Episode 5 – A conversation with legendary baseball Coach Paul Cunnie

In this episode, Derrick reconnects with one of the most impactful figures from his youth—Coach Paul Cunnie, a Daly City baseball legend with over 42 consecutive years of service as a player, umpire, coach, and program director. Coach Cunnie has coached more than 50 teams and helped lead both the Daly City Colts and the Joe DiMaggio program for athletes ages 15–19. Derrick opens the episode with a deeply personal story about facing multiple rejections in youth baseball before finding a home—and a mentor—in Coach Cunnie's Daly City program. They reflect on that journey, the value of second chances, and how coaching shaped Derrick’s own path as both a mentor and a parent. Together, they dive into how youth baseball has evolved, especially with the rise of travel teams, and discuss the lasting value of community-based sports. Coach Cunnie shares his perspective on what kids really need to succeed—on the field and in life—and offers timeless advice for parents and young coaches alike. In a heartfelt post-show reflection, Derrick shares even more stories from his time coaching under Coach Cunnie, including a laugh-out-loud memory from the Peninsula Colts Tournament involving two late players, a train mishap, and a lineup that nearly didn’t get filled. This episode is about much more than baseball—it’s about mentorship, resilience, and the lasting impact of coaches who believe in kids, even when others don’t.