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Rounding the Bases with Joel Goldberg Podcast was created to share the stories of men and women in business and entrepreneurship that are both well knowing and or hidden gems. Joel believes that everyone has a story and their story matters which is why Joel is eager to connect with individuals that are bringing value to their community through innovation, leadership, entrepreneurial journeys, and developing company culture. If you would like to be a guest on Joel's podcast please email us at joel@joelgoldbergmedia.com.

TRANSCRIPT:
Joel Goldberg: Kyle. Thanks so much for joining the podcast, we're recording this in June. I won't dare ask you about the world of baseball, knowing that it could change by the time this runs

 

JG: Later in July, other than to say that you've certainly had a lifetime of baseball. And I want to talk to you about baseball miracles, but first and foremost, how much is baseball, a part of your everyday life.

 

Kyle Bamberger: You know, I would say, well, first and foremost, thanks for having made but uh yeah I would say each and every day is surrounding baseball, whether it be something Cleveland Indians related baseball miracles, or just catching up on what's going on in the world.

 

KB: I don't wake up without doing a quick search of what's going around the baseball world, let alone.

KB: You know anything going on in society. So yeah, baseball, day in, day out big part of my my life.

JG: And the reason why I asked him, and I've said this many times before for podcasts that has the

JG: Title that is baseball related rounding the basis, but it really is a podcast about so much more than baseball. And oftentimes, it's not about baseball

JG: It’s so much about the teamwork. It's so much about culture. It's so much about the roles in any corporation.

JG: That oftentimes don't get the attention. And so I bring that up because I think there's some

JG: There’s some similarities there between what you guys have done very much under the radar with baseball miracles and trying to bring this game as so many around the world.

JG: And also to the life of a scout. I mean, you're a major league baseball scout. And I think that that most people certainly those that are listening to this podcast will know what a Scout is. But when you start talking about

JG: Areas scouts and coordinators and cross checkers and all this type of stuff. There is a I don't know subculture is the right word.

JG: But there. There is a part of baseball that anyone in your world knows exactly what all that is and most other people don't.

JG: How in depth is the major league and minor league and everything that goes with a team like the Cleveland Indians or anything for that matter how deep does that go

KB: Yeah, I think it's, I mean, personally speaking, it's been really special to be part of this community of, let alone or forget the Indians, just a little on the, the whole baseball industry mo be is just very unique.

KB: Is just unique. I think it's the best way best word I can put on it. But, um,

KB: Yeah, it's it's truly one of a kind. I, I feel privileged every day to work with these talented individuals who have had years and years and years of experience in the game. Again, not just in the Cleveland Indians organization, but

KB: The scouts from other organizations that I go the ballpark with it's pretty special, and you gain an appreciation for how hard

KB: These uh these guys and girls have worked for years and years to gain this background and and how much time and effort goes in to make good selections come drafted.

KB: Well, and, you know, when you look at it, too, there is. And I know there's just being at the ballpark in normal years every single day that that there is a fraternity.

KB: Amongst the scouts, it's, it's probably similar to a lot of professions where okay people may know what you do, but no one has really

KB: Worked those hours. The way you have no one has has been at the ballpark, you know, two in the morning or on the back roads are all the you know the the quote unquote war stories and you're, you're still newer at this, you're a young guy there are

KB: You know 70 year old 80 year old scouts out there, they're still doing this today. It's

JB: I oftentimes think that the lifeline of the heartbeat of baseball. And certainly, you know, someone like David more in Kansas City would say that he has that that scouting background. What do you love so much about it.

KB: For me it's the chase.

KB: Amateur scouting isn't like pro scouting or international. It's just kind of its own niche. I kind of took a liking to it early on.

KB: Tried to angle my experiences so I can have a career and amateur scouting at an earlier age and you know I have some fond memories of traveling the Midwest.

KB: You know, last year, driving four or five hours to chase down one player. I heard his name through the grapevine, you know, dig.

KB: Dig a little on and do a little research and and try to have a sense of what Player we're looking to pursue there. But yeah, those kind of stories those long drives

KB: The amount of nights and hotels just sucking down coffee till one o'clock right in the report after the game.

KB: There’s nothing like it and it's always a grind in the spring. But you look back on those nights, especially when it turns into successes on draft day and

KB: It’s just so special and you know I wouldn't trade it for the world.

