Episode 4 - Mike Bauer, Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium
Summary
This podcast episode features Mike Bauer, General Manager of Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. He discusses his personal life, including his upbringing, family, and how he met his wife, Stacy. He also shares details about his two sons, Luke and Chase, highlighting their individual talents and interests. Professionally, Mike recounts his journey into the sports industry, starting with his time at the University of Florida and eventually leading him to his current role. He elaborates on the operations of Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, its importance as a community hub, and upcoming renovation plans. Mike also emphasizes his commitment to community involvement and his leadership philosophy, which prioritizes a family-like work environment and empowering his team.
Key topics
Mike Bauer's Personal Background:
Moved to West Palm Beach at age five from Akron, Ohio, due to family layoffs.
Grew up in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Described himself as a "nerdy" but happy child, active in baseball, football, and basketball.
Parents were "coaching" types, emphasizing good manners and respect.
Family Life:
Met wife, Stacy, through a roommate; wooed her with concert tickets.
Married for 20 years, with two sons.
Luke (15): Freshman at Jupiter High, straight-A student, plays freshman football, avid gamer, Die Hard Miami Dolphins fan.
Chase (12): Initially introverted, now blossoming in theater and arts (singing, dancing, acting). Recently performed as Artful Dodger in "Oliver" at the Maltz Theater, a paid gig. Balances arts with a love for sports.
Professional Journey and Career in Sports:
Attended the University of Florida for business, initially not knowing his career path.
Got his first job at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center (UF's arena), managing student seating (Rowdy Reptiles section).
Earned a master's degree in sports to enter the industry.
Worked full-time at UF, eventually becoming the "parking lot guy" for football games to secure game day off.
Interned at the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, leading to a role managing luxury suites at the Tampa Bay Lightning arena.
Promoted three times in five years at the Lightning.
Tasked with assessing the Asheville Tourists (minor league baseball team) for acquisition, which was a "grooming" opportunity.
Offered the GM position for the Asheville Tourists, then moved to Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium.
Learned leadership from mentors like Mary Milne and Sean Henry, emphasizing a coaching style, clear expectations, and empowering team members.
Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium Operations:
Home of Spring Training for Miami Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals, attracting 160,000 people over 30 games.
Serves as a 365-day rehab center for players.
Hosts minor league teams (Jupiter Hammerheads, Palm Beach Cardinals) after Spring Training.
Conducts various outside events, including baseball tournaments (utilizing 12 pro-grade fields), community events (e.g., Jupiter Craft Brewers Festival, 5K runs, Fourth of July fireworks).
Integrated into the "live, work, and play" environment of Abacoa.
General Manager's role involves extensive prep work (sponsorships, ticket sales, upgrades, maintenance) and community engagement (Chamber, Rotary, etc.) to drive attendance.
Stadium Renovations:
The stadium is 25 years old and aging, leading to lower player expectations and a need for fan upgrades.
Upcoming renovations aim to enhance player and fan experience.
Fan Upgrades: New fan engagement area in left field (bar, shade, group space, live music), another group area in right field.
Operational Upgrades: Relocating bullpens for player safety, new umpire locker rooms (male and female), 3,000 sq ft team store.
Player Upgrades: Demolition and rebuilding of all three clubhouses (Marlins, Cardinals, Visitors) with state-of-the-art facilities (kitchens for nutritional control, meeting spaces, hydrotherapy, weight training, training rooms, indoor batting cages with technology).
Renovations expected to begin in June, with completion aimed for February 2025.
Funding: Portions from Palm Beach County tourism tax dollars, State money, and the ball teams themselves (who cover overages).
Significant economic impact: $32.5 million annually from tourism driven by the stadium.
Community Involvement and Leadership Philosophy:
Involved in Leadership Palm Beach County (current Chairman), Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce (incoming Chairman), Jupiter Police Foundation (past President), United Way, Palm Beach County Sports Commission, Truist Community Foundation, Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center board.
Driven