Ep. 65 — How Trust Transforms Baseball and Business with Joel Goldberg

by | Mar 25, 2025

Welcome to the “Show Me The Way” podcast with David Seitter

In this episode of “Show Me the Way,” Dave sits down with Emmy award-winning broadcaster Joel Goldberg, known for his role as the on-field announcer for the Kansas City Royals. They delve into Joel’s multifaceted career, discussing his transition from being a sports broadcaster to becoming a prominent speaker on topics such as trust, culture, resilience, and change.

Ep. 65 —How Trust Transforms Baseball and Business with Joel Goldberg

Joel’s journey began outside of Philadelphia, with a passion for sports that transitioned into a broadcasting career spanning over three decades. Having worked with major teams like the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals, Joel has become a trusted voice in sports media. However, his career extends far beyond the field, offering valuable life lessons applicable to both personal and professional growth.

Managing Failure: A Lesson Beyond the Field

Joel Goldberg eloquently describes baseball as a “sport of failure more than any other sport.” This may sound surprising, but the essence of baseball lies in the fact that even the best players succeed only 30% of the time. Unlike most careers, where such a success rate would be unacceptable, baseball thrives on it. Understanding this paradoxical nature offers invaluable insights into managing setbacks.

Baseball players master the art of moving on from their mistakes, using them as learning opportunities rather than stumbling blocks. This mindset is not only crucial on the field but also a vital skill applicable in everyday life and various professional scenarios.

Building Trust Through Sports

For Joel, trust is at the core of all successful relationships, whether in sports, business, or day-to-day interactions. He believes that building trust is akin to playing small ball in baseball—it’s in attending to the little details and consistently showing up that trust is forged. His keynote speech, “Winning Trust,” emphasizes the importance of this foundational element and how it can elevate any team or business.

The Transition to Public Speaking and Writing

Joel’s transition into public speaking emerged from a need to make meaningful use of his off-season time, as well as a realization that he had valuable stories and insights to share. His speaking engagements focus on culture, trust, and the resilience necessary to adapt to industry changes. Through his books, “Small Ball Big Results” and “Small Ball Big Dreams,” Joel captures the essence of perseverance and ambition that drives success in sports and business alike.

Navigating Generational Differences

One of Joel’s standout skills is his ability to connect with people across generations. He expertly tailors his communication to relate to everyone from young athletes to experienced executives. This adaptability not only enhances his effectiveness as a storyteller and trusted figure in sports but also serves as a model for bridging gaps in various industries.

Practical Advice for Generations

Addressing both younger and older generations, Joel shares crucial insights: For the younger audience, he stresses the importance of being patient and valuing relationships. For those in the later stages of their careers, he advises openness to learning from the younger generation, encouraging a reciprocal exchange of ideas and experiences.

Joel’s career is a testament to the power of adaptability, trust, and lifelong learning. As he continues to explore new avenues in writing and speaking, his journey serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to expand their professional horizons. To learn more about Joel’s work or to book him for speaking engagements, visit joelgoldbergmedia.com.

 

 

 

 

To reach out to Dave for advice or consultation, please visit www.davidseitter.com or email him at dseitter4@gmail.com

 

Disclosure

This podcast is provided for educational purposes. It does not constitute legal advice and is not intended to establish an attorney-client relationship. The recommendations contained in this podcast are not necessarily appropriate for every individual or business. In determining the best course of action, business owners should consult with an attorney on their distinct circumstances.

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