The Sports Business Leaders Podcast

Blake Lawrence is the Co-Founder and President of Opendorse, one of the leading athlete marketing and NIL platforms in sports.After his football career at Nebraska was cut short by injury, Blake turned to entrepreneurship, eventually co-founding Opendorse in 2012. Today, the platform serves more than 200,000 athletes and works with hundreds of teams and more than 200 college athletic departments.In this episode, Blake joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to discuss the evolution of Opendorse, the rapidly changing economics of college sports, and why he believes the $4.5 billion NIL economy is still in its early stages.Blake also breaks down what the revenue-sharing era means for athletic departments, how schools are competing to attract and retain athletes, and where college athlete compensation could be headed over the next several years.We also dive into Blake’s lessons from more than a decade of building and selling in sports, including why relationships matter so much, why sales cycles take longer than founders expect, and why companies need to build relationships from both the top down and bottom up when selling to teams, leagues, conferences, and athletic departments.

Haley Carter, President of Soccer Operations for the Washington Spirit, joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to discuss leadership, building championship teams, and creating a high-performance culture in professional sports.A U.S. Naval Academy graduate, former Marine Corps officer, professional goalkeeper, coach, and attorney, Haley has built one of the most unique careers in sports. Before joining the Spirit, she helped lead the turnaround of the Orlando Pride, building the roster that won the club’s first NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship.Haley shares how lessons from the military have shaped her leadership style, why culture and fit are critical when building a roster, and how the small decisions made every day ultimately define a high-performing organization.She also offers advice for companies looking to work with professional sports teams, including the importance of doing your research, finding the right decision-makers, and understanding how busy sports executives actually evaluate new opportunities.

Steven Aldrich, Chair and early investor in Oakland Roots Sports Club, joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to share how a purpose-driven vision helped build one of the most unique organizations in professional soccer.Before entering sports, Steven built a career as an entrepreneur, investor, and technology executive, including more than a decade at Intuit and serving as Chief Product Officer at GoDaddy. Today, he helps lead Oakland Roots SC and Oakland Soul SC, two clubs built around using soccer as a force for positive impact in Oakland.Steven discusses the journey from an early idea to a professional sports organization, why the Roots opened real equity ownership to more than 6,000 fans, and how community impact influences everything from sponsorships and ticketing to vendors and investment.He also shares advice for entrepreneurs looking to sell into sports, including why understanding a team’s priorities, keeping pilots simple, and making implementation easy can make the difference when trying to earn a partnership.

Dexter Ang, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Pison, joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to discuss how the company is bringing neural sensing and cognitive performance technology into sports.Pison has developed patented technology that reads neurological signals from the wrist, giving athletes new ways to measure and train reaction time, decision-making, alertness, and cognitive performance. The technology was developed over seven years with the military and is now being used across professional and collegiate sports.Dexter shares the personal story that led him to start Pison, how the company is working with baseball programs to better understand the connection between cognitive performance and player development, and why neurological data could become an increasingly important part of how athletes train and perform.We also discuss what Pison is learning from working with elite athletes and the lessons Dexter has learned building partnerships and introducing an entirely new technology category to the market.

Jason Syversen has built his career at the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, investing, and innovation.After spending more than a decade as an engineer and researcher, serving as a program manager at DARPA, building and exiting a cybersecurity company, and investing in more than 40 startups, Jason turned his attention to sports.Today, he is the Founder and CEO of SportsVisio, an AI-powered sports technology company making advanced statistics, analytics, and video highlights more accessible across youth and amateur sports. SportsVisio has grown to roughly 250 B2B customers and 30,000 users across 16 countries.In this episode, Jason shares how his experience as a longtime basketball player and coach led to the idea for SportsVisio, why he believes AI will dramatically change the way sports are played and experienced, and how the company is expanding beyond analytics into a broader technology platform for leagues.We also discuss what Jason has learned building and investing in technology companies, why relationships are so important when selling into sports, and his advice for founders trying to build scalable businesses in a fragmented sports industry.

From professional jockey to Emmy-nominated sports technology entrepreneur, Nathan Horrocks has taken an unconventional path through the sports industry.Nathan is the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of POVORA, a sports technology company developing live, broadcast-quality wearable camera systems that give fans a first-person view of the action.POVORA’s technology has been used across football, rugby, baseball, MMA, cricket, motorsport, horse racing and more, working with major broadcasters and sports organizations around the world. Its innovations include CapCam, EarCam, BodyCam and HelmetCam, with its Wireless Tilt Control CapCam earning an Emmy nomination alongside ESPN.In this episode, Nathan shares how technology originally developed for horse racing evolved into a global sports broadcast solution, what it takes to introduce new technology into major sports, and why first-person perspectives could become an increasingly important part of the fan experience.We also discuss Nathan’s transition from professional athlete to filmmaker and entrepreneur, the importance of storytelling in sports, and where he sees the next wave of innovation in sports broadcasting.

