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SportsBeat KCHow Kansas City roots shaped the career of golfing legend Tom WatsonFrom the late 1970s into the 1980, Tom Watson dominated golf. Five British Open championships among his eight major titles and 39 PGA Tour titles -- not to mention six major titles on the Champions Tour -- rank him among the game’s greatest ever.And he’s Kansas City’s own. Born and raised here, Watson has always called Kansas City home. In a conversation with The Star, Watson emphasized his local roots and explained how being from the Heartland could be an advantage on the Tour.He covers a range of topics on SportsBeat KC, The St...2024-06-2849 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: A Chiefs breakdown & former Broncos star Chris Harris wants to see betterThe Kansas City Chiefs aren’t exactly pulverizing opponents, but they keep finding ways to win. The Chiefs look to make it five straight when the Denver Broncos visit on Thursday Night Football.On SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, beat writer Jesse Newell, discuss what’s working for the Chiefs and where improvements can be made. We look ahead to the Broncos, who are off to an awful start at 1-4 and having major issues on defense.Also, former Broncos cornerback Chris Harris Jr., joins SportsBeat KC for a conversation. An All-Pro and four-t...2023-10-1132 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: Star columnists cover Chiefs, soccer, White House visits & new KC airportWith DeAndre Hopkins on the market, how set are the Chiefs at wide receiver with Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Kadarius Toney, Skyy Moore, Justin Watson, Rashee Rice and other candidates? The Chiefs would need to clear cap space to sign the three-time All-Pro, but should they?On today’s SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, the columnists share their thoughts on the Chiefs and all things sports in Kansas City. Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell discuss White House visits for KC teams, Sporting Kansas City’s resurgence, the KC Current’s new coach.And, as frequent...2023-05-3142 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: How FIFA World Cup 2026 and Kansas City can work for each otherThree years before the games come to Kansas City, the FIFA World Cup 2026 has new logos, a board of directors and some money earmarked from state and city governments. This was part of a press conference at GEHA Field at Arrowhead that included Missouri Gov. Mike Parson and Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly.Perhaps the biggest reveal of the event came from Kansas City mayor Quinton Lucas, who said the city will issue request for proposals on improving transportation from downtown to the airport and the Truman Sports Complex.On today’s SportsBeat KC, The Star’s da...2023-05-1824 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: Kansas State makes a bold statement with Chris Klieman’s new contractDid Kansas State football coach Chris Klieman sign a coach-for-life contract? Eight years, $44 million is about as long-term as it can get, and with the Wildcats becoming off a Big 12 championship season it seems like a bargain for the Wildcats.On today’s SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, beat writer Kellis Robinett breaks down the deal and discusses not only the contract terms but where it ranks among Big 12 coaches and the statement Kansas State and Klieman made with the agreement.Also, Robinett provides the latest on the men’s basketball transfer portal...2023-05-1631 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: Star writers drill down on Chiefs’ NFL Draft performance...and Kansas City’sThis week on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, we’ve heard from Chiefs owner and CEO Clark Hunt, general manager Brett Veach, and Kansas City Sports Commission president Kathy Nelson about the NFL Draft in Kansas City.Now, let’s hear from The Star’s Chiefs coverage crew. Columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian along with beat writer Jesse Newell share their thoughts on the Chiefs’ strategy and suggest how the rookie class might fare this season. It has a big task ahead if it’s to top last year’s rookie class success.After a brea...2023-05-0341 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: Sizing up the NFL Draft in Kansas City and the Chiefs haul, plus Dante HallThe NFL Draft in Kansas City has passed and evaluations begin. The early returns are positive for the Chiefs, who added seven newcomers to the roster, and for Kansas City. The area entertained an estimated 300,000 fans at Union Station and the National WWI Museum and Memorial.The Chiefs and the NFL Draft are the topics on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast. First, you’ll hear from Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. He met with reporters on Friday, before the second and third rounds, and touched on several topics, including Patrick Mahomes’ contract and the re...2023-05-0142 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: Kansas’ NCAA title defense filled with obstacles in West, not Midwest pathKansas starts defense of its NCAA Tournament championship on a similar spot on the bracket, as a No. 1 seed. But the Jayhawks start the quest from the West instead of the Midwest Region.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writers Gary Bedore and Shreyas Laddha discuss all things KU from the health of Coach Bill Self, who missed the Big 12 tournament with a cardiac episode, to the availability of defensive standout Kevin McCullar to how the team displayed superb and disappointing play in Kansas City last weekend.Also, just how did Kansas, with the best re...2023-03-1334 minSportsBeat KCHear Jerome Tang’s message to Kansas State fansThe Sunflower Showdown, Part I, is tonight when Kansas visits Kansas State and it’s everything you’d want in a Big 12 game: a pair of ranked teams–KU is No. 2, K-State No. 13–ESPN coverage, what should be incredible atmosphere.Speaking of atmosphere, first-year Wildcats Coach Jerome Tang would like to see things toned down a bit at Bramlage Coliseum. Show love for Kansas State more than hate for Kansas, is the message.You’ll hear that suggestion on today’s SportsBeat KC with beat writer Kellis Robinett. We also discuss a game that could loom large i...2023-01-1733 minSportsBeat KCOne of the next stops for World Cup, Kansas CityMoments after Argentina’s game-winning penalty kick hit the back of the net to defeat France in the World Cup final, thoughts turned to the next World Cup, the 2026 event to be held in 16 North American cities, including Kansas City.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell sat down with three Kansas City officials who attended the World Cup in Qatar: Kansas City Sports Commission and VisitKC president Kathy Nelson, Kansas City deputy city manager and executive director of convention and entertainment facilities of Kansas City Kimiko Gilmore, and Joe Reardon, Grea...2022-12-2032 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: Tracking the amazing path of the Kansas City Current as it flows to the NWSL Championship GameThe Kansas City Current’s spot in the NWSL Championship Game is an amazing accomplishment in the moment and over the past two seasons.They had to win both playoff games on the road to reach the final on Saturday in Washington D.C. against the Portland Thorns. And it’s the second year of the team’s existence. The team has been know as the Current only this season. The franchise came together in such a hurry last year that it was known as KC NWSL.