Women Blazers: Recent Episodes
Dionna Widder
Women Blazers is a podcast that features interviews with women in the sports industry who are either breaking barriers or on a journey to blaze trails in the front office. Through the experiences of others, insights can be gained, new opportunities can be created, and many can be inspired.
In this episode, we welcome Camye Mackey, EVP and Chief People, Diversity, & Inclusion Officer for the Atlanta Hawks. Camye shares her remarkable career journey which includes working for Walt Disney World, Special Olympics, and MGM Resorts International. Today she serves as the top HR executive for the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena and leads the team responsible for strategic development and implementation of the people philosophy and culture. Her journey is one of persistence, courage, and a strong belief system rooted by the remarkable and supportive family that raised her.
In this episode, we welcome Jennifer Prince, Chief Commercial Officer for the Los Angeles Rams. Jennifer shares her remarkable career journey which includes working in prominent positions at Google and Twitter, the evolution of her lifestyle when she welcomed her twins into the world, and her transition into the sports industry at the perfect time in her life. Her journey is one of courage, finding confidence in her capacity of growth, and being mindful of building meaningful and authentic relationships.
In this episode, we welcome Marina Carpenter, General Counsel & EVP of Public Affairs for the Arizona Coyotes. Marina shares her incredible journey as an Arizona native, who played division-1 volleyball at Arizona State University and built a remarkable career after earning her Juris Doctorate. It didn’t take her long to become a strategic, creative, trusted and impactful leader for the Arizona Coyotes. The sky is the limit for this trailblazing executive.
In this episode, we welcome Alma Angeles-Parvaz, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for the Charlotte Hornets. Alma shares her remarkable journey as a first-generation Mexican American who carried out her parents’ dream for her to go to college. She since combined her love for sports with curiosity and grit to blaze a remarkable career that brings her joy and gives the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
In this episode, we welcome Brooke Faw, Vice President of Client Experiences for Bespoke Sports & Entertainment. Brooke shares her unique and incredible journey, which began in education as a Kindergarten Teacher and High School Basketball Coach. Through the power of connection and the spark of her passion for sports, she met some incredible supporters along her path that introduced her to new opportunities, remarkable people, and life changing experiences that made her the leader she is today.
Season 5 Premiere! In this season opener we welcome Patti Phillips, CEO of Women Leaders in Sports —the nation’s premier organization that develops, connects, and champions women to advance and be a powerful influence in sports. Patti was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2015 and received the NCAA’s Champions of Diversity Award in 2015. In 2020, she was named as a Sports Business Journal Game Changer Honoree. Patti has dedicated her career to coaching, mentoring, and inspiring women at all levels, in all industries.
In this live recorded season finale, we welcome Michelle Kennedy, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Nashville Predators. Michelle shares her roots growing up in Kentucky, her foundation as an athlete at Vanderbilt University, where she would later return as the Associate Athletic Director to achieve her desire to someday work in sports. Determined to follow her passions, she makes a bold move in her mid-30s to go to law school and earn her Juris Doctorate. A move that lands her the ultimate opportunity with the Predators, with whom she’s climbed the ranks from In-House counsel to President/Chief Operating Officer.
In this episode, we welcome Jill Gregory, EVP and General Manager of Sonoma Raceway. Jill is an acclaimed NASCAR executive and innovative sports marketer, who has blazed a career journey with a remarkable reputation. Twice named by Adweek as one of “The Most Powerful Women in Sports”, Jill was a key member of the leadership team, that shepherded the sport through COVID and made historic moves for social justice. A champion, for diversity, equity and inclusion, Jill is only the second women leader of a NASCAR sanctioned venue and is dedicated to continue to shape the sport for future generations.
In this episode, we welcome Buffy Filippell, Founder of TeamWork Online. Buffy shares her remarkable career journey with her family- son, Davis and husband, Mark. Buffy is a true blazer by definition. She founded her Cleveland based company 30 years ago, and changed the game when she launched the online job portal that has effectively matched sports teams with over 200,000 of the best and brightest talent coming up in the industry. She has been honored by several organizations, and was recognized in 2019 as a SBJ Champion, highlighting her contributions as a pioneer and innovator. Buffy is a woman who leads with heart, passion, and a deep sense of purpose.
In this episode, we welcome Leah MacNab, Sr. Vice President & Managing Director of NBA Canada. Leah’s journey to becoming the first women to be named the Managing Director of NBA Canada was one of hard work and persistence. As the SVP and Managing Director, Leah is responsible for the development and growth of the league’s business in Canada, including television and digital media, marketing and retail partnerships, licensing, special events and basketball development. Leah is at the forefront of growing the game she loves and instilling the pride of Canada throughout the league.
