How's your Team?

The San Antonio Spurs have 5 championships and 17 consecutive years of making the basketball playoffs; the longest current streak by far in the NBA.  The high flying Atlanta Hawks are a distance 2nd at only 7 straight playoff appearances.

Why are the Spurs the envy of many?  Great team chemistry, Family oriented, Integrity and a Strong infrastructure come to my mind. 

Yes, they got lucky with having a great “Hall of Fame” player (Tim Duncan) and one of the best coaches (Gregg Popovich) on any level, but that alone can't give one success. Also, luck usually comes to those who are prepared for it, not those who wish for it.  In addition, they have the wisdom to draft and develop foreign born players, which has been integral to their success.

Most I know, who consider themselves successful, not surprisingly, have a good/great team (family, friends, mentors, colleagues, etc) around them. Most importantly, they have a strong infrastructure and leader, with an inner circle that offers members the opportunity to thrive. A few have spoken lovingly to me about how fortunate they are.

From my experience, those who aren't where they want to be in life or are struggling, usually lack that coherent teamwork and/or infrastructure - typically having close connections or family or friends who bring them down or don't add value. In my opinion, people who don’t add value or fail to enhance your life, shouldn't be in your world, no matter how good the convenience or short term pleasures might be.

For 2015, my hope for those with strong teams is to monitor them with an eagle eye, especially if you are the leader. Never take that blessing for granted.  If you are lacking a decent team, DO something about it!  Good teams don't magically appear and take lots of intelligence, wisdom and hard choices to build properly. 

If the foundation, focus, makeup and harmony of your current team isn’t at least close to good, life will more often than not, continue to disappoint, just like the Spurs opposite, the NBA’s New York Knicks – a franchise in massive disarray for the last 12+ years and counting. 

Happy Gswede Sunday!

Magic and Dr. Buss - The start of many great Laker teams!

My 2 Minutes with ESPN Icon, Stuart Scott

In the late 90’s, I was living in Manhattan. One night found me walking down the hallowed halls of Madison Square Garden; something I did hundreds of times previously as a sports advertising executive at the World’s Most Famous Arena.

Coming towards me one evening, during the 1998 NBA All-Star game festivities, was the man who many felt was singularly responsible for making sports cool on TV. He was well known at the time although his fame and impact would skyrocket in the decade after.

Never afraid to approach celebrities, I walked directly to Stuart Scott, and he couldn’t have been more gracious; looking me in the eye and shaking my hand. I told him how much I admired him on SportsCenter and to “Keep making us proud”.  He was very appreciative and gave me a few minutes of chatter, despite the mini chaos surrounding his being in the general public hallway.

I’ve been around or met numerous celebrities, but rarely found the need to share my appreciation of their work. With Scott, I felt I had too. He was an original from the start and always seemed to be having massive fun on the air; a combination not often seen and one I admire.

When he first hit the TV screen in the mid 90’s, there was nobody close in style or presence. There were interesting people doing sports on TV, but nobody like him. On SportsCenter, his ‘Urban Cool’ and ‘Hip Hop inspired Delivery” was something to behold. Whether one liked him or not, his boldness in doing the show his way was undeniable.

He was a trailblazer and Stan Verrett, who worked with Scott, said this about his path: "He did not shy away from the fact that he was a black man, and that allowed the rest of us who came along to just be ourselves." 

While many sports fans enjoyed him on TV right away (like me), I remember thinking at the time, that his style could turnoff or offend some viewers. I give ESPN a lot of credit for hiring someone so different than the norm, although it surely was a big risk.

In the beginning, Scott received hate mail, although some of his former colleagues admitted that it never affected his work or desire to stay true to himself. Once Twitter became popular, he would share some of the hate tweets that came his way. He wasn’t shy in responding to the haters, although he usually did so in a respectful, positive or funny manner, which probably infuriated them even more.

Not surprisingly to me, Scott was a big hit on ESPN, despite the early grievances. The hip hop generation was blooming (and would explode) and that market loved him. He took ESPN to another level. What might have gone missing when we heard his “BOYAA” description of a play or his cool references from popular songs, is that he was a very good sports announcer.  The substance of his delivery was fact-filled and enlightening. I did my best to see his 11:00pm SportsCenter whenever I could.

Scott died on Sunday January 4, 2014. It was a sad day for me and many in my inner circle, as he had a big impact on how we digested sports. In addition, many top celebrities (inside and outside of sports) displayed incredible affection and love for him. Many of his ESPN colleagues brought tears to my eyes, when they so eloquently talked about what he meant to them, sports fans and ESPN.

His former co-anchor gave this touching tribute (Rich Eisen on Scott) on live TV:

Even President Obama released a statement:

“I will miss Stuart Scott. Twenty years ago, Stu helped usher in a new way to talk about our favorite teams and the day’s best plays. For much of those twenty years, public service and campaigns have kept me from my family – but wherever I went, I could flip on the TV and Stu and his colleagues on SportsCenter were there. Over the years, he entertained us, and in the end, he inspired us – with courage and love. Michelle and I offer our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and colleagues.”

