Best PPNC Podcasts (2025)

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What Happens When the Mask Comes Off? 1:20:19

5 days ago1:20:19

1:20:19

Send us a text Mike "Spanky" LaValliere pulls no punches as he takes us behind home plate for a candid look at baseball through a catcher's eyes. From his days with the Cardinals to becoming a Gold Glove winner and fan favorite with the Pittsburgh Pirates, LaValliere's journey reveals the hidden complexities of one of baseball's most demanding posi…

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The Medical Side of Major League Baseball: Dr. Pat DeMeo's Journey 56:08

11 days ago56:08

56:08

Send us a text What happens when the players break? Dr. Pat DeMeo takes us into the sacred space of the Pittsburgh Pirates' trainer's room at LECOM Park to reveal the hidden world of Major League Baseball medicine. Growing up as a Yankees fan in 1960s New York, DeMeo never imagined he'd one day become the Pirates' medical director and head of ortho…

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The Last Letter That Changed Everything 57:41

19 days ago57:41

57:41

Send us a text Baseball journeys rarely follow a straight path, and Sean Casey's story proves just how winding and meaningful that road can be. The man known as "The Mayor" opens up about the Pittsburgh mentors who shaped his career long before he reached the majors, revealing the profound impact of figures like Joe Ringel and Frank Porco who belie…

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The Mayor Speaks: Sean Casey on Baseball, Life, and Finding Joy in the Game 1:00:17

26 days ago1:00:17

1:00:17

Send us a text "Is there any chance you might have polio?" That unforgettable question from Terry Francona to Sean Casey after getting thrown out twice in two days perfectly captures the essence of baseball culture—where humor transforms frustration and builds lasting relationships. Sean "The Mayor" Casey joins us for a captivating conversation tha…

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Unearthed: Forgotten Baseball Heroes and Their Unmarked Graves 1:06:40

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about a year ago1:06:40

1:06:40

Send us a text Unearthed: Forgotten Baseball Heroes and Their Unmarked Graves When Brendan Schuster discovered that Honus Wagner was buried just 15 minutes from his home, he never imagined this curiosity would evolve into a profound mission to honor forgotten baseball heroes. In this deeply moving episode, we journey with Brendan through Pittsburgh…

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Tracing Threads Through Time: From China to Pittsburgh 1:11:13

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about a year ago1:11:13

1:11:13

Send us a text When Ted Anthony put pen to paper as a 10-year-old defending Pirates broadcaster Milo Hamilton in the Post-Gazette, little did he know it would launch a lifetime journey through words, baseball, and the stories that connect us all. In this captivating conversation, the Pulitzer Prize-nominated Associated Press journalist traces an ex…

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Josh Wilson is Back for some Stogies, Coffee, & Ball Talk! 54:59

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about a year ago54:59

54:59

Send us a text Join us as we delve into more of the vibrant and thrilling career of Josh Wilson, a former major-league baseball player who has incredible stories to share. This episode shines a light on not just the glories of entering the big leagues, but the genuine hustle of transitioning through independent teams and what it means to play the g…

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From High School Star to Major League Dreams: Josh Wilson's Story 1:00:11

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about a year ago1:00:11

1:00:11

Send us a text Dive into the engaging world of baseball with former MLB player Josh Wilson as he shares his fascinating career journey, from high school star to the professional leagues. We start at Burned by Rocky Patel, where the rich flavors of the Fat Bottom Betty cigars set the scene for a heartfelt conversation. Josh opens up about the joys o…

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From Catcher to Coach: Don Kelly's Unique Path 53:31

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about a year ago53:31

53:31

Send us a text What’s it like to be the Swiss Army knife of Major League Baseball? Don Kelly, the ever-adaptable bench coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates, shares his incredible journey from the field to the dugout, with stories that range from playing every position on the diamond to catching high-speed pitches as an emergency catcher for the Detroit…

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Don Kelly's Remarkable Path in Baseball 59:13

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about a year ago59:13

59:13

Send us a text Discover the magic of Pittsburgh baseball and the vibrant Yinzer culture in our latest episode of Hold my Cutter, where Greg Brown and Michael McKenry are joined by a special guest. We kick off our discussion at Burned by Rocky Patel, diving into the fascinating world of the San Andreas cigar and its humorous connection to Don Kelly'…

