Episode #1 – Jeff Pearlman (NY Times Best Selling Author, Author of “Showtime”)
Jeff Pearlman is a New York Times bestselling author, journalist, and podcaster renowned for his deep dives into the world of sports and its larger-than-life figures. With a career spanning over two decades, he has authored 10 books, including acclaimed titles like The Bad Guys Won (chronicling the 1986 Mets), Boys Will Be Boys (exploring the ’90s Dallas Cowboys), Showtime (adapted into the HBO series Winning Time about the Lakers dynasty), and The Last Folk Hero (a definitive biography of Bo Jackson). Known for his meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Pearlman has interviewed thousands of subjects to uncover the human stories behind athletic triumphs and scandals. Beyond books, he hosts the popular podcast Two Writers Slinging Yang, where he engages fellow writers in candid conversations about craft and life. A former Sports Illustrated and Newsday writer, Pearlman’s work blends nostalgia, grit, and humor, cementing his status as one of sports journalism’s most distinctive voices. Raised in Mahopac, NY, he transformed a small-town upbringing into a prolific career that continues to resonate with readers and listeners alike.
Keywords
Mahopac, childhood memories, sports, community, nostalgia, basketball, local figures, youth sports, sports media, college sports
Summary
In this episode of the Pie Guy Podcast, hosts Matthew Walker and Jeff Pearlman reminisce about their childhood in Mahopac, New York. They discuss the impact of their community, the role of sports in shaping their identities, and the influential figures from their past. The conversation flows through nostalgic memories of growing up, the evolution of sports culture, and the importance of local connections. They reflect on how these experiences have shaped their lives and careers, emphasizing the value of community and the lasting impact of their upbringing. Takeaways • Matthew and Jeff share a nostalgic view of their childhood in Mahopac. • The importance of community and neighborhood bonds is highlighted. • Sports played a significant role in shaping their identities. • Local figures, like Mr. Gargano, had a profound impact on their lives. • The evolution of sports media influenced their understanding of sports. • Youth sports have changed significantly over the years. • Pickup basketball served as a vital social connector in their youth. • College sports fostered a sense of community identity. • Reflections on the past reveal its lasting impact on their lives. • The conversation concludes with thoughts on the current state of sports culture.
Titles
• Nostalgia and Community: Growing Up in Mahopac
• The Role of Sports in Shaping Identity
Sound Bites
“It felt very magical.”
“I love that stuff.”
“It was a big deal.”
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
02:52
Nostalgia for Childhood and Growing Up in Mayo Pack
05:51
The Magic of Small Town Life 08:58 Influences of Sports and Community
11:59
Impact of Local Figures on Personal Growth
14:55
Reflections on the Past and Its Influence on the Present
24:23
The Freedom of Childhood 28:19 Nostalgia and Shared Memories
30:34
The Impact of Sports on Community
32:55
The Evolution of Pickup Basketball
37:08
Rivalries and Personal Connections in Sports
41:05
The Changing Landscape of College Sports