New Year's Eve Celebrations Reflect Community and Hopeful Anticipation

KSR · December 31, 2025 · Listen to Original Episode →

Original Title:

TL;DR

The dual ball drop in Times Square for New Year's Eve, occurring at midnight and again at 12:04 AM, is a unique celebration of America's 250th anniversary, with the second drop featuring red, white, and blue elements.
New Year's Eve celebrations are evolving from large-scale hosting to attending smaller gatherings, reflecting a shift towards more manageable and less chaotic personal traditions.
The tradition of watching New Year's Eve broadcasts, from Dick Clark to modern hosts like Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen, serves as a communal focal point for ringing in the new year.
The text highlights the diverse entertainment options available for New Year's Eve broadcasts, ranging from musical performances to comedic acts and even true crime segments.
New Year's Eve broadcasts are increasingly featuring hosts who openly consume alcohol on air, creating a more informal and potentially unpredictable viewing experience.
The concept of a "double ball drop" on New Year's Eve, with a potential third event in July, suggests an extended and multifaceted approach to celebrating national milestones.

Deep Dive

This broadcast recaps the year 2025 on New Year's Eve, focusing on personal anecdotes, reflections on the past year, and anticipation for the upcoming one. The hosts, Drew Franklin and Ryan Lemond, engage in conversational banter, sharing humorous stories and lighthearted takes on various topics, including New Year's Eve traditions, past broadcast moments, and upcoming college sports matchups. The underlying implication is that shared experiences and community, even through casual conversation and media consumption, provide comfort and connection, especially during times of personal difficulty or transition.

The core of the discussion revolves around New Year's Eve traditions, with Ryan Lemond recounting chaotic past parties involving excessive drinking and cleanup, contrasting with his current preference for a more subdued celebration. This highlights a common life transition from youthful exuberance to a desire for comfort and familiarity in celebrating milestones. Drew Franklin’s more structured approach to the evening, including a double ball drop in Times Square and an array of televised countdown events, underscores the diverse ways individuals mark the passage of time and seek shared cultural experiences. The mention of the second ball drop, intended to celebrate America's 250th anniversary, suggests a societal need for collective acknowledgment of significant events, even when they might seem redundant or excessive.

Second-order implications emerge as the hosts discuss the role of Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR) in listeners' lives, particularly during difficult times. Listeners calling in share how the show provided solace and distraction during hospital stays and health issues, illustrating the power of consistent media presence to foster a sense of community and support. This extends beyond sports commentary to become a lifeline, demonstrating that media can serve a vital emotional function. Furthermore, the anticipation for the upcoming year, particularly concerning college basketball and football, with specific discussions about player matchups and team strategies, reveals a cyclical reliance on sports as a source of optimism and shared identity. The anticipation of new seasons and potential successes provides a consistent narrative of hope and renewal, a common thread in year-end reflections. The segment on J.P. Blevins, a former player and coach, adds a layer of historical context, connecting past eras of the program with current aspirations, reinforcing the enduring legacy and community built around the university's athletic programs. The ongoing conversation about NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and player recruitment signifies the evolving landscape of college sports, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for teams and fans alike.

Ultimately, the broadcast serves as a communal reflection on the year past and a hopeful look towards the future. The emphasis on shared experiences, from chaotic parties to the comfort found in familiar media, suggests that human connection and a sense of belonging are paramount, especially as individuals navigate personal challenges and the collective passage of time. The overarching takeaway is that while the specifics of celebration may change, the human need for shared rituals, community, and optimism for what lies ahead remains constant.

Action Items

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Key Quotes

"Mom's Alzheimer's was already so hard, but then we found out she had something called agitation that may happen with dementia due to Alzheimer's disease, and that was a different kind of difficult. So we asked her doctor for more help. Seeing symptoms like these in a loved one, it could be time to ask their doctor about Rexulti."

This quote highlights the progression of Alzheimer's disease and the emergence of agitation as a specific symptom. The speaker explains that this symptom prompted them to seek additional medical assistance, leading to a discussion about the medication Rexulti.

"Fortunately, her doctor prescribed Xolair (omalizumab). It's proven to significantly reduce allergic reactions. If a food allergy accident happens, Xolair 150 milligrams is a prescription medication used to treat food allergy in people one year of age and older to reduce allergic reactions due to accidental exposure to one or more foods."

This passage introduces Xolair as a treatment for food allergies, emphasizing its proven ability to reduce allergic reactions. The speaker notes that it is a prescription medication for individuals aged one year and older, designed to mitigate reactions from accidental exposure to allergens.

"This is not Matt Jones. This is Drew Franklin filling in for Matt on a new edition of Kentucky Sports Radio. It is Wednesday, December 31st, New Year's Eve, the final day of 2025, and I am here with my good friend Ryan Lemon."

Drew Franklin introduces himself as the host, filling in for Matt Jones on the final day of 2025. He establishes the context of the broadcast as Kentucky Sports Radio and immediately introduces his co-host, Ryan Lemon.