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Coach Matt Potter and star...2022-10-2831 minSportsBeat KCPreviewing Kansas State at TCU with beat writersThis Big 12 game of the year every week is getting fun. This week it’s No. 17 Kansas State at No. 8 TCU in a game that matches the league’s two undefeated teams.Today’s SportsBeat KC might as well SportsBeat KC/DFW because we’re talking to the beat writers for both teams, Steven Johnson, who covers the Horned Frogs for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, and Kellis Robinett of the WIchita Eagle and Kansas City Star. He’s a long time Kansas State beat writer.They break down the game, sharing their thoughts on what’s happened s...2022-10-1926 minSportsBeat KCPodcast: Next season begins soon for Sporting KC; postseason soon for Kansas City CurrentSporting Kansas City knows when its season ends and that’s a strange thing. SInce 2011, the year of the team’s rebrand from Wizards to SKC, the team missed the playoffs once. Now, it’s twice No postseason for Coach Peter Vermes’ club, and on today’s SportsBeat KC, Star soccer writer Daniel Sperry discusses how that happened and the decisions in store for the club.After a break, we switch to the area’s other professional soccer team, the Kansas City Current. In an amazing turnaround, the Current has clinched a spot in the NWSL playoffs. The team and...2022-09-3033 minSportsBeat KCSportsBeat KC podcast: Remembering Len Dawson, a Kansas City iconLen Dawson came to Kansas City in 1963 and soon became a sports hero. And when he was finished playing for the Chiefs, he spent decades talking about them from the broadcast booth.Dawson’s death at age 87 was announced on Wednesday by the family. On today’s show, columnist Vahe Gregorian, who conducted one of the final, lengthy interviews with Dawson, shares his memories of that day and discusses the impact of Dawson on the community and sports scene.After a break, you hear two interviews of Dawson conducted by The Star, one in 2009 the othe...2022-08-2434 minSportsBeat KCFIFA World Cup 2026 next steps now Kansas City’s focus: SportsBeat KC podcastKansas City will host games in the world’s largest sporting event, the World Cup. Amazing.Dozens of U.S. cities wanted in, 11 were selected. With three in Mexico and two in Canada as part of the joint North American event, Kansas City is the smallest of the 16, in terms of metropolitan-area population. But no city worked longer and harder to land these World Cup matches.On today’s episode of the SportsBeat KC podcast, Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell discuss the news more deeply with host Blair Kerkhoff. How did Kansas City beat...2022-06-1738 minSportsBeat KCHere’s what Kansas City would bring to World Cup if it’s selected as a host: PodcastAs FIFA prepares to announce the U.S. cities that will be the site of 2026 World Cup games, Kansas City has its fingers crossed. We’re one of 16 spots in the running to be host cities. Ten or 11 will be selected.Will Kansas City make the cut? On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, columnist Vahe Gregorian and soccer writer Daniel Sperry break down the strengths and weaknesses of Kansas City as a bid candidate. Arrowhead Stadium and other facilities and the region’s soccer culture are seen as pluses.Market size would seem to work agains...2022-06-1538 minSportsBeat KCSportsBeat KC: Want to bet Chiefs, Royals, Jayhawks, Tigers, Wildcats? Soon you can...in KansasWant to bet on Patrick Mahomes’ touchdown pass total in a game, or Kansas State-Oklahoma football, or Kansas basketball against Duke in the Champions Classic?You won’t have to leave Kansas to do that now that sports betting was signed into law last week by Gov. Laura Kelly. Now, Kansas is one of 30 states with legal sports wagering. It will take a few weeks, perhaps months to get it up and running but soon Kansans won’t have to travel to another state to make a wager.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Jesse Ne...2022-05-1838 minSportsBeat KCSunday NASCAR Cup event at Kansas Speedway is anyone’s race: SportsBeat KC podcastIt’s racing weekend in Kansas City, and Kansas Speedway will be the site of three races: the Dutch Boy 150 ARCA race and Heart of America 200 trucks run on Saturday and NASCAR Cup Series AdventHealth 400 on Sunday.It’s the first time since 2019 that a scheduled spring-racing event at Kansas Speedway will not be directly affected by the pandemic.On today’s episode of The Star’s SportsBeat KC podcast, we chat with veteran sportswriter Randy Covitz, who has covered every Cup race at Kansas since the track’s inaugural season in 2001. He previews Sunday’s marquee ra...2022-05-1131 minSportsBeat KCSportsBeat KC: What Clark Hunt had to say about Kansas City Chiefs and Arrowhead’s futureDuring last weekend’s NFL Draft, Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt took questions from reporters about a range of topics like where he and the Chiefs stand on stadium issues, the 2023 NFL Draft coming to Kansas City, the prospect of legalized sports wagering in Missouri and Kansas, and the chance of Kansas City and Arrowhead Stadium landing World Cup games.You’ll hear his session with reporters here. Star columnist Vahe Gregorian joined SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in something of a post-game analysis. The Chiefs’ future home received the most attention. Hunt spoke to remaining in Arr...2022-05-0436 minSportsBeat KCSportsBeat KC: How the Kansas Jayhawks spent their first week as NCAA championsA week ago today, Kansas defeated North Carolina to win the NCAA men’s basketball championship. What’s happened since then for the Jayhawks? Plenty of celebration, like Sunday’s parade in Lawrence, the announcement of a barnstorming tour and continued speculation about next season, including a timeline for learning of potential NCAA penalties.All of those topics and more are discussed on today’s episode of The Star’s SportsBeat KC podcast with beat writers Gary Bedore and Jesse Newell. After the Jayhawks’ first week as national champions, it’s time to look ahead to who might be retur...2022-04-1131 minSportsBeat KCSportsBeat KC: Kansas Jayhawks’ next NCAA tourney opponent is Creighton... and KentuckyThe first day of the NCAA Tournament produced four victories by double-digit seeds, including the shocker: No. 15 seed St. Peter’s over Kentucky.Kansas avoided any such upset. The top-seeded Jayhawks rolled past Texas Southern.Now KU faces a second-round task against Creighton, which defeated San Diego State in overtime Thursday. In this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, KU beat writers Jesse Newell and Gary Bedore discuss Kansas’ prospects in Round 2.Also, there’s the matter of college basketball’s all-time victories list. The Jayhawks entered the tournament two wins behin...2022-03-1833 minSportsBeat KCSportsBeat KC: How will new additions Zack Greinke and Amir Garrett help the Royals?Zack Greinke spent his first seven major league seasons with the Royals, the team that drafted and developed him, and now he’ll be in Kansas City for season No. 19.The Royals signed Greinke to a one-year, $13 million deal this week, but that wasn’t the team’s only mound move. They also traded starter Mike Minor to the Cincinnati Reds for reliever Amir Garrett.How will this moves impact the Royals? Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell break it down on SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s sports podcast. The show started as a Roy...2022-03-1736 minSportsBeat KCWe discuss what went wrong for Kansas City Chiefs in loss at CincinnatiThe Kansas City Star’s coverage team of Vahe Gregorian, Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell, and special guests Jesse Newell and Lila Bromberg broke down the Chiefs’ 34-31 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals after the game on Sunday afternoon.Story links:KC Chiefs lose control of AFC seeding: What happened in Sunday’s loss at the Bengals?KC Chiefs’ report card vs. Bengals: This specific aspect doomed Kansas City on SundayFive things that stood out about the Kansas City Chiefs’ road loss to the BengalsKC Chiefs had a chance t...2022-01-0333 minSportsBeat KCThe deeper meaning of Kansas’ football victory over TexasWhy would anyone have anticipated Kansas, a 31-point underdog last weekend at Texas, ending its 56-game conference losing streak in Austin? The last time KU won a league game, Missouri, Nebraska, Colorado and Texas A&M were in the conference. West Virginia and TCU weren’t.But it happened. Kansas prevailed 57-56 in overtime with the winning two-point conversation scored on a reception from Jalon Daniels by a third-string redshirt freshman walk-on Jared Casey of Plainville, Kan. Saturday marked his first offensive snaps of his career.The national narrative centered on Texas losing, but this wa...2021-11-1633 minSportsBeat KCSporting Kansas City “body slams” way to big victory, advances in MLS raceSporting Kansas City picked up a huge victory at Seattle on Saturday, a game so intense there was a body slam—and no red card. On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star soccer reporter Shaun Goodwin breaks down the game that was decided on a goal by Johnny Russell.After a break, we talk KC NWSL. Although the team will finish in last place in its inaugural season, Woso turned Legends Park into a true home field advantage and ran its unbeaten streak there to seven games with one remaining.The podcast was recorded before the anno...2021-10-2629 minSportsBeat KCA downtown ballpark for Kansas City to replace Kauffman Stadium? Let’s talk about itA downtown stadium for the Royals is now a front burner issue. John Sherman, who leads the Royals ownership group, went public with the idea last month, and now it’s out there for everyone to consider.Where would it be built? How much would it cost and who gets the tab? What becomes of Kauffman Stadium, and does the popular Royals ballpark even need to be replaced?Those questions and more are explored in a Kansas City Star series of stories by columnist Sam Mellnger, beat writer Lynn Worthy and reporter Blair Kerkhoff and in...2021-10-1736 minSportsBeat KCReady or not, Kansas City’s World Cup bid is on deckSporting Kansas City, KC NWSL, the U.S. Men’s National Team, Kansas City’s 2026 World Cup bid, we talk about it all on today’s SportsBeat KC with The Star’s soccer reporter Shaun Goodwin.The women’s team is coming off one of its best results of the season, a scoreless draw with Portland. They continue their excellent play at Legends Field. Sporting KC looks to stay in the hunt for the MLS Western Conference title. The U.S. men’s national team is in action tonight, and is the World Cup coming to Kansas City? Peter...2021-10-1341 minSportsBeat KCKansas City’s Vlatko Andonovski feels pressure and joy of coaching USWNTEvery time he pulls on a USA shirt, U.S. Women’s National Team coach Vlatko Andonovksi feels pressure. He wouldn’t have it any other way.Andonovski is preparing the national women’s soccer team for the Olympics next month in Tokyo, a competition the U.S. is favored to win. That’s the case no matter the event, but the stakes are higher for the two-time defending World Cup champions. In the previous Olympics, the U.S. didn’t reach the podium.Andonovski, who calls Kansas City home and coach’s the city’s former NWSL...2021-06-2838 minSportsBeat KCEight is enough as Kansas City Royals look for answers to halt skidMaybe the day off is what the Royals need. They return to action tonight at Detroit in hopes of ending a losing streak made more painful because of where the team stood before the skid: In first place in the AL Central and with baseball’s top winning percentage.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star columnist Vahe Gregorian breaks down the malaise with host Blair Kerkhoff in a show that started as a SportsBeat Live. The conclusions: There are no quick fixes or new personnel moves that are going to change fortunes. The Royals must find a away...2021-05-1139 min
SportsBeat KCSporting Kansas City opens 2021 season with goalkeeper making debutSporting Kansas City opens its 2021 season Saturday at the New York Red Bulls, and the team will be without regular goalkeeper Tim Melia. In steps 19-year-old John Pulskamp, making his MLS debut.Soccer writer Shaun Goodwin and Aly Trost, WHB Sports Radio 810 host and reporter, break down this development and other aspects of the game in this episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, SportsBeat KC, with host Blair Kerkhoff.After a break, the topic turns to the KC NWSL, which made its debut a week ago with a loss to the Portland Thorns in...2021-04-1623 minSportsBeat KCSportsBeat KC: Honoring and remembering our friend and colleague, Terez A. PaylorOn today’s SportsBeat KC, we remember Terez Paylor, The Kansas City Star sportswriter who left us much too soon. He died on Monday at age 37.The tributes from across the journalism world have been overwhelming, and today some of his former colleagues at The Star got together on a zoom call to recall what we loved and admired about Terez.You’ll hear from Sam Mellinger, Vahe Gregorian, Herbie Teope, Sam McDowell and Blair Kerkhoff. We could have talked to dozens more who worked with Terez during his 12 years at The Star or three year...2021-02-1037 minSportsBeat KCThe analytics guy who stands at the intersection of sports and politicsKansas City Star sportswriter Jesse Newell assumed a temporary assignment covering the local political landscape through the elections. And he’s heard from the “stick to sports” crowd. When he eventually returns to sports journalism, covering the Kansas Jayhawks, he figures he’ll get a few “stick to politics” suggestions.For this Election Day show, Newell talks politics and sports with Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast. Sports and politics have crossed over plenty during the past few months,, from pro and college athletes engaging in voter-registration movements to teams like the Chiefs turning...2020-11-0336 minSportsBeat KCQuarterback depth is being tested at K-State, Mizzou and KansasQuarterbacks are the story in college football this weekend. There could be a new starter at Kansas State. There will be a new starter at Missouri. And there’s an extra week for quarterback candidates at Kansas to heal.Beat writers Kellis Robinett, Souichi Terada and Gary Bedore cover these topics and more with Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.The Jayhawks are off this week, but K-State and Mizzou forge on as underdogs. The Wildcats visit TCU and Mizzou takes on LSU in a game originally scheduled for Baton Roug...2020-10-0934 minSportsBeat KCFans were on their game at Children’s Mercy Park, but Sporting KC wasn’tFans clicked through the turnstiles for Kansas City’s first pro sports game since March Tuesday night, as Sporting KC played host to the Houston Dynamo at Children’s Mercy Park. Seating was limited to about 2,300 spectators, but they were loud, energetic and appreciated by coach Peter Vermes and the players.If only they were rewarded with a better result. Sporting KC fell to the Dynamo 5-2 in a game that got out of hand in the second half. “This is one of those times where you say it’s a bad day,” Vermes said. “It happens sometimes...2020-08-2621 min
