SBJ Spotlight: Recent Episodes
Sports Business Journal
SBJ Spotlight is a news series from Sports Business Journal. During each episode, we look at the biggest stories in sports business through the eyes of key industry executives and personalities.
In this episode of On Stage, Microsoft’s Chief AI Officer, MJ Jabbour, explores concepts such as “abundance of cognition,” the risks of de-skilling, and how organizations can prepare for increasingly capable AI systems. The episode features a new addition to the SBJ On Stage format as TKO Group’s EVP of Innovation, Alon Cohen, becomes the show's first guest commentator, joining host Dan Kaufman to react to Jabbour’s ideas, challenge key assumptions, and discuss what AI means for sports, entertainment and human creativity. Together, this episode examines where AI creates value, where human judgment remains essential, and why curiosity, imagination and wonder may become even more important in an AI-powered future.
Here are some highlights from this episode:
- AI is headed toward an "abundance of cognition” economy.
MJ argues that today's frontier AI models will eventually become as inexpensive and ubiquitous as electricity. The real challenge won't be access to intelligence, but how organizations and individuals manage a world where cognitive labor is abundant and nearly free. - The biggest risk isn't job loss. It's loss of agency.
MJ's concern isn't that AI replaces people, but that people stop thinking for themselves. His advice to his children, "Teach me, don't tell me" and "Think before you ask," becomes a framework for how leaders should use AI without surrendering judgment, curiosity, and independent thought. - The future belongs to creativity and imagination, not task completion.
Both MJ and Alon Cohen stress that routine, trainable work is increasingly automatable. The differentiator for employees, executives, and organizations will be creativity, emotional intelligence, judgment, and the ability to imagine something new rather than simply execute known processes. - The next frontier isn't better chatbots. It's machines creating new knowledge.
MJ predicts the biggest breakthroughs will come from "AI scientists" and systems that can discover new drugs, new technologies, and new insights rather than simply summarize existing information. Alon pushes back on whether AI can truly generate novel ideas, creating one of the episode's most compelling debates: Can AI genuinely imagine?
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Andrew Yaffe, CEO of Dude Perfect, joins Bret McCormick, Staff Reporter at Sports Business Journal, for a conversation about how one of the world's most recognizable creator brands is redefining sports fandom for a new generation. Recorded in June 2026 at SBJ's Brand Innovation Summit in Chicago, the discussion explores Dude Perfect's remarkable evolution—from five friends making trick-shot videos at Texas A&M to a global entertainment business with nearly 100 million followers, live tours, merchandise, premium brand partnerships, and a long-term vision that stretches far beyond social media.
Yaffe shares how the company is thinking about its next chapter, including:
- Building a Lasting Brand: Why Dude Perfect hired its first CEO and how the company is evolving from a creator collective into a multi-platform sports and entertainment business.
- Authenticity at Scale: How the founders have stayed true to their original mission of simply making content that's fun—even after 17 years of explosive growth.
- Beyond Digital: The strategy behind expanding into live experiences, consumer products, media, and physical destinations that deepen fan engagement.
- The Creator Economy: What traditional sports organizations can learn from digital-first brands about building community and reaching younger audiences.
- Culture as Strategy: Why creativity, trust, and long-term thinking are the foundation of sustainable growth.
It's an insightful look at how one of sports entertainment's most innovative brands is turning internet success into an enduring business.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Jess Smith, President of the Golden State Valkyries, joins Jenn Azara, Director of Tech & Women's Sports Content at Sports Business Journal, for a conversation about launching one of the most successful expansion franchises in professional sports. Recorded at SBJ's Tech Week in New York City in May 2026, the discussion explores how the Valkyries have blended technology, innovation, and fan-first thinking to build momentum from day one. Fresh off a historic inaugural season that included record attendance, a playoff appearance, and one of the highest franchise valuations in women's sports, Smith shares the philosophy behind building a modern organization from the ground up.
Key themes include:
- Launching with Purpose: How the Valkyries approached expansion differently to establish a strong identity from day one.
- Technology as a Competitive Advantage: Using data, AI, and digital tools to enhance business operations and the fan experience.
- Designing Around the Fan: Why every decision begins with understanding what today's sports fans value most.
- The Growth of Women's Sports: What the Valkyries' early success says about the future of the WNBA and the broader marketplace.
- Building for the Long Term: Lessons in culture, innovation, and leadership while creating a franchise designed to thrive for decades.
It's an inspiring look at how one of sports' newest teams became one of its most talked-about success stories.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer at Netflix, joins Elle Duncan, Lead Host of Sports and Live Events at Netflix and studio host for USA Sports, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of entertainment, storytelling, and live sports. Recorded in April 2026 at the CAA World Congress of Sports presented by Sports Business Journal, the discussion explores how Netflix continues to evolve from a streaming pioneer into one of the most influential players in sports and live entertainment. Throughout the conversation, Bajaria shares insights on:
- The Power of Great Storytelling: Why compelling characters and authentic stories remain at the center of every successful piece of content.
- Netflix & Live Sports: How the company is approaching live events and sports programming while staying true to its broader content strategy.
- Building Global Franchises: What it takes to create content that resonates across cultures and audiences around the world.
- Creative Partnerships: How Netflix works with leagues, athletes, creators, and producers to develop distinctive programming.
- Leading at Scale: Bajaria's philosophy for managing one of the world's largest content organizations during a period of rapid industry transformation.
From documentaries and scripted series to live sporting events, it's a fascinating look at how one of the world's most influential media companies is thinking about the future of content.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Eric Shanks, CEO and Executive Producer of FOX Sports, joins Colin Cowherd, host of The Herd, for a candid conversation on leadership, media strategy, and the enduring power of live sports. Recorded on April 15, 2026, at the CAA World Congress of Sports in Los Angeles, the discussion comes at a remarkable moment for Shanks and FOX Sports. As highlighted in a recent Sports Business Journal profile, Shanks has overseen some of the most significant moments in modern sports media—from Super Bowls and World Cups to major rights acquisitions and the continued evolution of FOX's sports portfolio.
Throughout the conversation, Shanks reflects on:
- Leading Through Big Moments: Lessons learned from managing some of the largest broadcasts and events in sports.
- The Value of Live Sports: Why premium live content remains one of the most powerful assets in media.
- Media's Next Chapter: How audience behavior, streaming, and technology are reshaping the business.
- Building Winning Teams: His leadership philosophy and approach to developing talent and culture inside FOX Sports.
- The Future of Sports Storytelling: How broadcasters can continue to engage fans in an increasingly fragmented media environment.
It’s an engaging discussion with one of the most influential executives in sports media, offering perspective on leadership, innovation, and the future of the industry.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Nick Khan, President of WWE and Board Member of TKO Group Holdings, joins Abraham Madkour, Publisher & Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal, for a candid conversation on the evolution of sports entertainment and the business strategy driving WWE’s next chapter. Recorded on April 15, 2026, at SBJ’s CAA World Congress of Sports in Los Angeles, the discussion explores how WWE continues to grow as a global media property while adapting to changing consumer habits, platform dynamics, and fan expectations.
Throughout the conversation, Khan shares insights on:
- The TKO Era: How WWE fits into the broader vision of TKO and the opportunities created by scale and consolidation.
- Media Rights & Distribution: The changing economics of live content and why premium sports entertainment remains uniquely valuable.
- Global Expansion: WWE’s international strategy and the continued growth of live events and fan engagement worldwide.
- Storytelling & Talent: Why character development and audience connection remain central to WWE’s success.
- Leadership & Negotiation: Lessons from Khan’s path through sports media, talent representation, and executive leadership.
It’s an insightful look at the intersection of media, entertainment, and live sports from one of the most influential dealmakers in the industry.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Sir Mohamed Mansour, Chairman of San Diego FC, Man Capital LLP, and the Mansour Group, joins Coy Wire, sports anchor and correspondent for CNN, for a fireside chat on leadership, investment, and the global growth of soccer. Recorded on March 26, 2026, at SBJ Business of Soccer in Atlanta, the conversation explores how one of the world’s most accomplished business leaders is helping shape the future of the sport in the United States and beyond. Sir Mohamed reflects on his journey building a global business empire while expanding his footprint in sports ownership through San Diego FC and international investments.
Key themes include:
- Global Perspective on Soccer: Why the sport’s long-term trajectory in the United States remains so compelling.
- Leadership & Entrepreneurship: Lessons from building and managing businesses across multiple industries and continents.
- Ownership with Vision: How San Diego FC is approaching identity, culture, and growth as a new MLS franchise.
- Investment & Opportunity: The increasing intersection of global capital and the sports industry.
- Community & Legacy: Why sports ownership is about more than business performance alone.
It’s a thoughtful conversation about ambition, stewardship, and the expanding global influence of soccer.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Arthur M. Blank, Chairman of AMB Sports and Entertainment, joins Abe Madkour, Publisher and Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, ownership, and the continued growth of soccer in the United States. Recorded on March 26, 2026, at SBJ’s Business of Soccer conference in Atlanta, the discussion offers a window into Blank’s philosophy as an owner across multiple properties, including the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, and how he approaches building organizations rooted in culture, community, and long-term vision.
