Summary:

In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas interviews Gene Steratore, a former NFL referee and current rules analyst. They discuss Gene's journey into officiating, the challenges of managing multiple sports, and the importance of empathy in officiating. Gene shares insights on the evolution of officiating, the significance of mentorship, and the need to honor officiating legends. The conversation emphasizes the lessons learned through officiating and the impact it has on personal growth and sportsmanship.

Sound Bites:

"I was kind of born into officiating."

"Navigating travel was challenging."

"There's a beauty in being different."

Chapters:

00:00 Gene Steratore's Journey in Officiating

05:41 Navigating Dual Sports as an Official

08:38 The Role of an On-Air Rules Analyst

11:44 The Importance of Being a Multi-Sport Official

14:47 The Significance of Wearing the Stripes

17:26 Lessons Learned from Officiating

20:43 Top Moments in Gene's Officiating Career

35:16 Family Dynamics and Professional Rivalry

39:25 The Importance of Trust in Officiating

43:42 Navigating Challenges in Officiating

48:26 The Evolution of Officiating: Technology and Rules

53:36 Honoring Officiating Legends

01:05:12 Lessons from Officiating: Empathy and Growth

01:13:55 Outro