JG: Well, you know, baseball terms and I talked about this a lot. It's got to be one of the only professions, where from a heating standpoint.

JG: If you're successful 30% of the time you're among the best in the world from a scouting standpoint, you have to be great.

JG: But oftentimes that player never makes it your way. It might be out of your control might be out of the team's control. How do you, how do you as a scout measure success when so much of your work ends up not coming to fruition and it has nothing to do with you.

KB: Yeah, I mean I think in the classical sense. We all want to get our players. So, you know, these are human beings we watch them play we build relationships with them, which are so important.

KB: In in making good decisions. And it's tough when you know you see a team. Pick a guy, maybe a few pics before when you thought you might have a chance or your organization might have a chance with them.

KB: However, and I think, you know, credit to the Indians, you know, we've done a great job of creating cohesive department.

KB: Who you know doesn't just work in one area but breaks down those barriers helps each other in different areas and different areas and

KB: Realistically, our goal and how I view my job is to help us make the best decision on draft day

KB: Help order the board, not necessarily get players all the time. And if you know I think this year was a perfect example of the great work done by the holistic amateur scouting department turned into a lot of really positive pics on draft day

JG: I want to get to baseball miracles which is really the reason why I was having you on and in a few minutes. You're the director of operations, but just two more scouting questions, cuz I like

JG: I really enjoy with this podcast highlighting roles. Those behind the scenes roles again in the baseball world everybody

JG: That’s in the baseball world really understands what scouts do. I'm not sure. Not everybody understands what each of those roles. But in your world in the in the scouting world it's, you know, look.

JG: This has been going on a long time. Some things have changed but but guys know but but explained to me. So, last year you were in the Kansas City area.

JG: Now, you end up in California, you know, from Midwest area survive supervisor to Southern California area supervisor, which obviously has a lot more kids just the nature of

JG: The amount of baseball being played in California. You are an associate scale with the Baltimore Orioles. What are some of those different roles are what are they entail.

KB: I guess starting earlier on.

KB: Working chronologically, the Orioles on there. Oh, I started with in college and player development actually made a quick transition as soon as possible over to the

KB: scouting world and the Midwest scout for the Orioles Scott Thomas actually was, you know, an integral part of me getting involved on that side.

KB: And as far as being an associate scout that's really paying your dues, you're going to the ballpark for sheer love of the game, trying to help the organization. It's a volunteer position.

KB: We call them bird dogs. Classically, and there's plenty around the country that do just amazing work again for the love of the game, but did that for a couple years in the Northeast for Dana do cat and

KB: Ultimately did a summer on the cape which kind of internship credit while I was getting my my grad school.

KB: Degrees. And at that point, I've built some really good relationships that I help position me for

KB: For Cleveland so that that offseason Cleveland brought me on asked me if I would move to the Midwest AND AGAIN FOR THE LOVE OF THIS GAME FOR THE LOVE OF THIS JOB. This is what I've been working for years and years for

KB: I was happy to move to a new place that I've never been before. And the Midwest culture Kansas City was a phenomenal city really enjoyed that whole experience and then

KB: Last minute, this year I got an opportunity to go to Southern California, which again, as you mentioned, a lot of people there for kind of just a sheer numbers game a lot of talent and

KB: It was another really strong experience very different from the Midwest where it's very college heavy very high schooler heavy area out here.

KB: So, I mean, at the end of the day, I've just been trying to build experiences, learn how to be a better scout a better evaluator.

KB: And all these different areas. I've been in has definitely position me well and giving me a good

KB: Way the land in terms of what the scouting cool typically looks like from area to area.

JG: So you're, you know, you're a young guy and then in this game early and that's maybe a little bit different to. I mean, you see so many of these scouts that that went into this after they're playing career was over, and you're jumping in, I think, in your in your

JG: Tell me about that path and one that ultimately, I don't know that you end up at baseball miracles. If you're taking

JG: This path, but now you have these sort of joint responsibilities, first and foremost, I'm sure it's the Indians number one.

JG: In terms of job but then also what we're going to talk about here in a second, that this an incredible organization of spreading the love of baseball in baseball miracles, but

JG: How unique is, is your route. I've got a lot of friends that are scouts younger that maybe got into 35, you know, and then and who knows they might be there till they're 75 minutes. The way this business can work but but how about your background and how you got to here.

 

KB: Joel. I don't know if there's one exact path. I get asked that question quite a bit like how'd you get here. And if there's someone younger than me. How do I follow in your footsteps.