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Heartfelt Comebacks, Career Reflections, and picking up the Mic with Kent Tekulve 1:05:26

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about a year ago1:05:26

1:05:26

Send us a text What truly shapes a sports career? Unravel the unexpected journey of former National League pitcher Kent Tekulve, who ventured from the mound to the broadcast booth after hanging up his cleats at 42. Without ever aspiring to be a broadcaster, Kent found himself embracing opportunities that came his way, including a role in public rel…

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Kent Tekulve on Iconic Pitching, Reliever Evolution, and Pirates' Historic Moments 1:01:42

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about a year ago1:01:42

1:01:42

Send us a text Step into the world of baseball lore with our special guest, the legendary Kent Tekulve, renowned for his iconic sidearm pitching and unmatched durability on the mound. Discover the untold stories of his career as he led the National League in appearances and held the record for the most games pitched in relief. With humor and a touc…

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David Alan's Fashion Journey and the Resilience Behind It 1:09:31

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about a year ago1:09:31

1:09:31

Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to tailor-make success from scratch? This episode unveils the incredible journey of David Alan, the mastermind behind David Alan Clothing, as he shares how a simple idea turned into a thriving fashion empire. Raised in a blue-collar family in Finleyville, Pennsylvania, David's path to success wasn't paved …

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Ken Macha on Baseball Legends, Japanese Influence, and Career Highlights 59:23

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about a year ago59:23

59:23

Send us a text Baseball fans, you're in for a treat as we chat with the legendary Ken Macha, who shares riveting tales from his storied career. Ken takes us behind the scenes, offering a firsthand look at the contrasting managerial styles of Murtaugh and Tanner and the strategies that made Tanner's teams a force on the field. With anecdotes about p…

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David Volk Reflects on Baseball's Impact Beyond the Game 1:01:07

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about a year ago1:01:07

1:01:07

Send us a text What if baseball could bridge generations, foster lifelong friendships, and offer solace during the most challenging times? Join us on "Hold My Cutter" as we sit down with David Volk, a passionate Pittsburgh Pirates fan living in San Francisco, to explore this very question. David invites us into his world, filled with cherished memo…

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Brian Hess on Entrepreneurial Drive, Paving Success, and the Spirit of Pittsburgh 53:14

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about a year ago53:14

53:14

Send us a text What if your childhood dreams could shape your adult realities? Brian Hess, a dynamic entrepreneur and CEO of The Pavement Group, joins us to share his compelling journey from his roots in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, where he was nurtured by a steelworker father and a devoted homemaker mother. As a child dreaming of owning a bank, Brian…

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Authenticity in the Fast Lane of Sports Media with Hannah Mears 1:27:37

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about a year ago1:27:37

1:27:37

Send us a text What happens when you combine cigars, sports broadcasting, and one of the freshest faces in the industry? In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Hannah Mears, the National League's Rookie of the Year in sports reporting, who shares her whirlwind journey into the world of hockey coverage with the Pittsburgh Penguins. With …

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Unveiling Pittsburgh Sports Stories with Noah Hiles 1:02:32

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about a year ago1:02:32

1:02:32

Send us a text Ever wondered what it's like to be at the heart of breaking sports news? Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's own Noah Hiles joins us to share his journey through the vibrant world of sports journalism. Inspired by legends like Hunter S. Thompson and Rick Reilly, Noah reveals how he draws from both national icons and local heroes to fuel his wr…

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The Impact of Velocity, Pitcher Injuries, and Player Development 27:06

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about a year ago27:06

27:06

Send us a text What if the pursuit of more powerful pitches is actually harming pitchers' careers? Join us as we tackle the ongoing dilemma of rising pitcher injuries in Major League Baseball. We'll guide you through the latest MLB report that highlights the role of increased velocity and the relentless quest for strikeouts as culprits behind the s…

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Exploring Tim Debacco’s World of Music and Memorabilia 46:11

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about a year ago46:11

46:11

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be the voice of a baseball stadium? Join us as we sit down with the charismatic Tim Debacco former public address announcer and master organist for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Tim takes us on a journey through his unique career, sharing how he went from a budding young musician to stepping into th…

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Hannah Mears on the Art of Authentic Sports Communication 58:19