Key themes include:
- Ownership with Purpose: Blank’s approach to leadership, culture, and empowering people across his organizations.
- The Rise of Soccer in the U.S.: How Atlanta United became a model for fan engagement and what it signals about the sport’s future.
- Fan-First Philosophy: Why experience, accessibility, and trust are central to sustained success.
- Community Impact: The role sports organizations play beyond the field in driving civic pride and connection.
- Leadership Lessons: Insights from a career spanning entrepreneurship, retail, and professional sports ownership.
It’s a thoughtful, values-driven conversation with one of the most respected figures in sports business—offering lessons that extend far beyond the game.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Steve O’Donnell, President of NASCAR, joins Ryan McGee, Senior Writer at ESPN, for a forward-looking fireside chat on how one of America’s most iconic sports properties is evolving for a new era. Recorded on February 23, 2026, at SBJ’s National Sports Forum in St. Louis, the conversation captures NASCAR at a pivotal moment—redefining its identity, sharpening its focus, and positioning itself for long-term growth. O’Donnell shares how the organization is “turning the page” and leaning into a refreshed strategy built around innovation, fan engagement, and cultural relevance.
Key themes include:
- Reframing NASCAR’s Identity: How the league is evolving its brand while staying true to its core.
- Fan Experience & Engagement: New approaches to connecting with both loyal fans and a younger, more diverse audience.
- Media & Distribution: Navigating shifting consumption habits and maximizing reach across platforms.
- Innovation on the Track: The role of competition, format, and technology in keeping the sport compelling.
- Leadership Through Change: What it takes to guide a legacy property through transformation.
It’s an insightful look at how NASCAR is balancing tradition with reinvention—and what that means for the future of motorsports.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Clark Hunt, Chairman and CEO of the Kansas City Chiefs and Chairman of FC Dallas, joins Coy Wire, sports anchor and correspondent at CNN, for a fireside chat on ownership, legacy, and the continued globalization of football. Recorded on Wednesday, March 25, at SBJ’s The Business of Soccer event in Atlanta, the conversation offers a unique perspective from one of the most influential ownership figures spanning both the NFL and global soccer. As the son of Lamar Hunt, a founding figure in the NFL and a pioneer of American soccer, Clark Hunt reflects on carrying forward a legacy while building for the future—across leagues, markets, and generations of fans.
Key themes include:
- Ownership Across Sports: How Hunt balances leadership between the NFL and MLS, and what each league can learn from the other
- The Global Opportunity: Why soccer continues to expand in the U.S., and how international dynamics are shaping the sport’s future
- Sustaining Success: Lessons from building a championship organization with the Kansas City Chiefs
- Legacy and Responsibility: What it means to steward iconic franchises while evolving with the modern sports landscape
- The Future of Football: Where the NFL and global soccer are headed—and how ownership will play a role in that trajectory
It’s a thoughtful look at leadership from an owner operating at the intersection of tradition and transformation.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Joe Buck, play-by-play announcer at ESPN, joins Eric Stisser, Vice President of Corporate Sponsorship for the St. Louis Blues, for a candid fireside chat about broadcasting, preparation, and longevity in one of the most visible roles in sports media. Recorded on Tuesday, February 24, at SBJ’s National Sports Forum in St. Louis, the conversation gives listeners a closer look at Buck’s career, his approach to the craft, and what he’s learned from calling some of the biggest moments in sports.
Key themes include:
- The Art of Play-by-Play: How Buck prepares, adapts, and finds the right tone for major moments.
- A Career in Broadcasting: Reflections on longevity, pressure, and evolving with the changing media landscape.
- Storytelling on the Mic: Why context, pacing, and trust matter as much as the call itself.
- Sports, Media, and Audience Expectations: How the job has changed as fans consume games and commentary differently than ever before.
- Lessons from the Biggest Stages: Insights from a broadcaster who has spent decades at the center of major sports events.
It’s an engaging and personal conversation with one of the most recognizable voices in sports.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Howie Nuchow, Managing Director at Creative Artists Agency and Co-Head of CAA Sports, joins Abraham Madkour, Publisher & Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal, for a conversation about the expanding role of capital, advisory, and global strategy in sports.
Recorded on February 23, 2026, at SBJ’s National Sports Forum, the discussion highlights how firms like CAA are operating far beyond traditional representation by helping shape ownership structures, league investments, and strategic partnerships across the industry.
During the conversation, Nuchow explores:
- The Rise of Sports Private Equity: Why institutional capital is flowing into sports and what it means for teams, leagues, and investors.
- CAA’s Expanding Role: How the agency advises ownership groups, investors, and global sports properties.
- The Evolution of Representation: How modern agencies operate at the intersection of talent, media, capital, and strategy.
- Global Opportunities: Where sports investment is growing and how international markets factor into the next wave of deals.
- Lessons in Leadership: What it takes to navigate a rapidly evolving sports business landscape.
It’s a sharp, strategic look at how the financial architecture of sports is changing and the executives helping shape that transformation.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Karen Brodkin, President of WME Basketball, joins Rachel Axon, Staff Writer at Sports Business Journal, for a dynamic conversation on leadership, representation, and influence across the sports ecosystem. Recorded on September 25, 2025, at SBJ’s Game Changers event in New York City, this discussion traces Brodkin’s remarkable career—from senior leadership roles at Fox Sports and the NFL, to serving as Executive Vice President at Endeavor, to her current position overseeing WME Basketball.
Throughout the conversation, Brodkin reflects on:
- A Career Across Power Centers: Lessons from the NFL, Fox Sports, and Endeavor—and how those experiences shape her leadership today.
- Boardroom to Broadcast: How rights negotiations, distribution strategy, and talent representation intersect in modern sports.
- The Business of Basketball: The growth of women’s and men’s basketball and how agencies play a role in shaping the sport’s next chapter.
- Leadership & Advocacy: Her work across nonprofit and foundation boards, including youth sports and community initiatives.
- Navigating Change: How to lead through disruption while maintaining clarity of vision and purpose.
It’s a compelling look at how one executive has influenced sports from multiple vantage points—league, media, agency, and governance.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Matt Hong, President of USA Sports at Versant, joins Abe Madkour, Publisher & Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal, for an insightful conversation on how the sports media landscape is being rebuilt in real time. Recorded on November 18, 2025, at SBJ’s Media Innovators in New York City, the discussion captures Hong at the center of a fast-evolving ecosystem. Versant operates at the intersection of content, technology, and distribution—helping shape how sports are produced, packaged, and consumed across platforms.
Key themes include:
- Media Disruption: How changing consumer behavior, platforms, and technology are redefining sports media models.
- Versant’s Role: What Versant does, how it partners across the industry, and where Hong sees the greatest opportunity ahead.
- Leadership & Strategy: Hong’s approach to navigating uncertainty, building teams, and making long-term bets in a volatile market.
- Innovation at Scale: How data, distribution, and product thinking are reshaping how fans engage with sports content.
- What’s Next: A look at where sports media is headed—and what leaders should be paying attention to now.
It’s a forward-looking, practical discussion for anyone navigating disruption across sports, media, and technology.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
00:00 - Intro
01:16 - Assessment of job 3 years in
04:17 - Post-House reality for NCAA
04:59 - NCAA would have been bankrupt
05:20 - Prop bets
07:58 - Commercial appeal of NCAA
10:29 - Growth sports around the country
11:06 - SCORE Act update
12:30 - Private equity caution
14:38 - Issues that keep Charlie Baker up at night
17:00 - Reaction to fans complaining about CFP
19:27 - Is college sports too professionalized?
22:40 - USOPC and NCAA relationship
23:57 - Sports Broadcasting Act changes
24:59 - Hope for changes 1 year from now
27:01 - Does Charlie Baker like the job?
28:48 Closing remarks
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Tom Ricketts, Chairman of the Chicago Cubs, joins Joe Leccese, Chairman Emeritus of Proskauer, for a wide-ranging conversation about stewardship, leadership, and the evolving business of baseball. Recorded on November 19, 2025, at SBJ Dealmakers Conference, the discussion explores how Ricketts balances the weight of tradition that comes with owning one of the most iconic franchises in sports while positioning the Cubs for long-term success in a rapidly changing industry.
Key themes include:
- Owning a Legacy Franchise: What it means to lead a century-old team with a deeply rooted fan base and global profile.
- Long-Term Vision: How the Cubs think about competitive windows, financial discipline, and sustainable success.
- Business of Baseball: Ricketts’ perspective on league economics, media evolution, and the forces reshaping MLB.
- Leadership & Governance: Lessons from navigating change, aligning stakeholders, and making decisions with generational impact.
- Wrigley Field & the Fan Experience: How the Cubs continue to evolve their ballpark and surrounding ecosystem while honoring tradition.
It’s an insightful conversation with one of sports’ most dynamic owners — offering perspective on how legacy organizations adapt, endure, and evolve.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, we take you inside a panel conversation unpacking the launch of one of the most ambitious new properties in sports: TGL. Recorded on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the SBJ World Congress of Sports in Nashville, this discussion brings together leaders from across sports, media, technology, and investment to break down the vision, execution, and early lessons from TGL’s inaugural season.
