

The Joe Pomp Show
Joe Pompliano
Host Joe Pompliano breaks down the most interesting topics in sports business. From athlete investments to media rights deals, you'll leave each episode more informed about the business and money behind sports. Join hundreds of thousands of others and start listening today!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 8, 2025 • 8min
Why the NFL Refuses to Ditch Turf Fields (Even as Players Keep Getting Hurt)
NFL players are raising alarms about the danger of turf fields, citing a worrying spike in injuries, particularly at MetLife Stadium. While turf installation and maintenance costs are lower, the revenue generated from non-NFL events like concerts significantly outweighs any concerns for player safety. Owners focus on profit, creating a divide with players who prioritize safety. Innovative solutions like retractable pitches are on the horizon, but misaligned incentives keep the debate ongoing as both sides seek their own interests.

10 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 10min
How McLaren CEO Zak Brown Became the Highest-Paid Executive in Formula 1
Dive into McLaren's impressive financial journey, revealing how CEO Zak Brown became the highest-paid executive in Formula 1 with a staggering $50 million salary. Explore the team's $712 million revenue, largely fueled by sponsorships covering 60% of income. Discover how McLaren turned around from losses to a $72.6 million profit and learn about their strategic asset sales that prevented bankruptcy. With a $5 billion valuation, McLaren is now the sport's most valuable team. Get the inside scoop on executive pay and travel spending, including lavish private jet use!

12 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 35min
How FanDuel Became America's #1 Sportsbook With Flutter CEO Peter Jackson
In this conversation, Peter Jackson, CEO of Flutter Entertainment, offers a fascinating insight into the world of sports betting. He discusses how FanDuel distinguishes itself through product innovation and customer trust. Peter explains the differences between U.S. and international sportsbook operations and shares strategies for market expansion. He also dives into the growth of iGaming and the impact of live betting trends. Lastly, he explores the future of prediction markets and the potential of M&A in the industry.

Sep 22, 2025 • 33min
How Roger Federer Became A Billionaire (with the man who made it happen)
Tony Godsick, Roger Federer's longtime agent and business partner, shares insights about Federer's rise to billionaire status through wise sponsorship deals. He discusses the pivotal shift from Nike to Uniqlo and On, revealing the strategic planning behind this transition. Godsick also elaborates on the creation of the Laver Cup, detailing its luxury experience and unique format designed to attract top players. His reflections on the politics within tennis and how they shaped these events are both enlightening and entertaining.

Sep 18, 2025 • 8min
Inside the $800 Million Gamble That Could Ruin Tennis’ Best Event
The discussion delves into the US Open's shift towards commercialization, raising ticket prices and creating luxury suites that alienate longtime fans. It highlights the influence of celebrity culture, with figures like Trump attending, signaling a pivot to wealthier clientele. The podcast also examines the staggering $800 million renovation plan aimed at transforming Arthur Ashe Stadium, posing tough questions about prioritizing profits over fan accessibility. This change could forever alter the tournament's connection with its audience.

Sep 15, 2025 • 5min
The Untold Math Behind $1 Pretzels and $5 Beers
Sports teams are slashing concession prices by 50%, not just to please fans, but for solid financial returns. Discover how affordable pretzels and beers lead to higher attendance and increased merchandise sales. It’s all about smart pricing strategies that enhance the game-day experience while boosting revenue. Dive into the surprising math behind these concessions and their impact on sports venues!

Sep 10, 2025 • 9min
The Chicago Bears new stadium could generate billions in revenue (before it even opens)
The Chicago Bears are shifting their stadium plans to Arlington Heights, abandoning the downtown site. This $2.5 billion project aims to be completely privately funded. The team anticipates making over $1 billion in revenue even before the stadium opens, driven by sales of personal seat licenses, luxury suites, and naming rights. The discussion highlights financial inconsistencies and the promising financial benefits of this modernized venue.

Sep 5, 2025 • 56min
How a Fraudulent Startup Pulled the Clippers Into Chaos
Ethan Strauss, a Substack writer and host of Random Offense, dives into the chaotic scandal involving Kawhi Leonard and Steve Ballmer's Clippers. He unpacks the web of deceit connected to a fraudulent startup, exploring its profound impact on NBA ethics. The conversation touches on financial power's influence in sports, the thin line between greed and corporate responsibility, and the ethical dilemmas faced by billionaires. Strauss raises critical questions about the integrity and accountability in an increasingly complex sports landscape, making for a riveting discussion.

Sep 4, 2025 • 20min
How Underdog Reached $500 Million In Annual Revenue In Just Five Years
Jeremy Levine, the visionary Founder and CEO of Underdog—one of the fastest-growing sports businesses—shares insights on their impressive journey to $500 million in revenue. He discusses the launch of user-friendly prediction markets and how they enhance sports engagement. Levine delves into the regulatory challenges they face and the importance of innovation in the sports betting landscape. He highlights the company culture that fosters talent and product innovation, enabling them to outpace established competitors and attract a growing audience.

9 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 8min
How A Formula 1 Race Gets 300,000 Fans To Show Up Without A Single Car
Discover how the Dutch Grand Prix attracted 300,000 fans without a single car in sight. Innovative transportation methods like public transit and biking played a key role in this eco-friendly event. The emphasis on sustainability not only minimized waste but also set a benchmark for future sporting events. Dive into the fascinating intersection of motorsport and environmental consciousness!