Episode 69: Ryan Lemond (Former high school sports reporter/current KSR co-host)
🎙 In this episode: I sit down with Ryan Lemond, co-host of Kentucky Sports Radio, whose true passion has always been high school sports. From his days covering Friday night lights for LEX18 to reflecting on how youth and high school athletics have changed over the years, Ryan brings stories, perspective, and a dose of nostalgia. We talk about what’s been lost, what still matters, and why nothing will ever beat a hometown hero under the lights.
🔹 Friday Night Hustle
Ryan relives the chaos of racing from game to game to capture highlights for the nightly news.
🔹 Local Coverage Magic
Why seeing your name in the paper or on TV after a game once meant everything to athletes and families.
🔹 The Fade of Community Storytelling
How shifts in TV and print media left fewer boots on the ground covering high school sports.
🔹 Relationships That Last
From Sunday dinners with families to following athletes for 4 years—what Ryan loved most about the job.
🔹 Small Towns vs. Big Cities
Why county schools still pack stadiums while attendance struggles in larger areas.
🔹 The “Transfer Portal” Era
How open enrollment and kids switching schools hurt hometown pride and school loyalty.
🔹 Chasing Prep Schools
Superstars skipping high school ball altogether...and what’s lost when they leave.
🔹 The Death of Multi-Sport Athletes
Why specialization hurts schools, programs, and the athletes themselves.
🔹 Nostalgia vs. Now
Do cell phones, distractions, and early specialization explain why things feel different today?
🔹 Natural-Born Talent
Ryan explains why you can sometimes spot the “it factor” in an athlete as early as age six.
🔹 The “Genetic Milkshake”
Yes, Ryan finally shares his famous theory you won’t want to miss.
