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Tracks To Success Welcomes Jesse Cole – A Masterclass in Standing Out

On this special bonus episode of Tracks To Success, get ready for a conversation that's anything but ordinary. Jesse Cole, the visionary founder of the Savannah Bananas, steps up to the microphone and joins host Kraig Kann. Known for rewriting the rules of baseball—and business—through bold creativity, relentless energy, and a fan-first mindset, Jesse is the ultimate example of what it means to own the moment and stand out from the pack.  Sold out NFL and MLB stadiums, the biggest college football stadiums ... a spot on CBS's 60 Minutes, and a new network TV deal on ESPN.  But how?  

From wearing a yellow tuxedo to transforming the game into a show-stopping experience, Jesse has turned entertainment into a leadership philosophy and passion into a powerhouse brand. His story isn’t just about baseball; it’s about building something unforgettable by daring to be different.

Inspiring people. Inspiring stories. Jesse Cole’s track is a masterclass for anyone ready to rethink what’s possible and ignite a brand-new you.

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This is one of the feel good podcasts in Season III of Tracks to Success as Kraig Kann tees up one of golf’s true gentlemen.  

Mark Rolfing is about to celebrate a milestone mark in golf television and he’ll have a long list of supporters when it happens.  His path to NBC Sports and Golf Channel is unique to say the least and, yet,  his greatest legacy might be the ambassador role he’s taken on in the state of Hawaii. 

You’ll hear about his passion for golf, the love affair with the people of Maui and a winning battle with cancer that’s given him motivation to elevate his impact in all areas of his life.

Kraig and Mark were Golf Channel teammates and you’ll enjoy an easy listen that will put a smile on your face to be sure. 

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On this edition of Tracks to Success, Kraig Kann chats with the new president of the PGA of America.  He’s one of the biggest promoters of golf in the game, and he leads  one of golf’s most important stakeholders and caretakers.

Don Rea had humble beginnings, runs his own golf course and shares that having a true pride in his upbringing is one of the most important reasons for his success. 

You’ll hear his goals in leading 30,000 PGA members and how he’s using his elected platform to inspire in churches as well. 

If golf is your game, the man behind the Ryder Cup and one of golf’s four major championships is a must listen.  Watch his energy, it will inspire anyone who’s looking for a boost.  And as you’ll see, no question is out of bounds as Kraig tees up some topics that will make you take a deep look within.

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She knows how to sell.  Period.  And she knows about brands, branding and building one that lasts.

Kraig Kann spends time with Jill Bauer … or as she refers to herself, Just Jill.  Her long run as a mainstay host at QVC and one of the most successful and popular in the network’s history (she sold more than 3 billion dollars in products during more than two decades on air) is a tribute to her style of sale and not the products she sold.

Perhaps you’ve seen her in one of her spots on NBC’s Today show.  Or perhaps you already follow “Just Jill” on one of her social platforms. As impressive as her resume is her openness about pivoting into the uncertain world post television.  Her journey had fear and a bunch of belief.

Join Kraig and Jill Bauer on this edition of Tracks to Success. 

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Grab a seat for this one!  Kraig Kann chats up one of the most innovative leaders in the entertainment business.  And he's actually behind your behind.

Jeff Ianello is the head of sales in all of North America for Seat Geek.  He spent more than a dozen years on the team and league side of sports and now he's focused on live event technology and creating a better ticketing experience for consumers on all levels.

You'll love his energy for your visit to the stadium, arena or theater.  And his transparency about the challenges of his personal climb to the top of his industry is inspiring.  He talks to Kraig about the real value in marketing and communication of products and services and why leadership is important at every level.

Years at the NBA league office in marketing and business operations followed his years with the Phoenix Suns where he was the Senior VP of Sales. 

Perhaps most compelling in the entire conversation is the challenge he faced in being a leader in his own home and how a personal pivot has led to the best job he's ever had and enthusiasm for making the ease of each ticket you purchase the gateway to an amazing consumer experience.