Mayer Reich has spent more than 20 years building companies across technology, fintech and digital media. His latest venture, Prosperity AI, is taking on a unique challenge: helping professional athletes better understand and manage their money.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Mayer shares how Prosperity AI evolved from a consumer finance platform into a financial intelligence platform built for athletes, including tools around contract analysis, taxes, budgeting and long-term wealth management.We also discuss why athletes face such unique financial challenges, how NIL and entrepreneurship are changing the way athletes think about money, and the lessons Mayer has learned from building five startups.Mayer also shares his advice for entrepreneurs trying to break into sports, why listening to customers can completely change the direction of a company, and why relationships remain one of the most important parts of doing business in the industry.

Dr. Alfred Atanda Jr. has spent his career at the intersection of orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, healthcare innovation, and technology.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Alfred shares how AI and performance data are changing the way clinicians think about athlete health, including the potential to identify injury risks before an athlete ever enters the doctor’s office.We also discuss the growing concerns around youth sports specialization, why young athletes need a more holistic approach to health and development, and what founders building sports medicine and healthcare technology need to understand about working with major health systems.Alfred also shares why trust and relationships are critical to getting new technology adopted in healthcare and the vision behind Latitude, his new platform helping healthcare professionals navigate the career, financial, and personal decisions that extend beyond medicine.

Tom Koerick Jr. has spent more than two decades at the intersection of sports, video, and technology.After playing professional baseball, Tom turned his own experience of being under-recruited into SkillShow, a company built to help athletes get seen by college recruiters. Since launching in 2001, SkillShow has worked with millions of athletes and partnered with organizations including Perfect Game, USA Baseball, Major League Baseball, the NFL, and IMG Academy.In this episode, Tom shares what it took to build and scale SkillShow, the lessons he learned from selling the company and eventually buying it back, and why video is becoming increasingly valuable as sports, data, and AI converge.We also discuss what entrepreneurs can learn from athletes, how smaller companies can build lasting relationships with major sports organizations, and where Tom sees the youth sports industry heading next.

Mark Floreani started FloSports in 2006 with his brother, a van, a camera, and a belief that sports like wrestling and track deserved more coverage.Twenty years later, FloSports has grown into a major sports streaming platform with more than 400 employees, covering 25+ sports and streaming roughly 55,000 live events around the world each year.Mark joined the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to talk about building FloSports, how the internet changed the economics of underserved sports, and why streaming has created new opportunities for emerging leagues and D2 and D3 college athletics. We also discussed FloSports’ expansion onto platforms like Amazon Prime, how AI is changing sports production, and what Mark has learned about building successful partnerships over two decades in the industry.For companies trying to break into sports, Mark also shares a simple lesson from FloSports’ growth: understand what your partners actually need, execute, and think long term.

Chris Wilkerson’s career has taken him from the football field to building and exiting companies to investing in the future of sports.After earning two First Team All-American honors at Stephen F. Austin, Chris spent time in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers and Tennessee Titans. But his entrepreneurial career actually started while he was still playing. He taught himself to code in college, built a software agency and eventually sold the business before pursuing the NFL.He later founded Sideline, a recruiting technology platform that grew to more than 800 universities before being acquired. That experience ultimately helped shape 51Ventures, his early-stage investment firm focused on sports, health, human performance, and the technologies connecting elite athletes with everyday consumers.In this episode, Chris shares his journey from athlete to entrepreneur and investor, what he looks for when backing founders, why access and relationships can be more valuable than capital in sports, and where he sees the next wave of opportunity as more institutional investment enters the industry.We also discuss what founders get wrong when selling to teams and leagues, the growing connection between sports performance and consumer health, and why Chris believes there is still significant room to build as more capital flows into sports.

Powerlifting has one of the most passionate communities in sports, but Corey Knight believes the sport is still only scratching the surface of its potential.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Corey Knight, Chief Marketing Officer of the United States Powerlifting Association (USPA), to talk about growing strength sports through culture, storytelling, events, and brand partnerships.Corey shares why powerlifting is more accessible than many people realize, how USPA is approaching nearly 300 events per year, and why creating a sense of identity and belonging is critical to building a sports property.We also dive into the business side of powerlifting, including how brands can authentically enter strength sports, why the best sponsorships improve the athlete experience, and why partners are ultimately buying access to attention, trust, and community, not simply logos and booths.Corey also shares a great example of USPA bringing a beauty brand into a women’s powerlifting event, showing how unexpected partnerships can work when they genuinely connect with the community.It’s a conversation about the future of powerlifting and what it takes to turn a passionate community into a stronger sports property without losing the culture that made it special.

