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:

• [00:43] Special Guest: John Smoltz
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• [01:50] Golden At Bat Rule Discussion
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• [03:15] Pitching Philosophy and Injuries
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• [04:56] Future of Baseball and Rule Changes
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• [15:32] Soto Contract and Player Valuation
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• [17:33] Get Off My Lawn Segment
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• [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...

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

Jim Powell sits down with Joey Jones, a Marine Corps veteran, motivational speaker, and Fox News contributor. Joey shares his incredible story of overcoming injuries from stepping on an IED while serving in Afghanistan. The conversation delves into his recovery, personal growth, and the lessons learned through faith, family, and resilience. Joey also discusses his book Unbroken Bonds of Battle, his passion for sports, and the pivotal role of relationships in his life.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:14] Joey discusses joining the Marine Corps and his early deployments.
• [02:52] Joey explains his decision to become an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician.
• [04:37] Joey recounts stepping on an IED in Afghanistan and losing both legs.
• [06:11] The benchmarks in Joey's physical recovery, including walking with prosthetics.
• [09:32] Joey talks about his book Unbroken Bonds of Battle and its success.
• [12:45] Joey reflects on the role of faith in his recovery process.
• [15:07] Joey discusses his deep passion for sports, especially the Braves and Bulldogs.
• [17:30] Joey's experience working with musician Zac Brown and his role in veteran programming.
• [21:57] “Get Off My Lawn” segment with a Derrick from Houston, Texas, submission about Caitlin Clark.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Joey’s journey from injury to physical independence in under a year is a testament to his determination and willpower.
• Joey emphasizes the importance of friendships and support systems, from his family to fellow veterans and celebrities like Zac Brown.
• Joey's faith and sense of duty to his family fueled his recovery, pushing him to live life fully despite his injuries.
• Joey uses his platform to advocate for veterans and share his story, helping others find strength and resilience in their own struggles.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Combat-wounded Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Johnny "Joey" Jones turned a traumatic, life-changing disability into a personal mission to improve the lives of all veterans and share the life-changing perspective and gratitude he found in his recovery. Jones is a contributor across all FOX News Media platforms, including FNC, FOX Business Network (FBN) and FOX Nation. He is a fill-in host for several hit shows including the Fox and Friends franchise, The Five and the primetime show Fox News Tonight.

Jones' easy rapport with and genuine concern for people of all walks of life has led to a long list of speaking opportunities. His message focuses on overcoming adversity, finding a positive perspective in dire situations, leaning on those around you, and finding strength in yourself and your community. Rather it be on live television, in writing, or speaking to a live audience, Joey's genuine demeanor, thoughtful approach and innate humor allow him to masterfully connect with people on a gamut of issues. He simply believes we all need the opportunity to remind ourselves what we’re capable of overcoming, the value we bring to others and the necessity to build strong relationships with our teams, family, and community.

Known to his friends as 'Triple J,' Jones was raised in Dalton, Georgia and enlisted in the Marine Corps after high school. During his eight years of service, he worked as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (bomb) Technician, deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan on separate tours. During his last deployment to Afghanistan, Jones’ team rendered safe and destroyed more than 80 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) along with thousands of pounds of other unknown bulk explosives. It was during that tour on August 6, 2010, when he stepped on and initiated an IED, resulting in the loss of both of his legs above the knee and severe damage to his right forearm and both...

Jim Powell sits down with Josh Brooks, the J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics at the University of Georgia. Brooks, a 2023 Sports Business Journal Athletic Director of the Year finalist, shares insights on leading a powerhouse athletic program, the challenges of managing multiple sports, and balancing family life with a demanding career. They discuss UGA’s recent successes, exciting new facility projects, and the future of college athletics. Plus, a passionate fan calls in during the “Get Off My Lawn” segment, stirring up conversation about the Alabama vs. Georgia rivalry.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:45] - Jim Powell introduces Josh Brooks, UGA Athletic Director
• [02:15] - Josh Brooks talks about balancing multiple sports programs
• [03:55] - Brooks discusses how he spends time with his family
• [05:25] - Jim and Josh discuss changes in college football
• [07:15] - Brooks shares what keeps him up at night about college athletics
• [12:00] - Facility renovations and future plans for UGA sports
• [14:15] - Challenges of keeping UGA athletic events affordable
• [16:22] - Josh Brooks discusses UGA basketball and Mike White’s recruiting class
• [18:22] - Flip the Switch
• [21:10] - Brooks gives his thoughts on the Georgia vs. Alabama game
• [22:30] - Get Off My Lawn Segment- Charlotte, North Carolina.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Josh Brooks emphasizes the importance of teamwork and credits much of UGA's athletic success to his predecessors, staff, and athletes.
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• Brooks highlights the challenges of balancing a demanding career as an Athletic Director with being present for his family.
• 
  
• UGA is undergoing significant facility renovations, including projects for softball, baseball, and Sanford Stadium to enhance fan experiences.
• 
  
• Brooks is optimistic but acknowledges concerns about the future of NCAA, NIL deals, and the increasing demands on student-athletes and coaches.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Josh Brooks (born May 28, 1980) is an American university sports administrator who is athletic director at the University of Georgia, and previously Millsaps College.

Millsaps College[edit]

After stints at Louisiana-Monroe and Georgia, Brooks became the athletic director at Millsaps College, a Division III school located in Jackson, Mississippi.[1]

University of Georgia[edit]

In 2016, Brooks went to the University of Georgia to serve as executive associate director of athletics. Over the course of the next 5 years, Brooks was promoted three times. In 2018, Brooks became a deputy athletic director, and in 2019 became the senior deputy athletic...

Host Jim Powell is joined by legendary sportscaster Wes Durham, who brings his deep insights from covering the NFL and college football. This episode covers his career, the Falcons' latest game, the differences between college football and the NFL, and the complexities of international NFL games. Durham shares his thoughts on his favorite sports, the relationships formed over his career, and insights into NFL team dynamics. The episode concludes with the popular segment 'Get Off My Lawn,' highlighting fan opinions on the challenges of international NFL games.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:40] Special Guest: Wes Durham
• [00:56] Wes Durham on College vs. NFL Football
• [03:58] Rooting for Friends in Sports
• [05:41] Analyzing the Atlanta Falcons
• [07:22] NFL Draft and Quarterback Strategies
• [09:33] Surprising NFL Teams to Watch
• [15:00] - Wes discusses Cincinnati Bengals’ challenges for the upcoming season.
• [17:32] International NFL Games and Field Conditions
• [22:15] - Wes recalls the unforgettable 28-3 Super Bowl story from an insider’s perspective.
• [24:10] Get Off My Lawn segment with a passionate fan submission on NFL international games.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• In the Southeast, college football is more than a sport—it's a family tradition spanning generations.
• Successful teams must know when to let go of top players to keep cap space balanced while nurturing new talent.
• NFL teams live and die by turnovers, and this was evident in the Falcons’ recent performance.
• As the NFL grows globally, ensuring quality playing conditions for players is crucial.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Dallas Wesley "Wes" Durham (born January 25, 1966, in Greensboro, North Carolina) is an American sportscaster. He is a play-by-play announcer for ESPN and ACC Network coverage of college football and basketball. He works telecasts of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) due to his experience broadcasting in the conference.

Durham served as the radio play-by-play announcer for the Georgia Tech football and men's basketball teams from the start of the 1995-1996 season through 2010, and continued to announce the basketball games through 2013.[1] He was also Georgia Tech's Director of Broadcasting