In this heartfelt episode of Fans First, Jim Powell reminisces about his 13-year tenure with the legendary Bob Uecker at the Milwaukee Brewers. Powell shares hilarious and touching stories, illustrating Uecker's incredible sense of humor, humility, and the unique bond they created. The episode also features a discussion with Tony Barnhart, 'Mr. College Football,' on the upcoming national championship game, addressing topics from the NIL to the future of college football, and insights on various college teams, including Ohio State and Notre Dame. Listeners are also invited to participate in upcoming episodes and join the Fans First community on social media.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Starting with the Milwaukee Brewers
• (00:27) First Impressions and Icebreakers
• (02:10) Spring Training and Bob's Advice
• (02:49) Life on the Road with Bob Uecker
• (03:53) Bob Uecker's Loyalty to Milwaukee
• (06:02) Upcoming Special Episode Announcement
• (06:21) Personal Reflections on Bob Uecker
• (09:11) College Football Playoff Discussion
• (12:02) Analysis of the Notre Dame vs. Ohio State matchup and why Tony views Notre Dame as a "team of destiny”
• (18:20) Future of college football: NIL challenges, transfer portal, and the need for collective bargaining agreements
• (24:20) Future of College Football
• (29:15) Closing Remarks and Farewell

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bob Uecker’s natural humor and kindness were integral to his character. He was able to ease the tension in the room with his jokes, helping others feel comfortable, and he always treated people with respect.
• While the playoff system has added excitement, flaws remain in how teams are ranked and seeded, causing mismatches.
• Tony believes Notre Dame has intangibles that could make them a "team of destiny," even if Ohio State has more talent on paper.
• The NIL and transfer portal have fundamentally changed college sports. Solutions like salary caps or collective bargaining agreements could help stabilize the system.
• Tony predicts 2026, when current contracts expire, as a pivotal year for addressing these challenges and reimagining the sport’s structure.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Tony Barnhart is a former reporter for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution who currently appears as a college football insider for CBS Sports on their college football coverage.

Barnhart graduated with a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia in 1976. He began his career as a reporter for the Greensboro News & Record. He moved to Atlanta in 1984, where he covered mostly ACC action. In July 1987, he started as the college sports editor of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Before going to CBS, he was a reporter for ESPN's college football coverage beginning in 1993. He started appearing as a regional beat reporter on their "halftime blitz." Starting with the 1997 season, he began appearing on

This tribute recounts heartfelt memories of working with the legendary Bob Uecker, known as 'Mr. Baseball,' and his profound influence on the Milwaukee Brewers Radio Network. The host shares personal anecdotes about meeting Bob Uecker, their first broadcasts together, and the unique charm that made Bob Uecker endearing to everyone he met. From spring training stories to the reasons why Bob Uecker remained loyal to Milwaukee despite lucrative offers from other teams, this tribute highlights Uecker's humility, humor, and unwavering love for his roots and people. The episode will also preview an upcoming special featuring fan-favorite Bob Uecker stories.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Meeting Bob Uecker: The First Impressions
• (0:34) Spring Training and the Breath Mint Incident
• (02:05) First Spring Training Game: Words of Wisdom
• (02:49) Life on the Road with Bob Uecker
• (03:53)Why Bob Uecker Stayed in Milwaukee
• (05:13) Bob Uecker’s Legacy and Humor
• (06:07) Final Thoughts and Upcoming Tribute

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bob Uecker’s natural humor and kindness were integral to his character. He was able to ease the tension in the room with his jokes, helping others feel comfortable, and he always treated people with respect.
• Despite his fame, Bob never forgot his roots in Milwaukee. He loved the blue-collar people and made sure to stay grounded, rejecting offers from larger teams like the Yankees to remain in Milwaukee.
• Bob Uecker had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his genuine kindness made him beloved by fans and colleagues alike. His legacy as a friend and broadcaster is unforgettable.
• Bob's humor was impactful yet never relied on profanity or shock value. His ability to entertain and make people laugh in a clean, natural way set him apart from others in comedy.