KB: And I don't know if I have a good answer. Even to this day. I know I made a decision in college where my dad going into my senior year.

KB: To Kyle even a lot of good things on campus and you're building your undergraduate resume. That's great. Now, what do you want to do with your life and

KB: I didn't really have a good answer. I was an econ major and I had a friend that was actually working for the Mets at the time, and he had worked with the Orioles previously so got me in touch with some people and

 

KB: All of a sudden I stumbled upon a double a buoy video internship and you know things kind of escalated. From there, I learned what skills were desirable.

KB: realized what it kind of took to you know make it in this game, which you know ultimately really came down to relationships and

KB: You know, it kind of stemmed from there and consequently baseball miracles was also a byproduct of those internships.

KB: I’m sure we'll get into just kind of the origin there, but I'm the founder Johnson. He was still leads our organization. And there's really, the lifeblood of the group.

KB: We happen to run into each other buoy and then the following year in Frederick, but yet from there. Long story short, continue to try to build relationships gain skills that were

KB: Desirable obviously we're moving, but we've fully embraced the analytics trends. So, you know, making sure quantitatively savvy as well as know how to evaluate on the field and

KB: The Indian sound that seemed to be a fit. They appreciate the skill set and I love the culture of the organization. And I'm I feel pretty fortunate that they gave me a chance at at a younger age. I don't know if I could say the same.

KB: If I went in a different route or didn't meet the right people, they took a chance on me early and really appreciate it.

JG: Okay, so let's talk about baseball miracles and that is the other major

JG: I don't know if I call profession, but endeavor of yours and your career. And I know that takes up a lot of time. I know it's it's something that you're extremely passionate about to just having visited with you.

 

Last month before we we got on a record this, tell me about baseball miracles and the mission of bringing baseball to kids around the world.

KB: Yeah, so in 2012 john and a couple friends went down to the Dominican Republic with this goal of bringing baseball to the underserved the deserving

KB: That may not have had the chance to experience the game otherwise in really, it has blossomed from there.

KB: The mission is to bring baseball around the world to those areas that are underserved. However, it, it's so much more than that.

KB: Really it's an all encompassing approach to help communities in need, it's centered around the kids senator what we do on the field, but really baseball and softball our vehicles for just impacting the lives of others. We always have a service component

KB: sociability, making sure we enjoy our time and spend quality time with those in the community build real relationships and devotional component as well. It's a faith based non tonight are nondenominational group which really drives everything we do, but

 

KB: Those four pillars really drive home our mission.

KB: They are what all our trips are centered around and you know at this point we've visited 10 different countries impact almost 3000 children around the world on every trip we give them their oftentimes it's a child's first glove first ball t shirt bag, you know, kind of, the whole nine

KB: But it's a really special experience and there's nothing like seeing

KB: smiles on KIDS FACES who, you know, deal with very real challenges every day and just to bring some joy to their life through the game of baseball so

KB: It’s pretty special, and it's literally changed my life in a lot of ways. Yeah, no, I mean it's you're you're being exposed to some things at a young age that I think all of us.

KB: Could, could benefit from just to be able to in terms of perspective, obviously, and we could

KB: sell off. And it's not just baseball take things for granted. And I'm sure that you see some things when you go on these trips that completely, you know, fill you up with with excitement and optimism and and then, like I said, a different perspective.

JG: To did you, what was it that pulled you to baseball miracles. I mean, I know for me, you know. Took me a lot of years to figure out where I wanted to

JG: To donate my time or what causes were important to because there's so many out there. Obviously, and in and out of the baseball world. What drew you to baseball miracles.

KB: I’ll give a lot of credit the john

KB: After those first interactions, realistically, I was. I remember sitting in buoy and prepping for a game and Parker Bridwell was throwing that game and john was asking me about

KB: Velocities and things like that. And we stayed in contact a little bit but fell out of touch that offseason

KB: And then in Frederick key. He saw me running around and I saw him on the concourse watching BP. So after I set up the cameras, did my basic responsibilities. I ran up john and said hi and

KB: We got talking for a while and you brought up baseball miracles kind of gave me the whole rundown. And it's an easy cause to get behind if I'm being honest, it's just, it's one of kind of special

KB: It’s a completely volunteer organization which I think speaks volumes and

KB: As he told me all these things I was almost instantly sold, but he he pulled back the reins. He said, Go home, do a little research, you know, get back to me. I'll be here for a few days and

KB: I guess. Regardless, I was planning on getting involved, one way or another, but I followed his direction.

