We Love Our Team

Randy Freking and Jack Greiner
  • 5.0 (12)
  • Baseball
  • Updated Weekly

Join Jack Greiner and Randy Freking and their guests for a podcast devoted to the Cincinnati Reds. They will answer the existential question of why so many people love the Reds or as the song goes, why are so many people batty about Cincinnati? Our podcast will feature Reds fans from far and wide. Our guests will include well known people who are Reds fans, including authors who have written books about the Reds, celebrities who are long time Reds fans, social media Influencers, and other other personalities. GO REDS! 

  1. 3d ago

    Season 6, Episode 2: Joe Zerhusen, the Voice of the Reds at GABP

    Send us Fan Mail Summary: 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 Topics Joe 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 historyTimestamps 00:00 - 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 & Links Paul Summercamp’s Reds Announcing Style (Search for related broadcasts)[Ken Griffey Jr. Biography](https://www.mlb.com/player/ken-griffey-jr- строг)Harry Kalas - NFL Films VoiceJohn Facenda NFL FilmsFor Love of the Game (Movie)Connect with Joe Zerhusen TwitterLinkedInGABP Official WebsiteCelebrating decades of Reds baseball and storytelling — thank you, Joe, for sharing your voice and stories! Jack thanks the listeners

  2. Aug 18

    Season 6, Episode 1: Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Lifelong Reds Fan

    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

  3. Aug 11

    Season 5, Episode 24: Tommy Thrall, The Voice of the Reds

    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 baseballInfluence of radio announcers like Denny MatthewsFavorite players and moments that shaped Tommy’s careerThe impact of legendary managers like Tito and Jim RigglemanThe process of becoming a Reds broadcaster and learning from Marty BrannamanSignature calls and moments that define Tommy’s broadcasting styleThe significance of iconic baseball moments and their storytellingTommy’s insights on managing and team dynamics Tommy Thrall's broadcasting journeyMount Rushmore of Reds playersFavorite baseball movies and momentsDream team and walk-up songsMemorable baseball stories and encountersTakeaways Authenticity in broadcasting creates a genuine connection with fansPreparation and detailed knowledge are key to great commentaryLegendary figures like Marty Brannaman leave lasting legaciesSignature calls are born from the moment, not forcedEmulating successful players and managers can inspire your styleMemorable moments often come from unexpected game-changing playsBuilding a career in sports broadcasting requires perseverance and adaptabilityUnderstanding the history and characters of the game enriches storytellingSound 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

  4. Aug 4

    Season 5, Episode 23: WLW Radio Legend Mike McConnell's Baseball Journey From Phillies To Reds

    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 broadcastingFavorite players and managers in baseball historyMemorable moments and iconic gamesInsights into baseball culture and broadcastingSound 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

  5. Jul 28

    Season 5, Episode 22: WLW-T's George Vogel Talks Reds, Careers, and Memorable Moments

