We Love Our Team, Season 3, Episode 6: Brian Goldberg - The Man Behind Ken Griffey, Jr.

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Brian Goldberg shares his journey from a young sports enthusiast in Cincinnati to becoming the sports agent for Ken Griffey Jr. He reflects on his childhood, his early interest in sports, and how a chance meeting with Griffey in college led to a lifelong friendship and professional partnership.

Goldberg discusses the challenges and triumphs of navigating the sports agency landscape, the significance of loyalty in athlete representation, and the evolution of his career in the sports industry. In this engaging conversation, Brian Goldberg shares his insights into the life and career of baseball legend Junior Griffey. He discusses the personal choices that shaped their lives, the journey that brought Junior to Cincinnati, and the reflections on his career, including injuries and Hall of Fame induction.

Brian also highlights Junior's community involvement and legacy, as well as his relationships with key figures in baseball. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted word association game, revealing Brian's thoughts on various personalities in the sport.

Takeaways

• Brian Goldberg's journey began in Cincinnati, where he developed a passion for sports.
• His friendship with Ken Griffey Sr. started in college and grew over the years.
• Goldberg's career as a sports agent was influenced by his early experiences in law school.
• He emphasizes the importance of trust and loyalty in athlete-agent relationships.
• Goldberg's first major client was Ken Griffey Jr., whom he represented from the start of his career.
• The dynamics of sports agency have changed significantly since Goldberg started.
• He navigated challenges from other agents trying to poach his clients.
• Goldberg's approach to representation is rooted in genuine relationships.
• He highlights the significance of being a young agent in a competitive industry.
• Goldberg's story illustrates the intersection of sports, law, and personal connections. Cincinnati is an ideal place for family life.
• Junior's trade to Cincinnati was a pivotal moment.
• Injuries impacted Junior's career significantly.
• Hall of Fame induction was a proud moment for Junior.
• Junior is actively involved in community initiatives.
• Relationships in baseball can last a lifetime.
• Jim Bowden is a complex character in baseball.
• Carl Lindner was a supportive figure for Junior.
• Marty Brenneman is a respected announcer.
• Brian values the opportunities he's had in sports management.

Sound Bites

• "I was kind of the token Eastsider."
• "I was on a team called Westside Law."
• "I never asked him for anything."
• "I was getting ready to ask them."
• "I was 29, Junior was 19."
• "I didn't want to mess this up."
• "He doesn't regret coming here."
• "Junior's very involved with that."
• "Carl was a great man."
• "Jim's a complex character."
• "I don't take this lightly."

Sponsored by Moerlein Lager House, host of the March 26, 2025 Opening Day Eve Party benefitting the Reds Community Fund!