In this episode, we welcome Starr Jemison, Sr. Vice President of Content Development and Private Events for the Oak View Group. Starr had an unconventional foundation to her career before starting her own talent management business that led her into the venue booking, content development, and private event space. Her investment in learning and taking unique opportunities, shaped an incredible path that has resulted in two decades of industry experience and accolades. Starr is a game changer, influencer and leader who is making a mark in the event and entertainment industry.
It’s the 75th episode and we are excited to welcome Kelly Higgins as our featured guest for this episode. Kelly serves as the Vice President of Partnership Marketing for the U.S. Soccer Federation. Kelly was introduced to sports business at a young age when she landed an opportunity to work for the NY Mets during summer league throughout her high school years in southeast Florida. It was inevitable, that she would pursue a career path in sports and be on the amazing journey she has been on with experiences working for the NBA, NY Mets, NBC Sports and now, U.S. Soccer.
In this episode we welcome Missy Ripepi, Sr. Director of Ticket Sales & Service for the Pittsburgh Pirates of the MLB. Missy has led an incredible career journey. She built the foundation of her career in inside sales with the Pirates, was dedicated to growing her career and found that growth in her journey. Missy has worked for the Rams of the NFL, Avalanche of the NHL, FEVO, IMG College, and her path has come full circle back with her hometown team the Pittsburgh Pirates developing future stars in our industry.
In this episode we welcome Tracy Ellis-Ward, Sr. Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Tracy has led an incredible career journey, where she has held several executive-level positions in athletics and higher education, contributed to building the foundation of the WNBA, and now is responsible for leading the strategic vision and driving initiatives to meet the DEI goals for Pacers Sports & Entertainment, which continues to fulfill her purpose to do impactful and meaningful work.
In this episode we welcome Khalia Collier, Vice President and Chief of Staff for Basketball Operations for the Dallas Mavericks. Khalia shares her incredible career journey with us. She started playing basketball at the age of 5, which sparked her love for the game and set her on a path to take what she learned on the court and apply it to her life. After becoming an owner of a professional Women’s Team at the age of 23, she dedicated her career to serving the community she loves, growing the game, and expanding her impact.
In this episode we welcome Nam McGrail, Senior Vice President of Partnership Activation for the LA Kings of the NHL and AEG Global Partnerships. Nam shares her incredible career journey with us. After dedicating 10 years to her title as Mom, she was ready to dive back into her career life and explore new opportunities. It only took one conversation to open her door into the sports industry and to a 16 year career of working with wonderful people, partners, and in a city that she loves to call home.
In this episode we welcome Janaki Cash, Vice President of Ticketing & Revenue Strategy for the New York Mets in the MLB. Janaki shares her incredible career journey with us. Originally pursuing a path to be a Veterinarian, she decided to switch focus and tap into her other passion, and break into the sports industry. Developing up the revenue vertical with experience working with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Brooklyn Nets, and now the New York Mets she credits her supportive and dedicated leaders for adding fuel to her authenticity. It is her authenticity combined with her confidence that makes this single mother the leader and incredible person she is.
In this episode we welcome Hallie Yavitch, Sr. Vice President of Booking & Marketing for Cyrpto.com Arena, Peacock Theater, and L.A. Live. Hallie shares her incredible and unique career journey with us. Her original path was to become an attorney, in fact she has a doctorate from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and is licensed to practice in her native Ohio. As she was pursing her degree, she worked at Cleveland’s Playhouse Square, the largest performing arts center outside of New York and unknowingly was building the foundation of career that would bring her joy and fill her heart. Hallie now is at the lead of booking and creating amazing and diverse experiences at one of the most iconic entertainment venues and districts in the world.
In this episode we welcome Laura Waters-Brown, Director of The Collective at Wasserman. Laura shares her incredible career journey with us. As a Division 1 Collegiate Volleyball player at South Carolina State University, she explored many potential career paths, but her passion for sports and people guided her path into the industry. With the help of her strong network she gained valuable experiences and built the foundation of her career with the Cleveland Browns and the PGA Tour in Digital Marketing. Laura now serves as a leader with The Collective at Wasserman and contributes to its mission to create equity and fairness for women and athlete's in women's sports, music and culture.