"Well, that's why I think it's good you're hosting this last show of 2025 because you're ready to get it in the rearview mirror and move past it and get into 2026. Been a ups and downs for a lot of us this past year, so 2025 sayonara baby, get out of here, get out of here 2025."

Ryan Lemon expresses his sentiment about the year 2025, indicating a desire to move past it and look forward to 2026. He acknowledges that the past year has had its challenges, framing it as a year of "ups and downs" that he is ready to leave behind.

"I just walked into your house. It's about 8 o'clock. I brought my own bottle of cheap bourbon and wine. What am I what am I looking at? Uh, there was a, I, I guess I should not use the names, protect the innocent. Understand times have changed. We've all different friends, different relationships, I get it. You have to use names. Uh, so, you know, there was a good friend of mine that I worked with at channel 18, her name, let's say we'll call her, uh, Harry Joe Harry Mo. Okay, she's so loved that brought the little test tube bottles of Alabama Slammer."

Ryan Lemon recounts a past New Year's Eve party, describing his arrival and the presence of a friend who brought "Alabama Slammer" drinks. He uses a pseudonym to protect the friend's identity, indicating that the party involved multiple people and a significant amount of alcohol.

"I did the sports that night at channel 18, got off the set and where the party was at, not at my house then yet. It was at somebody else's friend's house in Palmour, of all places. Shout out Palmour. I think three of our, uh, tables here from Palmour driving from channel 18 to Palmour on New Circle Road, going probably, and I'm not kidding you, 120 miles an hour."

Ryan Lemon describes his experience on New Year's Eve for the millennium, detailing his drive from his sports reporting job to a party. He admits to driving at an excessively high speed on New Circle Road, emphasizing the urgency to reach the celebration.

Resources

External Resources

Books

"The Greatest Showman" - Mentioned in relation to a musical performance.

Articles & Papers

"today.com" - Mentioned as a source for information on the New Year's Eve ball drop.

People

Andy Cohen - Co-host of CNN's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Billie - Mentioned as having a pre-show discussing Severe Wheeler.
Bob - Caller from Jamestown who shared New Year's Eve traditions and resolutions.
Chance the Rapper - Musical guest for the central time countdown.
CeeLo Green - Musical performer on CNN's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Charlie Puth - Musical performer on ABC's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Dan Cummins - Mentioned in relation to a song sung during a New Year's Eve celebration.
Demi Lovato - Musical performer on ABC's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Dick Clark - Former host of "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve."
Don Lemon - Co-host of CNN's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Drew Franklin - Filling in for Matt Jones as host of Kentucky Sports Radio.
Gary - Caller from Orlando who shared thoughts on KSR's support during health issues.
Gronk - Scheduled to be in Las Vegas for New Year's Eve celebrations.
Hardy - Co-host of "Nashville's Big Bash" and musical performer.
Hayley Bailey - Special correspondent for "Nashville's Big Bash."
Hugh Jackman - Performer on CNN's New Year's Eve broadcast.
J.P. Blevins - Confirmed guest for the show, discussed in relation to his time with Coach Cal and NIL.
Jaden - Mentioned in relation to playing the four position.
Jaden Quinton's - Mentioned in relation to playing the four position.
Jules Camara - Part of a recruiting class.
Keith Morris - Involved in NBC's "A Toast to 2025" broadcast.
Lenny Wilson - Musical performer on CBS's "Nashville's Big Bash."
Lizzo - Mentioned in relation to a song.
Mario - Mentioned as being on vacation but still working on social media.
Mark Stoops - Mentioned in relation to Kentucky football wins.
Matt Jones - Regular host of Kentucky Sports Radio, currently on vacation.
Mary J. Blige - Musical performer on ABC's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Manny - Mentioned in relation to a t-shirt.
New Kids on the Block - Musical performers on ABC's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Nate Oats - Mentioned in relation to Alabama basketball.
Pope - Mentioned in relation to Alabama basketball comments and preview.
Ray Lau - Performer at Comedy Off Broadway.
Reed - Caller who asked about guarding Alabama's Filion.
Rick - Studio guest.
Rick Brooks - Mentioned as being gone for 16 years.
Rone Chappelle - Performer at Comedy Off Broadway.
Ronnie - Mentioned in relation to a New Year's Eve party.
Russell Dickerson - Musical performer on ABC's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Ryan Lemon - Co-host of Kentucky Sports Radio, sharing New Year's Eve stories.
Ryan Seacrest - Host of "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve."
Severe Wheeler - Mentioned in relation to Big Blue Madness.
Shannon - Mentioned as being in Panama City and watching morning shows.
Sierra - Musical performer on ABC's New Year's Eve broadcast.
Snoop Dogg - Scheduled to appear on NBC's New Year's Eve broadcast.
T.J. Smith - Personal injury attorney and sponsor of KSR.
Tayshawn Prince - Part of a recruiting class.
Todd Tackett - Part of a recruiting class.
Troy Stuto - Mentioned as leaving Kentucky for the portal.
Tubby - Mentioned in relation to J.P. Blevins' time as a player.
Willie Cauley-Stein - Mentioned in relation to a hat and being beloved by fans.
Willie - Mentioned in relation to being beloved by fans.
Zin - Mentioned in relation to a cocktail series.

