I was born in a shack next to a combination gas station/bait/po’boy sandwich shop. My parents would have me milk the rabbits before heading to school in a one room shanty under a whispering pine tree. As it turns out, this ideally unique upbringing would serve me well over the years as someone who talks for a living.
Along the way, I’ve met a slew of interesting people who would become mentors, drinking buddies, fishing partners, and ex-wives.
Currently, I’ve left the hustle and bustle of that hometown shack for the excitement of…Lansing, Kansas. Ah, but don’t mistake my statement for sarcasm. As Dale Carter considers Blue Springs his “adopted” hometown, I’ve lived long enough in Lansing to consider it MY adopted hometown. I love Lansing; the people are awesome, and neighbors are truly neighbors. I don’t miss hearing honking horns, screaming couples, or the gun shots that would ring out at random moments when I lived on the other side of the border.
I prefer to hear my own firearms and enjoy heading to the range with my wife Heather when we can. And there’s nothing more fun for the family when the kids come along and make us look like we couldn’t hit the side of a barn with a baseball bat…or a bullet.
Heather reminded me to make sure I mention our nerd who lives with us. She is the very definition of “derpilicious”. “She” is our slightly cross-eyed cat Lovie. As all our children are out in the world on their own, Lovie is the closest we get to having kids around, unless one of the grandkids is visiting. Let me tell you, if you ever have trouble falling asleep, just spend a day with your grandkids. One of us is usually out before they are.
If I’ve learned anything about people, it’s that we’re all out here just trying to survive, to make things a little better for us, our families, and our communities. Sometimes that’s easier said than done, but I’ve always thought the reward is just trying in the first place. My hope is that when you listening to KFKF middays, you can lose whatever troubles you, even if it’s just for a moment, and settle yourself on that island in the middle of nowhere, with no boss, no work, no worries.
But, when reality rears its ugly head, know that we’re here at KFKF for only one reason: you.
And, if you ever want to know more, I’m on 9a-2p weekdays, with loads of Kansas City’s Best Country Variety, fun ways to win cool stuff, and expert advice on milking rabbits.
Learn more about Ed Walker!
First concert you ever went to?
Mountain Aire ’87, gold country in California, with my second radio station, KHTZ/Reno. Doobie Bros., Huey Lewis and the News, and Suzi Quattro, I think. Some details are a little hazy courtesy of the several iced trash cans of various adult beverages.
Something listeners would be surprised to know about you?
Haven’t touched a drop of booze since March 16th, 2014. Best decision I’ve ever made.
Favorite Royals Player?
Salvador Perez
Favorite Chiefs player?
Not technically a player, but Andy Reid is my favorite Chief. He comes from the Mike Holmgren coaching tree, and Coach Holmgren coached at my high school in San Jose, CA.
Favorite local charity?
Without a doubt, Lakemary Center in Olathe and Paola. The work that’s done at Lakemary is absolutely outstanding. I volunteer for their events when I can, from serving meals at a holiday party to MC’ing an event. My guess is, it’s the best charity you’ve never heard of.
How long have you lived in Kansas City?
Pulled into the driveway of the house I owned in Gladstone on September 11th, 2006. Now, I call Lansing home.
What is your ideal weekend in KC?
BBQ, frozen custard, and time with my wife, three things I can’t get enough of.
Any pets?
Just one at this writing. Lovie, also known as Lovie Derp, Lovie Derpalicious, and, more often than not, PITA. AKA Furball.
Favorite restaurant in KC?
This is an absolutely unfair question. It’s like asking which of my kids is my favorite. Sake Lounge, McCormick and Schmicks, KC Craft Ramen, and Jack Stack are just a few. I miss Houston’s on the Plaza, best steak I’ve ever had in this town. I really don’t have extravagant tastes, a good burger is just as good as surf and turf, just depends what I’m in the mood for, and how much is in the ol’ checking account.
Follow Ed Walker on social media!