In this episode we welcome Kelly Lewis, Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion and Recruitment for TurnkeyZRG. Kelly shares her amazing career journey with us. As a Detroit native, Kelly obtained an elite education from two of the top institutions in the country and focused in on building a career with purpose and passion. Today Kelly leads TurnkeyZRG’s commitment to the development of people and culture across the sports, media, and entertainment industries, focusing on the identification and magnification of talent from underrepresented groups and driving significant business success for organizations through inclusion.
In this episode we welcome Amber Myczkowiak, Senior Director of Premium & Membership Development for the Detroit Pistons. Amber shares her remarkable journey with us, after surviving cancer in high school, she went on to play varsity softball at Trine University in Indiana where she led her team to three conference championships. Her passion for sports opened the door to a career path that has provided her with experiences of delivering amazing memories for fans, impacting the success of others as a leader, and sharing her love for her work with her beautiful family.
In this episode we welcome Alissa Lieppman, Vice President/Head of Culture & Business Operations for the NFL. Alissa broke into sports during the rise of digital and social media, and built her foundation in the industry consulting and leading all 32 NFL clubs in adopting strategies that created business growth in that space. Her passion evolved at the league, and she now leads advancements in team culture initiatives, internal communications and education, and works in partnership with staff and senior leaders across the League to champion key initiatives that bring people of the NFL together through purpose and impact.
In this episode we welcome Jennifer Martindale, Senior Vice President of Marketing for the Chicago Cubs. Jen built the ultimate career toolbox with 14 foundational years in advertising where she drove brand strategy and led award-winning campaigns for notable brands, gained strategic business skills in the non-profit sector, and added entrepreneurial experience in the restaurant industry. She took her toolbox and brought it to the sports industry where she has now been able to grow historical brands for the next generation.
In this episode we welcome Lara Toscani Weems, Sr. Vice President of Global Communications for Elevate Sports Ventures.Lara has over 20 years of sports and entertainment communications and marketing experience with NBA, NHL, Top-10 internationally renowned venues, marquee professional sports leagues and properties, and global entertainment brands. She built the foundation of her career in Marketing and Public Relations with Comcast-Spectacor and the Harlem Globetrotters.Lara has had a record-breaking career, but Lara is most fulfilled in her role as mother to her children Carter and Ellie. She credits the momentum she has had in her career and life from the response and learnings of her family’s remarkable journey.
In this episode we welcome Jessica Vella, Vice President of Tour & Event Sales for Legends at Sofi Stadium. Jessica shares her career journey, and provides insights from her personal and professional experiences in the industry. Knowing she wanted to work in professional sports going into college, she outlined her plans, established success in each role she held, and she maintained control of her path so that she could establish the life she always wanted to lead with her family and in her career.
In this episode we welcome Jamie Weinstein, Senior Vice President of Ticket Sales & Service for the Milwaukee Bucks. In this episode, Jamie shares her incredible career journey, where she has navigated up the ladder working with teams in the NBA, NHL, and NFL all across the country and with a stop in Canada. Her hard work ethic, openness to explore new opportunities, and her love for what she does has provided her an adventurous and fulfilling career.
This season, I’ll be talking to 20 more incredible Women sports professionals who are breaking barriers and are on a journey to blaze trails!
In this episode we welcome Kim Stone, President of UBS Arena and Executive Vice President for Oak View Group East Coast. Kim shares her remarkable and decorated career journey, where she has served in executive leadership positions for two of the top global brands in sports - the Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors. There truly is nothing this women can’t do as she has led and governed all aspects of business and facility operations across her career making her what I would consider an industry Swiss Army Knife.
In this episode we welcome Kimberly Davis, Senior Executive Vice President for the National Hockey League. Kimberly shares her incredible experiences and insights from her remarkable career journey. Kimberly had a fulfilled and successful career in the finance industry working for JP Morgan Chase for over 20 years before transitioning down a path that launched an opportunity to join the NHL League office, where she is making a social impact and impacting the growth of the sport. Recognized as one of the most influential and powerful women in sports, Kimberly is one of the ultimate women blazers.
In this episode we welcome Allison Katz-Mayfield, Vice President of Business Strategy for LA28. Allison shares her incredible career journey. A graduate of MIT Sloan School of Management and Cornell University, Allison has spent her career driving business strategy through the use of data and analytics in the legal, healthcare, and sports industries. With a passion for sports - she took her skills and built a storied career working for StubHub, the NFL, and now LA28. Allison is a true game changer and recently recognized as a 2022 SBJ 40 under 40 honoree.
