The Size Up Episode 104 - Make Your Out Count - Val Perez

In this episode of the Size Up podcast, Pip interviews Val Perez, a firefighter and manager of the Firefighters baseball team in the Savannah Bananas league. They discuss Val's journey from a young athlete competing with her brothers to her decision to become a firefighter, driven by a desire to serve her community. Val shares her experiences in both sports and emergency services, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, personal growth, and supporting colleagues in challenging times. The conversation highlights the unique blend of Val's passions for baseball and firefighting, showcasing how they intersect in her life. In this conversation, Val and Pip discuss the importance of open conversations about mental health within the firefighting community. They emphasize the need for supportive environments and leadership to help firefighters cope with the challenges they face. The discussion transitions into Val's journey from firefighting to playing baseball at a competitive level, culminating in her involvement with Banana Ball, a unique and entertaining version of baseball that combines showmanship with real competition. Val shares humorous anecdotes from her life as a firefighter and a member of the Savannah Bananas baseball team. She discusses the unique intersection of her two passions, the importance of community connections, and the inspiring stories she encounters at games. Val emphasizes the significance of kindness and the impact of social media in building relationships, while also encouraging the next generation of female firefighters and young baseball players. The conversation culminates in valuable life lessons about the journey and the importance of treating others well along the way. Because, What you do off the job, MATTERS!!!