The Brandy Show...

With the upstart colonies of the new world flexing their muscles against their English oppressors, the United States of America was born. There were so many seminal moments during the formation of this new union, it's is hard to pick one or two events that stand at the top as the "one thing" that changed the course of history. There was so much written, battles were fought, rhetoric was hurled from either side, but it all culminated in a new nation formed out of a sense of fairness and equality for all. One of the many documents that embodies the principles that our founding fathers were determined to instill in this new nation was the Declaration of Independence. Take a trip back in history, and listen to the high ideals this upstart nation wanted to imprint on it's people so their future could sustain and deliver on its promise for a better life for all. The men who signed this Declaration put their lives on the line for this notion, and 250 years later it still stands as a beacon of freedom and liberty for all. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

In May of 1962, General Douglas MacArthur, one of the most decorated soldiers of his generation was named the Sylvanus Thayer Award winner by the United States Military Academy. The award honors those whose accomplishments and service to the national  interests have exemplified the the academy's motto of "duty, honor, country." MacArthur was extremely honored by his beloved academy's honor and gave one of the most memorable acceptance speeches West Point has ever heard. In this episode, I do my best to give MacArthurs speech to the Corp it's proper respect. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

When Chad Henne, a former Michigan quarterback and multi year NFL star retired from the NFL. he took some heat in social media after his last seasons as a back up in Kansas City to Patrick Mahomes. Chad retired on top of the football world with a Super Bowl ring ending a wonderful career. I read some remarks after Chad announced the retirement that he was an average quaerterback who made a lot of money and never won much til he was a back up. Those remarks in my opinion are stupid and don't reflect the important contribution these guys provide to a championship team. Back up quarterbacks have an incredible work ethic and they are the personification of a team oriented guy. While this commentary covers my opinion on most all the back up quarterbacks in the League, it was prompted by Chad Henne's retirement and my affection for his career and commitment over his years as a solid professional. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

It was over 100 years ago when an athletic director genius and visionary named Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan had an idea. It was about intercollegiate athletics for all. One part of that plan was a massive football stadium that was far beyond the scope of anything that had been already constructed or was planned to be constructed. “Ambitious” would have been an understatement for Yosts’ plan. Yet, he believed so firmly, he saw it through. It is now an iconic venue that is recognized world wide. It is as serviceable in 2025, as it was in 1927, and will be for years to come. This is the offspring of the incredible foresight of Fielding H Yost. Dr Robert Soderstrom takes us through the process with an historic tour-de-force book, “The Big House - Fielding H. Yost, and the Building of Michigan Stadium."” Enjoy my conversation with Dr. Robert Soderstrom about Michigan Stadium. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

Bits and pieces of history that are surprising come from all aspects of historic events. For instance, Robert E Lee, the South's greatest General in the Civil War tendered a resignation letter to his president, Jefferson Davis when the war was still raging. Davis wrote Lee back and refused to accept his resignation. The rest, as they say, is history. But, to experience the anguish of  Lee's letter, and the encouraging reply of Davis gives a sense of the desperate time, but also the respect both men had for each other. It's all in this episode of "The Brandy Show."  Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

On September 2nd of 1945, the Emperor of Japan surrendered to the Supreme Allied commander, General Douglas MacArthur of the United States. The event took place in Tokyo Bay on the deck of the United States battleship Missouri. It marked the end of one of the bloodiest and deadliest conflicts in world history. For this occasion, MacArthur was compelled by the events that brought the war to an end to speak about the occasion, and the significance it held for the entire globe. This episode of "The Brandy Show" features both speeches as transcribed by historians who were present that day on the Missouri. MacArthur's remarks are read by the producer of this podcast, Jim Brandstatter. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

Gambling has been looking for a foothold to invade the world of professional and college sports for a very long time. You can go back to the Black Sox scandal in major league baseball way back in 1919 as an example. But now, gambling enjoys seats in the front row. It used to be available only in Vegas or shady store fronts. Now they advertise for your bets on our TV's and radio's. Gambling is a major sponsor for the games they hope people will bet on so they can make their profits from the losing bettors. The whole scenario prompted me to write this commentary back in 2023, and now you can hear it in this episode of the Brandy Show. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

