Aspire with Emma Grede

The Founder Playbook: How Michael Rubin Built Fanatics by Betting on Obsession

27 snips
May 13, 2025
Michael Rubin, Founder and CEO of Fanatics, opens up about his journey from a self-proclaimed bad athlete to a sports business mogul. He emphasizes the critical role of relentless work ethic and adaptability in achieving success. The conversation dives into his early entrepreneurial ventures and the pivotal moment of selling GSI Commerce for $2.4 billion. Michael discusses the importance of understanding your audience, innovation in sports merchandise, and cultivating a strong leadership team. His insights on balancing personal life with professional dedication are both inspiring and relatable.
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ANECDOTE

Young Entrepreneur's First Hustles

  • Michael Rubin started multiple businesses at age eight, like snow shoveling and trading cards.
  • He loved business because it was his superpower, unlike school or sports where he struggled.
INSIGHT

Startup Mentality at Scale

  • Michael Rubin feels like a startup CEO despite Fanatics' $25 billion valuation.
  • He believes maintaining a startup mentality keeps the company driving and sharp against competition.
ADVICE

Build Intense, Visionary Teams

  • Hire people who thrive under intense, fast-paced work environments and scare away those who don't fit.
  • Leaders must communicate vision clearly and stop dumb mistakes to maintain fast growth.
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