KB: I did a little homework on the organization and very quickly. I got involved and it really has just grown since there my level of involvement. I started out doing social media for the group.

KB: starting our internship program and

KB: All of a sudden, I found myself in this Director of Operations role and it's really because of just my sheer love of the organization. My belief in John's vision.

KB: My belief in the in the mission and knowing that you know every dollar we raise every glove we collect that's going directly to the kids.

KB: It’s just to get an opportunity to to not run with. So yeah, I think that's really my motivation, how it started and how it's kind of spiraled from there.

JG: Well, it's cool to me. There's some. There are some bigger names involved in it too, in terms of, you know, managers GMOs former managers that everything former big leaguers. Tell me about that because

JG: Look, I don't know if the kids have it makes a difference to the kids or not, but I would think that certainly when you're raising money and awareness and funds, he put a big name on there and that's going to get people's attention.

KB: Yeah, we'll have a lot of zoom calls or we had a couple during this whole pandemic and Clint hurdles on the other line that was at the pinch myself for me.

KB: Going hurdle, because a legend in this game, and he's such a big supporter, both from a monetary standpoint.

KB: But also, and more importantly, from a leadership standpoint clinic, just a huge part of the mission and all those others in the game. I know there's a ton of scouts front office personnel that have just been staples and what we do on the field as well as off the field.

KB: You know, they are just huge and massive not not as leaders, but, um, you know, pieces of our operation. So from Clint to everyone else. I'm always inspired by the dedication. These people show

KB: And they'll be personalities and professionals that still after years and years, continue to donate their time to this cause. And really, again they carry this our team has grown just in the short amount of time I've been here probably from 2030 people to now 40 over 50

KB: And the group of LB personnel has continued to collect as well as we've grown in numbers, overall, so, um, yeah. I mean, it's pretty special for me. I tried to when we have those people present

KB: You know, talk less listen more and definitely soak in as much information, not just from a baseball perspective. But just how they view life and

KB: Obviously they've they've had it figured out. They've seen a lot. They've done a lot. And if they're donating their time to baseball miracles. I want to follow suit.

JG: Well, I mean, I want to get back real quick to Clint hurdle. When you're talking about Clin hurdle and the older generation even older than me.

JG: would remember Clin hurdle as cover of Sports Illustrated first round draft pick of the Kansas City Royals. This was

JG: Back in 1975 but I think, more recently, he's remembered as being the longtime manager of the Colorado Rockies, and the Pittsburgh Pirates and

JG: Now out of the game in terms of manager role. I don't know what his future is he's 62 years old is is what I see. I'll be 63 at the end of of July, but you mentioned leadership and this is a guy that's been in every single role.

JG: In baseball, at least in terms of being in a locker room being in front of groups. So you mentioned you know just shutting up and listening who wouldn't plus

JG: You know, I know. Quinn, a little bit. That's a big talker and a guy that has a lot of knowledge, not to mention the stories and big personality and all that. So what have you learned in terms of leadership from a guy like that.

KB: He’s just a humble servant. He works for others.

KB: I mean his energy is, as you probably know, is contagious.

KB: There’s a degree of positivity that you just can sense when you listen to them and it's something that you might hear managers being evaluated from far and you don't really know what they bring to a clubhouse. And that's I've got that.

KB: up close and personal view of quiet now and this first time i've really listened to a professional manager to this extent.

KB: And again, it's just positivity its wisdom says perfect blend of different values and then talents that he brings to the table which you get off the phone with them and you're, you're ready to run through a wall.

KB: For baseball miracles and yeah I know I've been privileged to get to speak with him quite a few times, others on our team are starting to see more, you know, Clint has been incredibly active through again the coronavirus pandemic.

KB: In terms of being involved with leadership calls and things like that. And yeah, the more I listened to him.

KB: You know, the more I learned. And I don't know if there's one way queer takeaway or one quick story. But, uh,

KB: Yeah, I think when we first face this if anything comes to mind when we first face this pandemic situation we had a team wide call

KB: And he you know he motivated the group with the coming of the sentiment being. This is a time for us to reflect this is a time to be closer to family.