Join Jeff and Kraig on this edition of Tracks To Success!

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The newest member of Kann Advisory Group joins founder Kraig Kann for a lively chat that covers more chapters than most this season.  And why wouldn’t it?!

Seth Davis has authored nine books with NY Times Best-Seller status attached to a more than a few.  Davis recently launched Hoops HQ… dedicated to - college basketball - his passion for more than 3 decades.

Seth’s esteemed writing career includes long runs at Sports Illustrated and The Athletic. He’s also widely recognized for his contribution to March Madness coverage on CBS and Turner.

You’ll hear conversation on how Davis reached the television studio and why he’s passionate about the speaking stage on the topic of kindness.

Join Kraig and Seth… it’s a slam dunk interview and you’ll quickly see why the two of them are now business partners.

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Are you a baseball fan?  Catch this Tracks To Success episode if you are...  as former All-Star and World Series winner AJ Pierzynski joins Kraig Kann for a lively chat about his career.  A childhood dream fulfilled from Orlando, Florida to the big leagues and a career that included seven teams, more than 2,000 hits and has continued in a way that has him as enthused as ever.

What was his "it" that helped him reach the majors?  What did one of his coaches tell him that changed his career trajectory?  Which team was his favorite and how has he become a network broadcaster and daily show host that people are talking about?

Don't miss his takes on baseball but also the topic of leadership and being a part of a winning team.  Why is communication so important?  And why does everyone need a special attitude to succeed and reach full potential?  Pierzynksi has strong opinions on all of it.

A podcast episode that gives you things about business and career than you might not have been expecting.  Don't miss it!

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When it comes to “brand” and an incredibly passionate fan base in professional sports, you’d be hard pressed to beat the Green Bay Packers.  And it begins and ends with Kraig’s guest in this episode of Tracks to Success. 

Gabrielle Dow has 30 years in sports marketing and entertainment.  Her title is Vice President of Marketing and Fan Engagement … and her passion and creativity created a fast climb on the career track.  Her resume includes the Baltimore Ravens, the NHL's Florida Panthers and AEG, marketing the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers, as well as the Staples Center, Kodak Theatre and The Forum.

She’ll wow you with her ideation and leadership thoughts and share what she believes is the key to branding sports … and successful people in today’s fast paced world.

Don’t miss it! 

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DaDaDa…DaDaDa!  This is the episode that will give you high entertainment and true insight into the world of sports television and the iconic brand that is ESPN.

John Anderson is more than a familiar TV face to sports fans.  His talent took him through local markets and up to Bristol, Connecticut where ESPN calls home.  A unique ability to connect with audiences also landed him a host role on the hit reality series “Wipeout” where his quick witted nature and authentic personality was an instant hit.  Anderson was a fixture - more than twenty-five years on SportsCenter bringing the day in sports into homes around the world.   In June of 2024, John delivered his finale show.  And now, there’s a new chapter as he pays an amazing television career …forward. 

So how did it all happen?  And what was it like to retire from the high profile career he chased for years?  John shares it all with his college classmate and longtime friend Kraig Kann as Tracks To Success brings you a rare look at the world of sports television and how following your dream can build a brand that leaves a lasting legacy. 

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If brand is your thing and you want to learn how to promote you, then some time with Kraig Kann and Amy Littleton will serve you well!

Amy is one of the brightest minds in brand engagement and public relations.  Building brands and telling stories has become big business in the corporate world and her company - Stretch PR - is fast becoming a game changer in sports and traditional business.

How big is “brand” when looking for your next job?  How do you take control of your own PR?  Do you need to?  There’s plenty here to get you on the fast track to success.  

And if you’re an entrepreneur looking for promote your own business this is just the podcast for you.  Join Kraig and Amy… a “brand” new episode of Tracks to Success.

Watch Tracks To Success on Kraig Kann's YouTube Channel!