Moderated by Sports Business Journal staff writer Chris Smith, the panel features:
- Mike McCarley, Founder & CEO of TMRW Sports and TGL
- Rosalyn Durant, Executive Vice President, Programming & Acquisitions at ESPN
- Don Cornwell, Co-Founder & CEO of Dynasty Equity and TMRW Sports investor
- Alexis Ohanian, Founder of Seven Seven Six and founding control owner of Los Angeles Golf Club
Together, they explore:
- The TGL Vision: Why this new format was created — and how it aims to modernize golf for today’s fan.
- Media & Distribution Strategy: How ESPN approached programming, storytelling, and audience development for a new league.
- Capital & Ownership: The role of strategic investors in building credibility, momentum, and long-term value.
- Season One Learnings: What worked, what surprised the group, and what they’d approach differently going forward.
- What’s Next: How TGL fits into the broader evolution of sports entertainment and next-generation fan engagement.
It’s a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how a new league comes to life — from idea to execution — told by the people who built it.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Minnesota Vikings Owner and President Mark Wilf joins Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard, for a wide-ranging conversation that took place on October 1, 2025, at Leaders Week London. Wilf reflects on his journey as an NFL owner and the leadership principles that have shaped the Vikings’ long-term vision—both on and off the field. As the NFL accelerates its international strategy, the conversation offers a timely look at how ownership, culture, and global ambition intersect at the highest levels of sport.
Key themes from the conversation include:
- Leadership & Ownership Philosophy: The values that guide Wilf’s approach to team ownership, governance, and decision-making over the long term.
- Building a Global NFL Brand: How the Vikings are expanding their international footprint, including upcoming games in Dublin and London, and what global growth means for the league’s future.
- Legacy & Long-Term Vision: Balancing competitive success with organizational stability, culture, and sustained impact.
- Community & Civic Responsibility: The role teams play beyond wins and losses, from local community engagement to international connection.
- Cross-Sport Perspective: Insights from a conversation between leaders operating at the intersection of global sport, business, and culture.
This episode offers a rare window into how one NFL ownership group thinks about scale, stewardship, and the future of the game—at home and abroad.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, we bring you a joint conversation with Dee and Jimmy Haslam of Haslam Sports, one of the most influential ownership groups in American sports. Recorded on October 2, 2025, at Leaders Week London, this discussion offers an inside look at how the Haslams approach ownership, leadership, and long-term community impact across their portfolio: the Cleveland Browns, Columbus Crew, and Milwaukee Bucks. In a thoughtful and candid conversation with BBC Sport presenter Sarah Mulkerrins, the Haslams explore:
- A Unified Sports Vision: How ownership across the NFL, MLS, and NBA fits into a broader mission driven by community, culture, and competitive success.
- Leadership Philosophy: Their approach to hiring great people, supporting strong leaders, and maintaining organizational alignment during both highs and lows.
- Community Responsibility: Why civic pride and long-term social investment are fundamental to their sports ventures.
- Infrastructure & Legacy: How stadium development, fan experience, and city partnerships shape the future of their franchises.
- Owning in a New Era: What modern ownership requires, from patience to adaptability to purpose-driven strategy.
This is an insightful and grounded look at how two leaders think about sports not simply as businesses, but as platforms for generational impact.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Richard Masters, Chief Executive of the Premier League, joins Karthi Gnagnasegaram, Presenter and Host, for an in-depth conversation on the evolving strategy behind the world’s most-watched sports league.
Recorded on October 2, 2025, at Leaders Week London, this discussion explores how Masters and his team are steering the league through a period of transformation—balancing commercial success with the long-term integrity of the game.
Key discussion points include:
- Global Growth: How the Premier League continues to strengthen its international influence and deepen fan engagement around the world.
- Financial Sustainability & Competitive Balance: Insights into new regulatory approaches, investment models, and how the league maintains parity while attracting global talent.
- Media Rights & Innovation: How evolving technology and viewing habits are reshaping the league’s broadcast and digital strategy.
- Governance & Independence: Masters’ view on maintaining stability and credibility amid increasing scrutiny and proposed regulatory changes.
- The Future of Football: His reflections on the league’s broader responsibility to the sport, from grassroots development to global representation.
This conversation offers a rare look behind the business of football—from one of the game’s most influential executives—providing valuable lessons for anyone navigating growth, regulation, and innovation in global sport.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell joins Neil Reynolds, presenter of the NFL on Sky Sports, for an in-depth conversation about the league’s global ambitions and evolving strategy. Recorded on October 2, 2025, at Leaders Week London—hosted by SBJ’s sister company Leaders in Sport at Allianz Stadium—Goodell shares his perspective on expanding the NFL’s international footprint, fostering fan engagement, and the evolving business of football.
Key discussion points include:
- Global Growth Strategy: How the NFL is deepening its roots in Europe through international games, partnerships, and local fandom.
- Media & Technology: The league’s evolving broadcast and digital strategy to reach the next generation of fans worldwide.
- Player Health & Safety: Continued efforts to innovate equipment, protocols, and education to protect players at every level.
- Leadership & Legacy: Goodell’s reflections on leading through change and building an enduring, global brand for the future.
It’s a candid, forward-looking conversation with one of the most influential executives in world sport—offering lessons in leadership, growth, and global vision.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, BIG EAST Commissioner Val Ackerman joins Sports Business Journal’s Publisher and Executive Editor, Abraham Madkour for an inspiring and candid conversation that took place on September 25, 2025, at SBJ’s Game Changers conference in New York City.
Ackerman — a pioneer in sports leadership and one of the most respected voices in college athletics — reflects on a career defined by innovation, advocacy, and resilience. From helping launch the WNBA as its first president to guiding the BIG EAST through a time of rapid change, Ackerman’s insights illuminate how leadership evolves in moments of transition.
Key themes include:
- College Sports in Flux: Ackerman’s perspective on the future of NCAA governance, revenue sharing, and why she believes Congress must help bring order to college athletics.
- Leadership Lessons: How she approaches decision-making, mentorship, and the challenge of staying grounded while leading through uncertainty.
- Women in Leadership: Reflections on her pioneering role at the WNBA and what progress still looks like for women across sports business and administration.
- The BIG EAST’s Future: How the conference is positioning itself in an era of consolidation, commercial pressure, and new opportunity.
- A Life in Sports: What drives her after decades of service to the game — and what legacy she hopes to leave behind.
It’s a thoughtful, forward-looking conversation that captures both the wisdom and candor of one of the most influential figures in modern sports.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Properties CEO John Slusher joins Sports Business Journal Editor-at-Large Terry Lefton for an insightful conversation about the business engine powering the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Recorded on September 17, 2025, at SBJ’s AXS DRIVE conference in Los Angeles, this discussion explores how Slusher — a longtime Nike executive who helped architect some of the brand’s biggest global partnerships — is now applying that experience to redefine how the Olympics engage fans, brands, and communities.
Key themes include:
- Commercial Innovation: How LA28 is building a dynamic, data-driven sponsorship model for a new era of global sports marketing.
- Partnership Ecosystem: The vision for connecting brands to the Olympic and Paralympic movements through creativity, purpose, and long-term value.
- From Nike to LA28: Lessons Slusher brings from decades at Nike, and how those insights shape his approach to leadership and brand storytelling.
- Fan Engagement & Cultural Relevance: Why LA28 aims to make the Games as culturally connected as they are competitive.
- Legacy & Growth: What success looks like beyond 2028 — for Los Angeles, Team USA, and the broader Olympic ecosystem.
It’s a fascinating look inside the commercial blueprint of one of the most anticipated events in global sports — and what it takes to translate the world’s biggest stage into lasting impact.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, we take you inside the L.A. Dodgers with CEO & President Stan Kasten and Executive Vice President & CMO Lon Rosen. This conversation, recorded September 17, 2025 at SBJ’s AXS DRIVE event in Los Angeles, explores how one of the most iconic franchises in sports continues to set the standard on and off the field. Kasten and Rosen—two of the most respected leaders in professional sports—share candid insights on how the Dodgers combine tradition with innovation to grow their global brand. The conversation covers:
- Championship Business Model: How the Dodgers approach team building, fan engagement, and operations with a long-term vision.
- Marketing & Partnerships: Rosen’s strategy for brand collaborations and keeping the Dodgers at the forefront of sports marketing.
- Ballpark & Fan Experience: From stadium innovation to community initiatives, how Dodger Stadium continues to evolve as a world-class venue.
- Global Reach: Expanding the Dodgers’ presence beyond Los Angeles and into international markets.
- Leadership & Legacy: Reflections from Kasten and Rosen on what it takes to sustain success in one of the most competitive markets in sports.
It’s an exclusive, wide-ranging look at how the Dodgers are building a championship brand for today and tomorrow.
Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Steve Ballmer—Chairman of the L.A. Clippers, Intuit Dome, and former CEO of Microsoft—joins Sports Business Journal’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour for a wide-ranging conversation that took place on September 16, 2025, at SBJ’s AXS DRIVE conference in Los Angeles.