    Send us Fan Mail Join us for a wide-ranging chat with George Vogel, legendary Cincinnati sports journalist and Reds enthusiast. From his early fandom and iconic players to a firsthand account of historic Reds moments, George shares insights and stories from decades of covering Cincinnati sports. In this episode:  George’s childhood baseball memories and early Reds fandom Favorite Reds players from Johnny Bench to Kyle Schwarber Reminiscences of managerial legends Pete Rose and Lou Piniella Behind-the-scenes stories of how George broke into sports journalism Celebrating key Reds moments like Tom Browning’s perfect game and Pete Rose’s return The legendary "most memorable visit" to Reds games Personal reflections on the Reds’ decision-making and uniform choices Fun categories: favorite Reds head of hair, go-to ballpark foods, and most intimidating players George’s take on Reds rivals he despises His favorite baseball movies and dream team scenarios  TIMESTAMPS:  (00:00) – Welcome and introduction to George Vogel (01:11) – George’s first memories of Reds and baseball fandom (03:39) – Favorite Reds players and how their legacies impacted him (07:36) – Interactions with Reds managers and insights into Pete Rose and Lou Piniella (10:24) – How George started in broadcasting and his early career path (13:46) – Memorable moments from George's career covering Reds and Cincinnati sports (19:20) – Redirecting a historical Reds decision with the “time machine” question (21:52) – Reds rivalries and players he truly despises (23:44) – Designing a Reds Mount Rushmore (25:42) – Creating a Reds fantasy dinner party lineup (28:12) – Players George wishes to see in Reds uniform (29:48) – Favorite ballpark foods and game-day snacks (30:42) – The night George remembers where he was for Tom Browning’s perfect game (36:08) – George’s favorite baseball movies (38:15) – Best Reds uniform design and the iconic look (39:35) – Backup players George admires (42:25) – Most memorable Reds moments with fans and the city (45:57) – The nicest Reds players George has met (46:53) – Players he’d want on his bench in a brawl (49:37) – Top Reds hairdo and the wildest player nicknames (48:35) – Race around the bases: Sanders, Hamilton, or De La Cruz (50:46) – George's reflections on his retirement and future plans  RESOURCES & LINKS:   Johnny Bench profile (example placeholder)  Kyle Schwarber on MLB*  Tom Browning’s perfect game highlights*  Reds Uniform History*  Sean Casey - Reds Player Profile*  Major League Baseball Movie — "Major League"*  Trevor Hoffman "Hell's Bells" Walk-Up*  Cincinnati Sports Hall of Fame (example placeholder)  CONNECT WITH GEORGE:   Twitter (hypothetical)  LinkedIn (hypothetical)  ENJOYED THE SHOW? Subscribe for more Cincinnati sports stories, deep dives, and legendary moments with fans and insiders.#Reds #CincinnatiSports #BaseballHistory #Podcast Jack thanks the listeners

  6. Jul 21

    Season 5, Episode 21: Inside Kroger and the Cincinnati Reds with Former Stockboy and Now CEO Ron Sargent

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode, Ron Sargent shares his remarkable journey from stockboy to CEO, insights into the retail and grocery industries, and his passion for baseball and the Cincinnati Reds. Discover how his experiences shape his leadership and vision for the future of retail and sports sponsorships. Key Topics Ron Sargent's career path from Kroger to Staples and back to KrogerThe evolution of the grocery shopping experience and e-commerceLeadership styles inspired by baseball managers and playersThe impact of sports sponsorships on brand visibility and community engagementInnovations in retail technology, including AI and RFIDGuest Name Ron Sargent Sound Bites "Baseball was America's game in my childhood""Tony Perez was always reliable and clutch""Matt McClain's heart is bigger than his size"Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Ron Sargent's Background 01:10 Ron Shares Early Baseball Memories at Crosley Field 03:11 Favorite Reds Players and Managers Through the Years 05:53 Growing Up in Covington and Early Interest in Baseball 09:39 Ron’s Career Path: From Kroger Stockboy to CEO 14:21 Returning to Kroger and Leadership Transition 17:58 The Changing Grocery Shopping Landscape and Customer Expectations 22:25 Innovations in Retail: AI, E-commerce, and Future Trends 25:14 Kroger's Sponsorship of the Cincinnati Reds 28:55 Branding and Local Loyalty in Retail 31:47 Reflections on Reds' Decisions and Legendary Players 34:10 Favorite Reds Players and Memorable Moments 36:54 Building the Reds' Mount Rushmore of Legends 38:14 Dinner Party Guests: Reds and Influential Figures 39:52 Dream Reds and Non-Red Players in a Fantasy Team 41:39 Favorite Ballpark Foods and Memorable Visits 47:35 Favorite Baseball Movies and Cultural Moments 54:11 Most Memorable Reds Moments and Fan Experiences 56:39 Clutch Moments and Game-Winning Plays 58:16 The Nicest Reds Players Met in Person 59:08 Players to Watch in a Brawl: The Mike Tyson Category 01:00:20 Fastest Reds Player: Deion Sanders, Billy Hamilton, or Ellie de la Cruz 01:02:01 Reds Player with the Best Hair: Ellie de la Cruz 01:03:08 Closing Remarks and Thanks from Ron Sargent Jack thanks the listeners