Samuel Langhorne Clemens, aka Mark Twain is one of America's literary treasures. Not only a great writer of classics like Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, Twain was an essayist, humorist and wonderful speaker. He would, and could converse on just about any topic. From politics, to the arts, to literature, to journalism, to history, Twain was never boring. With an acerbic yet playful style, he played his audiences and readers like a maestro, and had them loving every word by the time he was finished. This speech to the New York Engineers Club in 1907 honoring Andrew Carnegie is an example of his talents as he takes on the English language and its sometimes confusing foundational spelling practices. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

A commentary on the fragile balance the NFL manages between its standing as the colossal giant in professional team sports, and the underbelly of its mega successful standing as a business beast. When the players that create the beast become expendable, despite their exemplary service, the business portion of the beast casts them away. Don't feel sorry for the players, they usually find their way to continued pay days, but make no mistake,  business is king, the game just keeps it fed.  Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

Abraham Lincoln was one of two people asked to speak at the dedication of the cemetery in Gettysburg. The other speaker took more than 2 hours for his address, Lincoln's lasted a little more than two minutes. Despite the brevity of the remarks, they have lasted much longer than the other speakers by a mile. Hear the address, and the context surrounding this historical event in this episode. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

The analysis of the game doesn't do this Lions loss justice. It's more about the dashing of the dreams of a fan base. This was the year all the past was going to be forgotten...instead, more heartache and  hopes put on hold again greeted the proud franchise faithful in a playoff run that wasn't. Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

My take on the Matthew Stafford trade from Detroit back 4 years ago. It's an open letter to Stafford. In many ways it's a thank you note to him for his great efforts in Detroit to make the Lions a winner. Even through it didn't happen, Stafford did everything in his power to make it work. jimbrandstatter.com,  The Brandy Show podcast, @jimbrandstatter (X).  facebook.com/jimbrandstatter76 Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

Grantland Rice takes sportswriting to another level. He brings a story about a football game to the literary world. A massive college game and four Notre Dame players achieve legendary statues in one day thanks to Rice and his beautiful description of the events that happened before him on a Saturday in October at the Polo Grounds in New York.  The stadium is gone now, so are the players, so is the newspaper Rice was writing for, but the story he wrote lives on in the halls of college football history.   Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

    If  you have ever been to Michigan Stadium for a football game, it is an experience. And nothing adds to that experience more than the impressive baritone voice that greets you on the public address system every week. The booming words, "BAAAAAAND...TAKE THE FIELD!" sends shivers of excitement and anticipation up the backs of every Wolverine fan in the building. For over 50 years that voice that delivers those words has belonged to Carl Grapentine.     Carl is as much a tradition at Michigan Stadium as the winged helmet. Look, we all love the games, the coach's, players, and plays that stay in our memories forever. But, lets also be honest that the experience of Michigan Stadium is the sights and sounds of the place. The team running under the banner. The Flag being raised in the south end zone and the anthem being sung. And of course, the Marching Band charging out on the field out of the eastern tunnel and performing the M fanfare and the Victors as they march toward the north end zone. None of that is as memorable without Carl Grapentines voice taking us step by step through the performance. Imagine the stories he has after 50 plus years in the pilot's seat for Michigan Stadium's historic existence...well, let's hear some of those stories in my Conversation  with...Carl Grapentine.   Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

        As you enjoy the 2024 Michigan Football season, and revel in the memory of the 2023 National Championship team, don't forget that in 1997, Michigan  was also atop the college football world with a national title authored by Coach Lloyd Carr and a group of Wolverines who would settle for nothing less than perfection.  Newspaper reporter Mark Snyder was in the middle of that run as the beat reporter for Michigan at one of the Detroit newspapers.  Some 20 years after the title, Mark teamed up with fellow writer Nick Baumgardner to tell the definitive story of this great football team. The interesting part of this book is that the story started well before the 1997 season. Mark and Nick take your from the beginning to the end of a season to remember. This book dovetails perfectly with the 2023 National title orchestrated by Jim Harbaugh and his Michigan team. In many way, the tradition  of Michigan football is evident and so very understandable when you read "Mountaintop: The Inside Story of Michigan 1997 National Title."     But, instead of me writing about the twists and turns of that Michigan Team. Instead of me telling you about the stories that didn't make the headlines, I'll let the author tell you the real "INSIDE" story in my conversation with...Mark Snyder Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