With his trademark enthusiasm, Ballmer shares how he’s redefining what it means to be a sports owner, builder, and leader. The conversation explores:
- Intuit Dome Vision: How Ballmer is creating a state-of-the-art arena designed to transform the fan experience.
- Leadership Lessons: Insights from his years at Microsoft and how they influencerunning an NBA franchise.
- Innovation & Infrastructure: Why building new venues is about more than basketball—it’s about community, technology, and culture.
- The Power of Energy: Ballmer’s personal philosophy and how it drives his approach to business, sports, and life.
It’s a dynamic and insightful discussion with one of the most energetic and influential leaders in sports and business.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, two visionary leaders—Mellody Hobson, Co-CEO and President of Ariel Investments, and Ted Leonsis, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment—share the stage at SBJ’s Dealmakers Conference in Washington, D.C., on November 30, 2023.
Hobson, a nationally recognized financial executive and advocate for financial literacy, speaks candidly about how Ariel Investments approaches long-term value creation, why patience is critical in both markets and leadership, and how she’s worked to open doors for underrepresented groups in business. She also reflects on lessons from serving on the boards of major companies like JPMorgan Chase and Starbucks, and the importance of making investment decisions that align with values as well as returns.
Leonsis, a longtime entrepreneur, sports owner, and investor, brings the perspective of a dealmaker who has navigated growth across technology, media, and sports. Together, their conversation touches on what makes partnerships endure, the responsibility of leaders to connect business with community impact, and how innovation is reshaping both finance and sports.
This dialogue is both practical and inspiring—grounded in real-world lessons while offering a vision for how business and sports leaders can drive growth with purpose.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Michael Rubin, CEO and Chairman of Fanatics, joins SBJ’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour for a lively conversation at the CAA World Congress of Sports on April 16, 2024.
Rubin pulls back the curtain on the unprecedented growth of Fanatics, which now spans licensed merchandise, trading cards, collectibles, and sports betting. Along the way, he shares the mindset behind building what he describes as “the world’s leading digital sports platform,” and what it takes to keep scaling a business that has reshaped how fans interact with their teams and athletes.
The conversation touches on business metrics, the baseball uniform rollout controversy that made headlines in spring 2024, and lessons learned along the way about leadership, customer trust, and bold decision-making.
For anyone interested in what it takes to grow a global sports business—and the human stories behind the headlines—this is a must-listen.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Description:
This episode of On Stage takes us deeper into the SBJ archives than ever before, revisiting a keynote interview from the 2016 Intercollegiate Athletics Forum with Paul Tagliabue, the longtime former commissioner of the National Football League.
Tagliabue, who led the NFL from 1989 to 2006, oversaw one of the league’s most transformative eras: four expansion franchises, high-profile franchise relocations, and landmark decisions that reflected the NFL’s influence on culture and society—from postponing games after 9/11 to moving a Super Bowl over Arizona’s refusal to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, his impact continues to shape the sports landscape today.
In conversation with SBJ’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour, Tagliabue reflects on leadership, governance, social responsibility, and the business of sports during his time at the helm. Listening now, nearly a decade later, provides unique perspective: a reminder of how far the industry has come and how timeless lessons in integrity, vision, and adaptability remain.
This is the beauty of On Stage: giving important conversations from SBJ’s archives new life, showing how they continue to inform the issues and debates of today.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Laura Ricketts—co-owner of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Sky—sits down with Abe Madkour, Publisher & Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal. Recorded on October 30, 2024, at SBJ’s Dealmakers Conference in Washington, D.C., the conversation highlights Ricketts’ unique position as one of the few women to hold a majority stake in a U.S. professional sports team. Ricketts reflects on her journey across MLB, WNBA, and NWSL ownership, and how her philanthropic and activist commitments shape the way she approaches sports as a business and cultural platform.
Key themes include:
- Trailblazing Ownership: What it means to be a female majority owner in a male-dominated space.
- Investing in Women’s Sports: Lessons from her time with the Red Stars and her ongoing role with the Chicago Sky.
- Philanthropy & Activism: How values-driven leadership influences business decisions and community engagement.
- Building Sustainable Franchises: Insights into long-term vision, governance, and fan connection across teams.
It’s a candid, wide-ranging conversation from a leader redefining what it means to win on and off the field.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this special episode of On Stage, actor, comedian, and LAFC co-owner Will Ferrell joins Larry Freedman, the club’s co-president, for a fireside chat moderated by SBJ’s Abe Madkour.
Recorded on February 27, 2023, at the National Sports Forum in Los Angeles, this session offers a rare glimpse into how one of Hollywood’s most recognizable figures became a driving force behind one of Major League Soccer’s most dynamic franchises.
Ferrell shares his origin story with LAFC—from being recruited as an owner to embracing the culture of the club—while Freedman pulls back the curtain on how the team has built one of the most passionate fan bases in American sports. Together, they discuss:
- Why Will joined the ownership group and what he’s learned about sports business.
- The rise of LAFC as both a soccer powerhouse and a cultural brand.
- The mix of humor and humility that Ferrell brings to the boardroom and the locker room.
- What other franchises can learn from LAFC’s community-driven growth model.
As Abe Madkour later noted in his SBJ column, the session blended humor with real insight—a conversation that was equal parts entertaining and illuminating.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Description:
In this episode of On Stage, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred joins SBJ Senior Writer Joe Lemire for a candid conversation on the business, challenges, and opportunities shaping professional baseball.
Recorded on April 22, 2025, at the CAA World Congress of Sports presented by Sports Business Journal, this keynote captures Manfred’s perspective just months before major headlines about MLB’s labor landscape and new national media rights negotiations.
While the news cycle has since moved quickly—with fresh updates on his talks with players over the next labor agreement and signs of progress on a new media deal—this conversation offers an evergreen look at the commissioner’s leadership priorities and long-term vision for the league.
Topics include:
- Labor Relations: How MLB approaches dialogue with the players’ union and lessons from past negotiations.
- Media and Distribution Strategy: MLB’s vision for its next rights deal and the role of direct-to-consumer streaming.
- The Business of the Game: Expanding MLB’s global reach and deepening engagement with younger fans.
- Competition and On-Field Innovation: Balancing tradition with changes that improve pace of play and overall fan experience.
- Leadership at the Helm: What it takes to guide a century-old league in a rapidly evolving sports landscape.
It’s a valuable snapshot of the commissioner’s thinking—one that’s as relevant today as when he stepped on stage.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Episode Description:
In this episode of On Stage, Rich Paul—CEO of KLUTCH Sports Group and Head of Sports at United Talent Agency—joins Zach Leonsis, President of Media & New Enterprises at Monumental Sports & Entertainment, for a compelling one-on-one conversation that spans business, brand, representation, and long-term influence.
Recorded on October 29, 2024, at SBJ’s Dealmakers conference in Washington, D.C., this session came just as Paul and Leonsis announced a new partnership between KLUTCH and Monumental—aimed at unlocking new revenue streams and strategic collaborations as Monumental prepares to reimagine Capital One Arena.
In this conversation, Paul shares hard-earned wisdom from a career spent building one of the most influential firms in sports—and shaping how athletes think about ownership, leverage, and impact.
Highlights include:
- The Rise of KLUTCH: How Paul built a platform grounded in trust, truth, and cultural relevance.
- Navigating Power & Partnership: What it takes to stay independent while scaling with purpose.
- Modern Representation: Why being an agent today means managing media, brand, and opportunity all at once.
- Long-Game Thinking: Paul’s take on influence, equity, and the difference between relevance and legacy.
- Real Talk: How the business works behind closed doors—and why he’s playing chess, not checkers.
Candid, sharp, and evergreen—this is required listening for anyone shaping the future of sports, media, and entertainment.
Please find link to attached Rich Paul introduction video here: https://youtu.be/QrP5v1rY26A
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, NCAA President Charlie Baker sits down with SBJ Executive Editor and Publisher Abe Madkour for a candid conversation about the state of college athletics—and the future of the NCAA itself.
This conversation took place December 11, 2024, at the SBJ Intercollegiate Athletics Forum in Las Vegas, during a pivotal moment in Baker’s presidency. At the time, the industry was bracing for major shifts in governance, athlete compensation, and long-term sustainability.
Since then, the updates have continued at a rapid pace: the NCAA’s proposed House settlement, revenue-sharing discussions, and deeper questions around the power dynamics between conferences and national leadership have all been in the headlines. And yet, this conversation remains deeply relevant and provides important perspective from Baker.
Topics include:
- Reimagining the NCAA: How Baker sees the organization evolving amid pressure for reform.
- Conference Realignment & Governance: Balancing institutional autonomy with national cohesion.
- Student-Athlete Opportunity & Oversight: What’s working, what’s broken, and what’s at stake.
- Federal Legislation & Legal Strategy: Why Baker continues to call for Congressional involvement.
- Leadership in Transition: What it takes to guide an institution under pressure from every side.