In this episode we welcome Jennifer Bower, Vice President of Stadium Partnerships for Legends. Jennifer shares her incredible career journey. As a student athlete at San Diego State University she strengthened her belief in hard work and built the foundation of her strong network. She tapped into that network to launch her sports career with the San Diego Chargers and grew to where she is today - Full Circle, driving revenue growth for San Diego State University with Legends and giving back to the community she loves.
In this episode we welcome Katie Stocz Miller, Sr. Vice President of Premium & Client Services, Fan Experience & Operations for the Orlando Magic of the NBA. Katie shares her incredible career journey that started out with a passion for sports, seeded by her childhood experiences of going to games and making memories with her family. This year, she celebrates her 17th season with the Orlando Magic, where she has had the privilege to grow professionally and personally, make an impact as a tenured leader, and create extraordinary experiences for fans and partners.
In this episode we welcome Sofi Armenakian, Head of Sustainability for the Atlanta Hawks of the NBA. Sofi shares her incredible career path that started out with a 10 year foundation in the retail industry that she launched in High School. Sofi reinvested her skills and experience into a new passion of leading operations and sustainability for organizations, and now for the Atlanta Hawks where she help lead the organization to become the first in the world to be certified True Zerowaste.
In this episode we welcome Ann Seeney, Chief People and Diversity Officer for the US Soccer Federation. Ann shares her incredible career path that kicked off after graduating from Hampton University. Ann has worked in various organizations in many capacities in Human Resources. She broke into the sports industry, grew her network, built trusted relationships, and invested in her growth that led her to be the game changer she is today.
In this episode we welcome Stacy Johns, Chief Financial Officer for the Los Angeles Football Club of MLS. Stacy shares her incredible career journey where she built her foundation in Finance with Ernst & Young and Eli Lilly. Thanks to her hard work, relationship building, and never passing up an opportunity, she was swept away from the public sector and into the sports industry where she worked for the the Indianapolis Colts for 16 seasons before being named as the CFO for LAFC.
In this episode we welcome Keia Clarke, Chief Executive Officer for the New York Liberty of the WNBA. Keia shares her incredible career journey where she establishes a successful career path powered by her love of the game and her commitment to contribute to the continued growth of women’s professional sports. Now as the CEO of the New York Liberty, she is one of the key leaders in the game pushing the vision forward and unlocking opportunities for the next generation.
In this episode we welcome Sam Rapoport, Senior Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for the NFL. Sam, a former Quarterback, shares her incredible career journey which was built on the foundation of her passion for the game and driven by her goal to create societal change. Through hard work, perseverance, and pure determination, Sam has successfully opened the front door to NFL operations positions for over 225 Women and counting.
This is our 50th episode!! In this episode we welcome Ashley Galbraith, Senior Director of Membership Services for the LA Dodgers. Ashley shares her career journey starting out as a collegiate at athlete at Ohio State University, which is where her passion for sports inspired her to launch a career in the industry. Since breaking in with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2015, she’s been on an accelerated path delivering and launching successful membership service programs for LAFC and now the LA Dodgers, all while enjoying the fulfillment that comes with learning and leading.
In this episode we welcome Carolyn Kindle Betz, President & CEO of St Louis City SC. Carolyn shares her incredible career journey that led her to lead the development and launch of the 28th Team in the MLS that is set to kick off their inaugural season in 2023. Carolyn is a savvy and authentic civic, charitable, business leader who is at the forefront of ensuring St. Louis is respected as a world class city by bringing the world’s game to her community.
In this episode we welcome Nicole Metzger, Sr. Vice President of National Sales for JMI Sports. Nicole shares her incredible career journey where she has navigated a successful path in Partnership Sales & Marketing, with experience working in both professional and collegiate sports, and within leagues and teams. As a leader who specializes in securing jewel assets, Nicole enjoys taking on new challenges and making an impact.
In this episode we welcome Shani Tate Ross, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City. Shani shares her amazing experiences and insights from her incredible career. As someone who has always had a love for sports & entertainment, she made her passion her purpose. Now, over a 15 year span with the T-Mobile Center, she has been able to create lasting memories for many and make an meaningful impact in a community she loves.
In this episode we welcome Erin Miller, Sr. Vice President of Operations and Events for the National Basketball Retired Players Association. Erin shares her incredible career journey, starting out on a path to become a FBI Agent, but ultimately followed her gut which led her back to her roots in sports. Today, she celebrates 10 years of incredible experiences and valued relationships created at the National Basketball Players Association. Congratulations Erin on this remarkable career milestone!
