The Kentucky Dude | 2.12.25

Edition 17

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@_tannerhobbs (Midway, KY)

Happy Wednesday and this week's roundup, designed to make you a more well-rounded Kentucky man. In case you missed last week; give it a read.

We hope you’re finding value in The Kentucky Dude Life Hacks.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for outrageous absurdity.

Dad Joke of the Week

Did you hear Monday starts diarrhea week?

(scroll to the end for the answer)  

Sports Mixer

Kentucky MBB sweeps #5 Tennessee 75 - 64 on 12 of 24 from behind the arch with a top 5 college basketball experience at Rupp. Kentucky MBB team celebrates with student section after win. Louisville MBB tips off against NC State in 30 minutes (7 PM eastern) and looking to improve to 19 - 6 overall and 12 - 2 in conference play. Kentucky women’s basketball fell to Ole Miss 57 - 66 with poor second half play. In case you missed Kentucky Football’s Super Bowl commercial…you’re welcome.

Bourbon & Brews

Kentucky’s Wildest Bourbon Heists and Scandals

Kentucky Dude Original, 2-minute read

From the infamous $26,000 Pappy Van Winkle heist to underground counterfeiting rings, Kentucky's bourbon history is filled with scandals that would make Al Capone proud. Pour yourself a glass and dive into the wild world of bourbon crimes, conspiracy theories, and mysterious warehouse fires.

Beyond the Borders

Kentucky’s Hemp Revival

Kentucky Dude Original, 1-minute read

Kentucky’s next big comeback isn’t on the basketball court—it’s in the fields. Once the nation’s top hemp producer, the Bluegrass State is reviving a crop that fueled its economy for generations, and with new industries embracing hemp’s potential, the stakes have never been higher.

Read more to see how Kentucky is reclaiming its hemp legacy.

The Wild World of Japanese Convenience Stores

Kentucky Dude Original, 2-minute read

Think your local gas station has everything you need? Think again. In Japan, convenience stores—known as konbini—aren’t just places to grab a soda; they’re mini-miracles of efficiency, stocked with fresh sushi, hot fried chicken, phone chargers, and even emergency dress shirts.

Step inside, and you’ll never look at an American gas station the same way again.

Man on the Move

The Art of Small Talk

Dudes, let's talk about a superpower that's becoming as rare as a Monday without meetings: genuine conversation skills.

Ever notice how most networking events feel like awkward middle school dances, with everyone huddled in their safe corners? A real connection used to be as natural as breathing. Now? It's a lost art.

Here's the move: next time you're in a conversation—whether it's with a client, a colleague, or someone at your local coffee spot—try the "echo method." When they mention something, mirror their energy and ask a specific follow-up that shows you're actually listening.

Not in a forced, job-interview way. Just enough to show you're genuinely interested in what they're saying.

Why bother? Because in a world of digital small talk and emoji reactions, being able to hold a real conversation makes you stand out like a suit at a tech startup.

Studies show it even makes you more memorable and persuasive. Want to close that deal, nail that interview, or make a lasting impression? Master the art of small talk.

Start small. Keep a few universal topics in your back pocket—travel, local spots, weekend plans. Focus on being interested, not interesting. Trust me, you'll never dread another networking event again.

Outdoor Life, Health & Fitness

The $2.4M Quest to Cheat Death (And Why Your Fire Pit Might Be Better Medicine)

Kentucky Dude Original, 3-minute read

While tech billionaire Bryan Johnson spends $2.4 million yearly trying to outsmart death, we've uncovered a more practical path to longevity. Discover how bourbon, fire pits, and strategic health investments could be your ticket to a longer, more fulfilling life – without breaking the bank.

Dad Joke of the Week: Answer

It runs through Friday! 👏

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