We Love Our Team

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In this episode of 'We Love Our Team', Jack Greiner and Randy Freking welcome Tim Elsbrock, the regional president of Fifth Third Bank in Cincinnati. The conversation explores Tim's deep roots in Cincinnati, his passion for the Reds, and memorable moments from his childhood. Tim discusses the influence of family on his love for baseball, the relationship between Fifth Third Bank and the Reds, and the current state of baseball fandom among younger generations. 

The episode also touches on favorite local foods and the charm of baseball's human elements.

Takeaways

• Tim Elsbrock shares his Cincinnati roots and connection to the Reds.
• Memorable moments from the Big Red Machine era are highlighted.
• Tim's family played a significant role in fostering his love for baseball.
• The influence of baseball on Tim's four sons is discussed.
• Fifth Third Bank has a long-standing relationship with the Reds.
• Tim reflects on the importance of customer service in sports.
• The conversation includes favorite local foods and ice cream spots.
• Tim emphasizes the charm of human error in baseball.
• The discussion touches on the current state of baseball fandom.
• Tim shares insights on clutch players in Reds history.

Jack thanks the listeners

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Summary

"It was the 'Marty Brennaman Show' for three hours and there just happened to be a baseball game being played"

Want the inside scoop on the Reds radio booth, particularly with Marty?

Dave Armbruster, the long-time producer and engineer for the Cincinnati Reds radio broadcasts, shares his journey from a young Reds fan to a key figure in sports broadcasting. He reflects on his early career, memorable moments with legendary announcers Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall, and the evolution of broadcasting in the modern era. 

Dave discusses the challenges of working in a high-pressure environment, the dynamics of team interactions, and his favorite Reds memories, including the iconic 1990 World Series team. The conversation highlights the importance of personality in broadcasting and the unique experiences that come with being part of the Reds organization.

Takeaways

• Dave Armbruster has been with WLW since 1982.
• He started his career in radio at a rock station.
• Dave's main role involves technical support during broadcasts.
• He has worked closely with legendary announcers like Marty Brennaman.
• Marty's criticism of players was often fair but sometimes too harsh.
• The broadcasting landscape has changed significantly over the years.
• Dave fondly remembers the 1990 Reds team as his favorite.
• The banana phone was a fun interactive segment during rain delays.
• Dave emphasizes the importance of being present at games for broadcasters.
• He enjoys the camaraderie and stories shared in the booth.

Sound Bites

• "I just start laughing."
• "I think it was hilarious."
• "He was bigger than life."

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Summary

C. Trent Rosecrans, a seasoned sports journalist, shares his journey from being a Navy brat to becoming a prominent writer covering the Cincinnati Reds and Major League Baseball. He reflects on his childhood as a Kansas City Royals fan, the impact of significant trades in baseball history, and his experiences playing baseball around the world.

 Trent discusses the challenges of transitioning from a beat writer to a generalist, his role in the Baseball Writers Association, and memorable moments in his journalism career. The conversation concludes with a rapid-fire word association segment, showcasing Trent's insights and humor.

Takeaways

• C. Trent Rosecrans has a diverse background, having lived in multiple countries due to his father's Navy career.
• He grew up a passionate Kansas City Royals fan, influenced by his family's roots in Missouri.
• Trent's career in journalism began with a gamble, moving to Cincinnati to pursue his dream of covering baseball.
• He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in recognizing his limitations as a player, leading him to journalism.
• Joey Vato is one of his favorite players to cover due to his intellectual approach to the game.
• Trent believes that the pace of play in baseball is more important than the time of the game itself.
• He has a history minor, which enhances his appreciation for the historical aspects of baseball.
• Trent's role in the Baseball Writers Association of America has been a significant milestone in his career.
• He values the relationships built in journalism, which often lead to breaking news stories.
• Trent's experiences have taught him the importance of weighing the significance of news before reporting.

Sound Bites

• "I grew up a big Royals fan."
• "I love the history of baseball."
• "I have a history minor."

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In this engaging conversation, Dr. Ed Hirt, a professor of social psychology at Indiana University, shares his insights on the psychology of fandom, particularly focusing on Cincinnati Reds fans. He discusses his personal experiences growing up as a Reds fan, the emotional highs and lows associated with team success and failure, and the concept of 'basking in reflected glory.' 