Deep BackgroundMike Fannin takes us inside as coronavirus strikes his Kansas City family three timesWhen Star editor and vice president Mike Fannin's 83-year-old mother wanted to visit this summer, the coronavirus also made an appearance. She, Mike and his wife all contracted COVID-19 and they all now know firsthand it's much more than the flu. Mike is our guest on today's Deep Background podcast where he talks about his experience and how The Star is covering the pandemic for Kansas City.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-2522 minSportsBeat KCEven in fewer games, KU seeks to at least match 2019 victory totalThe 2020 college football was supposed to start this weekend with a handful of games followed by the traditional full slate of games over Labor Day weekend. There won’t be a grand opening for the sport this season. But a staggered beginning with Big 12, ACC and other conferences starting Sept. 12 and SEC schools on Sept. 26.But every day there’s more news about COVID-19 on campus that makes you think a bubble is the best solution to get in a season. But teams are practicing and planning for openers. On today’s SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s...2020-08-2532 minDeep BackgroundWhat does COVID-19 mean to Kansas City’s airport and budget?While the coronavirus pandemic has many Kansas Citians hunkering down in their homes and the airline industry is largely paused, construction on the new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport soldiers on. On today’s Deep Background podcast, Star City Hall reporter Allison Kite joins Dave Helling and Derek Donovan to discuss the debate over minority- and women-owned firms working on the project, as well as the uncertainty ahead for Kansas City’s budget, which is facing serious revenue shortfalls.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-1926 minSportsBeat KCFirst busy weekend for KC sports; and the show goes on for Royals’ voicesWe’ve arrived at the latest opening day in baseball history. And now, the sprint is on.A 60-game regular season and the quest to land in an expanded Major League Baseball playoff bracket begins Friday night for the Kansas City Royals. On this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast you’ll hear from seven-time Gold Glove-winning outfielder Alex Gordon on what he believes is a more dangerous KC lineup this season.After a break, Royals play-by-play man Ryan Lefebvre explains how it’s all going to work in the booth this season...2020-07-2435 minSportsBeat KCSports return to KC at Kansas Speedway but fans must wait a little longerThe Big 12 Tournament at Sprint Center ended on March 11. The next major sporting event in Kansas City will happen 134 days later. The Super Start Battery 400 presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts at Kansas Speedway is Thursday. No fans will be in the stands for the race originally scheduled to run on May 31 but postponed because of the pandemic. But with five races over three days there will be some economic impact in the region.Kansas Speedway President Pat Warren chatted with SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff about re-starting the action at the track and where the sport go...2020-07-2123 minSportsBeat KCIs there a nickname difference between Chiefs and Redskins or Indians?A topic that had been bubbling nationally for the past week or so was disrupted in Kansas City when Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes signed a 10-year contract extension on Monday. But sports nicknames that are based in Native American heritage is back on the table.The Washington Redskins and Cleveland Indians are considering changes. What kind of conversation should the Chiefs be having?Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian join host Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast, to discuss how we got here, what changes the Chiefs sh...2020-07-0836 minSportsBeat KCPatrick Mahomes, Andy Reid, Brett Veach talk Mahomes’ historic dealOn Monday, they bought champagne, posed for photographs and signed the paperwork. On Tuesday, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes talked about the richest contract in U.S. sports history, along with head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach. SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast, has the entire conversation, including a few questions at the end posed by comedian David Koechner.Mahomes speaks to why he sought to sign a lengthy deal. Veach details how the contract came together and when the process started. Reid explains what signing the quarterback who ha...2020-07-0751 minSportsBeat KCHow The Star’s Forum on Race came together with Mathieu, Cuonzo, othersA couple of weeks ago, Star columnist Vahe Gregorian and I started talking about hosting a video discussion around the subject of race in sports. We wondered if we could find some Kansas City-area sports leaders interested in joining us.Calls went out to a half-dozen people — six was our limit because of issues with technology and timing — and all six quickly responded in the affirmative. The show took place on Thursday.On today’s episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast, we talk about how the program came together. After a break, you’ll h...2020-06-2655 minSportsBeat KCK-State, Clemson football teams show how bumpy the road back from COVID-19 can beCollege football workouts are under way, and it hasn’t gone well in some places.A handful of schools have reported a high number of positive tests for COVID-19, including Kansas State and Clemson. Workouts have been suspended at K-State. Beat writers Kellis Robinett of the Wichita Eagle and Kansas City Star and Matt Connolly of The State in Columbia, S.C., talk about how the programs are dealing with the issue and what’s in store for the Wildcats and Tigers, and what it could mean for the start of the college football season.Afte...2020-06-2225 minSportsBeat KCChiefs press conference becomes call to action with Reid, Mahomes, MathieuIt was a Chiefs press conference unlike any other. Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes and Tyrann Mathieu used nearly all of their time talking to Kansas City reporters about race and social injustice. You’ll hear all of them, and everything they had to say, here on SportsBeat KC.These folks were thrilled after winning the Super Bowl four months ago. They were just as passionate on the topics on this day. Reid’s opening statement went longer than five minutes. “Let’s make this place greater than it already is,” he said. “We have a chance to do that.”2020-06-111h 14Deep BackgroundWhat did Kansas City and its police learn from the protests?On today's Deep Background podcast, Kansas City Star reporters Katie Moore and Steve Vockrodt join hosts Dave Helling and Derek Donovan to talk about the protests that have been going on in Kansas City and around the world in the wake of the killing of George Floyd in a Minneapolis police officer's custody. Kansas City is committing to police body cameras and other reforms, but will that solve the problem?
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-06-1033 minSportsBeat KCStanding at the intersection of sports and protestThe role of teams and high profile athletes in times of protest and unrest is the topic on today’s SportsBeat KC. Kansas City Star columnist Vahe Gregorian and Star news reporter Glenn Rice join host Blair Kerkhoff in discussing the protest scene in Kansas City and how some of the Chiefs and other teams have reacted to the developing story.Also, what was Kansas City’s response to previous moments of unrest and confrontation? Rice recalls the city in 1968 in the aftermath of Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination and more recently the Chiefs and city’s respon...2020-06-0228 minSportsBeat KCDebating Kansas City sports history in listsEveryone has their list of greatest plays or moments in Kansas City sports history, or least their favorites. The Star is putting together a list that asks the question: Do you remember where you were when this play happened? It could be from a Chiefs Super Bowl, a Royals World Series, a Final Four or bowl game. But it was that moment that likely changed the outcome and led to a huge victory.The Star’s Pete Grathoff, who with SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff, launched the list this week, and they’re joined by columnists Sam Mell...2020-05-2730 minDeep BackgroundAs Kansas City starts a tentative reopening, do masks come in red and blue?On today's Deep Background podcast, Kansas City Star reporters Sarah Ritter and Eric Adler join Dave Helling and Derek Donovan to talk about the road back from the coronavirus shutdowns. Are people taking social distancing measures seriously? And is it surprising that during this politically fraught era that this global health crisis turn into a left-versus-right debate?
