In today’s episode, Nick speaks with Chris Almendarez, President of the Round Rock Express. Listen as Nick and Chris discuss some of their similar life experiences, the rewards they have found in sharing vulnerabilities, baseball, the importance of building relationships and more. As the conversation gets underway, Chris recalls his background and the path which led him to where he is today. At 7 years old, Chris had a strong admiration for the biggest athlete of the time, Nolan Ryan. He regards baseball as a huge factor which led him to attend college at the University of Houston. It was during this time that he met his first wife, Jana, on the same night his father was killed in a car accident. The tragedy helped him realize how important it was for him to have a united family of his own, unlike the one he was raised in. Only a few weeks later, he asked Jana to marry him. Soon after, he married, had his first child and took a job as a pharmaceutical salesman. From early on, Chris has a clear understanding of how important relationship building is. During his time in sales, Chris operated under the goal of following through with his promises. People often get so caught up in degrees, certifications and connections that they forget the value of being a good person and building relationships with others. Making connections with others and truly listening to what they have to say is a key component of success in any sales position. The motto of Chris and his family is to love God, love others, and the rest will follow suit. Then, Chris discusses his transition back to baseball from the pharmaceutical industry. Chris  coached both of his son’s baseball teams, and grew close with many families of his players. When his pharmaceutical company wanted to transfer him out of state, Chris left the company and found a new job with a Spalding sports salesman. Soon after, he joined Round Rock as the Senior Account Executive. He has held several different positions within the organization, including his current position as Team President. Both Nick and Chris agree that baseball is the one sport which has retained its family feel. The comradery felt on a baseball team is really unmatched. Chris’s favorite part of his job is spring training and meeting the new season players. He recalls the support he and his sons received from the baseball community after Jana’s death. The game of baseball requires much strength and isn’t for the faint of heart.  Next, they discuss the impact Covid had on Round Rock Express. Amidst the uncertainty of the beginning stages of the pandemic, Chris was notified that around 40% of the Round Rock staff would have to be let go. This marked the toughest day of his professional career. As a business that relies on people coming into their stadium, it’s been an extremely tough time which could take years to fully recover from. The remaining 60% of the Round Rock staff really came together during this time. Then, Chris and Nick open up and share their own experiences feeling helpless in the past. If nothing else, hopelessness serves as a reminder of how to respond to difficult situations for which there is no solution. Finally, Chris shares his biggest reasons for going one more every day. First and most important is his faith. He shares that there have been times that he was angry with God. However, he recognizes the blessings God has given his family throughout his life. Recognizing his “why” early on in life, to be the best father, husband and Godly man he could be, has played a huge role in his life. Rather than being focused on the end goal, Chris shares his mindset of appreciating the silver linings which pop up every day along the way. Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Tim