A Damn Good Dawg: Neil “Hondo” Williamson
In the latest episode of Southern Character, James sits down with the legendary Neil “Hondo” Williamson, affectionately known as "Hondo," to explore an inspiring tapestry of personal triumphs, advocacy efforts, and hearty Southern grit.
With over 47 years of experience in radio broadcasting for the Georgia Bulldog radio network, Hondo has become a cornerstone of UGA’s Game Day, hosting multiple broadcasts and the popular Bulldogs Live with Coach Smart. Hondo’s passion for sports broadcasting began in childhood and was nurtured through college and professional experiences. A sense of place is palpable in his tales of covering football games, and his penchant for authenticity extends even to his disdain for inaccurate portrayals of Southern accents in media.
Hondo also shares an inside look at his personal and professional life, and that he’s been working on a screenplay inspired by a personal and true story. Following a harrowing incident involving the loss of a 16-year-old who might have been saved with a simple nasal spray, his sister and her friend took action, leading to the founding of a nonprofit organization aimed at preventing opioid overdoses. This organization, now run by selfless volunteers including moms and nurses, has saved over 10,000 lives. Comparisons to Erin Brockovich and Hidden Figures underscore the David-and-Goliath nature of their success story, one that fills Hondo with deserved pride.
Hondo’s commitment to advocacy didn't stop there. Motivated by painful personal loss, he and his sister also fought for critical legislative changes in Georgia, including the 911 amnesty law, and increased availability of Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan. Despite facing resistance and derogatory attitudes towards those struggling with addiction, their relentless efforts led to life-saving laws. Today, Narcan is widely accessible, in large part because of their hard work.
In true Southern hospitality fashion, Hondo doesn’t leave listeners without some practical tips. When James inquires about game day activities in Athens, Hondo enthusiastically recommends Mama's Boy for breakfast and highlights the historic Mayflower Diner — though cautioning about the game day rush.
Though packed with professional insights and football anecdotes, this episode also sheds light on the personal side of Hondo. He shares touching stories of his family and the lasting love of his wife, Tina, whom he started dating on a 94Q (now Star94) party cruise. Together, they have two children, Nick and Lily, whose pursuits in music and animation speak to the unpredictable yet rewarding paths of following one’s passion.
Whether you're a sports enthusiast, an advocate, or someone who appreciates a good Southern story, this episode of Southern Character offers an enriching mix of heartwarming tales and compelling commentary. Be sure to check out the full episode at the link above.