ABOUT THE HOST:

Jim Powell is an American radio and television sportscaster, previously employed with Major League Baseball's Milwaukee Brewers (1996–2008) and Atlanta Braves (2009–2023). A native of Roswell, Georgia, Powell was educated at the University of Georgia. He began his baseball play-by-play career with the minor-league Columbia Mets (1987–89, 1993–94) and Charlotte Knights (1990–91, 1995), also calling games part-time for the Minnesota Twins in 1993–94 before being hired by the Brewers in 1996. Teaming with Bob Uecker, Powell called games for the Milwaukee Brewers Radio Network and was Uecker’s longest-tenured partner. Powell was named Wisconsin Sportscaster of the Year in 1998. In 2009, he began teaming with Don Sutton to call games on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network and continued his play-by-play role through 2023. In addition to his baseball work, Powell has called college football (for the University of South Carolina and CBS Radio) and college basketball (for Davidson College and South Carolina) at various points in his career. Powell was a National Merit Scholar and is MENSA-qualified. He was inducted into the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2020.

RESOURCE LINKS

X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/

Website: Fansfirstpodcast.com

Legendary sportscaster Jim Powell continues an in-depth conversation with Hall of Famer John Smoltz, focusing on the future of the Braves' off-season and the significance of developing young pitchers. They discuss changes in pitching philosophy and the impact of health on career longevity. The dialogue also shifts to the evolving landscape of college football, touching on issues like NIL deals and the controversy surrounding biological men in women's sports. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of fundamentals and the influence of social media on sports culture. Tune in for expert insights and engaging discussions on key issues in sports today.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:33) Holiday Bonus Edition with John Smoltz
• (00:59) Braves Offseason Prospects
• (01:34) Pitching Strategies and Challenges
• (05:50) College Football Dynamics
• (09:48) Controversies in College Sports
• (14:03) Reflections and Future Plans
• (21:17) Closing Remarks and Fan Engagement

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Braves' success hinges on staying healthy and fostering young pitchers’ long-term development.
• Modern baseball's analytics-driven approach risks stifling player autonomy and longevity.
• The shift in college sports dynamics poses challenges for coaches and athletes alike.
• Advocating for fairness and tradition in sports is essential amidst evolving societal norms.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

John Smoltz, a Hall of Fame pitcher, is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and dominant players in Major League Baseball history. Known for his impressive career with the Atlanta Braves from 1988 to 2008, Smoltz achieved 213 wins, 154 saves, and a career ERA of 3.33. He remains the only pitcher in MLB history to record both 200+ wins and 150+ saves.

As part of the legendary Braves rotation alongside Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine, Smoltz was instrumental in Atlanta’s 1995 World Series championship. He also earned the 1996 National League Cy Young Award, thanks to his standout 24-win season.

Following his retirement in 2009, Smoltz transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a respected MLB analyst known for his insightful commentary. Beyond baseball, he is an avid golfer, a philanthropist, and a passionate advocate for youth sports development. Smoltz's legacy extends both on and off the field, embodying excellence, adaptability, and leadership.

Stay connected with us:

• X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/
• Website: http://fansfirstpodcast.com/

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send in your voice memos or written submissions to Jim@fansfirstpodcast.com and join the conversation on our next episode.

BaseballCommonSense, JohnSmoltz, FansFirstPodcast, PitchingPhilosophy, MLBInsights, GoldenAtBat, BaseballHealth, RuleChanges, MLBContracts, HallOfFame, TylerFlowers, JimPowell, MLBLegends, SportsPodcast, PitchingEvolution, BaseballTalk, AthleteHealth

Host Jim Powell, co-host Tyler Flowers, and John Smoltz (aka Smoltzie) discuss college football, biological men demanding to play in women's sports, and much more. The conversation delves into Rob Manfred's "golden at-bat" rule proposal, the state of pitching and injuries in Major League Baseball, and how rule changes could incentivize healthier practices. Smoltz shares his insights on the advancements and pitfalls in pitching strategies, the impact of analytics, and the future challenges for the sport. The episode also features the "Get Off My Lawn" segment, where David Carroll advocates for more Ford Frick Awards to honor deserving broadcasters.