In light of everything that’s happened since this conversation took place, Baker’s comments offer both a snapshot and a lens—a valuable perspective on how we got here, and where the NCAA might go next.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Episode Description:
In this special episode of On Stage, two extraordinary leaders—General Mark Milley, the recently retired Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Ted Leonsis, Founder and CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment—sit down for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, culture, and service.
Recorded on October 30, 2024, at SBJ’s Dealmakers conference in Washington, D.C., this fireside chat explores what it means to lead during times of transformation—whether you're guiding a nation’s military or a multibillion-dollar sports and media empire.
Topics include:
- The Mindset of Service: What business can learn from military leadership and accountability.
- Culture and Cohesion: Building organizations that are values-driven and mission-focused.
- Decision-Making Under Pressure: Lessons from global conflict and billion-dollar business moments.
- Patriotism and Purpose: Why service—military or civic—still matters in today’s fractured world.
- Shared Responsibility: How sports, media, and government all play a role in shaping the future.
It’s a rare and candid discussion between two leaders who’ve spent decades making consequential decisions—at the highest levels of two very different arenas.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Sports Business Journal’s Executive Publisher Abe Madkour sits down with iconic sports agent David Falk for a conversation about the legacy of athlete empowerment and the business of storytelling.
Recorded on May 20, 2025, at SBJ’s 4se event in New York City, the conversation traces Falk’s role in redefining what it means to represent an athlete—not just on the court, but across culture, commerce, and entertainment.
Falk, who famously represented Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson, Patrick Ewing, and many more, shares:
- The Air Jordan Origin Story: How a revolutionary approach to marketing turned a rookie deal into a global brand.
- Agent as Architect: Why the most successful agents don’t just negotiate—they help build enduring platforms and partnerships.
- Cultural Relevance: The fusion of sports, fashion, and music, and what it takes for an athlete to shape culture beyond the game.
- Leadership Lessons: What he’s learned from four decades working at the intersection of sports, media, and influence.
It’s a one-of-a-kind conversation with a one-of-a-kind operator—part oral history, part masterclass in what it takes to build icons.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Episode Description:
In this episode of On Stage, Sports Business Journal’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour sits down with SMAC Entertainment’s dynamic co-founders—Michael Strahan and Constance Schwartz-Morini—for a masterclass in athlete-driven media and brand building.
Recorded on May 20, 2025, at SBJ’s 4se event in New York City, this wide-ranging conversation covers the origin story behind SMAC, how the former NFL star and the veteran media executive built a business that blends storytelling with strategy, and the secret to unlocking multi-platform success.
Topics include:
- The SMAC Playbook: How the duo built a platform that champions authenticity, from Coach Prime to the upcoming Madden film.
- Strahan’s Evolution: From Super Bowl champion to Emmy-winning host, entrepreneur, and prospective NFL team investor.
- Media Disruption: How SMAC is reshaping the rules of traditional sports and entertainment storytelling.
- Brand Building: What it really means to be a multi-hyphenate—and how to scale that vision with purpose.
- Creative Partnership: Reflections on years of working together and how their complementary strengths built a company that’s redefining modern influence.
From Sunday football to weekday primetime, SMAC is proving there's more than one way to win—as long as the story is real.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Episode Description:
In this episode of On Stage, Sports Business Journal’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour sits down with the three siblings leading the most valuable sports franchise in the world—the Dallas Cowboys.
Recorded on September 17, 2024, at SBJ’s AXS DRIVE event in Frisco, Texas, this rare joint appearance features Charlotte Jones (Chief Brand Officer), Jerry Jones Jr. (Chief Sales & Marketing Officer), and Stephen Jones (Chief Operating Officer) in an open, insightful—and often humorous—conversation about brand leadership, family legacy, and building a business that goes far beyond game day.
Together, they discuss:
- The Cowboys Brand Philosophy: How consistency, culture, and big picture planning keeps “America’s Team” commercially successful.
- Family Governance in Sports: Lessons from decades of collaboration and how they divide roles across football and business operations.
- Leadership Through Change: How the Cowboys have adapted to evolving fan behavior, media, and sponsorship trends.
- Stadium and Venue Strategy: AT&T Stadium’s global status—and what’s next for the Cowboys’ physical and digital presence.
- Legacy and Longevity: What it means to uphold a multi-generational vision while continually evolving.
Getting all three Jones siblings on stage together is rare—and the energy, humor, and candor they bring to this conversation is both entertaining and insightful.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Episode Description:
In this episode of On Stage, Olympic gold medalist and action sports icon Shaun White joins Sports Business Journal staff writer Chris Smith for a strategic conversation that took place on May 21, 2025, at SBJ’s 4se event in New York City.
White shares his vision behind The Snow League, a new venture designed to bring structure, visibility, and commercial potential to competitive snowboarding—while capturing a broader, global audience. Blending his experience as a world-class athlete with lessons from brand-building and entrepreneurship, White covers:
- The Genesis of The Snow League: Why he created it and how it fills a gap in the winter sports ecosystem.
- Athlete Empowerment & Event Design: Reimagining competition formats, travel, and athlete schedules to prioritize sustainability, fan engagement, and fairness.
- Brand Building & Cultural Influence: How White views storytelling, content, and creator partnerships as central to growing snowboarding’s mainstream appeal.
- Long-Term Vision and Investments: How he’s positioning The Snow League as a platform for the next generation and additional investments he’s been making in sports.
It’s a future-focused, candid conversation with one of the most recognizable names in sports—now shaping his next legacy as a league builder and business visionary.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman joins Sports Business Journal senior writer Joe Lemire for a forward-looking conversation that took place on March 5, 2025, at SBJ’s Tech Week.
Bettman—recently nominated for SBJ’s Executive of the Year award—shares how the NHL is modernizing its business and leaning into technology to shape the league’s next era. In a conversation spanning strategy, innovation, and tradition, Bettman discusses:
Revenue Growth & Fan Engagement: How the league is tracking toward $7 billion in projected revenue and what’s driving hockey’s expanding global reach.
Technology & Data Innovation: The evolution of puck and player tracking, and how data is transforming coaching, broadcasting, and fan experience.
Media & Streaming Strategy: Bettman’s take on digital consumption, partnerships, and balancing national exposure with local market access.
Future of the Draft: His thoughts on the NHL Draft and how it’s going to be evolving moving forward.
Leadership & Legacy: Reflections on his 30+ year tenure and how he continues to evolve the NHL for the modern fan.
It’s a wide-ranging, insightful conversation with one of the most enduring and effective leaders in sports.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, Amy Brooks, President of New Business Ventures at the NBA, joins SBJ Managing Director Dan Kaufman for an insight-rich conversation that took place on March 5, 2025, at SBJ’s Tech Week in New York City.
A core architect of the NBA’s growth strategy, Brooks offers an inside look at how the league is evolving its global and domestic business in a rapidly shifting sports landscape. She discusses:
Fan-Centric Innovation: How the NBA is prioritizing personalized and seamless experiences, both in-arena and digitally, to meet the expectations of modern fans.
International Expansion: The NBA’s ongoing efforts to localize its brand and programming abroad, building on the global momentum of its core product.
The Role of Technology: How innovation is reshaping the league’s media strategy, data use, and direct-to-consumer efforts.
TMBO: Reflections on the legacy of Team Marketing & Business Operations (TMBO), founded by David Stern, and its role in supporting team performance across markets.
Leadership Perspective: Brooks’ insights on what it takes to lead innovation inside one of the world’s most dynamic sports brands.
This conversation is a strategic roadmap for anyone interested in how major leagues like the NBA are evolving to stay ahead—both at home and around the world.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver joins ESPN and ABC analyst Bob Myers for a candid, in-depth conversation recorded live on April 22, 2025, at the CAA World Congress of Sports, presented by Sports Business Journal.
Silver, one of the most influential figures in global sports, shares his perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping the NBA’s future. Myers—who served as General Manager of the Golden State Warriors, leading them to four NBA championships and earning two NBA Executive of the Year honors—brings a unique perspective from the front office to the broadcast booth.
They cover:
Media Rights & Broadcasting: Silver discusses how local NBA games are “trapped” by outdated cable deals and the future of direct-to-consumer viewing as the league looks to unlock new digital revenue streams.
Ownership & Valuations: Insights on how shifting ownership dynamics and soaring franchise valuations are changing the league’s economic landscape.
CBA & Player Relations: Silver addresses the evolving labor landscape, collective bargaining challenges, and how the league balances players’ needs with business imperatives.
Vision for the NBA: From international growth to fan engagement, Silver shares his vision for how the NBA will stay ahead in a rapidly changing sports and entertainment ecosystem.
This engaging, thought-provoking conversation between two respected voices in the game reveals how the NBA is navigating some of its biggest strategic challenges—and what’s next for basketball’s biggest stage.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of On Stage, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey joins Sports Business Journal’s Rachel Axon for a candid interview that took place on April 22, 2025, at the CAA World Congress of Sports presented by Sports Business Journal.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in college athletics, Sankey dives into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the NCAA and beyond:
- College Football Playoff (CFP) Format: Sankey offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing discussions and why there’s no final model in place yet.
