From all-time leader in wins to unemployed, but still finding joy in life. Whaaaaat?

Yep. And that’s just part of Mike Pinto’s story.

For 15 years, Mike built the Southern Illinois Miners from the ground up into one of the winningest and most respected organizations in professional baseball. Mike was the all-time leader in managerial wins with 770, and had 13 winning seasons in 14 years! But, in 2021, Mike showed up to work and learned that the Miners organization and his winning streak would end due to circumstances outside of his control. Talk about a major life and career transition.

During our conversation, Mike unpacks his innovative process of “what else thinking” that’s helped him consistently generate new ideas and kept his teams at the top. We discuss the balance between innovation and distraction and how Mike’s ultimate goal of fostering a great culture guided his decision-making.

Mike talks about the importance of making the most of opportunities and encourages you to cheat life as long as you can. He shares his philosophy of “Stage Five Players,” urging you to be present, work on improving your skills, and not get too preoccupied with things beyond your control.

If you want to learn more about Mike's inspiring journey and experience more joy amidst the adversity in your life and career, then don’t miss today’s episode.

In this episode, you will hear:

• How Mike managed his focus and relationships while in BOTH a COO and Baseball Team Manager role
• Mike’s secret sauce behind building winning teams and cultures for decades
• Mike’s five stages of the Independent Baseball career that applies to life and business

Key Quotes

• “Cheat life as long as you can.” - Mike Pinto
• “Be where your feet are.” - Mike Pinto
• “Act like you’re going to be reviewed on Yelp every day. How many five stars are you getting?” - Mike Pinto
• “It’s not about who you know. It’s about who knows you.” - Mike Pinto

Connect with Mike

• Instagram: @mikepinto3
• Linkedin: /in/mikepinto
• Twitter: @mikepinto3
• Mike’s Band: San Antonio Transit
• Joliet Slammers Baseball: https://jolietslammers.com/

Connect with J.R.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamesJRreid
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesjrreid/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesjrreid/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/jamesJRreid
• Website: jamesreid.com
• Check out The Clutch Club™️: jamesreid.com/club (For Men Only)

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.