David Greenfield, co-founder and CEO of JUUCE, joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to share how a dead phone sparked the idea for what has become a nationwide portable charging network.JUUCE now operates across more than 500 venues in 42 states, including stadiums, college campuses, festivals, nightlife venues, and entertainment destinations. The company gives fans access to portable chargers while providing venues with a new guest amenity and sponsorship asset at no upfront cost.David breaks down JUUCE’s business model, how its kiosks are creating new sponsorship and advertising inventory, and the journey from struggling to land its first venues to working with properties including Nationals Park, Nissan Stadium, Oracle Park, and dozens of Division I stadiums.He also shares what he has learned about selling into sports: finding an internal champion, earning trust, proving the concept, and using successful partnerships to open the door to the next opportunity.

Former NFL linebacker Ilia Jarostchuk knows what it takes to compete at the highest level. After being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1987, he spent six seasons in the NFL before eventually finding his way back into sports through Southern Recognition.Today, Ilia works with professional teams, colleges, and organizations to create custom championship rings, challenge coins, and recognition pieces that commemorate their biggest achievements.We talked about the creativity and storytelling behind championship rings, how Southern Recognition turns a season into something athletes can keep for life, and what Ilia’s NFL career taught him about building relationships and winning business in sports.Ilia also shared an important lesson for companies trying to sell to teams and leagues: getting the opportunity is only the beginning. Once the door opens, you have to deliver.

Steve Cavalier, Senior Vice President and General Manager of BPG Sports, and Dom Pilla, Vice President of Facilities and Operations, join the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to discuss the business behind building and operating sports facilities.BPG Sports has grown from operating the Chase Fieldhouse, home of the Delaware Blue Coats, into a broader sports management organization overseeing facilities, youth clubs, and thousands of events. Across the Buccini Pollin Group portfolio, its sports operations host more than 10,000 events annually and generate an estimated $300 million in economic impact.Steve and Dom break down BPG Sports' vertically integrated approach to developing and operating facilities, what they look for when choosing vendors and partners, and why understanding an operator's actual problems matters when selling into sports.They also discuss the growth of sports tourism, the rise of mixed-use development around sports venues, and how technology and AI are changing facility operations.

Duncan Troy is the CEO of Oscar Propulsion and a technology entrepreneur with more than three decades of experience building and scaling businesses. As a founding investor in Oscar Propulsion, Duncan saw the potential for the company’s propulsion technology to extend far beyond its origins in the marine industry into aviation, rowing, paddle sports, and other applications.In this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Duncan shares the journey of taking a breakthrough engineering concept from research to commercialization. He explains how Oscar Propulsion adapted its technology into FlowForce paddle technology, using slitted blade designs to improve efficiency and reduce the physical strain on athletes. The conversation explores the importance of listening to customers, testing and iterating new technology, and finding the right market for innovation.Duncan also discusses why sports has become an important commercial opportunity for Oscar Propulsion, the company's plans to expand into North America, Europe, and the Far East, and what he's learned about turning innovative technology into a scalable business.

Sean Spanek has spent more than 25 years in real estate, building a unique business at the intersection of luxury real estate, professional sports, and high-net-worth clients.As a Managing Partner at SportStar Relocation, Sean and his network help professional athletes, coaches, and executives navigate real estate and relocation across the country. His work in the Bay Area has included relationships with the San Francisco 49ers and San Francisco Giants, with clients ranging from Barry Zito to Christian McCaffrey.In this episode, Sean shares how he broke into professional sports, why trust and referrals have been critical to growing his business, and what it takes to become a trusted resource for teams and athletes. He also discusses the unique challenges athletes face when they're drafted or traded, how SportStar built a nationwide network to solve those problems, and his advice for entrepreneurs trying to build relationships and win business in sports.

Travis Hollman is the CEO of Hollman Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of sports, fitness, and office locker solutions. Under his leadership, Hollman has worked across professional and college sports, building locker rooms and facilities for some of the most recognizable organizations and programs in the industry.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Travis shares his entrepreneurial journey and how Hollman has continued to innovate as a 50-year-old family business. He discusses what companies need to understand when selling to teams and athletic departments, why starting locally can be one of the best ways to break into sports, and how doing great work for one organization can create opportunities throughout the industry.The conversation also explores the changing landscape of college athletics and NIL, the role AI is beginning to play inside Hollman, and why Travis believes the sports business industry still has significant growth ahead.

