For nearly half a century, Ted Leitner was more than a broadcaster—he was the soundtrack of San Diego sports, a constant presence whose voice carried the hopes, heartbreaks, and unforgettable moments of an entire community. Padres pennant races, Aztecs upsets, legendary Chargers clashes—if it happened in San Diego, “Uncle Teddy” was there, painting the picture with unmistakable emotion, humor, and heart.

In Episode 3 of Empty the Bench: Small Market Edition, host Callan McClurg steps out of the analyst’s chair and into something more intimate: a tribute to the man who shaped his love of sports, storytelling, and the city itself. Through vivid anecdotes, archival memories, and reflections on what it meant to grow up in Pacific Beach listening to a master at work, McClurg explores how Leitner became the unseen mentor who guided his path long before they ever met.

This episode chronicles Leitner’s remarkable journey—from his early days on the air to becoming the defining voice of the Padres and Aztecs—while also confronting the realities of local broadcasting in a sports world increasingly dominated by national networks and corporate homogenization. But above all, it is a celebration of connection: how one broadcaster’s authenticity, vulnerability, and signature flair ignited the aspirations of a young San Diegan who would one day chase his own small-market dream.

The Voice That Raised Me: How Ted Leitner Inspired a San Diego Dream is a heartfelt portrait of legacy, mentorship, and the profound impact a single voice can have on generations of fans, dreamers, and future broadcasters.

⚠️ Note on Partnerships: This podcast was previously sponsored and powered by the Novig Sports Prediction Market. Please be advised that the partnership with Novig has expired due to the company ceasing operations in California and New York.

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