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about a year ago58:19

58:19

Send us a text Ever wondered how the unique culture of Pittsburgh shapes some of its most talented people? We sit down with the incredible Hannah Mears, the pirate sideline reporter, at the Burn by Rocky Patel cigar lounge. Famous for her undeniable skills and dedication, Hannah shares her journey from Latrobe, Pennsylvania, to becoming a standout …

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Tim Debacco on Ballpark Memories, PA Announcing, and Father-Son Bonds 1:01:19

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about a year ago1:01:19

1:01:19

Send us a text Step back into the golden age of baseball with the legendary Tim Debacco, whose voice has echoed through stadiums for over two decades as a public address announcer and organist. From the bustling Three Rivers Stadium to the vibrant PNC Park and now the energetic PPG Paints Arena, Tim's journey is a testament to his passion and dedic…

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Stories Beyond the Diamond with Noah Hiles 1:17:22

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about a year ago1:17:22

1:17:22

Send us a text Ever wondered how the worlds of baseball and cigars blend seamlessly? Join us for a fascinating conversation with Noah Hiles, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's beat writer for the Pirates, as he recounts his colorful journey from a fervent young fan to a respected sports journalist. Nestled in the ambiance of Burn by Rocky Patel, mere st…

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Ken Macha on Baseball Journeys, Managerial Wisdom, and Fundamental Strategies 1:01:17

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about a year ago1:01:17

1:01:17

Send us a text Join us as Ken Macha, former Major League Baseball player and manager, takes us on an engaging journey through his remarkable career. From his initial days on the field with the Pittsburgh Pirates to his pivotal coaching roles with the Oakland Athletics, Ken shares candid insights into the world of baseball. Learn how a young fan of …

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Jason Mackey on Baseball Insight, Pittsburgh's Loyalty, and Baseball Strategy 59:44

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about a year ago59:44

59:44

Send us a text Jason Mackey from the Post Gazette steps up to the plate, bringing a wealth of insight into the captivating world of baseball. Together, we journey through the layers of strategy, athleticism, and drama that make baseball a unique spectacle. Jason's tales from his time as a college pitcher add a personal touch of humor, offering an i…

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Jason Mackey on Career Twists, Sports Media, and Balancing Life 52:51

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about a year ago52:51

52:51

Send us a text Curious about the unexpected twists and turns that can shape a career? Jason Mackey's journey from math major to sports writer offers a compelling narrative about the winding paths of professional life. Join us as Jason, inspired by industry giants during his Washington D.C. internship, shares how these experiences led him to a caree…

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Derek Shelton on Leadership, Baseball Strategy, and Clubhouse Culture 1:19:23

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about a year ago1:19:23

1:19:23

Send us a text Meet Derek Shelton, the Pittsburgh Pirates skipper from Carbondale, Illinois, as we go behind the scenes on "Hold My Cutter." We light up a luxurious Gold Label cigar and dive deep into Shelton's journey, from his childhood dreams of attending Southern Illinois University to becoming a significant figure at the helm of a MLB team. Wi…

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Kevin Young on Baseball Journeys, Broadcasting, and Ball Talk 1:01:33

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about a year ago1:01:33

1:01:33

Send us a text How does a former Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman transition from the diamond to the broadcast booth? Join us as we sit down with Kevin Young and explore his unexpected journey, celebrating his unforgettable 1999 season with a Rocky Patel 1999 vintage cigar. Learn how Mark Garda influenced Kevin's career shift from player developmen…

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Michael McKenry on Grit, Analytics, and the Heart of Baseball 43:58

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about a year ago43:58

43:58

Send us a text What drives a professional athlete to persevere through relentless challenges and still come out on top? Join us for an intimate conversation with former major league catcher Michael McKenry, affectionately known as "The Fort," as he shares his remarkable baseball journey. Savoring the rich flavors of the Dark Star cigar at Burn by R…

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Steve Blass on World Series Glory, Clemente's Legacy, and Postseason Triumphs 50:19

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about a year ago50:19

50:19

Send us a text Steve Blass, the celebrated Pirate Hall of Famer, takes us back to his unforgettable journey during the 1971 World Series in this episode. He shares the exhilarating experience of pitching two complete games, turning the series in favor of the Pirates, and overcoming the immense pressure despite earlier struggles in the National Leag…

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Reviving Johnstown: Chad Gonkiewicz on Service, Community, and Baseball 1:13:55

