliest memories and love for baseball

    05:12
    Influence of radio announcers and childhood inspirations

    08:40
    The rumored trade that could have changed Reds history

    10:51
    George Brett’s hand-eye coordination and legendary moments

    14:35
    Favorite managers and what makes them great

    19:40
    Tommy’s journey into radio and sports broadcasting

    25:13
    Learning from Marty Brannaman and his legacy

    29:28
    Signature calls and memorable game moments

    32:54
    Tommy’s greatest moments as Reds’ play-by-play announcer

    35:18
    The San Diego game after COVID and its electric atmosphere

    37:32
    Interaction with Tito and behind-the-scenes insights

    41:14
    The hypothetical question: reversing Reds organization decisions

    42:03
    Regrets about trades and player moves

    43:29
    Players or teams Tommy truly dislikes or despises

    Jack thanks the listeners

    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 22 分
  • Season 5, Episode 23: WLW Radio Legend Mike McConnell's Baseball Journey From Phillies To Reds
    2026/08/04

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this episode, Mike McConnell shares his lifelong passion for baseball, his career in radio, and his favorite moments and players from the sport. Discover insights into the game, broadcasting, and personal stories that highlight a true fan's journey.

    Key Topics

    Mike McConnell's early baseball memories and fandom

    • His career in radio and transition to Cincinnati Reds broadcasting
    • Favorite players and managers in baseball history
    • Memorable moments and iconic games
    • Insights into baseball culture and broadcasting

    Sound Bites

    • "I loved the colorful ballpark."
    • "The Phillies' 1964 collapse crushed me."
    • "I'm conservative fiscally, not morally."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and guest background

    01:12
    Early memories of Phillies games and the 1964 collapse

    04:30
    Transition from Phillies to Reds fandom

    07:34
    Playing Little League and emulating favorite players

    08:52
    Favorite baseball managers and team dynamics

    11:46
    Getting into radio and career beginnings

    14:13
    Name origin and career after retirement

    15:07
    Post-retirement activities and travel plans

    16:12
    Golf and sports broadcasting experiences

    18:44
    Handling politics on radio shows

    21:00
    Reversing Reds organization decisions

    21:52
    Players or teams he despises

    22:50
    Favorite Reds and baseball players

    25:50
    Dinner party guests and social connections

    27:49
    Favorite ballpark foods and media dining experiences

    29:58
    Memorable moments outside the ballpark

    40:53
    Most amazing moments in baseball

    42:42
    Hall of Fame players he believes are overlooked

    44:54
    Favorite Reds uniform and team apparel

    46:39
    Fastest runners and base running skills

    48:44
    Final thoughts and appreciation

    Jack thanks the listeners

    続きを読む 一部表示
    52 分