Be sure to enjoy Part 2, a special bonus Holiday edition with Smoltz and the boys coming shortly after Christmas!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (0:43) Special Guest: John Smoltz
• (01:50) Golden At Bat Rule Discussion
• (03:15) Pitching Philosophy and Injuries
• (04:56) Future of Baseball and Rule Changes
• (15:32) Soto Contract and Player Valuation
• (17:33) Get Off My Lawn Segment
• (19:28) Closing Remarks and Community Engagement

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Baseball needs rule changes to address the high rate of pitching injuries.
• Modern pitching strategies prioritize max effort over sustainability.
• Player development should balance analytics with long-term health.
• High-profile contracts like Juan Soto’s reflect the evolving economics of baseball.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

John Smoltz, a Hall of Fame pitcher, is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and dominant players in Major League Baseball history. Known for his impressive career with the Atlanta Braves from 1988 to 2008, Smoltz achieved 213 wins, 154 saves, and a career ERA of 3.33. He remains the only pitcher in MLB history to record both 200+ wins and 150+ saves.

As part of the legendary Braves rotation alongside Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine, Smoltz was instrumental in Atlanta’s 1995 World Series championship. He also earned the 1996 National League Cy Young Award, thanks to his standout 24-win season.

Following his retirement in 2009, Smoltz transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a respected MLB analyst known for his insightful commentary. Beyond baseball, he is an avid golfer, a philanthropist, and a passionate advocate for youth sports development. Smoltz's legacy extends both on and off the field, embodying excellence, adaptability, and leadership.

RESOURCE LINKS

Stay connected with us:

• X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/
• Website: http://fansfirstpodcast.com/

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send in your voice memos or written submissions to Jim@fansfirstpodcast.com and join the conversation on our next episode.

BaseballCommonSense, JohnSmoltz, FansFirstPodcast, PitchingPhilosophy, MLBInsights, GoldenAtBat, BaseballHealth, RuleChanges, MLBContracts, HallOfFame, TylerFlowers, JimPowell, MLBLegends, SportsPodcast, PitchingEvolution, BaseballTalk, AthleteHealth

Hall of Fame sportscaster Jim Powell, co-host Tyler Flowers invites special guest Chris Sale, 2024 Cy Young Award winner, to discuss his remarkable season. They dive into the challenges and successes the Braves experienced, emphasizing player resilience, team camaraderie, and the superb leadership of manager Brian Snitker. Sale, known for his dominant pitching style and leadership, shares unique insights into his off-season preparations, in-game strategies, and reflections on baseball as a demanding sport. The episode is filled with anecdotes from his career and interactions with legends like Randy Johnson and Greg Maddux. Expect plenty of laughs, great stories, and valuable advice for young pitchers on staying focused and navigating adversity. The episode concludes with a "Get off my lawn" fan segment by David Carroll from Chattanooga, Tennessee, offering a comprehensive look at what makes the Braves' organization special.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:41) Special Guest Tyler Flowers
• (01:12) Reflecting on the Season's Successes and Challenges
• (02:35) Player Contributions and Overcoming Injuries
• (06:35) Team Dynamics and Organizational Philosophy
• (11:03) Brian Snitker's Leadership and Management Style
• (15:34) Chris Sale's Cy Young Season and Staying Healthy
• (19:35) Pitching Strategies and Memorable Moments
• (25:24) Pitching Struggles and Honest Advice
• (27:55) Greg Maddux and the Cy Young Award
• (32:55) Advice for Young Pitchers
• (34:02) Randy Johnson's Call and Motivation
• (39:32) Get Off My Lawn Segment

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Sale highlights the critical role of a focused off-season in achieving peak performance.
• Sale praises the Braves’ ability to stay united through injuries and challenges.
• Sale acknowledges the influence of teammates and coaches like Randy Johnson and Greg Maddux.
• Sale encourages young athletes to stay tough, work hard, and strive for continuous improvement.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Christopher Sale is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Atlanta Braves. Previously, he played for the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox. A left-handed pitcher standing 6'6", Sale is a Lakeland, Florida, native who played college baseball at Florida Gulf Coast University.