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-05-1329 minSportsBeat KCKansas Citians pull together, including teams you pull forThe Chiefs were down by 10 midway through the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl? Remember when the Royals trailed the Astros by four in the eighth inning of a playoff elimination game? Or Kansas being down nine with about two minutes remaining in the 2008 NCAA title game. The teams overcame huge challenges to prevail. Teams and the region face a different challenge today.The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has halted the games and, in some cases, championships. But athletes have remained active during the health crisis. And so have the fans of those teams. Sam Mellinger and Sam...2020-03-2332 minSportsBeat KCA few details remain for college basketball’s final No. 1 team, KansasThe college basketball season isn’t quite over. The games are finished but the final Associated Press poll was released on Wednesday and more All-America teams will be announced. Kansas figures prominently in all of it.The Jayhawks are the final top-ranked team for the shortened 2019-20 season and players like Udoka Azubuike and Devon Dotson are sure to pick up more honors. Also, is there a way for Kansas to win a trophy over a final poll spot? Beat writer Jesse Newell discusses essential KU basketball topics in SportsBeat KC with Blair Kerkhoff.Story li...2020-03-1827 minSportsBeat KCThe strange new world of sportsA headline in The Kansas City Star in the days after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorists attacks read: Sports, ppd. As NFL, college football and baseball games were being called off the sports world came to a halt. So it is today because of COVID-19 coronavirus. NCAA championships — including men’s and women’s basketball — have been canceled. It’s a remarkable moment in American sports, and we talk about it on SportsBeat KC.Well, most of it. When Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian taped their segment, we knew the major college tournaments were cancelled and speculated that would...2020-03-1238 minSportsBeat KCHoop madness has already started for Big 12 champion KansasLet’s see, over the past five days, Kansas announced its 307-page response to the NCAA Notice of Allegations, won at Texas Tech to capture the outright Big 12 championship, and had players honored by the conference, including center Udoka Azubuike as player of the year. Quite a stretch for the Jayhawks, and Kansas City Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian break down what it all means on SportsBeat KC. Next stop for KU and the rest of the conference: the Big 12 Tournament at Sprint Center.Story links:Jayhawks pick up two top individual honors fr...2020-03-0931 minSportsBeat KCMizzou once again in victory lane, with Kansas State on skid rowWith Tuesday’s heart-stopping triumph against Mississippi, Missouri has won three of four and is playing its best basketball of the season. Reasons for the improvement? Start with the terrific play of point guard Xavier Pinson, who has scored 60 in the previous two games.On the opposite track is Kansas State, which can’t buy a victory these days. The Wildcats take a five-game losing streak into Wednesday’s game at Texas Tech.Beat writers Souichi Terada and Kellis Robinett check in to talk about their teams on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast...2020-02-1923 minDeep BackgroundA Star investigation into our broken foster care system: Is there a solution?The Kansas City Star's Laura Bauer and Judy Thomas spent a year investigating the United States' foster care system. A quarter of those in our prisons started out as foster kids - and there are no easy solutions in sight.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-12-1831 minDeep BackgroundKansas Governor Laura Kelly discusses her priorities for 2020Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly recently sat down for an interview with members of The Kansas City Star's Editorial Board, to talk about taxes, schools, Medicaid, and a host of other issues. This edition of Deep Background contains excerpts from those discussions. Dave Helling hosts.
For further reading:
Medicaid work rules would come at high cost to Kansas, Kelly official warns lawmakers - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article237536114.html
Kansas tax outlook improving, but state still set to spend more than it receives - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article237109454.html
Editorial: Kansas is third-worst in nation for...2019-11-2738 minSportsBeat KCK-State vs. Kansas in a meaningful football game. And Mizzou’s turn for the worseKansas State beat writer Kellis Robinett and KU beat writer Jesse Newell tell is what’s at stake at the most significant Sunflower Showdown in at least a decade. The Wildcats and Jayahwks are coming off victories and feeling good about the direction of their programs heading into Saturday’s game. Not feeling great these days are the Missouri Tigers, and Mizzou beat writer Souichi Terada sees some troubling signs for team.Read the stories we discussed:Appreciative for the good times: Skylar Thompson’s journey to stardom for K-State: https://www.kansascity.com/sports/colleg...2019-11-0134 minSportsBeat KCWhat went wrong (and right) in Kansas City Chiefs’ loss to the PackersThe Chiefs fell to the Green Bay Packers 31-24 on Sunday Night Football. The Chiefs fell behind 14-0, rallied to take a 17-14 leader behind reserve quarterback Matt Moore, but couldn’t hold off Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. Herbie Teope, Sam McDowell and Sam Mellinger broke down the game, the big moments and pivotal decisions on Facebook Live now presented as a SportsBeat KC podcast.Read the stories we discussed:Andy Reid’s conservative turn cost the Chiefs their last chance against the Packers - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article236718718.html2019-10-2839 minSportsBeat KCIt's the Chiefs, baby. Kansas City's crazy win over Detroit showed many virtues and flawsA desperation fourth-and-8 conversion, a hook-and-lateral completion and a 100-yard fumble return were some of the wild moments in the Chiefs’ 34-30 victory over the Detroit Lions on Sunday.This breakdown is provided by the A-Team of Herbie Teope, Sam McDowell, Sam Mellinger, Vahe Gregorian and Blair Kerkhoff. The group was on hand at Ford Field for the Chiefs’ most difficult and perhaps most satisfying victory of the season, one that improved the team’s record to 4-0.This episode was originally recorded as a Facebook Live video on the Red Zone Extra page.2019-09-3041 minSportsBeat KCSaying farewell to Royals manager Ned Yost; hello to new Chiefs writer Herbie TeopeThe Ned Yost decade with the Royals will end this week. The club announced he’ll step down at the end of this season. Star columnist Sam Mellinger, who has covered the entire Yost tenure, chats with host Blair Kerkhoff about the mostly good times with the manager and speculates on the future of the job. Also, Sam McDowell helps introduce new Chiefs beat writer Herbie Teope, who loaded up the truck from New Orleans to return to a market he knows well. Herbie covered the Chiefs before spending the last four years in New Or...2019-09-2445 minSportsBeat KCKansas football did what?! And rumor has it the Chiefs are shopping for a cornerbackIt was a successful weekend for area college football teams largely because of an improbable victory by Kansas at Boston College. Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger chew on the Jayhawks’ triumph as a 20-point underdog and break down Kansas State’s huge victory at Mississippi State plus look ahead to the battle of Columbia: Mizzou vs. South Carolina. Also, rumors abound about the Chiefs seeking a cornerback but how hard are they looking and who might be a candidate.Read the stories we discussed:The secret sauce behind KU’s offe...2019-09-1740 min
Deep BackgroundIs the economic border war between Kansas and Missouri really over?Missouri Governor Mike Parson and Kansas Governor Laura Kelly on Tuesday celebrated an end to the longstanding economic border war and pledged to usher in a new era of cooperation between the two states.