- NIL: He unpacks the evolution of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and why a national clearinghouse could help restore trust and transparency.
- Congressional Involvement & Liability Protection: Sankey discusses why national standards matter, his thoughts on antitrust exemptions, and what real reform could look like.
- Media Rights & Conference Expansion: His perspective on how these forces are reshaping the SEC and college sports as a whole.
- Student-Athlete Welfare: How the conference balances commercial imperatives with the well-being and development of student-athletes.
- Vision for the Future: Sankey shares his thoughts on the next chapter for college sports, what’s working, and what still needs to be addressed.
This conversation— which took place in front of a packed ballroom of sports leaders—provides great insights from the frontlines of the college sports evolution.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In the premiere episode of On Stage, we present an exclusive conversation between Bob Iger, CEO of Disney, and Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN. This discussion took place on April 22nd at the 2025 CAA World Congress of Sports presented by Sports Business Journal in Nashville, Tennessee. It offers a rare glimpse into a mentor-mentee relationship that has significantly influenced the modern media landscape over the past 15 years.
Bob and Jimmy delve into a range of topics, including:
- Bob's journey from a local weatherman to the helm of Disney.
- The synergy between live sports and storytelling in modern entertainment.
- How Bob has approached the intersection of innovation and IP
- Disney's evolving streaming strategy and its implications for the future.
- Bob's recent investment in Angel City FC, led by his wife, Willow Bay.
- A personal anecdote about why naming his son after a childhood sports idol was reconsidered upon joining Disney
This candid and insightful conversation provides valuable perspectives for professionals in sports, business, and media. Tune in to gain firsthand insights from two industry leaders with a shared history and a forward-looking vision.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Welcome to SBJ On Stage. Each week, hear an exclusive interview from one of Sports Business Journal's industry events. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.comfor information about our collection and use of personal data foradvertising.
SBJ’s Austin Karp talks with Octagon SVP William Mao about the recently announced joint venture between ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery.
Legalized sports betting is in the third inning according to Scott Warfield. The PGA Tour’s VP of Gaming says that the industry is heading in the right direction and there is plenty of opportunity. Warfield joins SBJ’s Abe Madkour and John Ourand from Orlando in this edition of SBJ Spotlight.
Donna Orender has spent her career trying to make things better and more open to all. As a former WNBA President, Orender sees potential for women’s athletics and cause marketing and she joins SBJ’s Abe Madkour and John Ourand from Orlando in this edition of SBJ Spotlight.
Broadcast rights for NBA teams are in flux with Diamond Sports Group and the league trying to find a way forward. The Orlando Magic’s Alex Martins sees the potential for teams given the right leeway. The Magic COO joins SBJ’s Abe Madkour and John Ourand from Orlando in this edition of SBJ Spotlight to talk about the future of team media rights.
The 2023 CAA World Congress of Sports is about making connections and learning out how to position your business for massive changes ahead, said SBJ’s Abe Madkour and CAA’s Mike Levine. In this video, the two industry executives talk about some of the issues they expect to be top of mind when this year’s conference starts today in Los Angeles, including women’s sports, the continued rise in team valuations, and where leaders such as Adam Silver, Steve Ballmer, Ryan Smith and others believe the industry is headed.Madkour and Levine also give their advice on how to make the most of your World Congress experience.
Playfly founder and CEO Michael Schreiber joins SBJ’s Abe Madkour to talk about the growth of the agency, its focus on the fan experience, and what comes next.
Two decades after founding rEvolution, John Rowady reflects on the growth of the business, plans for the next two decades, and the biggest stories, stars and marketing opportunities that he’s watching today.
LIV Golf may have changed its story with a successful event in Boston, even as the PGA Tour takes steps to strengthen its position. SBJ's Eric Prisbell and Josh Carpenter on all of the latest golf news and what could be coming next.
NFF’s Steve Hatchell on what’s next after amazing start to college football season
With so much happening around college sports off the field, it seemed almost too much to hope that the opening weekend of football season would live up to expectations. “Finally, we got to cheer for our teams,” said Steve Hatchell, CEO of the National Football Foundation, in an SBJ Spotlight interview looking at the college football landscape. “There was some great attendance at games … some real excitement and just some terrific games. I’m hoping that this type of enthusiasm goes on for the entire year.” Hatchell talked with SBJ’s Ross Nethery about the big stories in college sports and what might come next.
On the CFP expansion to 12 teams: “Football is played in all 50 states … and we work with all 774 colleges and universities around the country. So if we can have a playoff that reflects on the investment in coaching and on the players from around the country, I think that’s for the betterment of the game.”
SBJ's Bret McCormick and longtime Charlotte journalist Erik Spanberg dig into the collapse of the Carolina Panthers headquarters project and look at what may come next for Tepper Sports.
Spanberg: “There are a lot of bruised feelings, a lot of hurt egos, now that this thing is coming unraveled. The local parlor game is trying to figure out how this failure impacts negotiations going forward.”
SBJ's Abe Madkour, Ben Fischer and Austin Karp dive into some of the biggest questions facing the NFL as the new season gets underway.
Topics include the potential for success — or failure — for Amazon’s Thursday Night Football, the future of NFL Media and Sunday Ticket, ratings expectations after last year’s 10% jump, and how owner behavior keeps providing unpleasant storylines around the league.
CNBC media reporter Alex Sherman joins SBJ’s John Ourand to discuss Warner Bros. Discovery’s streaming strategy. The two talk about the company’s interest in sports rights, with Sherman noting that the company is in a cost-cutting mode, which is one reason why it has not been active in media rights negotiations over the past several months.
FaZe Clan began trading on the Nasdaq last week after a SPAC merger valued at $725 million. SBJ’s Kevin Hitt and Tobias Seck discuss the digital entertainment and esports brand now being traded as a public company.
While tech companies are consumed with finding ways to compete with TikTok, almost no one in conventional media “spends any time talking about it,” said Recode senior correspondent Peter Kafka in an Spotlight interview with SBJ’s John Ourand. “To me, that’s just an obvious disconnect.”
Kafka authored a recent column headlined, “It’s TikTok’s world. Can TV live in it?” He said the main response to TikTok’s growth from traditional media execs has been to “punt and hope it’s someone else’s problem a quarter from now or two years from now.”
But Kafka said that ignores the trend of conventional broadcast audiences growing older while a billion younger consumers spend most of their media time watching short video after short video. “If you’re in the business of getting anyone under the age of 30 to look at what you’re putting on a screen, you have to think about the fact that you’re probably asking them to put down TikTok and watch your thing instead,” said Kafka. “That’s a very difficult ask. … [TikTok] is insanely addictive.”
SBJ Facilities Writer Bret McCormick and Soccer Writer Alex Silverman say five U.S. cities are locks to host World Cup matches in 2026. But they have different ideas when it comes to the rest of the field.
The stunning $4.65 billion sale of the Denver Broncos more than doubles the price of the most recent team sale, but that doesn’t mean other owners will feel pressure to sell, said SBJ Football Writer Ben Fischer: “Probably a lot of teams are calling their bankers and just asking the question, but why not hold? There’s no reason to believe that we’re going to hit a cliff where these numbers start declining. Gambling is still coming on line as a revenue stream, just as one of many things that suggest waiting is probably the right thing to do.”
Fischer and SBJ Media Writer John Ourand also talked about whether rising team valuations will begin to price potential owners out of the market. Fischer: “I think it’s important to note that not only was there one family willing to pay $4.65 billion, there were at least two other bidders apparently willing to pay $4.2 billion. So while I grant the point that eventually you’re going to run out of people that can buy these teams if we keep doubling every time, the actual evidence suggests that was not a problem in Denver.”
With the signing of Phil Mickelson and several others, plus the USGA’s announcement that the U.S. Open will welcome PGA Tour defectors, SBJ’s John Ourand and Eric Prisbell look at how LIV Golf is doing as it launches its first event.
Abe Madkour and Austin Karp on how high the numbers could be for the NBA and NHL Finals, as well as winners and losers among the major events on Memorial Day Weekend.
SBJ’s Abe Madkour and Ben Fischer talk about the new elements around this year’s NFL draft, excitement over the league’s extended rollout of it’s 2022 schedule, and early impressions of the USFL.
Today’s SBJ Spotlight podcast features two interviews from this week’s SportTechie State of the Industry conference in New York.
First up, NBPA Executive Director Tamika Tremaglio talks with SBJ’s Abe Madkour about how media and technology will be the keys to increasing revenue for NBA players and owners, and why it’s crucial to be more revealing about the personal and business lives of players.
In the second interview, Meredith McPherron, CEO and Managing Partner of DRIVE by DraftKings, talks with SportTechie’s Joe Lemire about bringing more fans to the platform through personalization, and the future of NFTs and the metaverse.
Football and auto racing Hall of Famer Joe Gibbs, a member of SBJ's 2022 class of Champions of Sports Business, talks about the differences in running NFL and racing teams, leadership lessons he's learned, and what life has taught him.