Drafted 13th overall by the White Sox in 2010, Sale debuted in MLB on August 6, 2010. He was traded to the Red Sox in 2017, playing a pivotal role in their 2018 World Series win. A seven-time All-Star (2012–2018), Sale led the AL in strikeouts in 2015 and 2017, reaching 300 strikeouts in a season in 2017. He holds the record as the fastest pitcher to 2,000 career strikeouts (1,626 innings).

Following injuries late in his Boston tenure, Sale was traded to the Braves in 2023. In 2024, he earned his eighth All-Star selection, won his first Cy Young Award, Triple Crown, and a Gold Glove.

RESOURCE LINKS

Stay connected with us:

• X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/
• Website: http://fansfirstpodcast.com/

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send in your voice memos or written submissions to Jim@fansfirstpodcast.com and join the conversation on our next episode.

#FansFirstPodcast #MLB #Baseball #ChrisSale #BravesBaseball #TeamChemistry #CyYoung #SportsPodcast...

Jim Powell sits down with John Hollins, CEO of Atlanta Metro RBI, and his son Jordan Hollins the Director of Operations, to discuss their impactful baseball mentorship program. They explore the origins, mission, and successes of Atlanta Metro RBI, their commitment to balancing sports excellence with life preparation, and the various challenges and achievements along the way. A key theme is how baseball, as a "game of failure," teaches resilience. Jordan explains that handling setbacks on the field builds mental toughness—a skill essential in life. Highlighting their upcoming event, the Local Black Legends of Baseball, on November 10th, they stress the importance of community support and involvement. This heartfelt conversation underscores the power of baseball as a vehicle for mentorship and youth development.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:38] Special Guests: John and Jordan Hollins
• [01:52] The Mission of Atlanta Metro RBI
• [03:26] Success Stories and Partnerships
• [04:39] Challenges and Future Goals
• [08:35] Jordan Hollins' Coaching Journey
• [12:09] Balancing Baseball and Mentorship
• [13:21] Presidential awards for community service recognition
• [14:41] Why Failure in Baseball is a Great Thing
• [17:21] Developing players through challenging competition
• [20:34] Upcoming Event: Local Black Legends of Baseball
• [26:01] How You Can Help
• [27:44] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Founded in honor of John’s father, the organization aims to mentor Atlanta’s youth through baseball, emphasizing discipline, academics, and community.
• Academic support is as vital as athletic training, with the program achieving an average GPA of 3.5 for senior athletes.
• The Local Black Legends of Baseball event honors trailblazers in the community, reminding young players of the legacy they uphold.
• Both John and Jordan stress that mentoring is more than coaching; it’s a way of life that prepares kids for challenges beyond sports.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

John Hollins

John Hollins is the CEO and founder of Atlanta Metro RBI, a nonprofit dedicated to mentoring Atlanta’s youth through baseball and life skills development. Inspired by his father’s legacy of service, John created the program to offer structured athletic and academic support to young people, helping over 350 students reach college. Recognized with a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for Community Service, John’s impact extends beyond the field, instilling values of discipline, education, and resilience in every player he mentors.

Jordan Hollins

Jordan Hollins is the Director of Operations, dedicated coach and mentor with Atlanta Metro RBI, where he follows in his father John’s footsteps to inspire young athletes in Atlanta. A former player whose career was cut short by injury, Jordan chose to stay in the game by teaching baseball fundamentals and life lessons to the next generation. His coaching achievements include winning several prestigious tournaments, and he remains committed to helping young athletes navigate both sports and life challenges with the same passion and discipline.

RESOURCE LINKS

Atlanta Metro RBI: https://www.atlmetrorbi.org/

X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/

Website:

Host Jim Powell engages in a lively conversation with legendary sportscaster Wayne Larrivee, the iconic voice of the Green Bay Packers. They explore Larrivee's illustrious broadcasting career and dissect key NFL season dynamics: standout player performances, strategic shifts towards running games, and the impact of recent rule changes like dynamic kickoffs. The episode discusses midseason team evaluations, including the Green Bay Packers, NFC East and West standings, and the challenges faced by teams like the Cowboys and 49ers. Additionally, Larrivee credits Kansas City's defensive prowess plus discusses the rise of young rookie quarterbacks such as Bo Nix, Caleb Williams, and Jaden Daniels. Larrivee shares invaluable broadcasting career advice, reflecting on inspirations like Marv Albert. The episode also covers the ongoing debate on transgender athletes in women's sports, exemplifying the show's blend of sports, expertise, and provocative discussions.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:41] Interview with Wayne Larrivee, 46-year NFL radio broadcaster
• [03:32] NFL Evolution and Rule Changes
• [08:59] NFC Teams Mid-Season Review
• [16:35] Impact of Super Bowl Losses on Teams
• [17:39] AFC East: Buffalo's Strong Start and Miami's Struggles
• [17:54] Jets' Controversies and Offensive Line Issues
• [19:01] Pittsburgh Steelers Leading the North
• [19:47] Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals Update
• [20:07] Cleveland Browns' Struggles and Deshaun Watson's Contract
• [20:57] AFC South: Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts
• [21:23] Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans
• [22:09] Kansas City Chiefs' Dominance in the West
• [23:22] Chargers and Broncos: Coaching and Quarterback Dynamics
• [25:04] Wayne Larrivee Broadcasting Journey
• [30:49] Get Off My Lawn: Controversy in Women's Sports

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The structure of NFL teams is in constant flux due to free agency and changing regulations, which significantly impact team performances over the regular season.
• Despite the NFL's evolution toward the passing game, teams that reach the Super Bowl can often run the ball and stop the run effectively.
• The experience and college preparation of young quarterbacks like Caleb Williams can predict their success, but the NFL ruins more quarterbacks than it makes.
• Losing a Super Bowl, especially in dramatic fashion, can have lasting psychological impacts on a team, which may affect future performances and raises questions about the 49ers’ ability to rebound from their slow start in ‘24.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Wayne Larrivee is an American sportscaster. Larrivee is currently the radio play-by-play voice of the Green Bay Packers on the Packers Radio Network alongside color commentator Larry McCarren and calls college football and basketball for the Big Ten Network on television.

RESOURCE LINKS

X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/

Website: http://fansfirstpodcast.com/

Hall of Fame sportscaster Jim Powell and co-host Tyler Flowers, a former Major League catcher, break down the complexities and excitement of the MLB playoff season. They honor Pete Rose's legacy and debate his Hall of Fame eligibility. Tyler shares insights on playoff matchups, including Cleveland's potential and top teams like the Dodgers and Braves. He also reflects on the changing culture of baseball and the role of fantasy football among MLB players. Packed with expert analysis and playoff insights, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the game.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:55] Jim and Tyler's tribute to Pete Rose after his passing at age 83.
• [02:26] Debate on Pete Rose’s eligibility for the Hall of Fame.
• [04:32] Breakdown of MLB playoff matchups and controversial moments.
• [09:52] Tyler Flowers on the changing respect for the game among current players.
• [11:12] Tyler identifies Cleveland as an underrated team in the playoffs.
• [14:58] Discussion on the key factors for playoff success: hot pitchers, batters, and relievers.
• [16:55] Impact of adrenaline and the unique energy of postseason baseball.
• [21:15] Tyler’s prediction on the Braves' chances and X-factors for their playoff success.
• [22:26] Flip the Switch- Fantasy Football in the culture of major league baseball players.
• [26:24] Final thoughts on MLB playoff excitement and the role of fantasy football in players' lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The question of whether Pete Rose belongs in the Hall of Fame continues to stir debate, especially given the current integration of gambling into major sports.
• Tyler emphasizes the importance of two hot starters, three relievers, and three batters for any team to make a significant playoff run.
• Tyler believes Cleveland is the most overlooked team in the playoff picture, citing their team chemistry and leadership.
• Tyler reflects on the electrifying atmosphere of playoff baseball and how adrenaline pushes players to perform their best, overcoming the fatigue of a long season.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Cole Tyler Flowers (born January 24, 1986) is an American former professional baseball catcher. Flowers was drafted by the Braves in the 33rd round of the 2005 MLB draft. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Chicago White Sox from 2009, when he made his MLB debut, to 2015 and for the Atlanta Braves from 2016 to 2020.

RESOURCE LINKS

X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/

Website: http://fansfirstpodcast.com/

Tyler Flowers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tflowers25/?hl=en