As he prepares to pack up his life and drive down to South Florida, new Miami Marlins radio play-by-play announcer Jack McMullen sits down with Kevin Barral and Isaac Azout to discuss his new position and all of the experiences that led up to it. Follow Jack (@jack_mcmullen11), Kevin (@kevin_barral), Isaac (@IsaacAzout) and Fish On First (@FishOnFi…

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of mentorship for small agency employees. They explore various approaches including informal and formal mentorships, organic development of mentor-mentee relationships, and bringing in external consultants for mentorship. Gini shares her personal experiences, highlighting the challenges of force…

Fish On First farm director Alex Carver joins Daniel Rodriguez to share his insights from Wednesday's Miami Marlins spring training activities, which included the first official pitchers & catchers workout plus plenty of minor league activity on the backfields of the Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium complex. Follow Alex (@marlinsminors), Daniel (@Drody…

Griffin and Nina are back with a sleepy episode that still brings the heat! They're here to discuss the Luka Doncic deal, the Brandon Ingram trade to the Raptors, and bring back their famous lineup segment for a new Super Bowl themed version! Be sure to check out our website hflc.ca and tell your friends about the show!…

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the complaint from owners that AI is preventing junior employees from learning how to do their jobs the right way. They refute arguments that AI is detrimental to learning the fundamentals, comparing it to outdated technologies like fax machines and card catalogs. They advocate for embracing AI, citing its eff…

With Miami Marlins spring training fast approaching next week, Kevin Barral and Isaac Azout provide an overview of the 2025 non-roster invitees, then open up the Unfiltered mailbag to talk position battles, potential breakout prospects, trade deadline scenarios, fan support and more. Thank you to Allie, K, Marcel J. Sparks, Parish, Sportsman, Vicen…

Griffin and Nina are back to discuss the new accusations against Terry Rozier, the AFC and NFC Championship games (plus everything else that happened in the NFL Playoffs), and to do a Royal Rumble of teams that we think will be championship contenders in 2030! Be sure to check out our website hflc.ca…

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of satisfaction from the work you do for clients, both for agency owners and their teams. They explore how satisfaction can drive motivation, the significance of setting boundaries with clients, and the need for purpose in work. The conversation emphasizes the balance between achieving satisfact…

In this episode, Chip and Gini address the topic of pivoting for small agencies in response to changing economic and political climates. They discuss the importance of evaluating whether to switch niches, cautioning against overreacting to trends. They highlight the risks of chasing ‘gold rush’ industries like cannabis and AI without true expertise…

Jonah Bride emerged as a great hitter for the Miami Marlins during the second half of the 2024 season. How does he plan to build upon that? A few weeks in advance of spring training, Bride joins Kevin Barral and Isaac Azout on Unfiltered to reflect on the pros and cons of his first year in Miami, all of the organizational changes that the Marlins h…

David Hernandez Beayne is beginning his seventh year with the Miami Marlins organization, but his first at the helm of their international scouting department. After opening the 2025 international free agent period with 18 signings, he chatted with Alex Carver and Kevin Barral about prospects INF/OF Andrew Salas (Venezuela), RHP Kevin Defrank (Domi…

Nina and Griffin are back for a wide ranging discussion of topics, including the Blue Jays and their seemingly-impending signing of Roki Sasaki, the recent matchups between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Oklahoma City Thunder, and the upcoming Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs! Be sure to follow us on socials @hflcpodcast, and check out our web…

In this episode, Chip and Gini dive into the topic of agencies doing subcontracted work for other agencies. Both share their personal experiences of starting and growing their businesses through such work. They discuss the advantages, such as faster decision-making processes and the opportunity to work with big clients without direct procurement ha…

Happy New Year! Nina and Griffin are back after the holiday to say hello to 2025 and goodbye to 2024 in the sports world! Plus, of course, timely discussion on Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Be sure to check out our website, hflc.ca, and follow us on socials @hflcpodcast

In this episode, Chip and Gini tackle the challenges of staffing, particularly in response to landing a large contract. They discuss a Reddit user’s question about managing a $2 million account and emphasize the importance of involving key team members throughout the business development process, rather than afterward. The hosts advocate for a tier…

Kevin Barral and Ely Sussman bring on Philadelphia Phillies expert Alex Carr to better understand the timing of last week's Jesús Luzardo deal and the pair of prospects that the Miami Marlins received in return. Don't forget about Paul McIntosh's inclusion, either! Thanks very much to everybody who listened to our Fish On First podcasts in 2024. Fo…

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Nina and Griffin are back to fill your stocking with holiday cheer as they quickly run through sports topics like Juan Soto and Aaron Rodgers before they get to the REAL stuff. Be sure to follow us on socials @hflcpodcast, and have a very happy holidays!

