In this episode of the Sports Cards CEO podcast, host Matthew Ham, Eric Mandelkern, and Gary "Bubba" Wilson welcome special guest Rhett Lowder, a pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds. The conversation covers a range of topics including personal updates from the hosts, Rhett's journey into card collecting, insights into his pitching techniques, and the challenges of navigating injuries as a professional athlete. In this engaging conversation, Rhett Lowder shares his journey through baseball, discussing his debut, the challenges of facing top hitters, and the mental commitment required to succeed in the sport. He offers valuable advice for young players aspiring to make it to the big leagues, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the game and not letting pressure overshadow the fun.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

07:36 Welcoming Rhett Lowder

17:13 Rhett's Journey in Baseball and Collecting

21:56 Injury Challenges and Mental Resilience

24:39 Superstitions and Final Thoughts

24:41 Superstitions and Game Day Routines

26:33 The Clubhouse Culture and Card Collecting

28:05 Building Relationships in the Pitching Staff

29:02 Learning from Each Other: Pitching Strategies

29:58 The Journey from High School to College Baseball

31:48 Identifying Future Stars in the Reds' Farm System

33:46 Growing Up in North Carolina and Connections

34:52 Reflections on a Talented Draft Class

35:25 Challenges of the MLB Season

36:05 Facing Top Hitters and Collecting Cards

38:05 Advice for Aspiring Young Players

39:47 The Mental Game of Baseball

43:36 Advice for Young Dreamers

46:01 Supporting Teammates Through Struggles

47:48 Offseason Routines and Commitment

50:09 What Ifs and Future Aspirations

51:23 The Phenomenon of Ellie De La Cruz

52:56 Rising Stars: Noe Marte and Team Dynamics

53:59 Trade Talks and Team Loyalty

54:57 Last Meals and Personal Preferences

56:10 Steakhouse Recommendations and Culinary Experiences

57:32 Surreal Moments in the Big Leagues

01:00:17 Facing Legends: Kershaw and Verlander

01:02:09 Life in the Clubhouse: Showers and Team Culture

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