Reporter Kevin Hardy joins hosts Dave Helling and Leah Becerra to talk about what this truce means for Kansas, Missouri and the Kansas City area.
For further reading:
‘Sometimes common sense does prevail.’ Missouri, Kansas celebrate end of border war - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article233725152.html
Port KC plans to ‘get in line’ with Kansas-Missouri border war ceasefire - https://www.kansascity.com/news/bus...2019-08-1427 minSportsBeat KCChiefs cornerback Morris Claiborne on his mistake; how Simone Biles (and KC) set recordsThe A-team, no longer in the dark after Saturday’s preseason opener at Arrowhead Stadium, shines more light on the Chiefs victory over the Bengals.Host Blair Kerkhoff, Chiefs beat writer Brooke Pryor, columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian also talk about cornerback Morris Claiborne's first practice with the Chiefs. Claiborne owned up to the mistakes that cost him a four-game suspension to start his season.Also, Vahe tells us what it was like to witness history in the making at the U.S. Gymnastics Championship at Sprint Center. Thank you, Simone Biles.Re...2019-08-1335 minSportsBeat KCThe A-team on the Chiefs’ preseason opening victory against Bengals: It’s mostly goodThe Chiefs defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 38-17 in the preseason opener on Saturday night at Arrowhead Stadium.Patrick Mahomes and many of the starters played only one series as several players continued making their cases to land roster spots — including a hometown prospect from Lee's Summit.The Star’s A-team of Brooke Pryor, Sam Mellinger, Vahe Gregorian and Blair Kerkhoff hosted a post-game Facebook Live broadcast that is also this podcast episode. Read the stories we discussed:Sam Mellinger: The Chiefs new defense played a game at Arrowhead Saturday (sort of). Let’...2019-08-1142 minSportsBeat KCPregaming the Chiefs-Bengals preseason game on Aug. 10Today’s episode features host Blair Kerkhoff, Chiefs beat writer Brooke Pryor and columnist Sam Mellinger on all the things they are looking forward to seeing during the Chiefs’ first preseason game on Saturday at Arrowhead Stadium. The episode was originally recorded as a Facebook Live video on www.facebook.com/redzoneextra. If you want to see the A-team live, be sure to like the page to get alerts on future Facebook Live broadcasts.Plus: A fun answer from Patrick Mahomes about behind-the-back passes.Read the stories we discussed:Chiefs sign corn...2019-08-0944 minSportsBeat KCIn Kansas City, Simone Biles tells U.S. Gymnastics: You had 'one damn job'At the U.S. Gymnastics Championship at Sprint Center in Kansas City, the world’s greatest gymnast used an interview opportunity to rail against the governing body that runs the event, USA Gymnastics. In a raw moment on Wednesday, Simone Biles got emotional talking about the lack of faith and trust in the sport’s leaders after the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal rocked the world. Nassar, the former USA Gymnastics team doctor, was sentenced to up to 175 years in prison for multiple sex crimes against the athletes.Host Blair Kerkhoff shares Biles' comments and Star...2019-08-0816 minSportsBeat KCThe importance of Mecole Hardman to the Chiefs offenseThe Chiefs already had a load of talented wide receivers. Then they added Mecole Hardman, a burner from Georgia, with their first draft pick this year. Hardman has improved throughout training camp, and the Chiefs are figuring out ways to use him. Also, host Blair Kerkhoff, beat writer Brooke Pryor and columnist Sam Mellinger break down the team’s first depth chart and wonder where the biggest position battles might be as the Chiefs open the preseason on Saturday against the Cincinnati Bengals at Arrowhead Stadium.Read the stories we discussed:Rookie receiver Me...2019-08-0633 minSportsBeat KCChiefs QB Patrick Mahomes on his new cereal and the legacy of KU broadcasting legend Max FalkenstienChiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes covered a variety of topics on Friday at Chiefs camp, starting with his thoughts on Mahomes Magic Crunch, his new, limited edition cereal sold at Hy-Vee stores.Also, KU beat writer Gary Bedore and host Blair Kerkhoff remember Max Falkenstien, the legendary Jayhawks broadcaster who started calling games at Kansas in 1946. Falkenstien, KU’s greatest ambassador, died earlier this week at age 95. Blair also looks forward to what's coming up on the Kansas City sports scene this weekend and next week.Read the stories we discussed:Mahomes Magic Crunch on...2019-08-0324 minSportsBeat KCAnalyzing what the Royals didn’t do in July trades and Chiefs cornerback Kendall Fuller's roleThere were winners and losers at baseball’s trade deadline and some teams, like the Royals, didn’t play. Players like Whit Merrifield and Ian Kennedy remained with the club. Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy sits down with host Blair Kerkhoff to explain why the Royals stood pat. They also look ahead at the club’s objectives for the rest of the season.Also, Chiefs cornerback Kendall Fuller explains why he’s good with playing slot cornerback almost exclusively.Read the stories we discussed:Royals GM Dayton Moore ‘comfortable’ with returns from their July trades...2019-08-0227 minSportsBeat KCChiefs future and past: Andy Reid on Tremon Smith move; former greats ready for Hall of Fame inductionA position change, a roster addition and the view of the hit that put Tyreek Hill out of practice from the one who applied it made for a newsy day at Chiefs camp on Wednesday in St. Joseph, Missouri.Host Blair Kerkhoff and Chiefs beat writer Brooke Pryor share those details and a story about running into a favorite local sports fan.Also, Star columnist Vahe Gregorian previews his trip to the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Ohio, where he’ll cover the big day for former Chiefs Johnny Robinson and Tony Go...2019-07-3136 minSportsBeat KCChiefs players arrive in style, plus thoughts on Travis Kelce and future of training campFriday, July 26, was the day veteran players reported to Chiefs training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri. Anthony Sherman drove NASCAR driver Clint Bowyer’s show car. Punter Dustin Colquitt brought a special teams unit into camp in a military truck. But the most notable to check into the dorm was defensive lineman Chris Jones, who had missed OTAs and mini-camp while angling for a new contract. Chiefs president Mark Donovan also answered questions about the future of training camp at Missouri Western State University because the team's 10-year contract with the school ends after this ye...2019-07-2730 minSportsBeat KCSam and Vahe: Royals’ future and Kansas City's Men’s World Cup 2026 prospectsIt’s difficult to discuss the Royals in the present tense, so Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian join host Blair Kerkhoff to look at the future with Salvador Perez, Bubba Starling and Ned Yost. Also, how does Kansas City’s Women’s World Cup enthusiasm impact the city’s bid for the Men’s 2026 World Cup?Read the stories we discussed:Sam Mellinger: How the 2019 Royals can still make progress: five keys to ponder this summer — www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-colu…e232325672.htmlVahe Gregorian: Power & Light: U.S. women gave us...2019-07-0941 minSportsBeat KCRoyals’ All-Star rep Whit Merrifield, sports betting in Missouri, and a message about cancerWhit Merrifield is the Royals’ All-Star Game representative. Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian discuss whether baseball got the selection right. Also, Sam talks about how sports wagering seems destined to become law in Missouri. Host Blair Kerkhoff also pays tribute to former Star editor Adam Darby, who died of cancer in June at age 49.Read the stories we discussed: Vahe Gregorian: Whit Merrifield’s roots explain his unyielding path to stardom with Royals at age 30 — https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article227414959.htmlSam Mellinger: The challenges and potential of legaliz...2019-07-0132 minSportsBeat KCKC Royals update: Hunter Dozier, Bubba Starling and who will be the All-Star rep?The Star’s Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy provides updates on Hunter Dozier’s big return, moves on the pitching staff, the Class AAA All-Star call for Bubba Starling and who gets the Royals’ All-Star spot and could there be more than one? With host Blair Kerkhoff.Read the stories we discussed:Royals offense whiffs against Indians’ Trevor Bauer in series finale —https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article231978027.htmlFormer Gardner Edgerton standout Bubba Starling chosen for Triple-A All-Star Game — https://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article231982897.htmlHunter Dozie...2019-06-2726 min
Deep BackgroundQuinton Lucas will be Kansas City's next mayor. Now what?The Star's Allison Kite and Bill Turque join host Dave Helling to discuss Kansas City's election results. How did Quinton Lucas win? And what's next? Plus a look at Question 1's defeat.
For further reading:
Quinton Lucas scores decisive win over Jolie Justus in Kansas City mayor’s race - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231659313.html
Kansas City voters say no to Question One to cap developers’ incentives - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231658443.html
In a night of blowout wins, two KC City Council races stay nail-biters to the end - https://www.kans...2019-06-1925 min
Deep BackgroundElection preview: Question 1 and the race for Kansas City MayorKansas City voters will pick a new mayor and city council on June 18, and decide the fate of a plan to cut incentives for developers. Reporters Steve Vockrodt and Allison Kite join the podcast to discuss the issues and candidates. Also, The Star's politics editor Bill Turque is here for this pre-election edition of Deep Background. Dave Helling hosts.
For further reading:
Curbing rampant tax handouts or killing KC’s progress? Voters to decide incentive cap - https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article231227158.html
Mayoral debate: Justus, Lucas talk violent crime, inclusion, MLK Blvd. or Paseo - https://ww...2019-06-1239 min
SportsBeat KCSam and Vahe roundtable: Could KC be an NHL or NBA city? And Tyreek Hill, Royals, Big Papi storiesWith the Stanley Cup finals and NBA Finals winding down, Kansas City Star sports columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger make the case (or not) for Kansas City as an NBA or NHL city. Once upon a time, both leagues called Kansas City and Kemper Arena home.
Also, the columnists and host Blair Kerkhoff break down the latest Tyreek Hill news, attempt to find meaning in the Royals’ losing ways, send best wishes for a speedy recovery to Big Papi (David Ortiz) and conclude with Sam’s favorite KC Star enterprise.
Read the stories we discussed:
Vahe Gregorian: Blues’ season...2019-06-1140 min
SportsBeat KCA conversation with David Cone: former All-Star pitcher on his career with Royals, MetsThere’s no telling how the Kansas City Royals’ fortunes might have been altered if they hadn’t traded David Cone. Twice.
Cone -- one of the best baseball players to emerge from Kansas City -- shared his life story and explores baseball issues in his new book, "Full Count: The Education of a Pitcher," written with Jack Curry. During his recent stop at Kauffman Stadium, Cone took time out to chat about his career with host Blair Kerkhoff.
Read the story we discussed:
Pitcher David Cone covers Kansas City years in new book about his baseball career - https...2019-05-3024 min
SportsBeat KCChiefs OTAs: Patrick Mahomes' rising star and Chris Jones' absence. Plus, Brooke's dilemmaThe Kansas City Chiefs' organized team activities continue with full squad workout. Well, almost full squad. Star defensive lineman Chris Jones has not attended the voluntary practice. Host Blair Kerkhoff and beat writer Brooke Pryor share their takeaways from this week's OTAs. Also, Brooke has a dilemma regarding a new family member.
Read the stories we discussed:
Comfortable in role with Chiefs, in community, Patrick Mahomes enters Year 2 as a starter - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article230755104.html
Defensive star Chris Jones missing from Chiefs’ workouts; contract remains unsettled - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/ka...2019-05-2428 min
SportsBeat KCKansas colleges: Bill Self’s future with KU and guessing K-State’s next starting fiveToday host Blair Kerkhoff talks with University of Kansas beat writer Jesse Newell and Kansas State beat writer Kellis Robinett.
Read the stories we discussed:
Sophomore standout J.T. Thor to make unofficial recruiting visit to KU on Thursday - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article229928884.html
Chris Beard’s new deal tops Bill Self’s by one measurement, but not in average value - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article229817869.html
It’s almost decision time for Caleb Grill, other K-State recruiting targets - https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/articl...2019-05-0333 min
Deep BackgroundBrain fungus death a sign of bigger problems in Kansas prisonsHealthcare reporter Andy Marso's review of oversight records for Kansas prison health care provider Corizon Health found a pattern of the contractor not meeting its obligation to provide medical attention in a timely manner. He joins host Leah Becerra to talk about his investigation for The Kansas City Star.
