From The 50

Jamie Bennett

Schaumburg Boomers manager Jamie Bennett sits down with Matt for an in‑depth conversation about his baseball journey and what it takes to reach the next level. Bennett reflects on growing up in the Nashville area, falling in love with baseball as a University of Tennessee fan, and eventually realizing his dream of pitching in the SEC for the Volunteers. From there, he details his path to being drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies, and how his career evolved through Independent League baseball as a player, coach, and now manager. Drawing from every stage of that experience, Bennett explains how he works with young players to maximize their potential, develop both on and off the field, and prepare for opportunities at higher levels of the game. He also offers thoughtful insight into the realities of chasing pro baseball and what truly separates players who advance. The conversation wraps with candid and valuable advice for parents and young athletes navigating today’s travel baseball landscape, including development priorities, expectations, and how to keep perspective in an increasingly competitive environment. A must‑listen for players, coaches, parents, and anyone passionate about baseball development. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].

Ed Tolzien

Former MLB player Ed Tolzien joins Matt Abbatacola on From the 50 to talk about his journey through the game of baseball—and the life lessons that came with it. Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, Ed fell in love with the game before going on to play at Illinois State University, where his path eventually led to being selected in the 18th round of the 2001 MLB Draft by the Anaheim Angels. After his playing days, Ed transitioned into coaching, dedicating himself to developing the next generation of players. Now serving as the General Manager of Slammers Training Academy in Lake Forest, Illinois, Ed shares how the influence of family and impactful coaches helped shape him—not just as a ballplayer, but as a man. He reflects on how those same lessons guide his work with youth athletes today, teaching values that extend far beyond the field. This is a conversation about mentorship, character, and passing on lessons that players can carry with them no matter where life leads. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].

Cody Hibbard

Country music artist Cody Hibbard joins Matt for a thoughtful and honest conversation about the winding road that led him to music — and the life he’s built along the way. Born in Korea and adopted along with his sister by a family in Adair, Oklahoma, Cody shares his journey from small‑town roots to attending the Naval Academy, and the personal battle he faced with addiction to pain medication. His entry into country music didn’t come from chasing a dream, but from a moment of chance — a server told him, “You don’t sound how you look,” and after singing a few songs the bar manager offered him a job. The rest, as they say, is history. Cody talks about working in pipelining, appearing on CBS’s “The Road,” and balancing a growing music career with real life — including being a father of four, with another baby boy on the way. Through it all, he remains refreshingly grounded, describing himself simply as a country boy who runs cattle, loves his family, and happens to sing country music. You’ll laugh, you’ll root for him, and you’ll walk away appreciating an artist whose story is anything but typical. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].

Mark Giangreco

Legendary Chicago sportscaster Mark Giangreco joins Matt for a wide‑ranging, heartfelt, and often hilarious conversation reflecting on his 40‑year career in Chicago sports media. Mark shares unforgettable stories from his time on the air, the moments he’s most proud of, and a few regrets that shaped him along the way. They also dive into life after television, including Mark’s travels through Italy and around the world as he fully embraces retirement. Mark opens up about being a father to three boys, the years spent in the grind of travel hockey, and the meaningful conversations he’s had with his adult sons about fatherhood, mistakes, and growth. It’s a fun, thoughtful, and inspiring discussion where Mark reflects on the experiences — good, bad, and unexpected — that brought him to a point in life where he truly enjoys every day and emphasizes the importance of kindness. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].

Desmond Clark

Former Chicago Bears tight end Desmond Clark joins Matt for a powerful and inspiring conversation about overcoming family adversity, finding success in the NFL, and building a meaningful life after football. Desmond (“Dez”) opens up about losing sight of who he was along life’s journey—and the hard, intentional work it took to become the man, husband, and father he aspired to be. His story goes far beyond football. From growing up in Lakeland, Florida… to becoming the third all‑time leading receiving tight end in Chicago Bears history… to launching and running a successful logistics company… Dez’s journey is a testament to resilience, accountability, and personal transformation. This episode shines a light on the man behind the helmet and highlights the lessons he’s learned on and off the field. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].