EPISODE TWO

Meet Brian DeAngelis: President, General Manager of the Winston-Salem Dash

Brian DeAngelis is the General Manager of the Winston-Salem Dash. His career is distinguished by a commitment to weaving creativity, sports, and community service into his work. Brian’s unique perspective on transforming baseball games into cultural experiences, fostering community engagement, and elevating the fan experience sets a standard for artistic leaders in sports.

“Never try. Just go in and do the idea.” - Brian DeAngelis

 “  It's not just the game- it's the experience you had watching and participating with the game.”

- Brian DeAngelis

SHOW NOTES

In this episode of the Artistic Leadership Podcast, Tiffany sits down with Brian DeAngelis, the General Manager of High-A White Sox affiliate, The Winston-Salem Dash, to discuss the intricate art of baseball from a community and creativity perspective. They dive into the shared cultural memories of baseball, strategies for engaging fans through innovative theme nights, and the dynamic, often spontaneous, nature of game-day entertainment. Brian shares his experiences from childhood memories with his grandfather to his current role and passion for elevating the fan experience. Key topics include the process of generating and executing creative promotional ideas, managing risk, and maintaining accessibility for fans. The conversation also highlights how the stadium serves as a communal stage, providing a unique blend of sports and entertainment that fosters community building and lasting memories.


TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:47 Brian's Early Baseball Memories

02:42 The Community Aspect of Baseball

04:24 Artistry and Leadership in Baseball

06:00 Family-Friendly Initiatives

08:03 Creative Process and Idea Generation

12:58 Challenges and Execution

17:36 Risk and Learning from Failure

18:56 Documentation and Continuous Improvement

20:07 Addressing Recurring Issues

20:30 The Fire Incident and Quick Decisions

21:21 Balancing Risk and Creativity

23:53 Sales as a Measure of Success

25:20 Enhancing Fan Experience

28:45 The Role of Players in Minor League Baseball

34:36 Making Baseball Accessible and Affordable

37:55 The Impact of Baseball on Fans

41:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES

Mentioned in the podcast:

Reds Baseball Team

Cubs Baseball Team 

PNC Park Stadium Pittsburgh 

Three Rivers Stadium History

Zambelli Fireworks History

Chuck Tanner's Restaurant 

Roberto Clemente 

Columbus, Georgia Baseball Renovation Project 

Visit Winston Salem

Atrium Health 

The Power of Moments Book 

Article: Disco Demolition Night at Comiskey Park

Article: Forty years ago, 10-cent beer makes memories

Visitor’s guide to the WS Dash:

Article: A Guide to Attending a Winston-Salem Dash Game

2025 Theme Nights

History of the Dash Stadium 

Article: Winston-Salem Dash Hire Brian DeAngelis as President, General Manager 

Bolt Mascot 

Flow Club 

Kids Club

Article: Winston-Salem Dash Unveil New Food Items

Holiday Drone Light Show

El Humo Winston-Salem

Hooch Pooches Rebrand 

Hyphens Rebrand 

Article: W-S Dash earn 'Best Alternate Identity' nom for 'Hype Hens'

Learn more:

WS Dash Website 

WS Dash Instagram 

WS Dash Facebook

WS Dash TikTok

Brian DeAngelis

Episode Information

Triad Podcast Network 

Ethan Gingrich 

Song “Bodies of Water” by Tiffany Thompson