The Varsity

Jessica Berman, the Commissioner of the National Women's Soccer League, dives into the league's remarkable growth, including skyrocketing TV ratings and record-breaking crowds. She discusses the innovative media strategy that emphasizes accessibility and collaboration with multiple platforms. Upcoming expansions to cities like Boston and Denver are also on the table, along with how the Men's World Cup could elevate interest in women's soccer. Berman highlights the league's commitment to promoting its stars and ensuring integrity amid the rise of sports betting.

Steve Bornstein, a former president of ESPN and ABC Sports, shares his experiences shaping sports media and the NFL's rise. He reminisces about his collaboration with legendary commissioner Paul Tagliabue, highlighting their mutual respect and intellect. Bornstein discusses the challenges of the current sports media landscape, including streaming wars and AI's incursion. He also offers advice on career paths for graduates, champions women's volleyball, and emphasizes the need for broader access for fans in the evolving sports rights market.

Hans Schroeder, a veteran NFL media executive, shares insights into the league's evolving media strategy. He discusses the significance of reach in future media rights deals and the surprising resilience of traditional broadcasters. Hans recounts the NFL's initial digital ventures and how they shaped current strategies for streaming partners like Netflix and Amazon. He also touches on international expansion, the rationale behind the NFL's stake in ESPN, and the potential role of AI in revolutionizing scheduling. A must-listen for sports media enthusiasts!

Join NFL superstar Von Miller as he explores the intersection of football and culture. He shares his unique insights on big sports stories and engages with influential figures from various fields. Expect plenty of locker room energy and intriguing discussions on life beyond the game. Plus, get a sneak peek into his adventures running a chicken farm! It's a vibrant mix of sports, entertainment, and intriguing societal topics.

Julia Alexander, a media and streaming reporter with insights into carriage disputes and sports rights, joins to unravel the impact of Nielsen’s new out-of-home viewership data on Saturday night sports. They discuss the ongoing showdown between YouTube TV and Disney, examining the balance between content leverage and corporate power. Julia outlines how YouTube's unique ad business alters traditional negotiation tactics, and they debate the potential strategies Disney could adopt to strengthen its position in this shifting landscape.

Matt King, C.E.O. of Fanatics Betting and Gaming and former FanDuel C.E.O., delves into the aftermath of the NBA's betting scandal. He shares his immediate reaction to the federal indictments and emphasizes the importance of rapid reporting and surveillance in addressing integrity issues. The discussion explores how regulated betting can educate the public and reduce illegal activities. Matt also outlines Fanatics' innovative strategies in contrast to competitors, including a focus on customer rewards and potential growth in prediction markets.

Jay Marine, a key Amazon executive driving Prime Video's sports strategy, shares insights on the company's transformation into a major player in live sports. He discusses the $20 billion NBA deal and how Amazon is reshaping league perceptions of streaming. Marine emphasizes investing in tier-one sports and women's leagues, aligning with Prime member value. He highlights innovative approaches like AI features and integration of shopping and betting in broadcasts, aiming to create a unique viewing experience for fans.

Michael Rubin, the visionary founder of Fanatics, joins hosts Bill Cohan and Michael Nathanson at Puck’s In The Arena to discuss his remarkable journey in sports commerce. He reveals how he reinvented licensed merchandise by swiftly responding to fan needs. The conversation dives into his expansion into collectibles and betting, highlighting the innovative strategies behind Fanatics' growth. Rubin also shares insights on building connections across sports and entertainment, as well as his thoughts on a potential IPO and future initiatives.

Gerry Cardinale, founder and CIO of RedBird Capital Partners, offers insight into the evolving landscape of live sports investments. He discusses the potential overvaluation of sports leagues and the crucial role of technology in rejuvenating legacy media. Gerry also shares his thoughts on the challenges of media M&A, the importance of cash-flow models, and how AI will enhance fan engagement and content production. Plus, he reflects on owning AC Milan and the need for innovative monetization strategies in a rapidly changing market.

Josh Harris, owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils, and Washington Commanders, shares insights on multi-team ownership. He discusses transforming the Commanders' culture, plans for a new stadium, and the impact of private equity on sports. Harris delves into the challenges and opportunities of owning teams across different leagues. He emphasizes community engagement, the importance of fan experience, and his commitment to the Commanders name, all while navigating the complexities of a globalizing NFL.