SBJ ratings guru Austin Karp breaks down the huge audience numbers for Super Bowl LVI and SBJ football writer Ben Fischer talks about the winners and losers from the Super Bowl, why Los Angeles has secured a place in the NFL’s Super Bowl rotation, and much more on this edition of SBJ Spotlight.
In this SBJ Spotlight Roundtable, SBJ’s Abe Madkour and Ben Fischer are joined by KAGR’s Jessica Gelman and Twitter’s David Herman to talk about the Super Bowl and the issues facing the league.
Reginald Walker:
Welcome to SBJ Spotlight as we focus on two of the biggest NFL stories today. The fallout from the Brian Flores lawsuit and the Washington football team changing its nickname. I'm Reginald Walker joined by SBJ football writer, Ben Fischer. And Ben let's start with Brian Flores. That news broke on Tuesday afternoon. What's been the league response to the Brian Flores lawsuit? And what's he maybe trying to accomplish with this lawsuit?
Ben Fischer:
Well, first of all, it should come as no surprise to anybody that this is immediately took everything else off the plate in the NFL. There's a lot going on. There's a Super Bowl coming up. But since four o'clock Tuesday, nobody's talked about anything else.
There are particularly scandalous details in the Flores complaint about his allegation that Steven Ross was encouraging him to tank in 2019. And that Bill Belichick accidentally congratulated the wrong person, and that's how he found out that the Giants interview was a sham. I mean, those things lend fuel to the fire, but the reason the fire is burning so brightly right now is that he has brought to the fore something that people around the league have been saying for a long time about the misapplication of the Rooney rule and the bad faith that so many teams seem to be engaging in, in terms of minority hiring at the coach and GM position.
And I think there's a track record of this sort of thing happening, too, where there's something that everyone sort of talks about and believes to be true, but it's always really ephemeral, and it's hard to get your hands around the concept that nobody wants to speak out of turn unless they offend potential new employers or the league.
But what Flores has done by putting a name to these complaints and by willing to step out and be the poster child of what everyone's been talking about for 20 years. He gives everyone else permission to talk about it. So yes, it's a scandalous complaint. And yes, we all sort of digest the news like we do in a big story.
But now instantly the hiring practices of the 32 NFL teams is in the cross hairs conversationally in a way that has not been in a long, long time. So just by filing this complaint, he's made a lot of progress. And just in bringing these issues to bear in a more concrete way than it'd been in a long time. And I think he'll tell you, that's part of his goal. He wants to win the legal dispute. But he wants to just force this subject in a way that it's hard to, without something like a lawsuit.
Reginald Walker:
Now, the league released a statement vehemently denying some of these allegations as it related to the league itself. And then some of the teams that were named in the suit also did the same thing, releasing those statements. How do you think the league's going to handle this in terms of moving forward? Is this going to be potentially something drawn out or what do you think their next sort of step is in this process?
Ben Fischer:
Well, I think the league's in a bit of a tough spot rhetorically here. Because yes, they're going to fight the lawsuit and do everything that any responsible organization does when you're sued in court. But their own executives have essentially acknowledged some sort of problem in hiring as it relates to how black and other minority candidates are hired. Their own executive vice president, Troy Vincent has said repeatedly that there is a problem to be solved here.
So for the NFL to come out yesterday and so aggressively deny all claims, deny any merit to what Flores is saying was interesting because I don't know how tenable that is. To me, the more likely long term path is to acknowledge general problems while denying these specifics in court and fighting the lawsuit.
So I'm not sure where they go from here. Their PR messaging for years now has been, yes, we need to get better. On the other hand, they can't just acknowledge that everything Florida said was true or they'd have a major legal problem on their hands. So not clear at all to me where they go from here.
Reginald Walker:
Obviously the timing of this is always going to be something that sort of gets discussed happens on the same day, obviously that the Denver Broncos are officially up for sale. I think it'll be interesting to watch what the potential ownership groups or potential buyers of that team look like and how much that's influence going forward.
Speaking of change at the top in the National Football League, the Washington Football Team announces a new nickname. They're now the Washington Commanders. So what's your immediate reaction, just you Ben obviously. And then what have you sort of heard from different teams or people around the league?
Ben Fischer:
My immediate reaction is that I don't know if it's a touchdown, but I think they converted a third down and five here. I don't think there's any obvious flaw with the new name. They kept the color scheme. They refreshed the burgundy and gold a little bit. It looks a little different. But I think most people say that the former nickname aside, they love those uniforms. That look, I think it's a winner for them and they didn't get rid of that while still managing to sort of update it a little bit.
And Commanders. Yeah. maybe it's a little generic. It's not the Kraken, I don't think. In terms of an immediate hook. But I do agree with team president Jason Wright, who said it's got weight in meaning that's appropriate for a franchise that's 90 years old and that it embodies the of values of service and leadership in the DC area. And I can see that Commanders could work anywhere. But if you've ever lived in the DMV, you know somebody whose job title is commander one way or the other, between the massive military presence and all the various parts of the government. So it's got some local resonance. Maybe it's a little boring. But they didn't screw it up, I don't think either.
In terms of broader reaction, it's been pretty negative. I think this team is going to be, what's the opposite of benefit of the doubt? Dan Snyder in Washington had made it so pretty much, no matter what they do short of hoist as Lombardi trophy, there's going to have a lot of haters on it. And they've earned that to be clear.
The reaction right now is sort of underwhelming. The presentation on this today show didn't seem especially buttoned up or ambitious, but I think it's really unfair to criticize a nickname half an hour after you've seen it. I mean, is the Washington national as a creative nickname? I'm not even sure what a national is, but they build a relationship with their fans. They won a world series with that name. Nobody thinks twice about it now.
So you make your team name. The Commanders, get their act together and don't have any more front office shenanigans and win a division or a conference or a Superbowl here at some point in the next 10 years, everyone will love it. I think for now, it's fine. Like I said, they didn't get the touchdown, but I think they did keep the drive alive.
Reginald Walker:
It's interesting you say that Ben, that they sort of kept the drive alive. Third and five, which is considered by most teams, a manageable third down. So they managed this changed pretty well. Ben Fischer, thanks for joining us on SBJ Spotlight.
Ben Fischer:
Anytime.
SBJ Spotlight: NFL strength, CFP confusion and the stealth Olympics
In today’s Spotlight Roundtable, SBJ’s Abe Madkour and John Ourand are joined by LiveLike CEO Miheer Walavalkar and Syracuse sports management professor Rick Burton to talk about big news in sports business.
Topics included the ratings strength of the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys; confusion in college sports and the CFP; tech advances and the metaverse; and how NBC is just trying to get through the Beijing Games on the way to Paris and L.A.
This episode looks at the hottest news in the industry, including how sports deal are helping crypto enter the mainstream; the NFL’s social push and the buy-in from players; why so many networks are bidding for next Premier League rights deal; and Angel City FC’s hot start on the business front.
The episode looks at the hottest news in the sports industry, including the successful launch of the NHL Kraken and their new Climate Change Arena; attendance challenges facing the NHL; F1’s success in Austin and how that may lead to another race in Vegas; and the pandemic delayed glut of sports programming coming soon to theaters and streaming.
All of that, plus RISE CEO Diahann Billings-Burford on building diversity in the sports industry, and SBJ’s Abe Madkour on the challenges facing the NWSL.
This week's SBJ Spotlight covers how teams and leagues are finding new audiences as consumers turn to streaming. Also, PLL co-Founder Paul Rabil on the challenges of starting a new league; the future of the NWSL amid disturbing accounts of sexual misconduct and failures in leadership; success stories from one of the hottest leagues in sports, the UFC; and Riot Games’ esports business gets a new leader. All of that, plus our Insiders Roundtable discussing the most important stories of the week.
This special football-focused episode looks at the biggest news in the industry, including high expectations for ratings and ad sales; whether they NFL has room to grow its sponsorship roster; the importance of teams getting fans into stadiums quickly; and the NFL’s likely reaction to any COVID-related scheduling issues. In addition, our roundtable of experts reacts to all of the news and predicts which teams will be in the Super Bowl.
This episode looks at the hottest news in the industry, including how the market looks for ads on NHL jerseys; what a new alliance of top conferences means for college sports; how university athletic departments will try to woo back fans; and whether the NFL’s vaccine push will hurt its business. In addition, we introduce the newest member of our 2021 class of Champions of sports business, and our roundtable of experts reacts to the new Fanatics deal, and reveals their stories to watch and people of the week.
This episode looks at the hottest news in the industry, including how the Tokyo Games were completed with few operational problems, but terrible ratings; how sponsors, athletes and governing bodies are preparing for a rocky road to Beijing; investment opportunities that the sports industry may be missing in Africa; and whether the increase in cases from the COVID Delta-variant will threaten live events this fall. In addition, our roundtable of experts gives their Olympic winners and losers, and reveals their stories to watch and people of the week.
This episode looks at the hottest news in the industry, including upheaval in the collegiate space, with Texas and Oklahoma looking to join the SEC and what four super conferences might look like; how relatively smooth sailing at the Tokyo Olympics is defying the naysayers; and whether the NFL hit the right notes with its veiled threats to unvaccinated players. Plus, a conversation with '21 SBJ Champion Larry Lucchino. In addition, our roundtable of experts talk about whether the NBC Olympics digital buffet offers too many choices, and gives predictions and people of the week.
