Ryan is the founder and host of The Jim on Base Show, where he’s become known for his engaging interviews with celebrities, athletes, and other prominent figures. Over the years, he’s built a reputation for creating authentic, memorable conversations that capture the true personalities of his guests. But let’s take a look at his journey to where he is now, a path shaped by passion, curiosity, and a series of unexpected opportunities.
From Tracy to Hollywood: A Passion for Sports, Comedy, and Making Real Connections
Born and raised in Tracy, California, just outside the Bay Area, Ryan’s early fascination with entertainment and sports was sparked by his love for baseball, basketball, and football. It wasn’t just about watching the games or collecting autographs; it was about those special moments where he could connect with his heroes and make them smile.
“I’ve always been a huge sports fan, baseball, basketball, football. I loved meeting players, getting autographs, and having those interactions. It was never just a ‘hey, thanks for the autograph,’” Ryan explains. “I wanted to say something clever, make them smile, and have an interaction that was more than just forgettable.”
This desire for meaningful connections led Ryan to pursue a career in interviewing celebrities “For me, it’s all about when I can tell that they had fun,” Ryan shares. “When I feel like they enjoyed the conversation and had a good time, that’s the best compliment I can get.”
The Super Bowl Media Row Coverage 49ers and Other Career Milestones
Ryan’s career has taken him to some of the biggest events in the world. Whether it’s interviewing athletes at a Giants game or conducting sit-downs with celebrities at the American Century Celebrity Golf Tournament in Lake Tahoe, Ryan has had the chance to meet some of the most legendary figures in sports and entertainment.
“One of the coolest things for me has been being able to cover events that I grew up attending as a fan,” he says. “I’ve gone from sitting in the stands at a Giants game to standing in the dugout conducting interviews. It’s such a surreal, full-circle experience.”
Ryan’s first Super Bowl coverage took place in New Orleans, where he spent a week on Media Row, interviewing players, coaches, and celebrities. “I remember being there and thinking, ‘Wow, I’m actually here doing this.’ It was crazy.” But this year, Ryan’s excitement is even greater because the Super Bowl is being held in his hometown.
From Video Interviews to Celebrity Events: The Jim on Base Show Was Born
Ryan is known for interviewing celebrities at major events and on his podcast, but it all started during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ryan had the idea to reach out to athletes and celebrities for phone interviews. “I used to record my interviews in my car during COVID,” Ryan laughs. “I’d literally sneak out of the house, find an empty parking lot, and set up my makeshift studio. I would interview people from my car and then drive home like nothing ever happened.”
Ryan, using the alias “Jim,” would reach out to athletes and celebrities, whom he grew up watching. Because it was COVID, and everyone was stuck at home, most people were like, ‘Oh yeah, sure! What do you want to do it? Tomorrow?’ It was way easier than I thought. As for the name, Ryan says, “I didn’t want people to know my real name in case the show was a flop. So ‘Jim’ was my alias. I thought it was cool to have a name that felt a little mysterious, like I was someone behind the scenes. And ‘on base’ just felt like a fitting reference to the sports world, since I’ve always been a huge fan of baseball and other sports.”
Ryan admits that starting the podcast was a bit of a risk. “It was a bit of a risk, but I think the coolest part was being able to do something I loved, without putting too much pressure on it. And it worked out.”
The success of those early interviews led to The Jim on Base Show quickly gaining traction. “It just kind of snowballed from there,” he recalls. And before long, Ryan was doing in-person interviews at major events, like the Celebrity Golf Tournament in Tahoe, rubbing elbows with stars like Ray Romano and other legendary figures!
What’s Next for Ryan and The Jim on Base Show
As The Jim on Base Show continues to grow, Ryan is focused on bringing even more exciting content to his fans. With major events like the Super Bowl and charity galas lined up, Ryan is gearing up for a busy year of interviews, on-location coverage, and special behind-the-scenes moments.“I love attending charity events during the holiday season, everyone is in a great mood and the atmosphere makes it even more fun,” Ryan shares. “I just covered a charity cancer benefit for Ronnie James Dio. ”
Ryan’s story shows that when you follow your passion and stay true to what you love, great things happen. Whether he’s interviewing sports legends, sharing laughs with comedians, or covering the Super Bowl in his hometown, Ryan has built a career that continues to evolve. For exclusive behind-the-scenes moments and the most exciting celebrity and sports interviews, be sure to follow Ryan on The Jim on Base Show as he takes his journey to even greater heights.
KEEP UP WITH THE JIM ON THE BASE SHOW -OFFICIAL LINKS TO FOLLOW!
https://www.youtube.com/@JimOnBaseShow
