Episode 56: Transitioning from MLB to Entrepreneurship & Philanthropy with Willie Bloomquist
Willie Bloomquist is a former MLB player, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Throughout his career in baseball, Willie played for the Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals, Cincinnati Reds, and Arizona Diamondbacks, and has played every position aside from catcher and pitcher. After retiring from professional sports in 2016, Willie explored his other passions through the avenues of entrepreneurship and philanthropy. His passion for nature led to his founding Elite Outdoor Adventures, a company which “allows you to spend one-on-one time with a professional athlete or celebrity participating in a pastime that you both enjoy.”
Listen in as Willie discusses his journey as a professional athlete and why he decided to turn to entrepreneurship following his retirement from MLB. He also shares his love for the outdoors and the business that resulted from that passion. Finally, Willie talks charity and outreach and why philanthropy has become a huge priority in his life.
Topics Discussed:
04:53 Lessons learned throughout Willie’s sporting career
07:27 Growing skills while playing multiple positions on the field
11:15 Becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable in business
13:38 Why Willie made the switch from football to baseball
16:10 Knowing what to prioritize in life
18:51 Navigating social media as a public figure
25:52 Willie’s perspective on failure
27:50 Budgeting and other financial considerations as a professional athlete
31:23 Willie’s philanthropic efforts at Phoenix Children's Hospital
36:01 Why acts of charity are priceless
38:38 Transitioning from professional athlete to entrepreneur
40:10 Willie on his venture, Elite Outdoor Adventures
45:40 Training and motivating your employees
50:32 How Willie balanced family life and a high-profile sports career
54:10 What sets the Arizona Diamondbacks apart
Connect with Willie Bloomquist:
Key Quotes from Episode
If I’m not going to be good enough, that’s fine; but I’m not going to leave it to chance just because I didn’t work hard enough to give myself every opportunity. Hard work doesn’t guarantee you success, but without it, you don’t have a chance.
Failure only sharpens us to become better the next time around.
The way it makes you feel when you help somebody out, unsolicited, makes you feel pretty dang good inside.
Generosity proceeds prosperity.
We judge other people on their actions and we judge ourselves on our intensions.
Surround yourself with good people. People who are going to be honest with you and look out for your best interests.