As broadcasted live on the Fish On First Spaces Twitter account, the FOF staff (Ely Sussman, Kevin Barral, Alex Carver, Isaac Azout and Daniel Rodriguez) breaks down Sunday's blockbuster trade sending Jesús Luzardo to Philly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy Fish on First

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the findings from the SAGA quarterly survey of small agency owners. They cover insights on optimism in business outlook despite recent challenges, with a focus on talent-related issues such as compensation, retention, and recruiting. They delve into some surprising statistics, such as one in five agency owners…

Kevin Barral and Isaac Azout bring on guest Alex Krutchik, who provided on-site coverage of the just-completed Winter Meetings in Dallas. They discuss the polarizing Jake Burger trade that netted the Miami Marlins three prospects, the selection of catcher Liam Hicks in the Rule 5 Draft, the inconvenient results of the 2025 MLB Draft Lottery and ren…

In this episode, Chip and Gini delve into the importance of empathy in agency management. They emphasize the need for agency owners to put themselves in the shoes of clients, prospects, and employees to improve communication and relationships. Key points discussed include handling difficult client conversations, managing scope creep, billing practi…

It's our first episode of December and we're ready to bring the magic! Nina and Griffin are back to discuss the brand new Hallmark movie featuring the Kansas City Chiefs and a magic hat! Be sure to check us out on socials @hflcpodcast

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the complexities of pricing strategies for agency engagements. They explore whether agencies should charge more upfront for initial work, the importance of consistent revenue, and creative approaches to managing client expectations and financials. The conversation emphasizes understanding client perceptions an…

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss PR professionals wanting a seat at the table when it comes to business decision-making. They explore the need for PR professionals to build relationships across departments, understand business dynamics, and communicate openly with other stakeholders. The conversation emphasizes the value of collaboration, lea…

Griffin and Nina are back for their first episode since the US election to talk about the NFL, Netflix's Hot Frosty, their hometown Argos big win in the Grey Cup, which athletes they would take on a deserted island, and so much more! Be sure to tell your friends about the show and follow us on socials @hflcpodcast…

The Miami Marlins are entering the first year of Clayton McCullough's managerial tenure and the eighth year of Bruce Sherman's ownership tenure. Kevin Barral, Isaac Azout and Ely Sussman summarize what both men said on Monday, then analyze the club's decision to select prospects Deyvison De Los Santos, Jared Serna and Dax Fulton to the 40-man roste…

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the common challenges agencies face in obtaining timely feedback and necessary information from clients. They explore strategies for improving communication, managing client expectations, and the importance of having difficult conversations to maintain strong client relationships. The conversation emphasizes t…

Hope everyone is as fired up about Election Day as we are! Who couldn't have fun on a day like today? Griffin and Nina are back to discuss Santa Claus, the NHL fanfiction scene, and of course, the election. Be sure to follow us on socials @hflcpodcast

He was the most-likely candidate entering the managerial search process, and one month later, Craig Albernaz is poised to be the next manager of the Miami Marlins. Ely Sussman reacts to Tuesday night's news that the Chicago White Sox have selected Will Venable to fill their vacancy, which seemingly paves the way for Albernaz to reunite with some ol…

It’s business as usual in their 250th episode, as Chip and Gini continue to share their unvarnished opinions. At the risk of this being their last episode, they have once again chosen to tell you what you’re doing wrong as an agency owner. The hosts share specific examples of agency owners breaking or ignoring rules that they don’t like — or that c…

Griffin and Nina are back this week to try out a NEW segment, discuss NHL early season storylines, and of course, RAM issues! Be sure to follow us on socials @hflcpodcast

Alex Carver and Kevin Barral discuss stats and scouting notes for key Miami Marlins prospects who spent the 2024 season with the Double-A Pensacola Blue Wahoos and Triple-A Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. Individual players covered include: OF Kemp Alderman, RHP Nigel Belgrave, OF Jacob Berry, 1B Deyvison De Los Santos, RHP Josh Ekness, C Joe Mack, RHP …

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss strategic planning for growing an agency in 2025. They stress the importance of planning during Q4 and consistently gathering ideas throughout the year, whether digitally or using methods like post-it notes. They highlight the common mistake of agencies relying solely on referrals or word-of-mouth without proa…