The conversation delves into the complexities of fan loyalty, the impact of team performance on personal identity, and the evolving nature of fandom in modern sports, including the shift towards individual player allegiances. Dr. Hirt also reflects on the identity crisis faced by Cubs fans after their historic 2016 World Series win and shares thoughts on the most insufferable fan bases in sports.

Takeaways

• Fandom is a significant part of personal identity.
• Emotional investment in sports can affect mood and self-esteem.
• Fans often feel a sense of pride through their team's success.
• The concept of 'basking in reflected glory' explains fan behavior.
• Real fans remain loyal through wins and losses.
• Camaraderie among fans enhances the experience of following a team.
• Changing allegiances can complicate fan identity.
• Modern sports marketing focuses more on individual players than teams.
• Nostalgia plays a crucial role in maintaining fan loyalty.
• The emotional highs and lows of fandom are universal experiences.

Sound Bites

• "There's always next year."
• "It's tough on us in the process."
• "We want the real fans here."

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Summary

Comedian Josh Sneed shares his journey from growing up in St. Bernard, Ohio, to becoming a nationally touring comedian and entrepreneur. He discusses his deep-rooted passion for the Cincinnati Reds, humorous anecdotes from his childhood, and the evolution of his brand, Cincy Shirts. Josh also highlights the importance of community engagement through his new venture, The FieldHouse, and his commitment to fostering a positive environment in youth sports. With insights into his comedic influences and experiences, this episode offers a blend of humor, nostalgia, and inspiration.

Takeaways

• Josh Sneed is a nationally touring comedian with a rich background in stand-up.
• He grew up in St. Bernard, Ohio, and attended St. Bernard Elmwood Place High School.
• Josh's early career included working at Procter & Gamble while pursuing comedy.
• He has a deep-rooted passion for the Cincinnati Reds, influenced by his father's fandom.
• Josh shares humorous anecdotes from his childhood and high school experiences.
• He emphasizes the importance of family and community in his life and career.
• Cincy Shirts started as a funny t-shirt company and evolved into a local brand.
• The Field House is a new indoor baseball facility that Josh co-founded.
• Josh's comedy influences include Conan O'Brien, Bill Cosby, and Dave Chappelle.
• He aims to create a positive environment in youth sports through his organization, RedLegs.

Sound Bites

• "I was part of a group of funny guys."
• "I want every single one of these."
• "I wanted to be on Conan O'Brien."

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In this heartfelt episode, Jack and Randy reminisce about their fathers and the profound impact they had on their love for baseball. They share personal stories, from childhood memories of playing baseball to attending Reds games, highlighting the lessons learned and the bonds formed through the sport. The conversation flows through their fathers' influences, memorable moments at All-Star games, and the joys of passing down their passion for baseball to their own children.

takeaways

• Jack's father was a calm and supportive figure in his life.
• Randy's father had a significant influence on his love for baseball.
• Both hosts grew up in large families, which shaped their experiences.
• The importance of family traditions in fostering a love for sports.
• Memories of attending Reds games created lasting bonds.
• The impact of coaching on their development as players.
• Humorous anecdotes about their fathers' involvement in baseball.
• The significance of All-Star games in their childhood memories.
• The role of fathers in shaping their children's interests.
• The joy of sharing baseball experiences with their own children.

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In this episode of 'We Love Our Team', hosts Jack Greiner and Randy Freaking welcome broadcasting legends Eddie Fingers and Rocky Boiman. The conversation explores their backgrounds in radio and sports, their deep-rooted fandom for the Cincinnati Reds, and their experiences as broadcasters. They share memorable moments from Reds history, discuss the evolution of the team, and reflect on the current players making an impact. The episode also touches on coaching influences, the fan experience at games, and aspirations for the Reds' future.

takeaways

• Eddie Fingers grew up in Dayton, Ohio, as a Reds fan.
• Rocky Boiman transitioned from football to broadcasting after his NFL career.
• Both guests have a strong connection to Cincinnati sports culture.
• Eddie recalls his early memories of Reds baseball and Crosley Field.
• Rocky shares his experiences of watching Pete Rose and the Big Red Machine.
• The importance of coaching in shaping athletes' lives is emphasized.
• Current Reds players like Joey Vato and De La Cruz are highlighted.
• The fan experience at baseball games is more casual compared to NFL games.
• Broadcasting styles vary, with Marty and Joe being favorites among fans.
• Both guests express optimism about the Reds' future championship potential.