In this episode we welcome Mel Raines, President & COO for Pacers Sports & Entertainment of the NBA and WNBA. Mel shares her incredible career journey, spending a significant portion of her career in politics with experiences working for US Senators, at the White House for the US Vice President, and running significant events - including multiple Republican National Conventions and the 2012 Super Bowl in Indianapolis. She has transferred her incredible skills to the sports industry and is establishing a double legacy transforming one of the most iconic arena’s in basketball to be the Fieldhouse of the Future.
In this episode we welcome Kareeda Chones Aguam, Sr. Vice President of Partner Strategy and Management for the Milwaukee Bucks of the NBA. Kareeda grew up in a basketball centered family where she learned the values of desire, determination, and dedication. It was those values that led her to become a Division 1 athlete at Marquette, and opened doors to not only launch her career with the Bucks but also dedicate over 24 years and counting in helping shape the organization she loves and that has become an extended family to her and her loved ones.
In this episode we welcome Chelsea Drobnick, Vice President of Premium Partnerships for the New Jersey Devils of the NHL . Chelsea shares her remarkable journey launching her career in ticket sales, where she found her calling in leadership amongst some of the best in the business. From season-to season, she challenged herself by taking the path where she would face adversity and established a strong belief system that has given her the confidence to be authentic and know that all paths will lead her to where she is meant to be.
In this episode we welcome Marissa Daly, President & General Manager of Media for the LA Rams. Marissa shares her incredible journey, where she trades in her finance career in the big apple to pursue a new path in the sports industry. Thanks to her hard work and saying yes regardless of qualifications, she has had the honor to grow and create impact at two incredible organizations - Yahoo Sports and the Los Angeles Rams.
In this episode we welcome Katrina Palanca, Vice President of Global Partnerships for the San Antonio Spurs, as our featured guest.
Katrina shares her incredible journey, born and raised in Guam, as a fan of the game of basketball she wrote her NBA career hopes in the stars and set forth a path that led her to that moonshot goal. Now, an SBJ 2021 New Voices Under 30 honoree, Katrina is focused on making an impact, inspiring others to follow their hearts, and leading a life at the center of her happiness.
In this episode we welcome Meka White Morris, Chief Revenue Officer for the Minnesota Twins of the MLB. Meka shares her incredible and diverse career path, starting out with the Cleveland Cavaliers and taking a journey that gave her the experience of working in NFL, college, music, attractions and for a tech start up before completing the full circle back with a team. Now the Chief Revenue Officer with the Minnesota Twins and a SBJ 40 under 40 honoree, Meka is focused on making a significant impact on baseball, Minnesota, and the Industry she loves.
In this episode we welcome Maya Mendoza-Exstrom, Sr. Vice President of Legal and External Affairs for the Seattle Sounders of the MLS. Maya shares her remarkable experiences and journey, rooted in the heart of Seattle, she fell in love with the game of soccer thanks to her parents. It was that foundation and her decision to lead forward with her heart, that has given her the opportunity to be a difference maker and contribute to strengthening the community she loves and represents.
In this episode we welcome Iris Diaz, Chief Marketing Officer for the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA. Iris brings the energy in this conversation as she shares her remarkable journey, a journey with humble beginnings, a no quit mentality, and an inspiring determination rooted by her family to lead the life she imagined for herself.
In this episode we welcome Jessica Smith, Head of Revenue for one of the the newest clubs in the NWSL, Angel City FC. You’ll hear Jess share her incredible journey, sparked by self determination and built on the foundation of a strong work ethic, commitment to her vision, and by differentiating herself as she climbed the industry.
As the Head of Revenue for Angel City, she is one of the key leaders building a brand on a mission to make a difference in this world.
In this episode we welcome Emily Maguire, Vice President of Ticket Sales & Service for the Denver Nuggets. You’ll hear Emily share her career journey, starting out in inside sales and working her way up through the challenges and personal breakthroughs. Emily’s dedication to her growth and commitment to her team has led her to be one of Kroenke Sports & Entertainment’s key and impactful revenue leaders.
In this episode we welcome Carley Knox, President of Business Operations for the Minnesota Lynx. Carley started out as a Division 1 soccer player with the goal to coach the game she loves, but she ultimately took a path beyond the field and that would allow her to live out her passion of fighting for women’s equality. Through the power of sports and the platform of the WNBA, Carley has been leading her life as a change agent for a better tomorrow for all marginalized groups and with a focus to create a better future for the next generation.