Alex Carver and Kevin Barral discuss stats and scouting notes for key Miami Marlins prospects who spent the 2024 season in the Dominican Summer League and Florida Complex League or with the Low-A Jupiter Hammerheads and High-A Beloit Sky Carp. Individual players covered include: C Jeremy Almonte, RHP Jake Brooks, RHP Walin Castillo, OF Luis Cova, R…

If you're still a Miami Marlins fan, you simply need to listen to this. Bradley Woodrum, the team's former coordinator of baseball information services, joins Ely Sussman to reflect on the perks and challenges of working in baseball. Topics covered during our conversation: Getting hired by an MLB team Salary and compensation Peter Bendix's vision G…

Griffin and Nina are here on a Friday to discuss HFLC's 3rd birthday, the WNBA playoffs, the MLB playoffs and the Miracle New York Mets, and briefly touch on many other topics! Be sure to follow us on socials @hflcpodcast

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the critical aspects of onboarding new clients in the agency world. They emphasize the importance of setting clear expectations, proactive communication, and understanding client processes. The conversation includes tips for achieving quick wins without overburdening clients, integrating with client systems, a…

Kevin Barral debriefs Fish On First reporters Isaac Azout and Alex Krutchik about the end-of-season press conference that president of baseball operations Peter Bendix held at loanDepot park on Tuesday. Additional topics covered during our conversation: Skip Schumaker's departure The fate of his coaching staff Candidates to replace Skip Reviewing t…

Griffin and Nina are here to give their thoughts on the end of the Oakland A's, the Raptors decision to retire Vince Carter's number, and to do a fall activities draft - plus Nina's epic Weezer rant and more!

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of having clear alcohol policies in agencies. They explore the evolving norms of alcohol consumption in professional settings, the necessity of having written rules, and the implications for office events, client meetings, and expenses. Drawing on their experiences and insights from expert Patri…

Expect to see a much different group of players on the field for the Miami Marlins when the 2025 season begins. Attempting to predict the return of injured players, prospect promotions, spring training position battles and offseason acquisitions, four Fish On First staffers held a six-round draft of Opening Day roster candidates and explained reach…

In this episode, Chip and Gini explore the challenges of ageism within the PR and marketing industries, with a focus on agencies. They discuss the stereotypes associated with older professionals, particularly concerning their perceived familiarity with platforms like TikTok. They emphasize the value of experience and the misconceptions around the c…

Griffin and Christina are back to discuss which all-time Raptors team would win in a head-to-head, the PWHL team names, and play some NFL games! Be sure to follow us on socials @hflcpodcast

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss results from the SAGA Q3 Agency Owner Survey. Despite a difficult year, the survey reveals widespread optimism among small agency owners regarding future revenue and profit growth. However, there is a noted contradiction, as not as many respondents plan to increase headcount. The discussion highlights agency o…

In this episode, Chip and Gini dismantle the myth that agency management can rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. They emphasize the importance of understanding the diversity and unique needs of different types of agencies, such as PR, ad, and digital agencies. Chip and Gini discuss their experiences in various agency environments and highlight th…

It's been nearly seven years since David Samson last stepped foot inside loanDepot park (or attended any MLB game, for that matter). In this exclusive interview, the former Miami Marlins president breaks down the direction that the franchise has taken without him and explains why he's finally returning to Miami for a visit. The Fish On First podcas…

Another day, another pod! Griffin and Nina are back this week to discuss every topic from Aaron Rodgers to Jar Jar Binks. Be sure to follow us on socials @hflcpodcast

Daniel Rodriguez details how INF Connor Norby, OF Kyle Stowers, INF Deyvison De Los Santos, RHP Adam Mazur and LHP Robby Snelling have performed since coming to the Miami Marlins in trade deadline deals. Norby and Stowers are playing regularly with the big league club, De Los Santos and Mazur are with Triple-A Jacksonville, and Snelling is leading …

In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of effective reporting for agencies. Many agency leaders view reports as a necessary evil, but when done right they can actually become an important contributor to profits. Chip and Gini recommend auditing existing reports to eliminate unnecessary ones and creating meaningful reports that direct…

Griffin and Nina are back for another episode, and they want to talk about an old sports movie! Join them as they discuss Chris Bassitt and the Blue Jays, and the movie Major League. Follow us on socials @hflcpodcast