FOFAC FLASHBACK 5-30

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH)—If this is your first time tuning into News 8’s “Focus on Family,” where I team up with Phil Sanchez each weekday afternoon, get ready for an array of unexpected chuckles, bold opinions, and the sort of quirky camaraderie that comes from spending too much time together on a familiar studio sofa.

Every week, they review regional news items, welcome local personalities as guests, and—most notably—joke about topics ranging from breakfast cereals to famous celebrities they admire.

This week’s highlights featured an energetic visit from meteorologist Drew Narsutis, who confessed his dislike for the studio’s iconic couch. Additionally, there was a touching appearance by local Italian Festival organizers bringing along authentic Italian cuisine.

It was from this point onward that the playful teasing ramped up. What began as a conversation about jealousy over metabolic rates quickly transformed into some gentle jabs at our coworker and sound engineer, Russ. When I brought up Ryan Gosling, my enthusiasm soared. Meanwhile, Sanchez challenged everyone’s top film pick with hers being “Legends of the Fall,” which left us bewildered. “I’m still not convinced by that choice,” he remarked, giving his head a puzzled shake.

The week concluded on an emotional note as the team prompted viewers to post their Father’s Day messages for Sanchez, a devoted father. “He’ll cherish this,” I commented.

“I will also send you a signed photograph,” stated Sanchez.

Sanchez’s on-air character is marked by his self-deprecating wit. He explained, “What I typically do is take either one of those large portraits — or more likely, an image of my own oversized head — and present it to my spouse as a holiday gift. These can be found stored away in our garage right now.”

I replied with a flat expression, “Where they belong.”

“Emphasizing Family” might include neighborhood tales, meteorological reports, and events from the weekends, yet fundamentally, it’s the shared chuckles among co-hosts—whether they’re debating breakfast options (Sanchez swears by Raisin Bran), perfecting their tanning methods, or discussing the condition of his garage—that makes audiences want to tune in repeatedly.

I mentioned, ‘We have fun here,’ adding, ‘Absolutely we do.’

And for those curious – indeed, it was an excellent hair day.