Jason Wilde on Bob Harlan: The Man Who Saved the Green Bay Packers

Former Packers President Bob Harlan passed away at age 89, and in this heartfelt segment, Jason Wilde reflects on why Harlan’s impact on the Green Bay Packers — and the city of Green Bay — cannot be overstated. 030626 Jason on JGC Jason shares personal stories and historical perspective on the man who: Hired Ron Wolf Empowered football operations Brought Brett Favre to Green Bay Signed Reggie White Set the foundation for Super Bowl XXXI Led the Lambeau Field renovation referendum Ensured the Packers’ long-term survival in the smallest market in major American sports Without Bob Harlan, the Packers’ 35-year renaissance likely never happens. 🏈 The Turning Point Jason explains that the franchise’s dysfunction in the 1980s was very real — and that Harlan’s decision to hire Ron Wolf (and give him true authority) changed everything. From that domino fell: Mike Holmgren Brett Favre Reggie White Sustained contention Organizational stability This wasn’t luck. It was leadership. 🏟️ Saving the Packers in Green Bay The Lambeau Field renovation vote in the early 2000s was far from guaranteed. The sales tax referendum passed 53–47 — essentially a coin flip. Jason details how Harlan personally campaigned: Visiting factories at 4am Going door to door Taking calls from angry taxpayers himself If that vote fails, there is legitimate doubt the Packers remain in Green Bay long-term. 🧱 The Human Side Jason also shares personal moments: Mall-walking encounters with Harlan His humility when the plaza was named after him Writing the foreword to Jason’s book The genuine kindness that defined him The emotion in the segment reflects how much Harlan meant not just professionally — but personally. ⚖️ The Bigger Picture Jason makes it clear: The Packers’ modern success story doesn’t begin with Favre or Lombardi. It begins with Bob Harlan. And the ripple effects of his leadership extend beyond championships — into the survival of the franchise and the identity of an entire community. 🎧 A powerful, emotional reflection on the life and legacy of Bob Harlan — with Jason Wilde on Jen, Gabe & Chewy.