      One of the most important lessons I learned in my athletic life came from being part of a team. The importance of working together, and focusing diverse personalities and talents to focus on a common goal has been one of the most vital lessons of my life. I learned that from team sports. My college football coach, Bo Schembechler, was a master professor and I can never repay him the lessons he taught all of us who played for him. One of those who played for Bo, and learned those lessons better than most of us was Fritz Seyferth.       Fritz was a great team mate of mine, and is still a great friend. He went on to play professional football, then moved on to athletic administration at the collegiate level, then moved on to the executive level in business at a Fortune 500 company. He has distinguished himself as a corporate consultant, and author. Fritz's latest effort as an author is a fabulous blue print for the business executive who wants to take his organization and employees and fly. It's called, "The Shift from Me to Team."  But, it's not just about business. The lessons Fritz teaches work in all walks of life. I urge everyone to seek out this book, but before you do, take a few minutes and listen to Fritz talk about his team building concepts in my Conversation with...Fritz Seyferth  Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

The city of Frankenmuth is a treasure in the State of Michigan. The village is a slice of Bavaria just outside Saginaw and north of Flint. Chicken dinners at Zehnders, the Bavarian Inn, and the and Bronners Christmas store dominate the quaint little spot amidst acres of farmland. But, tucked in with this German everyday Octoberfest is the Michigan Hero's Museum. It is probably the most unsung attraction in town, but it maybe the most impressive. Within it's walls reside exhibits that honor Michigan natives who served their country in the most patriotic way. Medal of Honor winners, to soldiers who served in some of our most instrumental victories like D Day,  the Battle of the Bulge, Pearl Harbor,  Fallujah, and Baghdad are honored. Michigan-born astronauts who have escaped the atmosphere and traveled to outer space are also part of the rich and incredible exhibits in the museum. It's an amazing place. Artifacts and history explode at you with every turn you take in the facility. The Executive Director of this hidden gem is John Ryder. If you want to get excited about this States hero's and  the rich history of courage, bravery, and sacrifice of or native sons and daughters, have a conversation with...John Ryder Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

If you want to know the inside story on University of Michigan Athletics, you must listen and follow Sam Webb. The WTKA radio veteran broadcaster in Ann Arbor has built himself into an encyclopedia of Wolverine information. Whether it's football or basketball, or anything Wolverine related, Sam will give you the latest, the best, and the most accurate information. Things you want to know, and things you never knew are Sam's specialty. Over the years he has become the "GO-TO" source for all things Michigan. Not only is he Southeast Michigan's authority on the Wolverines, national radio and television shows seek him out when they want the inside story as it relates to Michigan athletics. Who better to hang out with, and have a conversation with than Sam Webb....Enjoy! Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

Growing up in Detroit and its challengesJerome's decision to turn down Michigan and Michigan State and go to Notre Dame out of high schoolThose college days at ND and his record against MichiganGetting drafted by the Rams in the NFLLearning about the game in the NFLThe move to St Louis and  the disappointment in management  that had him seriously considering retirementGetting a new start and new career in PittsburghHe was talked out of retiring the year the Super Bowl was in Detroit by his team matesThe magical run to the Super Bowl, and his fumble that nearly derailed itThe impact of team mates like Ben Roethlisberger and Hynes Ward on his career and final yearGoing back to Notre Dame after football to complete his degree for his MomHow he continues to help others with his own foundation that grew from his experience as a youngster in Detroit        Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.

We talk abut the current change of environment in collegiate athletics with NIL, Transfer portal, etcBruce talks about his impact on the Chris Weber post game story after Webers "time out" in the NCAA title gameBruce was in the middle of the Gary Moeller to Lloyd Carr transition in football which was a dicey moment for Michigan footballThe idea of a crisis manager doubling as a sports information director is appropriate in Bruce's situationThe politics of an athletic department and it's beaurocracyManaging the always volatile Bo Schembechler in the early years with the mediaHis well thought out advice and counsel to players, coach's and athletes over the years have helped manyThe innovations Bruce helped develop to pave the way for the technological explosion in covering cololege sportThe incredible growth of the media and it's mutation since the internet explosion and it's influence over college athleticsRadio and television impact over the years    Be sure to visit all past episodes of "The Brandy Show." There is a wealth of content covering a number of topics and formats that may interest you. Tell your friends to stop by to visit, listen and hopefully subscribe. This show was produced by Jim Brandstatter in studio's in Michigan and Florida.