The Chicago Smokehouse cover art

The Chicago Smokehouse

The Chicago Smokehouse

By: John Howell / Rick Telander
Listen for free

About this listen

 John Howell and Rick Telander share a cigar and conversations and insightful analysis of the stories shaping headlines today

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

News Sidequest Politics & Government
Episodes
  • The Mascot Distraction: Smoke, Fire, and Trump’s Culture War Playbook

    The Mascot Distraction: Smoke, Fire, and Trump’s Culture War Playbook
    Jul 30 2025
    John Howell and Rick Telander dive into the controversy over Trump’s push to revive racist team names like the Redskins and Indians. They explore how the former president weaponizes nostalgia and grievance to distract and divide, all while Telander shares personal stories—from interviewing Trump in 1986 to a touching tribute to his late dog. It’s a candid, wide-ranging conversation about sports, politics, culture, and the cost of not evolving.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
  • Sammy, Steroids, and Saying Goodbye

    Sammy, Steroids, and Saying Goodbye
    Jul 24 2025
    Big John Howell and Rick Telander dive into baseball’s most controversial era, reflecting on Sammy Sosa’s return to Wrigley Field and the lasting impact of steroids on the game. They revisit the infamous Lee Elia rant, Hall of Fame ethics, and the blurred line between performance and integrity. The episode ends on a heartfelt note as Rick shares a moving tribute to his late dog, Bear Bear.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • Pete Rose, Perfectionism, and the Price of Redemption

    Pete Rose, Perfectionism, and the Price of Redemption
    Jul 11 2025
    Pete Rose, baseball’s all-time hits leader, was banned for gambling—but now, posthumously, Major League Baseball has finally lifted the ban. In this episode, Big John Howell and Rick Telander revisit Rose’s complicated legacy, from his obsessive drive to win to his long-delayed confession. Along the way, they dive into the ethics of gambling, steroids, and what it really takes to be a legend.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    37 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.