The Early Word: FedEx exec is about to be ex; Steve Miller blames it on the rain

Bianca Phillips By , Daily Memphian
Updated: July 18, 2025 6:26 AM CT | Published: July 18, 2025 6:21 AM CT Premium

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Listen up, Memphis. It’s Friday, July 18, which is apparently World Listening Day. So, here’s something for your ears.

The Daily Memphian has just launched a new morning podcast called The AM/DM. Listen to this past week’s episodes on what may be the largest bonsai nursery in U.S. and new Memphis Tigers men’s basketball player Sincere Parker.

About to be ex at FedEx: A top FedEx Corp. executive may be updating his LinkedIn profile soon. And the same can be said for some Memphis FedEx employees who work in sales support.

Fire fight: The union for Memphis fire fighters is suing the City of Memphis over a budget decision.

Tigers cheating scandal, explained: The Daily Memphian’s Tim Buckley breaks down the Memphis Tigers’ most recent NCAA violations.

Nashville meets Germantown: Hot chicken is coming.

Bun’s out: And so is our food writer Joshua Carlucci

Raise a glass: Crosstown Brewing Co. cofounder Clark Ortkiese will be laid to rest today.

Next Grindfather: Is Memphis Grizzlies draft pick Jahmai Mashack the next Tony Allen?

Blame it on the rain … or just climate change, really. But however you slice it, The Steve Miller Band ain’t playing Live at the Garden.

If you’re already a subscriber, you shouldn’t be seeing this shortened version of The Early Word. But if you are, let us know! Shoot an email to: gthroneburg@dailymemphian.com.

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Bianca Phillips

Bianca Phillips

Bianca Phillips is a Northeast Arkansas native and longtime Memphian who’s worked in local journalism and PR for more than 20 years. In her days as a reporter, she covered everything from local government and crime to LGBTQ issues and the arts. She’s the author of “Cookin Crunk: Eatin’ Vegan in the Dirty South,” a cookbook of vegan Southern recipes.


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