KB: But also, this is a good time to work and you know if we have some more time at home. Maybe it's time that we can spend positioning baseball miracles for future success. That way, when we do get on the field.

 

KB: We’re able to help these kids to the best of our ability. And I think our teams really run with that.

JG: You know, as you're saying that I immediately went to my notes because I've got a quotes page in the notes. Probably multiple quotes pages, but I know if I search I can find it. And I did. It's a Clinton hurdle quote

JG: That I had typed in. I don't remember when it's been a few years now, where he said be where your feet are enjoy the moment, there'll be a day when there won't be another day.

JG: And and that's so profound and it's probably something that in the times of a pandemic or not that we all need to remember from

JG: You know, different moments and taking things for granted. And so I've got to imagine that here's his perspective and motivation.

JG: Was good. The last question I want to ask you before I moved to my baseball theme questions.

JG: Is on that I'm looking, you guys put out a monthly newsletter and so I would certainly encourage people to to check out baseball miracles in the newsletter.

JG: I like that it's monthly, by the way. So you know that there's great information in there. You're not getting hit over the head every single day, or every single week. But the first line of the June monthly update was

JG: That the baseball miracle team has been working hard over the past month to battle the curveball thrown at all of us.

JG: With the coronavirus and everybody uses that curveball term from time to time, but it's appropriate. We have all been thrown a curveball, and to use a baseball term.

JG: You know, some of us know how to be patient enough or aggressive enough to hit that curveball, and others are going to swing and miss at it because it's not exactly what they expected. So what's been the biggest pivot for baseball miracles in terms of handling that curveball.

 

KB: Yeah, I think, again, like somewhere we were talking about Clint. We've taken this time where normally when we might be on the field. We have a lot of events over the summer.

KB: We’ve taken this time that we typically be on the field and really

KB: Aligned it are aligned to our efforts with, you know, building the organization building our leadership team putting pieces in place, building a foundation that allows to be more sustainable in the future. We've added quite a few people to our team in the last handful of months.

KB: And really, you know, programming, things like that have again pivoted away from the field into just how we build we've had

KB: Been in pursuit of some different programs, one that's being released surely is a monthly miracle maker. We're calling it an opportunity for someone to be essentially a subscriber to baseball miracles and continuously fun children getting on the fields.

KB: You really have to see that direct impact rather than maybe one time donation or a kind of blankets everything. So we're really excited about that program.

KB: Again, our leadership team has built and we've actually positioned ourselves for a couple clinics that were before Steve for 2021 a potential trip to Poland to visit Auschwitz, as well as a trip that would take place in Cooperstown with Glenn hurtle being integral part of that.

KB: Those are still in the planning stages. So we're not completely there yet, but both of those actually presented themselves in recent months, which

KB: We’re very excited about. And we know even if 2020 we have to take a step back and kind of just plan, more than play. We know that 2021 we're going to have a lot of fun on that field. So those have been some of the main things

JG: Let’s get to my baseball themed questions. First and foremost,

JG: Growing up, and then I'll ask you the homerun question. What was the highest level that he played and what position did you play

KB: With middle infielder played through high school.

KB: And I was looking at college ball couple of the twos in in the south and I had some elbow issues going into that senior year.

KB: And had a point, there were some schools. I like there were a little bit bigger. I'm not saying I went to Tufts University, which isn't a

KB: Massive school, but it was a little bit bigger than those I was looking at and I had a moment where essentially at wait

KB: What I really wanted in the college experience and and I saw the writing on the wall, five, eight on a good day with

KB: You know right right middle infielder wasn't an elite athlete, by any means. So I took the opportunity to go to school for the sake of school played some club ball.

KB: But very thankful. You know, it's funny how things play out. And you know, I probably wouldn't work for the Orioles if I didn't make that decision. And then I probably wouldn't be where I am now without deciding to end the playing career little earlier than I originally anticipated.

KB: So yeah, I'd say it's worked out really well with where you're at right now in your career and in your in your 20s right and

KB: Just trying to do the math on you know

KB: undergrad, grad school and all of that. The reason why I asked was, because I'm always hesitant to ask the homerun question to

KB: Someone that played baseball, because sometimes it leads to the actual home run. But we don't need to know about that.

JG: What I want to know about is professionally in your young career, which is already span multiple organizations and everything you're doing with baseball miracles. What to this point is the biggest home run you fit.

