Talent Chasing

Hosted by Evergreen Podcasts

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Nov 2025

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About the show

Moneyball meets Office Space Talent Chasing brings together the worlds of major league sports, corporate talent, and journalism to amplify real-world stories and experiences in finding, retaining, and motivating the best talent for your “team”. The show delves into the intricate worlds of sports scouting and corporate talent acquisition, hosted by Major League Baseball veteran Brian Johnson, workforce strategy veteran Chad Sowash, and finally journalist and documentary filmmaker Jasper Spanjaart. Join them in uncovering the art of identifying raw potential, mastering recruitment strategies, and nurturing talent to its fullest potential. Explore the human element behind talent acquisition and the evolving landscape of data-driven decisions, shedding light on the quiet war between traditional scouting and analytics in both sports and the corporate arena.

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57 recent

November 13, 202533 min

All Bets Are Off: Ethics, Technology, and the Price of Winning

In this episode of Talent Chasing, hosts Brian, Chad, and Jasper sit down to unpack the recent NBA gambling scandal, and what it reveals about the fragile line between competition, morality, and money. The trio explores how technology has transformed access to betting, blurring boundaries between entertainment and exploitation. Beyond the headlines, they dig into the ethical questions that ripple across both sports and business: What happens when profit outweighs principle? How do organizations preserve integrity in a system built on winning at all costs? It’s a candid look at the moral playbook behind modern capitalism, and what it means for leaders trying to do the right thing when the stakes are high.

November 6, 202531 min

A Players: When Talent Isn't Enough

In this episode of Talent Chasing, hosts Chad Sowash and Brian Johnson dive into the art of team composition, where talent meets leadership. They unpack why having a roster full of A-players isn’t enough without a central figure who can unite, guide, and perform under pressure. The conversation challenges the unrealistic expectations fans often place on teams and explores how true success depends on both raw ability and the presence of standout leaders who elevate those around them.

October 16, 202537 min

The WNBA Playbook: Growth, Grit, and Greatness

In this episode of the Talent Chasing podcast, Chad and Brian take a deep dive into the WNBA’s remarkable rise, tracing its evolution, the power of rivalries, and the growing influence of player personalities. They unpack the league’s surge in attendance and merchandise sales, the fashion-forward image of its athletes, and the vital role leadership and unions play in shaping the sports industry. The conversation reveals how the WNBA has evolved into one of the most competitive, dynamic, and marketable leagues in professional sports, capturing the attention of fans and investors alike.

October 9, 202545 min

How Optimistic Leadership Drives Team Performance and Profitability: Kevin O'Connell's Playbook

In this episode of Talent Chasing, hosts Chad, Brian, and Jasper explore how optimistic leadership drives performance, productivity, and team morale in today’s challenging business landscape. Drawing from insights shared at a recent leadership forum, the discussion dives into how leaders who stay positive under pressure inspire trust, foster collaboration, and boost overall profitability. The hosts also draw compelling parallels between sports and business leadership, using Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell as a real-world example of resilience and strategic optimism. From managing crises to building high-performing teams, O’Connell’s approach illustrates how preparation, adaptability, and confidence can turn challenges into opportunities. Whether you’re leading a company, a locker room, or a project team, this episode breaks down practical lessons in team building, crisis management, and organizational behavior that show why optimism isn’t just an attitude, it’s a competitive edge.

July 24, 202530 min

Breakdown: Beating the Yips in Sports, Work, and Life

In this episode, Brian and Jasper break down the yips, that sudden, inexplicable loss of skill that rattles athletes, performers, and professionals across industries. From missed free throws to blank stares during presentations, the yips are more than just nerves, they're a mental block that can derail careers. The hosts share personal stories and real-world examples, exploring how pressure, perfectionism, and fear of failure feed this psychological spiral. They also examine how leaders can recognize the signs, provide support, and foster environments where setbacks aren’t feared but used as fuel for growth.

July 10, 202531 min

Breakdown: Malice in the Palace

In this episode of Talent Chasing, Chad and Brian unpack the messy side of leadership and team dynamics when the stakes are sky-high, especially in the world of sports. From locker room blowups to front-office tension, they explore how conflict can either fracture a team or fuel its fire. The conversation dives into the crucial role of culture, chemistry, and communication in navigating chaos, and how great leaders turn personal ambition into collective success. They spotlight real-world examples of conflict resolution and the importance of creating inclusive environments where individuals feel connected to something bigger than themselves. At the heart of it all? A warning against rugged individualism and a call to refocus competitive drive toward shared goals.

July 3, 202533 min

Breakdown: Jalen Hurts, Adversity, and the Making of a Champion

In this episode of Talent Chasing, the crew dives into the record-breaking contract of NFL quarterback Jalen Hurts—and what it reveals about leadership, resilience, and the fine line between personal success and team impact. From the huddle to the boardroom, the conversation connects Hurts’ rise with lessons for corporate life: the power of servant leadership, the value of strong support systems, and how maturity under pressure shapes champions. They explore how adversity isn’t just a test—it’s a tool for growth—and why building a strong, positive team culture is the key to retaining top talent.

June 26, 202532 min

Breakdown: F1, Fast Cars, Fierce Teammates, and Leadership on the Edge

In this episode of Talent Chasing, Chad and Jasper take a high-speed dive into the world of Formula One—and how its high-stakes dynamics mirror today’s corporate battleground. Using the drama from the Canadian Grand Prix and the rising rivalry between McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, they unpack what happens when elite talent collides under the same banner. From managing internal competition to enforcing team orders, they explore how organizations—like F1 teams—walk the tightrope between collaboration and cutthroat ambition. Plus, they make the case for why transparency, leadership, and talent development aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re mission critical for building a winning culture, on the track and in the office.

June 19, 202537 min

Breakdown: David MacKinnon

In this breakdown episode of Talent Chasing, hosts Jasper, Chad, and Brian revisit their conversation with professional baseball player David MacKinnon by replaying key moments from the original interview. They dive into the most powerful clips, unpacking themes like retooling your skills, the importance of support systems, and the emotional hurdles athletes face—on and off the field. Drawing connections between sports and corporate life, the hosts highlight how values like resilience, adaptability, and family support shape career growth in both arenas. From the clubhouse to the workplace, this episode explores how technology, AI, and human connection are redefining what it means to build a meaningful career.

June 12, 202540 min

Breakdown: PSG Talent Blueprint

In this episode of Talent Chasing, the hosts break down Paris Saint-Germain’s dramatic revival under coach Luis Enrique—unpacking how team chemistry, homegrown talent, and strong leadership fueled the turnaround. From Champions League pressure to managing superstar egos, they explore the hidden parallels between elite sports and high-performing organizations. The conversation dives deep into talent acquisition, financial dynamics in European vs. American sports, and why cultural alignment and long-term vision matter more than ever. It’s not just about the game—it’s about building a winning culture on and off the field.