The Odds, the Horses and the Stories Behind Them - Todd Schrupp
Summary
LEX 18’s Hot Mic hosts Megan Mannering and Evelyn Schultz welcome horse racing expert Todd Schrupp for a Kentucky Derby-themed episode. Schrupp shares his journey from Minnesota to Miami and Los Angeles, including his time launching TVG alongside Chris Harrison. He discusses his 18-year partnership with LEX 18, the importance of Keeneland, and offers insights on handicapping and broadcasting.
Topics discussed
Introduction and welcome of guest Todd Schrupp
Todd's role as the station's horse racing expert
Childhood memories and first exposure to racing in California
Growing up in Minnesota and bonding with his father
High school theater and early career aspirations
First job in Florida and the move to South Florida
Sidebar on the Spam Museum and Minnesota roots
Early broadcasting career and creative work at Calder
The audition for TVG and the pivotal phone call
Starting at TVG and the network's launch
Anecdote about Chris Harrison and The Bachelor
Career highlights: Bill Shoemaker and Laffit Pincay Jr.
Transition to LEX 18 and meeting Mary West
Making Lexington home and the nomadic lifestyle
How Todd memorizes horse names and racing details
Reading racing forms and betting strategies
Derby storylines: So Happy and the tragic loss of owner
The connection between jockey Mike Smith and Prince
Other Derby contenders and unique owner stories
Why the Kentucky Derby is unique and the Old Kentucky sound
Responsibility to educate new fans and close the interview
Hot takes, final thoughts, and sign-off
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