KB: Oh, I couldn't really give you many home runs. Anyway, a little more small ball game. So yes, in terms of a home run and probably off the field.

KB: Baseball miracles is really it. I didn't know how big an opportunity, it would be

KB: When I got involved when when I met john but it's been something truly special and specifically in terms of

KB: Maybe one event that really resonated we had a phenomenal event in Puerto Rico, following the hurricane.

KB: In recent years, but the one that really stood out was this past year in Baltimore. We had two clinics one actually

KB: In buoy. And then the second one in Baltimore and you know after going to Thompson and my first job being a buoy. It was funny how things came full circle. And I was able to

KB: Be part of a team that was giving back to a community that I feel so strongly about Baltimore is essentially home for me.

KB: My sisters in the area. My friends from school are all in the area and having the opportunity to give back and do good in an area that means so much to me.

KB: I thought was really special. So I would say that's probably the biggest home run. I've hit in terms of baseball miracles experiences.

JG: Yeah, and many more to come, for sure. How about the biggest swing and miss. And it doesn't have to be regarding baseball miracles. It could be from a scouting standpoint, it could just be anything in terms of profession. But what's the

JG: What’s the biggest swing and miss. You've taken and what did you learn from it.

KB: Already a couple on the scouting side. I'm sure there's plenty more to come.

KB: But yes, I'd say biggest swing and miss was probably my first year working in buoy

KB: I was a young kid weaving class at two o'clock and drunk driving to the ballpark and all of a sudden, I'm around double way based on where many of which there's a talented team.

KB: Like guys like Trey man see me and Michael givens, and a whole lot of very talented players that are playing in Baltimore. Now, or have continued their career elsewhere.

KB: And I'd say the first half of that season, I'd come in, put my head down, work hard, do what I had to do. And I don't know if I fully utilized the

KB: The opportunity that I had in front of me, as you know, baseball such a relationship based game we've touched on it a couple times and

KB: You know, I think it was an opportunity when you're at the ballpark in those roles, just talking to scouts, you know, in between BP in the game and learning from the coaches asking questions, you know, not just finishing up your job and

KB: Your mind your own business and going home. These are awesome individuals. These coaches who have been coaching the game for you know 30 plus years. Some of them.

KB: That I was exposed to and just a wealth of knowledge. So, you know, second half of the year I did open up broke out of my shell and

KB: had those conversations, which really helped me grow at the, at the time, and has made me a better scout in the long term. So yeah, I wish I

KB: Made better use of that experience from day one and also kind of figured out how I was going to make it in this game, not that I have any reservations of how things

KB: Progress, but I'm you know trying to build skill sets, things like that. It's never too early to start and then if you have a path and direction.

KB: That’s the only way you're really going to make it in this game. And yeah, just a little later than I would have expected or would have hoped, but um

KB: Yeah. What an experience once I did fully capitalize on on all those personalities and professionals that I was sitting with Dan and Dan

KB: And there are many of them in the game. It's that fine line of figuring out your place. And when you should speak and I'm on the young guy and

KB: And and not wanting to overstep that. So I think that there's also some benefit to the way that you went about things and earning that respect from others that that old you know

JG: What do they say about interns, or you know rookies, that they should be seen and not heard that type of thing. But there comes a point where you know you

JG: You do need to go out there and take advantage of what's at your fingertips. So it sounds like you've done that last baseball theme question you referenced small ball. So at five foot eight

JG: More of a guy that might advanced the runner or lay down a bond, I'm assuming, but in terms of professional in terms of life.

JG: To you, when we all want to hit the big home run you would love to find the next Mike trout or whoever it is the home runs. Don't come every single day. What are the little things that add up to the big things doesn't have to be specifics. What is small ball to you in your world.

KB: Small ball, to me, is people in process.

KB: Good organizations. And again, I've referenced it I feel truly blessed to be with the Cleveland Indians. I think they do a phenomenal job and have phenomenal culture.

KB: Which takes years and years to build, as I'm sure you know culture doesn't happen overnight, but their ability to prioritize people

KB: Make sure they take care of them, put them in a position to succeed. I think that's an integral part of success in any organization.

KB: And having good processes equally important. You can have great people, but have no way of reaching your final goal and you're not going to be successful if if that's the case, and you know, making

KB: Your process clear, defined data driven, you know, always. People always talk about the analytics revolution and how we fully jumped in. Now the business world was probably years ahead of baseball in terms of making data driven decision making.

