Alright, let me tell you about figuring out how to listen to the Kansas City Chiefs radio broadcast the other day. I wasn’t near a TV, had some things I needed to get done in the garage, but I absolutely wanted to follow the game. You know how it is, can’t miss the Chiefs.
Finding the Station
First thing I did was grab my old workshop radio. Fiddled with the tuner, trying to find the signal. I knew the main station is 106.5 The Wolf, that’s WDAF-FM. It’s usually pretty strong, but where I was, I was just getting a lot of static. Tried adjusting the antenna, moving the radio around, typical stuff. Still wasn’t great. Sometimes these old radios just don’t cut it anymore, especially with all the interference nowadays.
So, plan B. I pulled out my phone. Figured there had to be an app or a stream. I remembered checking the Chiefs official app before, sometimes they have the radio feed right in there. Also thought about using something like TuneIn Radio. Fired up the Chiefs app first.
Getting the Stream Going
Okay, found the “Listen Live” option pretty easily in the app. Had to make sure my location services were on, because these things are often restricted to the local broadcast area. That’s always a bit annoying, especially if you’re traveling. But luckily, I was well within the zone. Hit the play button and waited a second.
- Checked Wi-Fi signal – seemed okay.
- Made sure the app had location permissions.
- Waited for the stream to connect…
Success! Got the pre-game show coming through clear. Much better than the static on the old portable radio.
The Listening Experience
Man, there’s something about listening to Mitch Holthus call the game. His voice is just iconic Chiefs football. You really have to focus on what he’s saying to picture the plays, which is a totally different experience than watching on TV where they show you everything. You hear the crowd noise, the hits, everything seems a bit more intense through the radio sometimes.
Downsides? Well, the commercials, obviously. Seemed like a lot of local car dealership ads, but that’s radio for you. And the stream did buffer once or twice when the action got heavy, almost missed a big third-down stop. That part is frustrating, definitely more reliable with an actual over-the-air radio if you have good reception.
But overall, it worked. I got my Chiefs fix while I was busy. It’s not the same as being at Arrowhead or watching on a big screen with friends, but it keeps you connected. Sometimes, honestly, it feels a bit more pure, just focusing on the sound and the announcer painting the picture. Did the job this time around, and I’d definitely do it again if I can’t watch.