In this episode we welcome Allie Dicken. Allie serves as the Director of Brand Marketing for the San Francisco 49ers of the NFL. Allie started out knowing she wanted to work in professional sports while in High School and that vision helped drive her forward to make that dream a reality. Focused on contributing to the brand purpose, she left no stone unturned as she continues to make an impact in the industry through her love and passion for the game.
In this episode we welcome Erika Swilley, Vice President of Community & Social Responsibility for the Detroit Pistons. Erika shares her career path, which has been a journey of serving communities and making an impact in the lives of others through the power of sports. Never settling, never stopping, just focused to create a life of purpose by leading a life of service.
In this episode we welcome Lisa Walker, SVP of Business Development College Athletics for Eventellect. Lisa shares her career journey, starting out on a path to become a lawyer with the pursuit of a role in politics, but ultimately followed her passion to work in Collegiate Athletics - energized by the game and strengthened by the people who supported her along her path. A path where she followed her instincts and didn’t let fear get between her and any opportunity.
In this episode we welcome Emily Jaenson as our featured guest. Emily serves as the General Manager for the Reno Aces of Minor League Baseball and was the first women to hold this position in Triple-A ball. Emily shares her career journey, starting out in the Chicago Bulls sales internship program which led to a path where she discovered a passion for partnership development and leadership. Emily has built her incredible career off the foundation of hard work, making sacrifices, building strong relationships, and trusting the process.
In this episode we welcome Molly Wurdack-Folt as our featured guest. Molly serves as the VP of Corporate Partnership Activation for Olympia Entertainment which includes the Detroit Tigers of the MLB and Detroit Red Wings of the NHL. Molly shares her incredible experiences and learnings leading and growing in the sports industry. Powered by passion and by the incredible people she is surrounded by she leads an amazing career and life that just keeps on giving.
In this episode we welcome Krystle Hogan as our featured guest. Krystle serves as the VP of Ticket Sales & Service for the LA Clippers of the NBA. Krystle shares her incredible journey breaking into the sports industry and growing into the leader she is today. She pursued her curiosities, displayed perseverance and patience, and has been surrounded by leaders who have championed her growth throughout her career and now she leads a life that at one point she couldn’t even imagine.
In this episode we welcome Catherine Carlson as our featured guest. Catherine serves as the SVP/Revenue & Strategy for the Philadelphia Eagles of the NFL. You’ll hear her amazing journey, which started 30 years ago in her home country of Australia where she fell in love with sports. As a student of the industry, she came to the states to earn her Masters at UMass and instead of heading back home, she set fire to a new path fueled by perseverance and passion that has provided her the opportunity to live out an amazing career and life leading revenue and partnerships for Disney and with teams in the NBA and NFL.
In this episode we welcome Elizabeth DiLullo Brown as our featured guest. Elizabeth serves as the SVP/Chief Marketing Officer for Little League Baseball. You’ll hear Liz share her amazing journey as she has knocked her career out of the park growing from agency life to becoming Little League’s first female senior executive. Her impressive path is the product of a strong work ethic, expanded experiences, a positive attitude, and her love for making an impact.
In this episode we welcome Vanessa Scott as our featured guest. Vanessa serves as the Director of Accounting for Houston Dynamo FC, Houston Dash, and BBVA Stadium. You’ll hear Vanessa share her incredible journey, starting out as a track athlete at Tulane University where she had to evacuate after her third day on campus due to Hurricane Katrina. That experience followed by many others taught her to embrace challenges and change, to create and lean in to her network, and invest in continuous learning that drives her growth and career.
In this episode we welcome Ashley Clinkscale as our featured guest. Ashley serves as the Senior Vice President of Communications, Community & Diversity for the Portland Trailblazers. Ashley has had an incredible journey powered by her passion for storytelling and by building strong relationships with an expansive network. Her authenticity, hard work, and love for the game has led to her crushing her career goals and the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others.
In this episode we welcome Neda Tabatabaie as our featured guest. Neda serves as the Vice President of Business Analytics & Technology for the San Jose Sharks. Neda is one of the pioneers of business analytics and intelligence in our industry. Her dedication, hard work, no fear mentality, and appreciation for a great work culture have earned her a seat at many tables where she has been able to make a difference and be a true game changer.
In this episode we welcome Abbey Mathis as our featured guest. Abbey serves as the Sr. Director of Premium Hospitality Development for the Cleveland Cavaliers. As a natural competitor most of her life, Abbey had aspirations of going pro as a soccer player and found herself going pro as a key contributor in the front office of a professional sports team. Abbey leads with compassion, works to deliver greatness, and she is honest not just with others but truly with herself, which I find is a rare and quality characteristic in leaders and incredible people such as Abbey.