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about a year ago1:13:55

1:13:55

Send us a text What drives a war hero to become a baseball team owner? Join us as we light up a Rocky Patel 25th anniversary cigar with Chad Gontkovich, the proud owner of the Johnstown Millrats, at Lee Com Ballpark in Bradenton, Florida. Discover how Chad, an Air Force Major and combat systems officer, along with his wife Jill and childhood friend…

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Nostalgia, Baseball Legends, and Laughter with Steve Blass 47:26

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about a year ago47:26

47:26

Send us a text Pirate Hall of Famer Steve Blass takes us on a nostalgic and humorous journey through his illustrious baseball career in this episode. From his major league debut at the tender age of 22 to unforgettable encounters with legends like Henry Aaron and Willie Mays, Steve shares stories that will make you feel like you're right there on t…

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Rob King on Authenticity, Baseball Passion, and Broadcasting Legends 47:32

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about a year ago47:32

47:32

Send us a text What if you could discover the essence of authenticity in sports broadcasting from a seasoned expert? Join us as we sit down with Rob King at Burn by Rocky Patel, near PNC Park, and light up a Rocky Patel Special Edition cigar. With candid discussions about Rob's career, influences from legends like Mike Lang and Dick Enberg, and his…

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Memories and Melodies: Steven Brault's Dual Passions 52:13

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about a year ago52:13

52:13

Send us a text Ever wondered what it's like to make your Major League debut and realize you've forgotten your glove? Former Pirates pitcher Steven Brault shares the chaotic and hilarious story of his first game on July 5th, 2016, where he had to borrow teammate Jeff Locke's glove, humorously inscribed with "Lockness." Join us as Michael McHenry add…

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The Fort McKenry: Triumphs, Drama, and the Magic of Baseball 56:58

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about a year ago56:58

56:58

Send us a text Michael McKenry recounts his exhilarating first home run at PNC Park on July 8, 2011, against Carlos Marmol. Experience the tension of his 10-pitch showdown, the strategies employed, and the euphoric crowd reaction that followed. We also share heartfelt stories that highlight the camaraderie among the Pittsburgh Pirates and their dev…

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Lanny Frattare on Passion, Broadcasting, and Baseball Memories 1:01:38

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about a year ago1:01:38

1:01:38

Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to become a legendary sports broadcaster? Lanny Frattare joins us for an intimate conversation at Burn by Rocky Patel, sharing the highs and lows of his illustrious career. From his early days bonding over cigars with colleagues to his candid stories about battling alcoholism and his emotional departure fr…

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Tales of Baseball and Regattas with Mike Fetchko 1:44:47

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about a year ago1:44:47

1:44:47

Send us a text What happens when Pittsburgh icon Mike Fetchko relocates the famed Pittsburgh Regatta to sunny Bradenton, Florida? Join us on "Hold My Cutter" as we light up some fine cigars at Lee Com Park and embark on a journey through Mike's fascinating story. From the complexities of closing a state bridge to drawing 100,000 attendees, Mike sha…

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From Padres Fan to Pirates Pitcher: Steven Brault Unplugged 55:36

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about a year ago55:36

55:36

Send us a text What happens when a talented pitcher balances his love for baseball and music? Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Steven Brault, a former Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher and current Sportsnet Pittsburgh analyst, at Burn by Rocky Patel near PNC Park. With co-host Michael McKenry, we explore Steven’s unique personality, his gr…

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Tim Murtaugh's Baseball Tales, Redemption, and Political Battles 47:16

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about a year ago47:16

47:16

Send us a text What could be more captivating than intertwining the worlds of baseball and cigars? On this episode of "Hold My Cutter," recorded live at Burn by Rocky Patel, we welcome Tim Murtaugh, the grandson of the legendary Pirates manager Danny Murtaugh. Tim regales us with intimate stories of his grandfather's illustrious career, from his in…

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Behind the Scenes with Joe Block 48:17

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about a year ago48:17

48:17

Send us a text Every wanderer has a tale, and Joe Block's is a testament to the unpredictable beauty of chasing a dream. From humble beginnings in minor league baseball to the lively commentary box of the Pittsburgh Pirates, our latest episode offers an intimate glimpse of Joe's incredible journey through the world of sports broadcasting. As we lig…

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Joe Block's Journey: From AM Waves to Big League Plays 55:45