Sapna Shah has spent more than a decade investing in startups, and today she is focused on one of the fastest-growing areas of the industry: sports. Her portfolio includes investments in Unrivaled Basketball, the New York Cosmos, World TeamTennis, and more, with a particular focus on women’s and mixed-gender sports.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Sapna shares why she made the move from retail and consumer investing into sports, what she looks for when evaluating teams, leagues, and startups, and why she believes women’s sports still has significant room to grow. She also breaks down common mistakes founders make when pitching investors, the importance of building a real fan or customer acquisition strategy, and why emerging sports organizations can present compelling opportunities for investors.The conversation also explores where Sapna sees the next wave of opportunity across women’s sports, soccer, youth sports, fan engagement, and sports technology.

Unrivaled is one of the most interesting new leagues in sports.Co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, the 3-on-3 women’s basketball league was built around a player-first model, giving athletes another way to compete domestically while also sharing in the growth of the league.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, we’re joined by Taylor Lake, VP of Partnerships at Unrivaled, to talk about how the league is building its commercial strategy, creating partnerships around its players and fans, and approaching growth as it heads into its third season.We also discuss what brands should understand when trying to work with emerging sports properties and why the best partnerships start with understanding what the league actually needs.

Dawn Sherman has spent nearly 30 years building and leading global businesses. Now, she’s bringing that experience to professional women’s football.Dawn is the CEO and Board Chair of ProPharma, Owner of the Jersey Shore Wave, and an investor and board member in the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC). Her goal goes beyond building a successful team. She wants to help create a sustainable future for women’s football where athletes can build their brands, attract fans, and ultimately get paid to play.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Dawn joins us to discuss why she invested in women’s football, what she’s building with the Jersey Shore Wave, and the opportunity she sees across women’s sports. We also talk about the importance of athlete visibility, building engaged fanbases, attracting the right sponsors, and what emerging sports properties need to do to create long-term commercial value.

Matt Virtue, Founder and CEO of Rival, joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to talk about how the way fans engage with sports is changing and what that means for teams, leagues, and brands.Rival works with organizations including the New York Giants, Baltimore Ravens, Detroit Pistons, Aston Villa, USL, New Balance, and Coca-Cola to turn passive audiences into active communities through gaming, predictions, and interactive digital experiences.Matt shares why the “second screen” has become such an important part of the fan experience, how teams can build stronger direct relationships with younger fans, and why owning fan data and digital communities will become increasingly valuable. He also shares lessons from building and selling into professional sports, including a simple principle for sports technology companies: people buy outcomes.

Bryant McBride joins us to talk about a career spent building at the intersection of sports, media, technology, and storytelling.Bryant began his career with the NHL, where he worked in business development and helped launch initiatives designed to grow the game and reach new audiences. He later turned to entrepreneurship, building and investing in multiple companies and achieving successful exits to organizations including ESPN and Sports Illustrated.In our conversation, Bryant shares lessons from his time at the NHL, including advice he learned early in his career about setting a high standard and "knowing what you don't know." We also dive into his approach to entrepreneurship, why he thinks of startups like raising a child, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people.Bryant also tells the story of helping build Football Scouts Inc., which went from a $2 million valuation to a $17.5 million acquisition by ESPN in just 18 months, and shares the lessons he's learned from both the wins and the difficult moments throughout his career.A great conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, resilience, and finding the right people to go on the ride with you.

Jackie Fast is the General Partner at Sandbox Studios.Before launching Sandbox Studios, Jackie founded Slingshot Sponsorship from her bedroom in London and grew it into a global agency working with brands and personalities including Red Bull, Formula One, Prince, The Rolling Stones, Elton John, and Richard Branson before selling the company in 2016.Today, Jackie brings that experience to Sandbox Studios, where she invests in highly selective early-stage consumer businesses and works with celebrity partners including Snoop Dogg, Kris Jenner, Ian Somerhalder, and Nikki Reed to accelerate growth.Jackie shares why most celebrity-backed brands fail, what makes celebrity involvement a true competitive advantage, how Sandbox evaluates hundreds of opportunities to find the few worth backing, and why being useful has been the foundation for building her network and career.

Tanmay Patel is the Vice President of Business Data & Analytics for the Philadelphia Eagles. Tanmay has been with the organization for over a decade, and contributed to both Super Bowl championships in 2017 and 2024 as a front office executive, helping turn millions of fan interactions into insights that drive the organization’s business. In this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Tanmay joins us to talk about how the Eagles use data and technology across fan engagement, sponsorships, ticketing, and the overall business of the team.We also cover how the Eagles’ approach to understanding and serving their fan base, the growing international reach of the franchise, and how data is helping create more valuable partnerships for brands.Tanmay also shares advice for companies looking to do business with professional sports teams, including why understanding team resources, proving ROI, and starting with a proof of concept can go a long way.