He was only 49, yet according to many who knew him, packed more fun, sizzle and joy into those years than most do in a lifetime. He inspired me, including the public and courageous way he fought his cancer.

RIP Stuart Scott. After a hard day at work, there were few things more satisfying than watching you light up the TV screen at 11pm. Thank you.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

 In the early days with Rich Eisen

Doing The Unexpected

Little things mean a lot. When they are unexpected, it’s even better.

My Swedish colleague and I sent a person who is invaluable to our selling efforts, a small gift. I give her something every Christmas but we wanted to do something together and unexpected before then.

I had seen a “special edition” gift in the local store, which made me think of this person, as she is very special to our team; not only in terms of the work she does, but also in her kind nature.

It wasn't planned for the package to arrive on Monday, but as fate would have it, it did. We also included a personal note with the gift. 

Here's the email we received:

"Well that is a lovely surprise to receive gorgeous chocolates on a Monday morning!

Thank you so much for thinking of me and going to the trouble of sending me a gift and such kind words. I will enjoy them with my team.... I can't eat them all myself or will burst out of my skinny jeans I have only just got back into ;0)

Very much appreciated and has brightened up an already sunny, warm day :0)"

It's those small and beautiful moments of life that are frequently the most important.

Brighten up a life today by showing your appreciation. It need not take much time or be costly. It’s the thought that counts.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

Photo Link

UVM - Still Exceeding Expectations (and the class of 89)

While meeting and bonding with 'University of Vermont' (UVM) alumni over the years, I've rarely heard any complaints about the experience at our alma mater, and most loved it like I did. I’ve known people who left UVM before graduating, although it was more about them than our school.

The memories came rushing back recently as the class of 1989 (freshmen when I was a senior) were preparing for their 25th reunion. If I was living in the USA, I would have been there October 10th weekend, as I was close to and/or had great times with many of them. They had a very fun class and brought lots of unexpected energy to my final year on campus.

This video (Classic UVM Montage) from the class of 1989 will give you a sense of their good times! I’m sure many of us would love to have a priceless memory like this one.

I followed the weekend on social media and the pictures shown put me back on our picturesque campus, if only in spirit. I was touched. When I asked a friend about her 25^th reunion weekend, she wrote this:

“Something so unique and special about that place and the people. Definitely exceeded my expectations. Everything flowed just like it use to.”

College should be one of the best times of your life and provide moments which are hard to equal in the real world. It was for me and many of my 1986 classmates. I still find myself randomly reminiscing about the abundance of great (and often glorious) moments at UVM.

Outside of my time on the basketball court as a student-athlete, there was rarely a dull moment, whether it was a private event, hanging out in downtown Burlington, a fraternity party, a random dorm gathering, the energy of a hockey game, the often bitter cold temperatures or simply vibing with someone before or after a class. Being an athlete gave me a unique and privileged view of a variety of experiences, which I appreciated and soaked in as much I could.

After graduation in 1986, I regularly went back to visit on weekends and usually took some friends (Boston, Pennsylvania or Manhattan) with me. I wanted them to have a taste of my university, which they enjoyed the first time, and all came back at least one more time. We sometimes combined Montreal, Canada (a first for many) for an extended weekend as it was only 90 minutes away. In addition, I helped the university with recruiting efforts while living in New York City. My last time in Vermont was in 2003 - a terrific weekend!

I'm grateful for the daily moments of fun, enthusiasm or sizzle at UVM, along with my 4 year basketball scholarship. I couldn't have written a better collegiate script, despite the "ok at best" basketball experience; a story for another day.

I’m feeling very inspired this October and have numerous alumni (especially the class of 89) to thank for that. Being far way in Sweden, I appreciated those who kept me in the loop about the weekend and shared photos.

When I was travelling to UVM, with my mom and dad, in the summer of 1982, I had positive feelings about the school and the journey to come. Like the aforementioned friend felt about her 25^th year reunion, my 4 years at UVM “exceeded my expectations”. What more could anyone ask for?

Those early years of UVM bliss were special and continue to inspire me. My 30^th year reunion is in 2016. I plan to be there so the good times can continue to roll.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

Despite our 4 "less than stellar" basketball years, I love my UVM Basketball Cats!

Another Day

Today is a day to embrace life and express gratitude.

• Another day to smile and have fun.

• Another day to be positive, creative and explore your curiosity.
• Another day to love, hug or kiss those you love.

Today is a day to be inspired by those close to you or no longer with us. 

• Another day to count your blessings.
• Another day to relax, get a massage or take a nap.
• Another day to listen to the waves, smell the roses or marvel at nature’s beauty.

