Episode 58 Alan H. “Bud” Selig

My conversation with former commissioner of Major League Baseball Bud Selig reveals a man of many passions— for baseball, for history, for Milwaukee, and for making a difference in the world. Contributing to the arts and education is vitally important to Bud and his wife Sue. They generously support cultural organizations such as the the Milwaukee Art Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and Milwaukee Public Library. A loyal alumnus of the University of Wisconsin- Madison, he is a major donor to the school, and credits his student days for his success and love of learning. He teaches a popular class there on baseball in the context of U.S.history. He also teaches at Marquette University Law School and Arizona State University (Tempe).

He shares fascinating stories about growing up in Milwaukee, his colorful and inspiring mother— an immigrant from Ukraine who appreciated baseball, classical music and opera, and his unexpected development in the world of baseball, first as an owner of the Milwaukee Brewers, and later catapulted to commissioner of Major League Baseball. We discussed his treasured friendships with Henry (Hank) Aaron, the family of Jackie Robinson, and Senator Herb Kohl, as well as his 2019 memoir For the Good of the Game published by Harper Collins, which covers baseball’s turbulent era during his tenure as commissioner. We talked about his impact on the game, and the benefits Major League Baseball bring to a community. What an inspiration to listen to Selig’s rich lore and his love of telling it!