Bob Heere is the Executive Director of the Sports Innovation Space @ UNT and one of the leading voices in sport management and innovation.The Sports Innovation Space, located at The Star in Frisco, helps international sports technology companies enter and grow in the U.S. market by providing access to industry executives, networking, staffing, and hands-on support.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Bob joins us to discuss what it takes for international sports companies to successfully break into the U.S., why product-market fit often changes when entering American sports, and the importance of clearly demonstrating ROI to teams and leagues. We also discuss why relationships, referrals, and simply being present in the market can make the difference between a great product and a successful sports business.Bob also shares how UNT is connecting entrepreneurs, students, and sports organizations across Dallas-Fort Worth and building an ecosystem designed to help the next generation of sports businesses grow.

On August 1, 2026, Sports Business Leaders hosted a live event in Philadelphia featuring a fireside chat with Tom Burwell, CEO of Sunderland AFC, and Baye Adofo-Wilson, Chairman and Majority Owner of the New York Cosmos.Sunderland is one of the biggest stories in world football. After spending eight seasons outside the Premier League, the club earned promotion and followed it with a seventh-place finish and qualification for the UEFA Europa League in its first season back. Meanwhile, Baye is leading the revival of the iconic New York Cosmos while using sport as a catalyst for community and economic development.On this live episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Tom and Baye discuss what it takes to build successful football clubs on both sides of the Atlantic. We cover Sunderland's remarkable return to the Premier League, the commercial opportunities that come with competing on the world's biggest stage, the revival of the Cosmos, investing in communities through sport, and the future of soccer in the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup legacy.

Bryan Delgado is the Co-Founder of Rally Department, a creative sports marketing agency built by sports professionals, for sports professionals. Since launching the company in 2022, Rally Department has partnered with organizations including the San Antonio Spurs, Manchester City, the American Athletic Conference, H-E-B, and leading collegiate athletic programs to create campaigns, fan activations, and experiences that strengthen the connection between teams, brands, and their audiences.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Bryan shares why he and his co-founder saw an opportunity to build a different kind of agency, how Rally Department has grown through relationships and delivering results, and why understanding the realities of game day is essential to creating successful partnerships.We also discuss experiential marketing, sponsorship activation, building trust with sports organizations, scaling a business organically, and Bryan's advice for entrepreneurs looking to win business with professional sports teams and leagues.

Kurt Landes has led the Lehigh Valley IronPigs since the franchise's launch in 2006, building one of the most successful organizations in Minor League Baseball. Under his leadership, the IronPigs have become national leaders in attendance while earning a reputation for creative promotions, exceptional fan experiences, and meaningful community impact.In this episode, Kurt shares how the IronPigs have built a loyal fan base, why innovation is critical to staying relevant, what teams look for when evaluating new business partners, and the leadership principles that have guided nearly 20 years of sustained success. It's a conversation filled with practical lessons for anyone building in sports.

After a 12-year professional baseball career, including seven seasons in Major League Baseball, Chase d'Arnaud has turned his focus to developing the next generation of athletes through Futures Training Center. Joined by Jack Dempsey, Strategic Partnerships & Development Manager at Laurel Springs School, this conversation explores the transition from professional sports to entrepreneurship, youth athlete development, balancing academics with elite training, and the partnerships that help student-athletes succeed on and off the field.Big thanks to our partners at Laurel Springs School, an accredited online private school serving student-athletes and high-achieving students for more than 35 years. Learn more at www.laurelsprings.com.You can also learn more about Futures Training Center at www.futurestrainingcenter.com.

Chris Paolini is the Senior Director of Business Analytics for the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL), where he leads the league's business intelligence and analytics strategy. After helping build the analytics function for the Carolina Hurricanes, Chris joined the PWHL to create a data-driven foundation for one of the fastest-growing leagues in professional sports.In this episode, Chris shares how the PWHL is building its analytics infrastructure from the ground up, using data to support ticket sales, fan engagement, expansion strategy, and league-wide decision-making. We also discuss the role analytics plays in supporting leadership, why storytelling is just as important as reporting, and how the league is preparing for its next phase of growth.If you're interested in sports analytics, emerging leagues, business intelligence, or the future of women's sports, this episode offers an inside look at how one of the industry's newest leagues is building for long-term success.