SBJ debuts the latest episode of its video news series, "SBJ Spotlight." This episode looks at the hottest news in the industry, including ESPN dealing with personnel drama even as it enjoys great ratings for several properties, how a Game 7 in the NBA Finals would erase talk about low ratings and make ABC happy, whether ESPN and Turner will be successful with their NHL studio shows, and the latest news around the Olympics. In addition, our experts look at the athlete rights movement and the first few weeks of the NIL era in collegiate sports. The episode concludes with our Insiders Roundtable offering predictions and people of the week.
In the 'Spotlight': Softball's stellar ratings, prospects for CFP expansion, and MLB's sticky problem
SBJ debuts the latest episode of its video news series, "SBJ Spotlight." This episode looks at the hottest news in the industry, including impressive ratings for softball and what that may mean for women's sports, the pros and cons of expanding the College Football Playoff to 12 teams, why MLB felt pressure to issue new rules in mid-season to address the problem of illegal substances on balls, and a look at Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith's plan to build a small-market team into a worldwide powerhouse. In addition, our experts look into the prospects for Sinclair's plan to launch a streaming sports network, and why IndyCar is circling back to NBC after kicking the tires on other networks. The episode concludes with our Insiders Roundtable offering predictions and people of the week.
Our guests this week: Bruce Schoenfeld -- SBJ contributor Kevin Griffin -- AdCom
SBJ writers in this episode: Abe Madkour John Ourand Eric Prisbell Adam Stern
SBJ debuts the latest episode of "SBJ Spotlight." This episode looks at the hottest news in the industry, including the US Soccer's decision to bring its media rights in-house, the fan behavior and player safety issues arising as spectators return to arenas, pressures on campus contributing to the exodus of large numbers of athletic directors, and top 49ers exec Paraag Marathe on his successful career in the sports industry. Also in the episode: Diverse candidates are getting more opportunities to become athletic directors, ESPN promotes Burke Magnus after a year of unprecedented deals, and will more coaches join Stanford's David Shaw in criticizing television partners for early kickoff times?The episode concludes with our Insiders Roundtable offering predictions and people of the week.
In the 'Spotlight': 76ers' Scott O'Neil loves the play-in format, the value of sports management programs and the career of industry Champion Tom Wilson
This episode looks at the quarter-century of challenges and growth for the WNBA; a media veteran's new push into the youth sports market, and what he sees as the challenges of getting young people involved in sports; and the ways that technology around NFTs could transform the sports industry. It concludes with our Insiders Roundtable offering predictions and people of the week.
Fallout from MLB's quick move to relocate the All-Star Game, the state of MLS and professional soccer, the NFL's next marketing moves, and grading the NCAA basketball tournaments.
In this episode, we look at the growth of sports on streaming networks, the return of fans to NBA and NHL arenas, a discussion of the NFL's Rooney Rule and a recap of our experts' Super Bowl predictions. It concludes with our Insiders roundtable offering predictions and people of the week.
SBJ Spotlight is a bi-weekly news series from Sports Business Journal. During each episode, we look at the biggest stories in sports business through the eyes of key industry executives and personalities.
Bill King is joined by Ted Keith to summarize the year through the lens of SBJ's Year-End Awards. Then, Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour joins with his thoughts on this week’s edition as well as a thank you to readers and staff as we wrap up a unique and challenging year.
Bill King is joined by Chris Smith to discuss the NBA's $900 financial assistance for teams. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to discuss SBJ's annual list of the most influential people in sports business.
Bill King is joined by Michael Smith to dive into a variety of developments in the name, image and likeness (NIL) universe that collegiate athletes and their schools will confront in 2021.
Bill King is joined by Bret McCormick to discuss college basketball tipping off in an unusual year. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about SBJ's 2020 Reader Survey and what he's keeping an eye on this week.
Bill King is joined by Adam Stern to talk about NASCAR’s 2020 season and how the pandemic impacted attendance revenue. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to chat about the stories he’s following this week in sports business.
Bill King is joined by John Lombardo and Ben Fischer to discuss players, teams and leagues increasingly getting involved in the political process. Finally, Executive Editor and Publisher Abe Madkour shares what he's keeping an eye on this week.
Bill King is joined by John Lombardo and Ted Keith to talk more about the NBA's new revenue streams. Then, a deeper dive into the sponsorship landscape around sports betting for teams in all four leagues. Finally, Executive Editor and Publisher Abe Madkour shares what he's keeping an eye on this week.
Bill King is joined by Eric Prisbell to talk about the road to the 2020 World Series. Then Abe Madkour stops by to chat about the stories he’s following in sports business.
As Fox and MLB begin their 25th postseason together, Bill King is joined by Eric Prisbell and Ted Keith to discuss how the relationship has developed over the years.
Bill King is joined by Ben Fischer to discuss how the NFL is preparing for a Super Bowl in February that will surely be unlike any other. Then, Abe Madkour shares the stories that have caught his eye recently and what he's on the lookout for.
Listen to Our Other Great Podcasts
SBJ Morning Buzzcast:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Overcast
SBJ Unpacks:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Overcast
Bill King is joined by Abe Madkour to discuss the life and impact of Larry Tanenbaum, SBJ’s 2020 Lifetime Achievement honoree. Then, Eric Prisbell stops by to talk about MLB’s new video partnership with Google.
Bill King is joined by Ben Fischer to discuss the 2020 NFL kickoff. They analyze what’s at stake for the league, networks, and advertisers. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he’s following this week in sports business.
Nominations have opened for SBJ's New Voices Under 30. Click here to learn more.
Listen to Our Other Great Podcasts
SBJ Morning Buzzcast:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Overcast
SBJ Unpacks:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Overcast
Bill King is joined by Bret McCormick to discuss the 2020 US Open. Then, Ben Fischer joins them to chat about the upcoming, crowded fall sports season. Finally, Abe Madkour stops by with the stories he’s following this week in sports business.
SBJ The Road Ahead: Virtual Series Part 3
SBJ and SBD subscribers, register here.
Not a subscriber? Click here to learn more.
Listen to Our Other Great Podcasts
SBJ Morning Buzzcast:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Overcast
- Listen Online
SBJ Unpacks:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Stitcher
- Overcast
Conquering Geek Culture from The Esports Observer:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Stitcher
- Overcast
This week, writers Austin Karp, Mark J. Burns and John Ourand go into more detail about the bubble challenges of the MLS is Back Tournament. Then, football writer Ben Fischer shares more about Eric Winston's career shift from the NFLPA to OneTeam Partners. Finally, Abe Madkour stops by to discuss what he's keeping an eye on this week in sports business.
Bill King is joined by facilities writer Karn Dhingra and hockey writer Mark Burns to talk about the twisting, turning history of Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he’s following this week in sports business.
Bill King is joined by John Lombardo to discuss the NBA’s return in Orlando. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he’s watching this week in sports business.
Bill King is joined by Chris Smith to talk about athletes’ increased interest in content. Then, Karn Dhingra joins Bill to talk about what facilities will need to do to keep fans six feet apart. Finally, Abe Madkour stops by to chat about the stories he’s following this week in sports business.
Bill King is joined by David Broughton and Bret McCormick to discuss sports revenue during the coronavirus pandemic including losses, insurance coverage, and PPP loans. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he’s following this week in sports business.
Michael Smith joins Bill King to discuss how college athletic departments are preparing for a football season impacted by coronavirus, and then they examine concerns around youth sports during the pandemic.
Terry Lefton joins Bills King to talk about what sports sponsorships will look like and how much they'll cost when sports return. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he's watching in sports business this week.
Chris Smith and Bill King discuss the soaring, pre-pandemic values of sports franchises and the potential fallout. Then Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he's following this week in sports business.
Ben Fischer and Bill King discuss how the sports world has responded to the recent social protests.
Bill King speakers with John Ourand and Austin Karp about sports media and viewership during the pandemic. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he’s following this week in sports business.
Bill King and Karn Dhingra discuss cashless technology and venues in a post-coronavirus world. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he’s following this week in sports business.
Bill King is joined by John Lombardo in this week's First Look. They discuss the PGA Tour's return without spectators, which typically drove sizable revenue from ticket and hospitality sales. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he's following this week in sports business.
In this week's First Look, Bill King speaks with Adam Stern about NASCAR's success in televised esports. After that, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he's following this week in sports business.
Bill King chats with Chris Smith about ESPN's "The Last Dance" and the rising popularity of sports documentaries. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he's following this week in sports business.
In this week's SBJ First Look, John Ourand discusses whether the XFL's demise was a business or coronavirus decision with Ben Fischer and Terry Lefton. Then, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about the stories he's following in sports business this week.
Writers John Lombardo and Ben Fischer join Bill King in the virtual studio to discuss all things pandemic including the NBA and UFC, how the sports industry is adjusting, and when the games will resume. Finally, Abe Madkour stops by to talk about what he's paying attention to this week in sports.