A Crimson Tide Legend: The Career and Insights of Tom Roberts

In this episode, hosts Rick Morton and Tommy Ford interview Tom Roberts, an iconic figure in Alabama athletics broadcasting. Tom shares his journey from Fayette, Alabama to becoming a renowned broadcaster, his experiences working with legendary coaches like Bear Bryant and Nick Saban, and his time at WTBC Radio, Channel 13, and the Crimson Tide Sports Network. The discussion includes memorable moments, technical changes in broadcasting, favorite players, and treasured stories from his extensive career.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

01:12 Tom Roberts' Early Life and Career Beginnings

03:08 Memorable Moments at Alabama

04:16 Covering Coach Bryant and Alabama Football

12:15 Transition to Television and WTBC Radio

18:33 Joining the Crimson Tide Sports Network

26:23 Technological Evolution in Broadcasting

29:01 Memorable Moments in Radio and TV

31:42 Crimson Tide Basketball Journey

36:51 Working with Legendary Figures

38:28 Honoring a Broadcasting Career

42:20 Quickfire Questions and Fun Stories

Inside the Bryant Museum with Olivia Arnold

In this episode of the Crimson Chronicles podcast, hosts Rick Morton and Tommy Ford sit down with Olivia Arnold, the director of the Bryant Museum, to discuss her background and her extensive experience with the museum. Olivia shares insights into her family's mixed collegiate heritage and her journey to the University of Alabama. The conversation covers the history and evolution of the Bryant Museum, including its origins, exhibits, and collection highlights. Olivia discusses notable items in the museum, like Coach Bryant's Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the extensive digital archiving project currently underway. The episode also delves into the unique stories and experiences of visitors and the museum's future plans, including potential expansions. Listeners are given insight into how they can support the museum and what they can expect when visiting. The episode concludes with a heartfelt roll tide, celebrating the rich history and community of Alabama athletics.

00:00 Welcome to the Crimson Chronicles Podcast

00:08 Introducing Olivia Arnold from the Bryant Museum

01:06 Olivia's Background and Connection to Alabama

03:27 The History and Vision of the Bryant Museum

07:47 Preserving Alabama's Athletic Legacy

18:38 Digitizing the Museum's Collection

21:50 The Bear Bryant Show and Its Legacy

26:13 The Namesake Reunion Tradition

27:45 Exploring the Bryant Museum: A Treasure Trove of Alabama Football History

29:36 Special Exhibits: Integration and Play-by-Play Commentators

31:53 The Making of the Museum's Exhibits

33:49 Donations and Unique Contributions to the Museum

37:18 Memorable Campaigns and Commercials

46:06 Future Plans and How Fans Can Support the Museum

50:59 Conclusion: Celebrating Alabama's Rich Sports Heritage

Journey of a Crimson Tide Super Fan: Tommy Ray's Unwavering Passion and Dedication

In this captivating episode, join us as we explore the incredible journey of Tommy Ray, an extraordinary Alabama Crimson Tide super fan.

From attending 691 games and traveling over 400,000 miles to being present for every national championship game, Tommy's dedication is unparalleled. Hear his unforgettable college football experiences, emotional highs and lows, and personal anecdotes, including overcoming challenges like extreme weather and last-minute ticket hunts. Delve into his impressive memorabilia collection, encounters with iconic figures, and the deep support of his family, particularly his wife, Sarah. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of faith, undying support, and the community that binds Alabama fans together. Roll Tide!

00:00 Welcome to the Crimson Chronicles Podcast

00:31 Introducing Tommy Ray: The Ultimate Crimson Tide Super Fan

01:44 Tommy Ray's Incredible Streak and Stats

04:09 Tommy Ray's First Game Experience

08:40 The Start of the Streak

11:36 Meeting Fellow Super Fans

15:47 Ticket Hunting Adventures

20:52 Memorable Games and Seasons

31:06 Weathering the Elements

35:20 Near Misses and Travel Challenges

38:05 The Sunbow Stadium Rush39:14 Orange Bowl 2000: A Sickly Adventure

41:51 Near Misses and Memorable Games

43:44 Navigating COVID Restrictions

50:04 The Cost of a Passion51:42 Memorabilia and Collectibles

55:08 Electronic Ticketing Challenges

58:20 ESPN Feature and Recognition

01:08:57 Honoring Family Support

01:12:42 Final Reflections and Gratitude