Read the stories:
Locked out of care: Brain fungus death points to extensive problems in Kansas prisons - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/health-care/article229423849.html
Kansas prison health contractor fails to provide enough psychiatrists, medications - https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/health-care/article229424464.html
Fungus destroyed inmate’s br...2019-05-0126 min
Deep BackgroundKansas City mayoral candidate Jason Kander drops out. What's next?Star reporters Steve Vockrodt and Bill Turque join Dave Helling of the Star's editorial board to talk about Jason Kander's stunning decision to drop from the Kansas City mayor's race - and what it means for Kansas City politics.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-10-0324 min
SportsBeat KCChiefs-Steelers wrapup with The Star's A-Team 2.0After Patrick Mahomes threw for six touchdowns, The Kansas City Star's Brooke Pryor, Lynn Worthy, Sam Mellinger, Vahe Gregorian and Blair Kerkhoff broke down the Chiefs' 42-37 victory at Pittsburgh on Sept. 16, 2018. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices2018-09-1738 min
SportsBeat KCThe Star’s A-Team 2.0 on week two of Chiefs campFive Star writers talking Chiefs a week before the first preseason game. What could be better? The Kansas City Star’s Blair Kerkhoff, Brooke Pryor, Lynn Worthy, Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger spoke about week two of training camp in St. Joesph. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices2018-08-0250 min
SportsBeat KCGo west, young Jayhawks?Kansas City Star reporter Jesse Newell is joined by C.J. Moore of The Athletic and Bleacher Report as the two discuss the latest with the Kansas Jayhawks basketball team. What did the road victory over Kansas State tell us about KU? And how should we view Bill Self now that he's been in Lawrence longer than Roy Williams? Jesse and C.J. also answer Twitter and email questions. Should KU want to be in the NCAA Tournament West regional? And what should the all-Big 12 team be? Other talking points include trap games, online reviews and holes in the...2018-02-0245 min
SportsBeat KCWhat does KU's loss to Washington mean for the future?Kansas City Star reporter Jesse Newell is joined by C.J. Moore of Bleacher Report and The Athletic as the two discuss the Kansas Jayhawks' loss to Washington in Kansas City. What does the defeat mean for the team moving forward? And how could KU potentially have better countered Washington's zone? The two also discuss Udoka Azubuike and Lagerald Vick before taking Twitter questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices2017-12-0738 min
Deep BackgroundWhy so secret, Kansas?Kansas may be the most secretive state in the country, a Kansas City Star investigation shows. Reporters Laura Bauer and Judy Thomas join Dave Helling to discuss the investigative series. This episode was originally published Wednesday Nov 15, 2017.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-11-1537 min
SportsBeat KCFormer KC Star Royals reporter Bob Dutton's memories of the teamRustin Dodd, The Kansas City Star’s Royals reporter, chats with former KC Star Royals beat writer Bob Dutton after his 46th and final year in newspapers. The conversation touches on changes in journalism, the post-strike Royals (about 8:30), the beginnings of Carlos Beltran (13:15), the trades of Johnny Damon, Jermaine Dye and Beltran (21:30), young Zack Greinke (29:00), the rise of the 2015 World Champs, and his favorite stories and Royals players to cover. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices2017-10-161h 00
Deep BackgroundWhy is this 17-year-old running for Kansas governor?Katy Bergen and Hunter Woodall of The Kansas City Star join Dave Helling to talk about how the Kansas Supreme Court ruled Monday that the state’s new school finance system is unconstitutional. This week's episode also includes some discussion on the Kansas governor's race, including a clip with Tyler Ruzich, who is one of the teenage candidates in the running.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-10-0428 min
Deep BackgroundYoung, professional, and black: the Kansas City social scene for African-AmericansAaron Randle of the Kansas City Star joins Dave Helling to talk about Aaron's recent front page story about social engagement among minorities in Kansas City. It's a candid and fascinating conversation about the issues surrounding younger residents in the area, and a don't-miss podcast.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-09-2719 min
Deep BackgroundTyson Foods dispute, luring Amazon to Kansas CityThe Tonganoxie-Tyson Foods dispute, and luring Amazon to the KC region: Two important stories, with host Dave Helling and Kansas City Star reporters discussing the details.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-09-2028 min
Deep BackgroundThe Kansas City streetcar, minimum wage — and the airportKansas City Star reporters Lynn Horsley and Steve Vockrodt join the Star's Dave Helling of the editorial board to discuss the results of Tuesday's election, and what they mean for the city — and its plans for a new airport terminal.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-08-0932 min
Deep BackgroundChallenges for the Kansas City Police DepartmentGlenn Rice of the Kansas City Star and Dave Helling of the Star's editorial board discuss changes and challenges for the Kansas City Police Department, including the search for a new chief, the unsettled Board of Police Commissioners, the high crime rate, and proposed body cameras. All on Deep Background.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-06-2123 min
Deep BackgroundStar opinion writers on the first ten days of the Trump administrationDave Helling, Colleen McCain Nelson, and Melinda Hennenberger of The Kansas City Star's editorial board discuss the eventful first ten days of President Donald Trump's administration. It's time to take him literally.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-02-0123 min
Deep BackgroundKansas budget, plus your changing workplaceKansas Capitol correspondent Hunter talks about the way forward for a state with budget problems and Gov. Sam Brownback's final stretch in public office. Then Diane Stafford chats about how your workplace, job, and job security are changing in an Uber-influenced world of the gig economy. The latest "Deep Background" podcast from The Kansas City Star.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-01-1840 min
Deep BackgroundTalking Kansas City techThe Consumer Electronics Show, Kansas City's own tech scene and the balance between gadgetry convenience and privacy mark the latest Deep Background podcast conversation with Leah Becerra, Jay Pilgreen and Scott Canon of The Kansas City Star.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2017-01-1132 min
Deep BackgroundTrump and Clinton in Missouri, Kansas, and beyondKansas City Star reporters Dave Helling, Scott Canon, and Jason Hancock discuss the latest developments in the presidential race — including the candidates' standing in Missouri and Kansas.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2016-06-1531 min
Deep BackgroundPensions, legislative pay, and the Kansas school dilemmaKansas City Star reporters Scott Canon and Dave Helling, and Steve Kraske of KCUR discuss pension payments to state lawmakers, legislative pay, the unusual nature of state races — and the Kansas reaction to the school funding ruling.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2016-06-0226 min
Deep BackgroundA new airport, Kansas Republicans — and more Donald TrumpDave Helling of the Star and Steve Kraske of KCUR and the Star discuss the politics of a vote on a new Kansas City airport, the contentious battle among Kansas Republicans, and the state of the presidential race as Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton move closer to nominations.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2016-04-2821 min
Deep BackgroundNew York weighs in on Trump while the political landscape shifts in Missouri, KansasThe Kansas City Star's Scott Canon and KCUR's Steve Kraske discuss how the New York primary pushed Hillary Clinton closer to the nomination, the challenges still ahead for Donald Trump and how races for governor in Missouri and the U.S. Senate in Kansas could be shifting.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2016-04-2122 min
Deep BackgroundKansas caucus, the politics of race, and Nancy Reagan's impact on the White HouseThe Star's Dave Helling and Steve Kraske of KCUR and the Star discuss Saturday's Kansas caucus, the politics of race, and Nancy Reagan's impact on the White House. Analysts said the March 5 Kansas caucuses were the most competitive presidential contests in the nation.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2016-03-0916 min