In this episode we welcome Amanda Verhoff as our featured guest. Amanda is the President of The Association of Luxury Suite Directors (ALSD), which is where she dedicated her entire career to date starting out as an intern. She is an authentic and passionate industry leader, who plays a significant role in inspiring the innovation of the premium fan experience and has had an incredible ride with a front row seat to the evolution of arenas and stadiums across the country.
In this 21st episode we welcome Allison Howard as our featured guest. Allison serves as the Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for the 17x NBA Champion Los Angeles Lakers. Allison has an amazing story starting out as a civil engineer before making a complete career change into partnership sales, where her authentic charisma, hard work, and dedication to developing as a leader has led to her amazing career with one of the most successful teams in the history of the NBA.
In this 20th episode, I am beyond excited to welcome Liliahn Majeed. Lil has spent the last 15 years of her career with the NBA, recently serving as the Senior Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion. She is dedicated to purpose driven work and making a difference in our society and the lives of others. Lil is a 2020 SBJ Game Changer and since the recording of this episode, was named the Chief Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Officer at Universal Music Group.
Lil will be sharing her journey with us all and to put a bow on the season, we’ll be diving into topics that were highlighted throughout the past 19 episodes.
In this episode we welcome Catie Griggs as our featured guest. Catie is the Vice President and Chief Business Officer for Atlanta United of Major League Soccer. You’ll hear Catie share her unique journey, not knowing she would end up in the sports industry- she followed her curiosity and interest in human connection as she blazed a career path that was driven by the power of relationships and her courage to consistently not let fear hold her back from stepping up to each opportunity presented to her.
In this episode we welcome Samantha Hicks as our featured guest. Samantha is the Chief Revenue Officer for the Reno Aces and Reno 1868 FC of MiLB and USL. You’ll hear her share her incredible journey, knowing sales was her pursued career and combining it with her passion for sports, she has blazed a path to the C-Suite. Crushing sales, being on and leading great teams, and loving the work ever my step of the way.
In this episode we welcome Shelly Cayette as our featured guest. Shelly is the Senior Vice President of Global Partnerships for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA. You’ll hear Shelly share her incredible and unique journey, never allowing herself to be put in a box - she navigated up in her career through hard work, pursuing opportunities that excite her, and being powered by the responsibility of representation and blazing trails for women in the industry.
In this episode we welcome Laura Dixon as our featured guest. Laura is the Head of External Affairs for the San Antonio Spurs of the NBA and the President and Founder of the Pro Sports Assembly.
You’ll hear Laura share her incredible journey, after breaking into sports with the Dallas Sports Commission, she blazed forward with her entrepreneurial mindset and action oriented style to career growth. Which earned her an opportunity to join the Spurs organization where she has been able to unleash her passion for advocacy and be an intentional difference maker for the past 11 years.
In this episode we welcome Qiava Martinez, Vice President of Premium Service and Guest Experience for the Las Vegas Raiders of the NFL. You’ll hear Qiava share her incredible journey, growing up in a large family and being raised by inspirational parents and alongside supportive siblings. It was in this environment that inspired Qiava to be a creator of experiences and to give back to others, which she has been able to do along her career path and for past 12 years with the now Las Vegas Raiders and with her own amazing family by her side.
In this episode we welcome Jill Snodgrass, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for the Philadelphia 76ers of the NBA. You’ll hear Jill share her incredible journey, breaking into sports with a life changing internship with the Atlanta Hawks and building a career on the foundation and love for service and building off that foundation over the past 7 seasons with the historic Philadelphia 76ers. Along the way, learning to trust the process and that the power of passion is energized by the incredible people you surround yourself with.
In this episode we welcome Kendall Tyson as my featured guest. Kendall is the Vice President of Strategy & Analytics for the Seattle Kraken of the NHL. You’ll hear Kendall share her journey, growing up as an athlete in Minnesota with a dedicated focus to become an Industrial Engineer. Combining her love for sports and optimizing complex processes, data, and structure, she ultimately engineered an incredible career path that landed her in a position to bring professional hockey back to Seattle.
In this episode we welcome Jodee Bowness as my featured guest. Jodee is the Vice President of Ticket Sales & Service for the Colorado Avalanche of the NHL. In this episode you’ll hear her share her journey, basically born into the industry, having the opportunity to grow up observing her Dad lead a successful career in sports. But she was determined to lead her own path in the industry and that’s exactly what she has done. Her incredible career has provided her the opportunity to grow as a leader in the NHL tapping into her passion for service, sales, people and the game.