Lacrosse is entering one of the most important moments in its history.In this episode, Jake interviewed Marc Riccio, CEO of USA Lacrosse, to discuss how the organization is preparing for the sport's return to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028 and what it takes to lead a national governing body through a period of rapid growth. Marc reflects on his career spanning the New York Jets, agency leadership, consulting, and entrepreneurship before taking the helm at USA Lacrosse, where he now oversees a 420,000-member organization. They explore the strategies behind growing youth participation, why USA Lacrosse is investing heavily in schools and small-sided versions of the game, how data is shaping long-term decisions, and why the Olympics represent a transformational commercial and cultural opportunity for the sport. Marc also shares what makes running a national governing body different from leading a professional sports team and why he believes mission-driven organizations still need to operate like great businesses.

This episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast is a special one, recorded following our event with Sunderland AFC CEO Tom Burwell this past Saturday. After hearing from the club's leadership, we wanted to continue the conversation with someone who experienced Sunderland from the pitch.Justin Titchenell interviewed Duncan Watmore, former Sunderland AFC and English Premier League player and now Head of Elite Performance & Business Development at PEAK4. After a 13-year professional football career that included more than 300 appearances, Duncan now helps organizations improve employee wellbeing and performance through sports science, wearable technology, and behavior change.Justin and Duncan discuss the importance of recovery, leadership, resilience, wearable technology, and how elite sports principles can help businesses build healthier, higher-performing teams. They also explore why authenticity is essential for earning trust and building lasting relationships in the sports industry.

Youth sports is one of the biggest businesses in sports, and few organizations have had a greater impact than Rush Soccer.On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Justin Miller joins the show to discuss what it takes to lead the world's largest youth soccer organization, serving more than 60,000 players across 150 clubs in 50 countries.Justin shares his journey from growing up as a Rush player to becoming CEO at just 33 years old. We discuss how Rush has scaled its culture across a global network through the "Rush Way," built player pathways that have helped athletes earn more than $100 million in college scholarships and reach the professional ranks, and leveraged technology to develop the next generation of talent.We also explore what the 2026 FIFA World Cup means for youth soccer in the United States, why brands are investing more heavily in the sport, and how Rush is preparing to capitalize on this historic moment. Justin also shares his perspective on one of the biggest challenges facing youth sports today: making competitive soccer more accessible while continuing to grow the game.

Niels van Meurs is a Dutch-American entrepreneur, venture builder, and investor focused on the intersection of sports, technology, and international innovation. He serves as the Managing Director of North Sea Ventures, where he helps build and scale high-growth startups while connecting innovation ecosystems across Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.In addition to leading North Sea Ventures, Niels is the founder of Panna Park, an experiential soccer entertainment concept inspired by venues like Topgolf and PopStroke. He has also helped build ventures including Butlaroo and Mailsociety, giving him hands-on experience launching and growing businesses across multiple industries.Niels has been recognized as one of The Next Web's Top 500 People in Tech Under 30 in the Netherlands for three consecutive years. He has represented the Netherlands on official trade missions to major global sports and technology events, including Soccerex, the Sports Mission in Los Angeles, and LEAP in Saudi Arabia, where he has helped strengthen international partnerships and investment opportunities.He earned a Master of Science in International Business with a specialization in Strategy and Innovation from Maastricht University and also studied Financial Economics at EDHEC Business School in France. Today, his work centers on helping founders turn innovative ideas into scalable businesses while advancing the future of sports and technology.

Dr. Charles Steinberg is the President of the Worcester Red Sox (WooSox) and one of the most influential executives in professional baseball. Throughout his remarkable career, he has helped lead the Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Major League Baseball, and now the WooSox, playing a key role in setting attendance records, creating iconic fan experiences, and building organizations that become deeply connected to their communities.In this episode, Dr. Charles shares why storytelling is the foundation of every successful sports organization, how teams can turn spectators into lifelong fans, and what makes memorable moments more powerful than traditional marketing. We also discuss the emotional impact of the 2013 Boston Marathon ceremony at Fenway Park, the creation of traditions like Sweet Caroline and Tessie, the importance of community engagement, and why the best organizations think beyond ticket sales to create experiences that families remember for generations.From building iconic ballparks to helping create some of baseball's most unforgettable moments, Dr. Charles offers a masterclass on leadership, fan engagement, and the power of sport to strengthen communities.

Steve Swetoha is the President of the Greensboro Swarm, the NBA G League affiliate of the Charlotte Hornets. After leading the organization from its launch in 2015, Steve recently guided the Swarm to the first championship in franchise history while helping establish one of the league's most respected business operations.In this episode, Steve shares lessons from building a championship culture, why community engagement has become one of the organization's greatest competitive advantages, and how the Swarm has grown to 47 corporate partners by focusing on long-term relationships rather than traditional sponsorship sales. We also discuss creating memorable fan experiences in an intimate venue, collaborating with the Charlotte Hornets, and the unique opportunities that make the NBA G League one of the most innovative leagues in professional sports.From winning championships to building lasting community relationships, Steve provides a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build and lead a successful professional sports organization.

