Tim Parks, an acclaimed author specializing in Italian literature, joins historian Professor Suzannah Lipscomb to unravel the captivating saga of the Medici family. They dive into how the Medici transformed from a banking powerhouse to rulers of Florence, navigating political intrigues and economic challenges. The discussion reveals the complex dynamics of wealth, art, and power, spotlighting figures like Cosimo and Lorenzo de' Medici. Their patronage not only shaped the city's cultural landscape but also left a lasting legacy on the Renaissance.

Tim Parks, owner of the SoCal Hard Eights and instrumental figure in the growth of Major League Pickleball, joins the podcast. They discuss topics like drafting players, relegation/promotion debates, negotiation tactics, future of MLP, PPA events after merger, inflated contracts and player compensation, potential move to Dallas, and analyzing the differences between side out scoring and Riley's scoring.