Today is a day to be proactive.

• Another day to stop “sweating the small stuff”.
• Another day to step outside of your comfort zone.
• Another day to call or reach out to a friend.

Today is a day to “Make Power Moves” and avoid powerless ones.

• Another day to make yourself a priority.
• Another day to “Master Your Me Time”.
• Another day to avoid negative forces or people.

Today is a day to give (time or money) to those less fortunate. 

• Another day to make a difference in someone’s life.
• Another day to mentor our youth, a colleague or family member.
• Another day to comfort a friend in need.

Today is a day to ask the question, “What is the Benefit?" 

• Another day to not eat shamelessly.
• Another day to be active, take a walk or exercise.
• Another day to maintain balance, be mindful and keep stress low.

Today is a day to CYA (Control Your Agenda). 

• Another day to stop living someone else’s dream.
• Another day to move to or explore another country.
• Another day to stop complaining or criticizing.

Maybe most importantly, today is another day to choose happiness, despite your circumstances.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

Another Day to Enjoy the September Beauty of Southern Sweden

What Half Marathons Have Done For Me

One of the reasons I’ve done 5 half marathons (21K or 13 miles) in Stockholm, Sweden, is to break away from my normal routine and get out of my comfort zone. In addition, it gives me a challenge to train for and look forward to. During each race, the thrill has always been there and finishing is a beautiful reward.

Despite not having enough 'long run" training for my recent one (September 13), I was ready. I trained very well for a 10K (ran that part in 1:04), and thought maybe I could get away with it and still do a 2:15 or better. I was wrong.

It doesn’t matter what speed you run, a half marathon is a challenge and preparation is crucial if you want a good time. If I had done several 15-18k runs, the race would have been much easier. Thankfully, I ran with friend John Viner, but couldn't keep up with him the last 6k. It was a luxury to have him by my side.

While I was slightly disappointed with my 2:28, I was happy that I felt strong and finishing was never in doubt. I simply ran out of energy, which prevented me from crossing the line with John at 2:20. I felt great the day after though!

If nothing else, maybe my words can serve as inspiration to embrace a new challenge or take a risk away from your comfort.

What would give you a thrill?

Is there a challenge you desire yet never find the time to make happen?

When was that last time you have done something out of the ordinary?

It need not be exercise but can be anything that takes you away from the "sameness" of everyday life. In my opinion, it's one way to keep life bubbling with sizzle and excitement.

I plan to do the same race next year. In 2015, my goal is to get closer to a time of 2:10. As long as I do the proper training, I will hit my target.  I’m looking forward to it.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

At the Finish Line with John Viner

A “Donald Sterling” Under the Radar

Former Los Angels Clippers owner Donald Sterling, (2 links below) was finally exposed for his racist ways and banned for life from the NBA earlier this year, although we should be more concerned about the “Sterling's” under the radar.

2006 Article on Donald Sterling 

2014 Sterling Article 

I met one such man over 20 years ago.

During my single years and in the early stages of dating a woman, I had little interest in meeting her parents; preferring to get to know her without the impact (good or bad) of meeting family members. When I agreed to meet the father of a lovely young lady I had been dating for only two weeks, something in the back of my mind quickly told me it was a bad idea. I brushed the thought away.

She was excited yet had no idea what was to come. I walked in the door and there was a calm and slightly eerie silence when her dad saw me.  He obviously had no idea that I was black as his face spoke volumes. He made some small talk and did shake my hand but it was clear that I wouldn’t be in the house for long. He wasn’t mean or disrespectful, so being the optimist, I thought maybe he was just shy or reserved.

Things were never the same with us after that inauspicious introduction.

We met at a park several days later and she explained that she couldn’t date me anymore. After some prying on my part, she came clean with the truth and told me that her dad threatened to disown her if she continued to see me. I wasn’t surprised by her dad's feelings although the “disown” part was shocking. The sad look in her eyes left no doubt about her dad’s sincerity. She lost a bit of her soul that day.

I felt bad for her as it was clear that she had no idea her dad was a racist. I told her that it was okay and she was in a no-win situation. She was on the verge of tears. We hugged and I knew that I would never see her again.

Her father lived in a nice neighborhood and was upper middle class. I can only imagine the negative influence his feelings had in other areas of his life. It was the first time racism was thrown so loudly and boldly in my face.

In addition, it was one of the few times in my life where my feelings and those of the woman I was dating, were sincere, passionate and mutual; particular considering it was only a few weeks. What a disappointment for both of us to have that taken away so harshly.

As a mentor said, to me recently, “There are millions of people around the world who think just like Sterling, whether it is based on color, culture, race, religion or beliefs.”

Sadly, he’s right.

On the bright side, there are millions more who are kind, decent, loving and open-minded people. I prefer to think of them.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

Only Love Can Conquer Hate