KB: Processes driven by data.

KB: And baseball kind of kind of caught on a little later. But now I think we're seeing these modern management principles and

KB: Using all the technology and data at our fingertips, not just on the field. Everything that is maybe more publicly discussed

KB: But also just how we handle our business. And, you know, build an organization. And again,

KB: People process. I think that's how the Indians have been successful. That's how I think any organization in in any industry is successful and

KB: I would say the same is translated to baseball miracles. I mean, feel very fortunate. The people I volunteer with they're

KB: Still amazing to me that we have a completely volunteer organization that's been going for, you know, seven, eight years now and it's helped over 3000 children around the world.

KB: All just donating their time and that only comes from having good people and in a good process in place so

KB: Yeah, people in process are probably pillar one and tell her to have small ball for me.

JG: You’re speaking my language and I've learned so much of that from the Royals and from date more and I told you before we came on with john Sherman

JG: As as minority owner over with the Indians coming over to be the majority owner with the Royals. There are so many similarities and they already had that people in process in place of the royals to a lot of similarities

JG: Between two rivals within the division. I think a lot of respect as well. So my for final questions as we round the bases. Just some quick ones here, first and foremost, as a scout in Major League Baseball.

JG: You know, you see all these guys coming up, you're out there looking for the next one. There's some amazing players in this game. And I always like this.

JG: None of us pay to get into games, right, I mean, we all have because of our jobs, the luxury of doing this.

JG: I remember a handful. Years ago rusty Cohen's legendary first base coach for the Royals and he's been with many, many teams.

JG: Pirates and Marlins and won a World Championship as a player with the Detroit Tigers, he said to me you know if there's one guy that I would pay the price of admission for it'd be Jose LTV

JG: So this was a handful. Years ago, who's the one guy in baseball that you would pay the price of admission for

KB: I think Mike trout is probably a cop out these days.

KB: And I've been fortunate enough to watch enough Indians game to see when door, and I think he'd be in the top of the list, someone I've always enjoyed outside of maybe those two

KB: Mookie Betts I like movie bets early on and I grew up a Yankees fan, so that was tough for me to say or was tough for me to say.

KB: But yeah, I think there's something special about Mookie Betts the Dodgers got a good one over there.

KB: And yeah, there's just the way he plays the game and a little bit of that old school feel along with some of the

KB: Still shows the ability to drive the ball, but there's nothing like a guy that can put the bat on the ball he can run steal basis play good outfield and still can impact the baseball

KB: So yeah, I think he's a he's a one of a kind player that maybe is overlooked because of Mike trout being Mike trout.

KB: In terms of outfield rankings. But I yeah I've always enjoyed watching Mookie Betts and I would definitely pay the price of admission to see him.

JG: As he moves forward in the second question. It's also a baseball one but

JG: I remember George Bamberger as as a manager, how many times I don't know if there's any relationship there or not. But how many times have you been asked about your in baseball now so I'm sure some of the old timers will say, hey, was

JG: Was was George Bamberger your, your grandfather or anything or great grandfather. How often have you gotten that

KB: Frequently, in short,

KB: I have got that since the day I stepped on a baseball field basically since I was employed by a major league team and my early responses. No, I'm not related, but I wish I was, I might have better luck at this whole career baseball thing but uh yeah i mean

KB: Hi. I had probably couldn't live up to that legacy anyway. No relation, but I do get that question quite a bit. All right. Third question, you mentioned Cooperstown and Poland as possibilities.

KB: When you think about Poland, think about what's the history, certainly for me with the last name, Mike Goldberg that the second I hear the name Auschwitz. It makes me

KB: You know, just, it brings in these emotions. It's a place that I would like to visit one day to to experience that. What do you think about in terms of bringing baseball potentially to Auschwitz through baseball miracles that has to be just, just an amazing thought

KB: You know it's every time we do a trip. And there's always something new or unique about them. They're, they're all special in their own way and

KB: You know the one we were playing this summer, working with mentally and physically disabled children and young adults. That was a new experience for us.

KB: And Poland would be the same thing and you know I sympathize with you on that as well. My dad side almost completely Jewish. My mom was a Catholic

KB: And I ended up winning more in that direction. But, uh, Judaism is a big part of where I come from my background and you know resonates with me as well. I mean, I cannot wait to go. Obviously the horrific events that happened there.

