Like it or not, this is baseball's time of the year and as such this is a re-release of our interview with long-time MLB General Manager Thad Levine. Thad shares his incredible journey from being a young baseball fan to playing Division III baseball at Haverford College to eventually leading major league teams, including his latest role as GM of the Minnesota Twins. Discover how his experiences in sports management have shaped his approach to analytics, recruitment, and team culture.

This interview was conducted on November 22nd, 2024 and was originally published as Episode 10 of Season 2.

Show Notes:

(G): Content is Mostly Global Interest Topics

(M): Content is Mostly Inside Marin Topics

Musical intro credit to Stroke 9//Logo credit to Katie Levine

Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors.

Platinum Sponsor: Encore Custom

RostersToRings

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AI Summary

Welcome to the latest episode of the Run TMC Podcast, where we delve into the intricate world of sports management with former Minnesota Twins General Manager, Thad Levine. In this engaging conversation, Thad shares his remarkable journey from the start of his career, waxing poetic on the hard work and serendipity involved in reaching the upper echelons of Major League Baseball's front office.

Discover the evolution of analytics in baseball and how it has transformed player evaluation, the challenges and excitement of being a GM, and the delicate balance of decision-making in high-stakes environments. Thad also provides a firsthand account of working alongside legendary figures and his refreshing take on the importance of culture and character in sports teams.

Whether you're an aspiring sports professional or a seasoned fan, Thad's insights offer a unique perspective on the intersection of sports and humanity. Don't miss this in-depth episode as we explore the past, present, and future of sports through the lens of a seasoned general manager.

This is Episode 30 of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast.

In the Season 2 finale, Dave Levine and Duffy Ballard welcome Chapman University coach and co-host of the Slappin' Glass podcast, Dan Krikorian. This episode is a treasure for students of the game as Coach Krikorian delves into coaching philosophies, strategies and analytics while Dave and Duff put him on the hot seat with a series of start-sub-sit questions.

The interview with Coach Krikorian was conducted on June 13th, 2025

Learn more about the Slappin' Glass podcast and associated coaching programs and memberships here

Other Links:

Slappin' Glass

Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors.

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This is Episode 29 of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast.

Join hosts Duffy Ballard and Dave Levine as they celebrate the penultimate episode of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast, sponsored by Encore Custom apparel.

In this episode, Dave and Duff talk with Brian Murphy, aka "Murph," CYO Coach, Tam High hooper and booster and long-time sports radio host and personality at KNBR 680, The Sports Leader.

The interview with Murph was conducted on June 23rd.

The Tam High Athletic Hall of Fame event is scheduled for October 11th, 2025.

Other Links:

https://player.knbr.com/

Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors.

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This is Episode 28 of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast.

In this episode, Dave and Duff talk with Coach Chris Oliver, a fellow podcaster and the creator and founder of Basketball Immersion, an online masterclass for basketball coaches. Known for his innovative approach to teaching the game, Chris has inspired countless coaches and players worldwide.

The interview with Chris was conducted on June 6th

Basketball Immersion

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Contact us today for a very special promo code just for you as a listener to this Podcast: https://basketballimmersion.com/contact (https://basketballimmersion.com/contact-us/)

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Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors.

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This is Episode 27 of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast.

In this episode, Dave and Duff sit down with former All-America hooper and Harlem Globetrotter Will "Bull" Bullard. Will takes us along his inspirational journey from the foster care system in Detroit to a long career of international globetrotting with the world's most famous basketball team.

The interview with Will was conducted on May 19th

Other Links:

Will Bullard Training

Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors.

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AI Summary

In this episode of the Run TMC Podcast, hosts Duffy Ballard and Coach David Levine dive into some incredible sports comebacks and the resilience required to achieve them. They discuss the historic French Open match between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, highlighting Alcaraz's tenacity in facing championship points. The conversation transitions to basketball as the hosts analyze the Indiana Pacers' playoff resilience and strategic gameplay under Coach Rick Carlisle. The episode also touches on the Warriors' historical comebacks and their next-play mentality.

Additionally, listeners are introduced to the Valkyries, the new WNBA team creating waves with impressive performances. Duffy and Dave discuss the importance of having women in the game and the excitement surrounding the league's expansion. They also explore the long-standing history and family-friendly entertainment of the Harlem Globetrotters through an interview with former player Will Bullard, who shares his experiences and unique perspectives on basketball and life beyond the court.

The episode wraps up with light-hearted banter, sponsor acknowledgments, and upcoming episodes' previews, providing listeners with a mixture of sports insights, personal anecdotes, and good humor.

This is Episode 26 of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast

In this episode, Dave and Duff sit down with award-winning Marin IJ journalist David Albee to explore his remarkable career and captivating stories. From covering (the original) Run TMC's electrifying era to reliving memorable moments from his encounters with sports icons like Steve Lavin, Pete Carroll, and Jared Goff, Dave gives listeners an insider's look into the history of Bay Area sports journalism.

The interview with David was conducted on May 5th

Check Out David's Book

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Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors.

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This is Episode 25 of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast

In this episode, Dave and Duffy welcome Reed Nottingham, who has directed or co-directed the Pirate/Falcon camp at Archie Williams (formerly "Drake") HS for over 25 years. With firsthand stories and memories from both Reed and various contributors, we take you on a nostalgic journey through the fun, competitive, and impactful aspects of a camp that has shaped countless Marin County players and coaches.

The interview with Reed was conducted on May 9th and our intro convo on May 23rd

Links:

Encore Custom

LLJ Tournament Registration

Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors.

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thank you to our prior sponsors: West End Nursery and Batiste Rhum and San Domenico Nike Summer Basketball Camps and North Bay Basketball Academy, and The Hub in San Anselmo

AI Summary

Join hosts Duffy Ballard and David Levine on the Run TMC podcast as they delve into the rich history and legacy of Pirate Camp, now known as Falcon Camp, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Reed Nottingham, who has been at the helm as director, shares fascinating stories and anecdotes from his 37 years of involvement, highlighting some of the legendary basketball figures who were once campers and coaches. From the competitive spirit and skill development to hilarious stories involving hot dog counts and epic basketball battles, this episode revisits the memorable experiences and impact of this iconic Marin County basketball camp. Plus, don't miss the special insights and memories shared by notable figures like Doug Donnellan and Steve Lavin.

This is Episode 24 of Season 2 of The Run TMC Podcast

Dave and Duffy sit down with former and current Tam High Coach Tim Morgan. This episode delves into Tim's history as a standout player and his impactful coaching career, marked by a deep commitment to his players and community.

The interview with Tim was conducted on May 5th and our intro convo on May 15th

Links:

Encore Custom

Content and opinions are those of Dave, Duffy and their guests and not of affiliated organizations or sponsors.

email us at: theruntmcpodcast@gmail.com

check out our website at: theruntmcpodcast.com

thank you to our prior sponsors: West End Nursery and Batiste Rhum and San Domenico Nike Summer Basketball Camps and The Hub in San Anselmo

AI Summary

In this compelling episode of the Run TMC podcast, basketball coach Tim Morgan shares his journey back into coaching at Tam High School amidst personal challenges and change.

Tim opens up about stepping into the coaching role mid-season, navigating the complexities of rekindling a high school program, and the influence of his past mentors. The episode also touches on the support system that surrounds him following the loss of his wife, showing the power of sports in healing and community building.

Listeners are invited to explore Tim’s thoughts on player development, coaching strategies, and his goals for the summer and beyond as he rebuilds a resilient program. Join us for an episode filled with insights on leadership, growth, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.