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The Careless Talk Climbing Podcast

E133: Matt Bird - Why does a climber need a manager? A little look into the shadowy world of athlete contracts.

Jan 29, 2025
Matt Bird, an athlete manager representing elite climbers like Shauna Coxsey and Will Bosi, offers a compelling glimpse into the business side of professional climbing. He discusses the necessity of managers for climbers, dives into the complexities of athlete contracts, and the dynamics with sponsors. The talk highlights the importance of authenticity in brand partnerships and the evolving relationship between athletes and social media. Additionally, Matt touches on the disparities in athlete valuation and the exciting potential of climbing as a spectator sport.
01:53:49

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Athlete managers are essential for professional climbers, as they negotiate contracts and ensure effective communication with sponsors.
  • The climbing industry has transformed with increased youth participation, yet sponsorship deals often fall short of athletes' true market value.

Deep dives

The Role of an Athlete Manager

Athlete managers play a crucial role in representing and supporting professional climbers by managing their contracts, communications, and relationships with sponsors. The primary responsibilities include negotiating sponsorship deals, ensuring athletes fulfill their contractual obligations, and facilitating communication between athletes and brands. Managers also help athletes with public relations, enabling them to share their achievements effectively, which is essential in promoting both the athlete and the sponsoring brand. With the evolving nature of climbing as a sport, particularly with its increasing popularity, the demand for athlete managers is growing as they navigate the complexities of modern sponsorship landscapes.

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