Driving ranges are evolving from simple practice facilities into interactive entertainment destinations, and iTarget Golf is helping lead that transformation. In this episode, Fred Guitton, Chief Revenue Officer of iTarget Golf, explains how the company's interactive LED targets and technology integrations help golf facilities increase revenue, extend operating hours, attract new customers, and create experiences that keep golfers coming back. Fred also shares how iTarget Golf works with golf course operators to solve real business challenges rather than simply sell technology. We discuss the future of golf entertainment, why gamification is reshaping the industry, and how venue operators can differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market. If you're interested in sports technology, golf, venue operations, or building products for the sports industry, this conversation offers valuable insights into one of the fastest-growing areas of sports entertainment

Bouker Pool, Managing Director at CTH Advisors, joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to discuss what it takes to build and scale sports businesses. Throughout his career, Bouker has helped organizations at critical inflection points turn product-market fit into sustainable growth by aligning strategy, operations, partnerships, and go-to-market execution. His experience spans professional sports, endurance events, media, and emerging technology, including leadership roles with USA Cycling, the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series, USA TODAY Sports Media Group, and the Colorado Avalanche.In this episode, we discuss how founders know when they're ready to scale, why coachability is one of the biggest predictors of success, building partnership strategies that drive long-term value, the growing importance of first-party fan data, and how AI and changing consumer behavior are reshaping the future of sports. Bouker also shares practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to build businesses that stand the test of time.

Steve Sanders, Chief Growth Officer at TPH Academy, joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to cover the growth of sports academies and how the youth sports landscape is changing. After serving as CEO of SPIRE Academy and working with organizations including IMG Academy, FC Barcelona's U.S. Academy, and Disney on Ice, Steve has built a career helping sports organizations grow through strategy, partnerships, and operations.In this episode, we talk about the rise of academy-style education, how NIL is changing opportunities for youth athletes, why flexible academics are becoming more important than ever, and where technology can improve the youth sports experience. Steve also shares advice for entrepreneurs and companies looking to build successful partnerships with academies, teams, and leagues.

Clive Mayhew is the Co-Founder and CEO of GOLF.AI. On this episode we cover how his company is building the world's leading AI platform for golf. With more than 150,000 golfers and thousands of golf courses on the platform, GOLF.AI is using artificial intelligence to improve everything from on-course decision-making and rules interpretation to tee time bookings, customer service, and course operations. Clive shares lessons from a career spanning more than 25 years in technology, including his early days at Netscape, building and exiting multiple startups, and why he believes AI will fundamentally reshape every sport over the next decade. The conversation also explores GOLF.AI's AI Concierge, how golf courses are saving thousands of dollars each month through automation, the importance of building partnerships, and why founders should embrace personal branding as a competitive advantage

Dr. China Jude has built one of the most accomplished leadership careers in sports, with executive roles spanning collegiate athletics, the NFL, USA Volleyball, and now the NBA G League. As President of Business Operations for the Motor City Cruise, the Detroit Pistons' G League affiliate, she leads the organization's business strategy, revenue growth, corporate partnerships, ticket sales, fan engagement, and community impact. Her mission is to grow the Cruise brand, deepen its connection with the Detroit community, and create a best-in-class experience for fans and partners alike.In this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, China shares lessons from more than two decades in sports leadership, discussing how organizations build strong cultures, why community engagement is a competitive advantage, and how business leaders can drive sustainable growth on and off the court. She also offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and companies looking to partner with professional sports organizations, explaining what teams value most when building long-term business relationships.

The Armory is home to one of the world's fastest indoor tracks, the historic Millrose Games, and the National Track & Field Hall of Fame. But it's also a nonprofit that helps thousands of young people through education, fitness, and community programs.In this episode, Jake sits down with Rita Finkel and Jonathan Schindel, Co-Presidents of The Armory Foundation, to discuss what it takes to operate one of the busiest track & field venues in the world. They talk about venue operations, fan experience, community impact, youth development, and how The Armory has become a destination for everyone from first-time athletes to Olympians.