In this episode we welcome Erica Bernadas, Sr. Manager of Corporate Partnerships for the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans of the NFL and NBA as our featured guest. You’ll hear Erica share her journey starting out by taking an unexpected position in Inside Sales and finding early sales success that set the foundation for her career. Erica has followed her passion for the art of the sale, creating personalized partnerships, and ceasing opportunities that connect with her personal and professional goals which has provided her with an incredible career that includes working in the NHL, MLS, NBA, and NFL.
In this episode we welcome Danita Johnson, President and Chief Operating Officer for the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA. You’ll hear Danita share her journey dedicated to leading a meaningful career in the Sports Industry, which without a doubt has been accomplished. Danita has had an incredible career path working in the WNBA, NBA and G-League, leaving a legacy at each destination and solidifying that hard work, passion, and belief in ones self leads to a fulfilling and successful career.
In this episode we welcome Raven Jemison, Vice President/Team Marketing Business Operations at the NBA as our featured guest. You’ll hear Raven share her journey starting out on a path dedicated to becoming an Optometrist and discovering it was not the life she wanted to lead. She tapped into her passion and blazed a new path in the sports industry, which now has been a 15+ year career journey that has provided her with the experience to work in all four of the major leagues, impact the lives of many as a sales leader, and build trusted and lasting relationships with colleagues at each stop and now as a strategic partner with teams in the NBA, WNBA, and G-League.
In this episode we welcome Kristen Kuhn, Senior Vice President of Partnership Marketing, Brand, & Community for LAFC of the MLS as our featured guest. In this episode you’ll hear Kristen share her journey starting out on a path of discovery, which required her to take bold moves that led to experiences that not only built the career she leads today, but just as importantly, placed her in a position to meet incredible people and mentors along her journey who saw her value and believed in her talent to present doors of opportunity for her to earn and open.
In this episode we welcome Angela Spence, Director of Sales for the Atlanta Hawks and College Park Skyhawks as our featured guest.
In this episode you’ll hear Angela share her journey starting out as a collegiate basketball player with plans to become a coach and making the decision to shift that dream which led to discovering the world of Ticket Sales. Along Angela’s path she has had to face adversity, but she pushed through the challenges by honoring her commitments and seeing the successful outcome of her hard work and perseverance. Angela is truly a rising star in the industry.
In this episode we welcome Gretchen Sheirr, Chief Revenue Officer for the Houston Rockets. You’ll hear Gretchen share her journey starting out in ticket sales and deciding to double down and stick with it at a time when people didn’t see it has career path with lots of future upside. She now celebrates an incredible 19 season career and counting with the Houston Rockets where she blazed a path to the C-suite and has been a key contributor to growing the Houston Rockets as a top franchise in the NBA.
In this episode we welcome Sara Daniel, Vice President of Ticket Sales & Service for Carolina Hurricanes. In this episode you’ll hear how Sara, an elite collegiate athlete who won 2 Big Ten Championships and made 4 NCAA tournament appearance as a captain of her volleyball team at Ohio State University, broke into the sports industry and blazed a trail with self determination, support from trusted mentors, and making moves that gave her the opportunity to work with great leaders and be a difference maker.
In this fourth episode we welcome Alison Roscoe, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for Austin FC as our featured guest. In this episode you’ll hear how Alison navigated up through a non-traditional path, starting out managing pop up fan fest, and has had to face unscripted experiences that not only challenged her but motivated her growth in the industry.
In this third episode we welcome Michele Kajiwara, Senior Vice President of Premium Sales for the Staples Center at AEG as our featured guest. In this episode you’ll hear how Michele landed a job at the Staples Center by chance and made the choice to navigate upward through a dynamic environment to lead the premium sales business for the sports & entertainment center of the world.
In this second episode we welcome Jamie Morningstar, Senior Vice President of Ticket Sales & Service for the Milwaukee Bucks as our featured guest...or should I say Blazer? In this episode you’ll hear about how she followed her roots in sports to build an amazing sports career that has given her a lifetime of experiences that has taken her on a journey all around the country that she wouldn’t change for anything.
I am excited to be launching the first ever episode of this podcast with Lisa Feigenbaum, Vice President of Group, Premium Hospitality & Event Sales for the Sacramento Kings! In this episode you’ll hear about how she has repeatedly created opportunities for her career path when there were potential dead ends, her experience leading sales initiatives for a new arena project, and what she has learned along the way. (Note: from 6 min -8 min mark there is a glitch due to WiFi issues)