  7. Jul 14

    Season 5, Episode 20: Inside Baseball with Hall of Famer Bill Brown on Reds, Astros, and Broadcasting

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode, Bill Brown, a Hall of Fame baseball announcer, shares his journey from childhood baseball fan to a prominent sports broadcaster. He discusses his experiences with the Cincinnati Reds and Houston Astros, insights into baseball history, and his latest book on the 1970s Reds dynasty. Key Topics Bill Brown's career path in sports broadcastingMemories of childhood baseball fandom and favorite playersInsights into managing broadcasting during team highs and lowsDetails about the 1970s Reds dynasty and team managementThe evolution of baseball broadcasting and storytellingGuest Name Bill Brown Sound Bites "Love the theater of the mind on radio.""Loved Nellie Fox for his glove, not tools.""Pete Rose should be in the Hall of Fame."Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:48 Early Baseball Memories and Favorite Players 05:24 Growing Up as a Baseball Fan in Missouri 11:09 Getting Started in Sports Broadcasting 16:29 Joining Reds and Astros Broadcast Teams 24:02 Transitioning Through Different Teams and Challenges 30:09 Writing the Book on the 1970s Reds 33:15 Reflections on the 1970s Reds and Other Dynasties 43:49 Memorable Moments and Favorite Ballpark Visits 46:20 Favorite Baseball Movies and Personal Anecdotes 49:31 Hall of Fame and Player Recognition 54:38 Closing Remarks and Book Promotion Jack thanks the listeners

  8. Jul 7

    Season 5, Episode 19: Nick Vehr and His Big Ideas

    Send us Fan Mail Join us as we chat with Cincinnati's visionary Nick Vehr about his incredible efforts to bring the Olympics and World Cup to Cincinnati, his love for baseball, and his unique insights into sports, community, and big ideas. Key Topics Nick Vehr's efforts to bring the Olympics to CincinnatiHis role in the World Choir GamesInsights into Cincinnati Reds history and cultureVision for Cincinnati as a sports and cultural hubThe impact of big ideas on community developmentChapters 00:00 Introduction to Nick Vehr and Baseball Fandom 07:45 Nick Vehr's Olympic Bid for Cincinnati 15:19 Bringing the World Choir Games to Cincinnati 22:44 Big Ideas and Future Aspirations for Cincinnati 29:46 Ballpark Favorites and Nostalgia 31:32 Memorable Reds Moments 32:34 Clutch Players and Game Strategies 33:45 Favorite Baseball Movies 35:24 Walk-Up Songs and Personal Touches 35:59 Uniforms and Team Identity 38:04 Favorite Backup Players 39:09 Memorable Ballpark Visits 40:46 Amazing Game Moments 41:46 Hall of Fame Discussions 42:49 Bench Clearing Brawls 43:56 Meeting Reds Legends 45:34 Best Hair in Reds History 47:15 Speed Around the Bases 48:34 The Future of Live Experiences Jack thanks the listeners

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5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Join Jack Greiner and Randy Freking and their guests for a podcast devoted to the Cincinnati Reds. They will answer the existential question of why so many people love the Reds or as the song goes, why are so many people batty about Cincinnati? Our podcast will feature Reds fans from far and wide. Our guests will include well known people who are Reds fans, including authors who have written books about the Reds, celebrities who are long time Reds fans, social media Influencers, and other other personalities. GO REDS! 

Information

  • Creator
    Randy Freking and Jack Greiner
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    111
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 We Love Our Team
  • Show Website
    We Love Our Team

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