Organizations & Institutions

AARP - Mentioned in relation to reskilling courses.
Alabama - Mentioned in relation to basketball and Filion.
Alabama Crimson Tide men's basketball - Mentioned in relation to Filion.
Aviation Glass - Mentioned in relation to a text machine.
CVS - Mentioned in relation to community service and prescriptions.
Comedy Off Broadway - Venue hosting New Year's Eve events.
Dateline - Mentioned in relation to NBC's New Year's Eve broadcast.
ESPN Radio - Mentioned in relation to Matt Jones' obligations.
Genentech - Advertiser for Xolair.
Heineken 0.0 - Presented by "This is Honor's Home."
Illinois Fighting Illini football - Mentioned in relation to the Music City Bowl.
Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR) - Radio show discussed throughout the transcript.
KSR Bar and Grill - Location of the broadcast.
Lenovo - Advertiser for gaming computers.
Lenovo Legion - Gaming desktop mentioned.
Lexington - Mentioned in relation to Comedy Off Broadway.
Marion County - Mentioned as having a strong presence at the broadcast.
MG United - Website for recipes and tips for managing MG symptoms.
Nashville's Big Bash - Country music New Year's Eve broadcast.
NBC - Network broadcasting "A Toast to 2025."
New England Patriots - Mentioned as an example team for performance analysis.
Novartis - Advertiser for Xolair.
Pandora Jewelry - Advertiser for holiday gifts.
Pro Football Focus (PFF) - Data source for player grading.
Rupp Arena - Venue where Hardy performed.
Stockton Mortgage - Advertiser for home buying services.
Tennessee Volunteers football - Mentioned in relation to the Music City Bowl.
The University of Alabama - Mentioned in relation to a granddaughter.
Virgin Voyages - Sponsor of the "Wayfinder" podcast.
WJFK - Mentioned in relation to a radio show.
Xolair - Mentioned as a prescription medication for food allergies.

Tools & Software

AVision Glass Text Machine - Mentioned as a contact method.
Clark's Pump and Shop Phone Line - Mentioned as a contact method.
iheartradio app - Platform to listen to podcasts.
Lenovo.com - Source for Lenovo gaming computers.
Rexulti.com - Website for more information on Rexulti.
Skyrizi.com - Website for more information on Skyrizi.
Xolair.com - Website for full prescribing information on Xolair.

Websites & Online Resources

Aarp.org - Website for AARP reskilling courses.
Cosentyx.com - Website for more information on Cosentyx.
Heineken.com - Website for Heineken 0.0 delivery.
Mgunited.com - Website for recipes and tips for managing MG symptoms.
Rexulti.com - Website for more information on Rexulti.
Skyrizi.com - Website for more information on Skyrizi.
Stockton.com - Website for Stockton Mortgage.
Xolair.com - Website for full prescribing information on Xolair.

Other Resources

Alabama Slammers - A type of alcoholic drink mentioned in New Year's Eve stories.
Big Blue Madness - Event mentioned in relation to Severe Wheeler.
Black Bean Burgers - Mentioned in an Alicia's cooking video.
Bourbon - Mentioned as a drink.
Call of the Day - Awarded to Whiskey Thief.
Central Time Countdown - Part of New Year's Eve celebrations.
Comedy - Mentioned in relation to Comedy Off Broadway.
Dementia-related psychosis - Medical condition discussed in relation to Rexulti.
Dry January - Mentioned in relation to Heineken 0.0.
Easter Time - Mentioned in relation to New Year's Eve celebrations.
Fever, stiff muscles, and confusion - Symptoms of a serious condition.
Food Allergy - Medical condition discussed in relation to Xolair.
Fringe first round pick - Term used to describe a player's draft potential.
Groundhog Day - Mentioned as a holiday for gift-giving.
Ham Days - Event mentioned in relation to hog calling.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) - Medical condition discussed in relation to Skyrizi and Cosentyx.
IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) - Mentioned in relation to Cosentyx side effects.
Illness - Mentioned in relation to KSR's support.
Income - Mentioned in relation to AARP courses.
KSR Pre-show - Mentioned as a replayed episode.
Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball - Mentioned in relation to player performance and potential.
Kentucky Wildcats football - Mentioned in relation to preseason predictions.
Limited cocktail inspired series - Mentioned in relation to Zin.
Luxury of always included travel - Concept discussed in relation to Virgin Voyages.
Manny T-shirt - Mentioned as a gift.
Margeritas - A type of drink.
Mayhem - Description of the Times Square crowd.
Metcalfe County - Mentioned in relation to J.P. Blevins.
Millennium - Mentioned in relation to New Year's Eve 1999-2000.
Mojito Spiced Cider and Espresso Martini - Flavors of Zin nicotine pouches.
Mountain Time - Mentioned in relation to New Year's Eve celebrations.
Music City Bowl - Football game mentioned.
New Year's Eve Kiss - Tradition mentioned.
New Year's Eve Party - Event discussed in detail.
New Year's Resolutions -