Matt Jones is a prominent figure in Kentucky sports media, best known for founding Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR). His journey from a law career to becoming a media mogul has captivated fans across the state. KSR started as a simple podcast in 2005 and has since evolved into a major platform that engages thousands of listeners and readers daily. Through his unique approach, Jones has transformed the way Kentuckians connect with their favorite sports teams, particularly the University of Kentucky Wildcats.
Jones’s passion for sports and his innovative spirit led him to create a space where fans could voice their opinions and engage in lively discussions. KSR’s informal and relatable style sets it apart from traditional sports journalism, making it a favorite among listeners. The show’s success is a testament to Jones’s understanding of his audience and his ability to adapt to their interests, which often extend beyond just sports.
As KSR continues to grow, Matt Jones remains at the helm, guiding the conversation around Kentucky sports and culture. His influence extends beyond the airwaves, as he engages with fans through social media and various community initiatives. The impact of Matt Jones and KSR on the sports media landscape in Kentucky is undeniable, making them a vital part of the state’s sports culture.
The Man Behind the Microphone
Matthew Harper Jones, born on August 28, 1978, is a name that has become synonymous with Kentucky sports media. However, Jones’s journey to becoming a media mogul was far from conventional. A native of Kentucky, Jones initially pursued a career in law, working as a clerk for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Despite his legal background, Jones harbored a deep passion for University of Kentucky sports that would ultimately shape his career trajectory.
Jones’s transition from law to media was inspired by two seemingly unrelated events: a Howard Dean campaign event on blogging and insights from MTV VJ Adam Curry on podcasting. These experiences sparked an idea in Jones, leading him to start a blog about Kentucky basketball and football in 2005. This blog would soon evolve into a podcast, laying the foundation for what would become Kentucky Sports Radio.
The Birth and Evolution of Kentucky Sports Radio
Kentucky Sports Radio began as a hobby podcast in 2005, created by Matt Jones with the initial intention of hosting it on a local website, Kentucky Sports Report. When that plan fell through, Jones made the pivotal decision to create his own platform, unknowingly setting the stage for a media revolution in Kentucky.
Over the years, KSR has undergone a remarkable transformation. What started as a simple podcast has blossomed into a comprehensive media presence that includes:
- A popular radio show broadcast on 38 stations across Kentucky
- A highly trafficked website
- Active and engaging social media channels
The radio show, co-hosted by Jones and Ryan Lemond, has achieved particular success, consistently ranking as the number one program in Lexington during its time slot. In fact, KSR has grown to become the largest daily sports radio show in the United States, surpassing even major markets like New York and Los Angeles.
The KSR Approach: Fan-Centric and Unconventional
The success of Kentucky Sports Radio can be largely attributed to its unique approach to sports media. Unlike traditional sports journalism, which often focuses on what journalists deem important, KSR adopts a fan-centric model. Matt Jones identified a market deficiency where mainstream journalists were not addressing the interests of the fans, and KSR stepped in to fill this gap.
KSR delivers content in a relatable, conversational style that resonates with its audience. The chemistry among the hosts, including Jones, Lemond, Drew Franklin, and producer Shannon “The Dude” Grigsby, contributes significantly to the show’s appeal. Their relaxed, informal on-air demeanor gives listeners the impression of a casual conversation among friends, a deliberate choice to make the show feel more like a community.
Interestingly, Jones notes that the show now discusses less sports content than before, yet its audience continues to grow. This evolution reflects KSR’s ability to adapt and engage with its audience on a broader range of topics, including current events, pop culture, and even politics.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite its popularity, KSR’s journey has not been without its share of controversies and challenges. In its early days, the outlet faced accusations of misappropriating content from other news organizations, leading to several cease-and-desist letters. The show also developed a reputation for being irreverent and sometimes confrontational towards other media outlets, which did not endear it to everyone in the local media landscape.
Matt Jones acknowledges that some of the early tactics used by KSR were aggressive and, in hindsight, regrets some of the actions. However, he also admits that these controversies helped boost the show’s popularity. This ability to turn controversy into opportunity has been a hallmark of KSR’s growth strategy.
Beyond Sports: Political Engagement and Entrepreneurship
Matt Jones’s influence extends far beyond the realm of sports media. In 2015, he was invited to emcee the Fancy Farm political picnic, where he introduced political speeches with humor and a fresh perspective. This performance caught the attention of national political operatives, hinting at Jones’s potential in the political arena.
Jones even considered running against Senator Mitch McConnell in 2020, motivated by a desire to bring change to Kentucky. However, he ultimately chose to focus on his media career, fearing that a political run might alienate his audience. Despite not running for office, Jones has remained engaged in political discourse. He authored “Mitch, Please!: How Mitch McConnell Sold Out Kentucky,” a New York Times Bestseller that provides a critical look at the political landscape in Kentucky and the influence of Senator Mitch McConnell.
Jones’s entrepreneurial spirit has led him to venture into other businesses as well. He co-owns a restaurant in Lexington and is a co-owner of Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), a developmental league for aspiring professional wrestlers. His involvement in wrestling is set to be featured in a Netflix documentary, further expanding his media footprint.
The Impact and Future of KSR
Kentucky Sports Radio has had a significant impact on the sports media landscape in Kentucky. Through his work with KSR, Jones has provided a voice and platform for sports fans in Kentucky, shaping the conversation around sports and politics in the state. Jones uses his platform to impact lives across Kentucky, advocating for understanding and respect among diverse groups. He believes in making political discourse entertaining and accessible to a broader audience.
As KSR continues to evolve, it has expanded its team to include six full-time members and has started to show a profit. The outlet has hired a full-time producer to focus on video content, recognizing the importance of multimedia in engaging with audiences. Jones has also stepped back from the day-to-day operations, allowing more responsibility to be delegated to his team, ensuring the sustainability of KSR beyond its founder.