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about a year ago55:45

55:45

Send us a text Just when you thought the airwaves were only for play-by-plays, Joe Block, one of the esteemed voices of the Pittsburgh Pirates, pulls up a chair and brings with him an aroma of stories as rich as his preferred Andorran-wrapped cigar. As we share a 'Smoke of the Week,' Joe serves up a banquet of broadcasting tales, from the kinship h…

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Rob King and the Symphony of Sports Broadcasting 48:51

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about a year ago48:51

48:51

Send us a text When Pittsburgh's own Rob King drops by for a chat, you can bet the conversation will be as riveting as a game-winning home run in the bottom of the ninth. Sit back and absorb the wisdom of this sports broadcasting maestro, as he dissects the meticulous preparation that goes into each broadcast and the art of creating seamless on-air…

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Embracing Pittsburgh: Rob King and the Heart of Sports Broadcasting 40:41

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about a year ago40:41

40:41

Send us a text Imagine settling into the embracing warmth of Pittsburgh culture, its Northeastern charm interwoven with Midwestern heart. That's precisely where we found ourselves at Burn by Rocky Patel, joined by sports broadcasting icon Rob King, Greg Brown, and former MLB player Michael McKenry. As we lit up our Decade Cameroon cigars, we traver…

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A Pittsburgh Sportscasting Legacy Guy Junker 1:23:16

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about a year ago1:23:16

1:23:16

Send us a text Ever found yourself reminiscing about the local legends that shaped your own journey? Join us for a heartwarming and insightful conversation with Pittsburgh's own Guy Junker, a broadcasting giant who's shared the airwaves with the city's most iconic figures. We're cracking open the treasure chest of memories, digging into the times G…

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Bethany Hallam's Rise: Triumph over Addiction and the Unifying Spirit of Pittsburgh Sports 56:31

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about a year ago56:31

56:31

Send us a text Have you ever witnessed a phoenix rise from the ashes? Allegheny County Council Member Bethany Hallam's life story is the embodiment of that very transformation. From the grip of heroin addiction and the shadows of homelessness, she emerged to stand in the light of public service and advocacy. Our conversation peels back the layers o…

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Bethany Hallam's Victory Over Addiction: From Despair to Council Chair 28:21

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about a year ago28:21

28:21

Send us a text Settle into your seat as you're about to be whisked away through the intense, yet hopeful world of Allegheny County Council Member Bethany Hallam. In a cozy corner of Bern by Rocky Patel, we unwrap the complex layers of addiction and triumph. Bethany, a figure of resilience with deep Pittsburgh roots, shares her life's stark realitie…

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Infield Dreams: Jack Wilson (Part 2) 51:39

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about a year ago51:39

51:39

Send us a text We sat down with Jack Wilson, the former Pittsburgh Pirates all-star, and what unfolded was more than just a trip down memory lane; it was an examination of the heart and soul of America's pastime. Jack regaled us with tales of the electric partnership he shared with Pokey Reese, a duo that epitomized infield magic. As we cozied up t…

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The Heart and Hustle of Jack Flash Wilson: A Baseball Life Unveiled 1:04:31

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about a year ago1:04:31

1:04:31

Send us a text Every crack of the bat tells a story, and few can weave those tales like Jack Wilson, the revered Pirates' shortstop who slides into our latest episode. We're camped out at LeCom Park, the site of countless memories for Jack, and now the stage for a fascinating trip down the basepaths of baseball history. From the familial bonds entr…

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Dan Zangrilli's Broadcast Dreams and Baseball Tales 1:04:39

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about a year ago1:04:39

1:04:39

Send us a text Embark on a sensory exploration and heartfelt nostalgia trip with Dan Zangrilli, the sartorially savvy guest who guides us through the rich flavors of the Rocky Patel 60 cigar and the riveting tales of his broadcasting ascent. From the earthy undertones of a San Andreas wrapper to the vibrant spice of red pepper, this episode is a fu…

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Extra Innings with Bob Walk 57:28

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about a year ago57:28

57:28

Send us a text Ever wondered what it feels like to hurl a fastball through elbow pain, or the split-second decisions that define the outcome of a baseball game? Bob Walk, the Whirly Bird himself, joins us with a trove of stories from his days on the mound, including one harrowing start against the Dodgers just five days post-injury. Laugh and wince…

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