Sound Bites

• "I always respected that about Joey Vato."
• "I think Larkin is kind of growing into it."
• "I think the intensity is more in a football game."

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In this episode of We Love Our Team, Jack Greiner and Randy Freking welcome artist and baseball historian Gary Cierdkowski. They discuss Gary's journey into baseball design, his creation of the Infinite Baseball Card Set, and his passion for illustrating obscure baseball players. The conversation also delves into the life of Larry McPhail, a pivotal figure in baseball history, and Gary's personal experiences as a Reds fan. Additionally, they explore Gary's favorite baseball movies, highlighting the intersection of art and sports.

takeaways

• Gary Cierdkowski has been an artist since childhood.
• He became an art director at a young age while working on Oriole Park.
• The Infinite Baseball Card Set was inspired by his father and grandfather.
• Gary illustrates obscure baseball players to share their unique stories.
• Dick Sipick was the eighth deaf player in Major League Baseball.
• Ted Kluszewski's wife helped him overcome a batting slump using film.
• Larry McPhail revolutionized baseball marketing and fan engagement.
• Gary's favorite baseball movie is 'The Bad News Bears'.
• He prefers illustrating older players over current stars.
• Gary's latest illustration was of Van Lengo Mungo, a pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Sound Bites

• "I opened my studio a decade ago."
• "He was just a giant guy."
• "I can't believe that."

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In this episode, Jeff Trenipole, also known as Strawberry Ice, shares his journey from growing up in Cincinnati to becoming a popular sports talk show host. He discusses his love for the Reds, memorable moments from his childhood, and the inspiration behind his YouTube channel. Jeff reflects on his longest show, notable guests, and the growth of his podcast. He also shares his favorite sports memories, musical tastes, and even his favorite ice cream shop, Graeters. The conversation is filled with nostalgia, humor, and insights into the world of sports broadcasting.

Takeaways:

• Jeff Trenipole, known as Strawberry Ice, hosts a sports talk show.
• He grew up in Cincinnati, a huge fan of the Reds and Bengals.
• Memorable moments include meeting Johnny Bench as a child.
• The name 'Strawberry Ice' was given by a radio host during his internship.
• He started his YouTube channel at the encouragement of his son.
• The longest show he hosted was five hours, featuring various guests.
• He has a unique approach to growing his podcast by inviting different guests daily.
• Marty Brennaman is one of his favorite guests, as he was a childhood hero.
• He reminisces about the 1990 Reds team and their championship.
• He enjoys a variety of music, from classic rock to hip hop.

Sound Bites

• "My favorite player was Chris Sabo."
• "Graters is the bomb!"
• "I love Nirvana!"

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In this special episode, we welcome Zak Scarlato, a friend with Williams Syndrome, who shares his passion for baseball, particularly the Cincinnati Reds, and his unique talent for imitating umpires. Zach discusses his musical interests, including karaoke and instruments he plays, as well as his fascination with trains. 

Zak also shares insights about his work at the Dunham Recreation Center and his health journey, including surgeries at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. The conversation highlights Zach's vibrant personality and diverse interests, making for an engaging and uplifting episode.

Takeaways

• Zak Scarlato was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome at age two.
• He has a passion for the Cincinnati Reds, especially Joey Votto.
• Zak enjoys imitating umpires and has a talent for it.
• Zak has performed at Champions Grille at its annual Christmas party.
• Zak plays instruments like the keyboard and drums.
• He has a fascination with trains, particularly narrow gauge trains.
• Zak works at Dunham Recreation Center for a couple of hours.
• He underwent heart surgeries at Cincinnati Children's Hospital.
• Zak has a fondness for music, including Billy Joel, the Spice Girls, and Taylor Swift
• Zak enjpys pretty women.
• He enjoys spending time with family and friends at local events.