Promotional graphic for the BirdTalk podcast by MSU Denver featuring a black-and-white portrait of Jan Sumner ’74 holding a baseball. Text reads: “BirdTalk: An MSU Denver Podcast about Alumni Careers and Lives hosted by Jamie Hurst ’21” and “Episode 35: Jan Sumner ’74,” set against a stylized Denver skyline background.
Promotional graphic for the BirdTalk podcast by MSU Denver featuring a black-and-white portrait of Jan Sumner ’74 holding a baseball. Text reads: “BirdTalk: An MSU Denver Podcast about Alumni Careers and Lives hosted by Jamie Hurst ’21” and “Episode 35: Jan Sumner ’74,” set against a stylized Denver skyline background.

The MSU Denver Alumni Association is proud to feature Jan Sumner (’74), entrepreneur, author, and former Colorado Rockies batting practice pitcher, in the newest episode of BirdTalk, the university’s official alumni podcast highlighting Roadrunners making an impact in their communities and beyond.

Hosted by Jamie Hurst, the episode explores Sumner’s lifelong connection to baseball—from his time as a student-athlete at MSU Denver to spending six seasons throwing batting practice for the Colorado Rockies. His experiences on the field ultimately inspired his first book, Fat Pitch, launching a second career as a writer that has grown to 13 published works.

A graduate in physical education, Sumner credits MSU Denver with providing the flexibility and support he needed to balance school, work, and family. “It accommodated my schedule,” he shares in the episode. “I felt what I was learning was practical and applicable to real life.”

Beyond baseball and writing, the conversation highlights Sumner’s current work as founder of Homeward Bound Prison Ministry, where he mentors incarcerated individuals and helps them find purpose through writing and personal reflection. His work focuses on second chances, personal growth, and the power of storytelling to transform lives.

Throughout the episode, Sumner reflects on the lessons baseball has taught him—particularly resilience and the willingness to fail. “Don’t let fear deter you from making efforts in life,” he says. “You’re going to fail sometimes, but that’s how you learn and grow.”

This episode blends memorable baseball stories with meaningful insights on reinvention, purpose, and the impact of using your experiences to serve others. Sumner’s journey exemplifies how MSU Denver alumni continue to evolve and make a difference long after leaving campus.

The episode is now available on all major podcast platforms and here.

BirdTalk is MSU Denver’s official alumni podcast, sharing stories of Roadrunners advancing in business, aviation, entrepreneurship, and public service. To listen to this episode or explore more alumni success stories, visit https://www.msudenver.edu/alumni/birdtalk/