KB: You know it's going to be eye opening for team and probably the kids that play

KB: But yeah, I mean, I'm really excited and insured. I know our team is excited hand, it's going to be a one of a kind of experience. I don't know if there's anything that we can

KB: Follow up with that would replicate going to Auschwitz and you know I know there's a lot of people that feel very strongly about this trip.

KB: As I mentioned, were a non denominational group, even though we're faith based we have Jewish members of our team that feel really strongly about this. So that's been a recommendation for quite some time and

KB: I know as a leadership group or a static that we're actually going to have the opportunity to go

JG: The last thing, and I think the one the common bond here, whether it's Auschwitz, whether it's going over to Puerto Rico, whether it's going

JG: To Cooperstown or doing a clinic in the United States is ultimately it's about the kids.

JG: And, you know, certainly spreading the game, bringing joy to their lives, wherever they are, and whatever their background is, so my walk off question is how would you describe the reaction from these kids when you interact

KB: It’s tough to put into words. I mean, there's tears. There's these big smiles. I've seen them all at this point and

KB: Hugs. This is honestly the one that resonates with me. Sometimes you don't even expect that you'll be thrown with the kid or will be wrapping up a clinic.

KB: And all of a sudden the kid that was in one of your groups will come up and just hug you and you realize in that moment.

KB: How special the moment is for them. And we probably take a grant or take for granted or access to baseball. I know I do.

KB: Frequently, and I try to remind myself how lucky I am to not just

KB: Be involved with baseball. But, you know, be working in a field that is what I grew up on it's my childhood passion. I'm looking at it out as a career.

KB: And I never realized that I frequently do not realize how lucky I am and in those moments when you see the smiles to see the tears you receive the hugs.

JG: Does it really hit you like wow this is this is special and you know it's worth every dollar donated every ounce of effort, our team puts in to make these trips possible

KB: Yeah, I mean, I'm speechless. Most of the time it's what it's all about. And it's that reminder every single day. I know that you're doing important work and and that you we often

KB: Hear this and see this that that as much as the kids get out of it. And that's ultimately the, the goal.

KB: We when we're involved in something end up getting as much out of it. And that's not why you do it. But I know that that's the reward.

JG: Certainly have that feeling that that is so and I knew it was going to be a hard feeling to describe. So I put you on the spot on that one just because there's no perfect way to it'll be like the same thing. I mean,

JG: You know, if and when you end up going Auschwitz. The there'll be no way to fully describe but but you know that you have that feeling.

JG: And really that's what it's all about. So we'll wrap it up here and if people want to get involved. I know it's baseball miracles.org

JG: And then certainly on social media baseball miracles. Is that is that the best way, or how can people get involved.

KB: Yeah, www baseball miracles.org if you want to sign up for a newsletter, we should have a pop up on her page as well as you can find it at the bottom, you can find us on social Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn,

KB: A lot of opportunities there for college students as well. If there's anyone listening that is looking for internships.

KB: volunteer experience. And then you can always reach out to us the contact info you can find on our website and you know we have to be happy to discuss how to get involved.

JG: Right, Kyle Bamberger is a Scout or area supervisor scouting world will be the

JG: Way to put a discount with the Cleveland Indians also director of operations for baseball miracles and

JG: You know what I love about that. I'll be with the Indians and successful for many, many, many years. But I know in the baseball world.

JG: Those positions can change the titles, the locations, whether you're with the same organization or whether you're moving now their organizations, that's the world that you now live in

JG: But it sounds to me like that baseball miracles, one could be the constant through all the changes and obviously a very rewarding thing so Kyle I really appreciate you spending the time today.

JG: Good luck with everything. I love what you guys are doing and and certainly, you know, anything that you guys need from a promotional standpoint.

KB: I’m happy to do that. And, and I know how important the game of baseball is even when we struggled to

KB: To agree on things at the major league level and on the field and all that type of stuff. The game brings people together. I mean, that's a whole nother discussion but but there still is that something with kids.

KB; No matter where they are around the world. So I really appreciate you spending the time today.

JG: I really appreciate it. All right, that's Kyle Bamberger I'm Joel Goldberg, if you want to get ahold of me, you can do so.

JG: At Joel Goldberg media.com you can email us there or get a hold of me on social media, all the different channels, easy to find. Thanks for listening to rounding the basis, I'm Joel Goldberg hope to catch you next time.