Savannah Bananas: Build Fans, Not Customers
This episode is a little different. It’s a conversation from my previous podcast, It’s No Secret with Dr T, recorded back in 2020, before I launched the Podiatry Legends Podcast.
At the time, my guest Jesse Cole was already doing some incredible things with his baseball team, the Savannah Bananas. They were selling out games, creating a unique fan experience, and challenging the traditional way sports were delivered.
But compared to where they are today… this was just the beginning.
Since then, the Savannah Bananas have become a global phenomenon. Massive crowds, viral content, and a brand built around one simple idea:
It’s not about the product. It’s about the experience. And that’s exactly why I’ve brought this episode back.
Because what Jesse shares in this conversation isn’t just relevant to sport… It’s directly applicable to podiatry, small business, and any profession where people have a choice.
You’re Not in the Business You Think You’re In
One of the biggest shifts Jesse made was realising they weren’t in the baseball business.
They were in the entertainment business. That one mindset change transformed everything. Instead of focusing on the game itself, they focused on how people felt before, during, and after the experience.
Now think about your clinic. You’re not just providing treatments. You’re creating an experience.
From the moment a patient walks through the door, everything matters:
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The greeting
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The environment
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The interaction
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The follow-up
Because that’s what people remember.
Experience First, Money Second
Jesse openly talks about how things didn’t work when they focused on making money.
In fact, they struggled. It was only when they shifted their focus to creating an unforgettable experience that everything changed. Sold-out games with loyal fans.
In podiatry, it’s the same.
If your focus is, “How do I bill more?”, you’ll always feel like you’re chasing. But if your focus becomes, “How do I make this the best experience this patient has had all week?” The business takes care of itself.
Remove the Friction
One of the smartest things the Savannah Bananas did was remove friction. They looked at everything that annoyed customers and eliminated it:
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Hidden fees
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Long, boring games
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Constant upselling
Instead, they made things simple and enjoyable.
So here’s a question for your clinic: What frustrates your patients?
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Waiting times?
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Confusing pricing?
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Cold, clinical environments?
Every friction point you remove is a reason for someone to come back… and tell others.
Turn the Mundane into Memorable
This was one of my favourite parts of the conversation. We talked about turning everyday moments into something memorable.
In my own clinic, we themed rooms around superheroes, encouraged kids to bring guitars to appointments, and created experiences that patients talked about long after they left.
That’s the difference.
Most clinics are predictable.
Memorable clinics are talked about.
Build a Community, Not Just a Client Base
Jesse also emphasised something that’s often overlooked… Community.
The Savannah Bananas didn’t just build a team. They built a tribe. And in business, that’s where real growth happens.
Because when people feel part of something:
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They come back
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They bring others
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They become advocates
This episode may be from the archives… but the lessons are timeless. If anything, they’re even more important today.
Because in a world where everyone is competing on price and convenience… The experience you create is your biggest advantage.
If you enjoyed this episode of Podiatry Legends, please share it with a friend or fellow podiatrist. And if you haven’t already, consider leaving a rating and review on your favourite podcast platform.
It helps more podiatrists discover the show.
If your business is profitable but not fulfilling…
If you’re working hard but not enjoying it…
If you’re unsure whether you’re building freedom or building pressure…
Let’s have a conversation. Head to www.tysonfranklin.com and schedule a call with me. I love working with ambitious podiatrists who are ready to make a change.
Your clinic should enhance your life, not replace it.