Flint Lane is the founder, CEO, and commissioner of Major League Table Tennis (MLTT). After spending more than two decades building Billtrust into a publicly traded company, Flint came out of retirement to launch the first professional table tennis league in the United States—a league that has quickly grown to 10 franchises, secured a national television partnership with CBS Sports, and attracted world-class athletes from around the globe. Flint shares the lessons he brought from the software industry into sports, including why launching an MVP matters, how MLTT thinks about broadcast distribution, fan acquisition, sports betting, and multiple revenue streams beyond ticket sales. He also discusses the league's long-term vision, expanding franchise ownership, and what it will take to turn table tennis into a mainstream spectator sport in America. Whether you're building a startup, investing in sports, or fascinated by emerging leagues, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at creating a modern sports business from the ground up.

What does it take to build one of the nation's premier community-based youth soccer clubs while staying true to your mission?On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, Jake Voorhees sits down with Michele Burns, President of Lower Merion Soccer Club (LMSC), a nonprofit organization serving more than 2,700 youth athletes annually with a player-first approach to development. Together, they discuss Michele's journey into youth sports leadership, how LMSC balances recreational and elite pathways, and why developing confident, resilient young people matters just as much as developing great soccer players.The conversation also explores the rapidly evolving youth sports landscape, including private equity, club consolidation, community-based programming, and what vendors need to know before trying to do business with youth sports organizations. Michele shares practical advice on authentic relationship-building, sustainable club growth, and why keeping families at the center of every decision has been the foundation of LMSC's success.

In this live Sports Business Leaders panel, we sit down with James Robinson, Investor at RRE Ventures, and Dominic DiFebo, President of the Disc Golf Pro Tour, to discuss how innovation is reshaping the sports industry.The conversation explores what investors look for in emerging sports businesses, how new leagues attract fans and sponsors, the role of technology and media in driving growth, and why niche sports are creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors alike.Whether you're building a sports startup, investing in the industry, or simply curious about where sports business is headed, this conversation offers valuable insights from two leaders helping shape its future.

Zach Henderson has spent more than a decade helping some of the biggest organizations in sports grow revenue, holding leadership roles with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Washington Nationals, Indianapolis Colts, and Comcast Spectacor before joining WolfCycle as Director of Client Success.In this episode, Zach shares lessons from leading sales teams across the NFL and MLB, what separates organizations that consistently grow revenue from those that don't, and how AI is transforming the way teams engage fans and drive ticket sales.We also discuss the importance of personalization, building a 360-degree view of the customer, adopting new technology, and why the best leaders focus on solving problems—not just identifying them.Whether you work for a team, league, or company selling into sports, this conversation is full of practical insights on sales, leadership, innovation, and the future of fan engagement.

Jeremy Goldberg, President of LeagueApps, joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to discuss how the company has grown into one of the leading technology platforms serving youth and local sports organizations. Since its founding in 2010, LeagueApps has helped power thousands of organizations, supports more than 80 professional sports teams, and processes billions of dollars in sports programming.In this conversation, Jeremy shares the entrepreneurial journey behind LeagueApps, how the company evolved from an adult sports startup into a leader in youth sports technology, and why staying close to customers has been one of its biggest competitive advantages. We also discuss the rapid professionalization of youth sports, the role of technology and AI, lessons from raising capital, and why mission-driven leadership continues to shape LeagueApps' long-term vision.Whether you're building a sports technology company, investing in youth sports, or simply interested in the future of the industry, this episode is packed with insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, and creating lasting impact through sports.

Dr. Richard D. Myles Sr., Founder and Chairman of the Minor Football League (MFL), joins the Sports Business Leaders Podcast to share his vision for creating opportunities beyond the traditional football pipeline. After playing in the NFL, Dr. Myles launched the MFL in 1993 with a mission to develop athletes, future coaches, front office executives, and community leaders through what he calls the "Laboratory of Change."In this episode, Dr. Myles discusses the inspiration behind building the nation's only professional developmental football league, the challenges of turning a decades-long vision into reality, and why every athlete should prepare for life beyond the field. We also explore the changing landscape of college athletics, NIL, entrepreneurship, leadership, and the importance of persistence when building something that doesn't yet have a blueprint.Whether you're passionate about football, sports business, or entrepreneurship, this conversation offers valuable lessons on resilience, purpose, and creating lasting impact both on and off the field.

On this episode of the Sports Business Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Han Park, Founder & CEO of Payment Labs.After spending more than 20 years helping build ESL Gaming into a billion-dollar business, Han founded Payment Labs to solve one of the biggest challenges in sports: moving money across borders quickly, securely, and compliantly. Today, Payment Labs powers payments in 180+ countries and works with organizations including X Games, Microsoft, SEGA, AVP, APP, and The Snow League.We discuss how sports organizations can modernize their payment infrastructure, why selling into teams requires a different go-to-market strategy, and the role relationships play in winning business across the sports industry.