Play-by-Play U
The PXPU Podcast with Tony Castricone: from Play by Play University
Episode 1: Brian Boesch, baseball lover turned Big Ten basketball broadcaster
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Episode 1: Brian Boesch, baseball lover turned Big Ten basketball broadcaster

And my former roommate.

Each Thursday, we’ll drop a new episode of the PXPU Podcast from Play By Play University. Our pilot episode is with Brian Boesch, an excellent broadcaster whose pace, poise, precise vocabulary and fun-loving personality laced with self-depricating humor makes for a fantastic listen along side analyst Terry Mills.

Here are some highlights from our conversation:

  • (05:29) Brian emphasizes that you don't need to have dreamed of being a broadcaster since childhood. He didn't consider it until college, highlighting that it's never too late to start.

  • (06:28) The importance of mentors: Brian credits one of our mutual professors, Tom Hodson, for encouraging him to try broadcasting, showing the value of seeking guidance and support.

  • (15:29) Brian discusses the similarity between calling high-stakes games (like the NCAA tournament) and regular season games, emphasizing the importance of consistent preparation and delivery regardless of the event's prominence.

  • (22:20) The significance of maintaining enthusiasm and quality even during challenging seasons, as exemplified by Brian's experience during a difficult Michigan basketball season last year.

  • (26:50) Brian shares a pivotal moment in his career when he bounced back from rejection, highlighting the importance of resilience and resourcefulness in pursuing opportunities.

  • (29:49) The value of strategic career moves: Brian explains his decision to transition from minor league baseball to college sports, showcasing the importance of aligning oneself with decision-makers or markets with more opportunities.

  • (36:19) Insights on effective networking: Brian emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships rather than just collecting contacts.

  • (42:40) Advice on reaching out to established broadcasters: Brian suggests finding common ground or connections before making contact and focusing on building a relationship before asking for favors.

  • (48:21) Discussion on the value of college education in broadcasting: Both Brian and Tony suggest that while formal education can be beneficial, practical experience and relationships built during college years are often more crucial for career development.

  • (54:27) Brian reflects on the importance of personal growth during college years, emphasizing that the experiences outside the classroom can be more valuable than academic achievements alone.

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I hope you enjoy our discussion. Please make sure you like, subscribe and leave a comment or a review on the podcast to help spread the word. We’ve got a lot more from where that came from, including conversations in the coming weeks with…

  • J.B. Long, voice of the Los Angeles Rams

  • Guy Haberman, Big Ten Network

  • Nate Gatter, Westwood One

  • Geoff Arnold, Baltimore Orioles

  • Joey McMurry, Oregon Ducks

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