Discover how Red Bull transformed into a powerhouse by engaging deeply in the sports world. The podcast dives into their savvy business model that sells 12 billion energy drinks annually, emphasizing their strategic sponsorships. Learn about their high-profile investments, from soccer managers to Formula One teams, and how these choices elevate their brand’s market value. Red Bull isn’t just selling drinks; they’re redefining marketing through sports. Tune in for insights into their unconventional journey since 1982!

Val Ackerman, the Big East Commissioner and former WNBA president, shares her insights into the future of college basketball. She discusses the Big East's focus on basketball amid media changes and the rise of women's sports. Val reveals the financial dynamics of NCAA basketball and how new policies impact player movements. She also reflects on her time with the NBA, including the influence of the Dream Team and her role in founding the WNBA, showcasing the evolution and importance of women's athletics.

Justin Pugh, a former NFL offensive lineman with an 11-year career, dives deep into the reality of life in the league. He candidly shares his journey from college football at Syracuse to being drafted by the New York Giants and later transitioning to the Arizona Cardinals. Pugh discusses the challenges of free agency and the importance of player involvement in the NFLPA. He also touches on player safety, the financial implications of an expanded season, and the evolving landscape of youth football, offering valuable insights into the complexities of an NFL player's life.

Tom Haberstroh, a sportswriter and author of The Finder Substack, breaks down his fascinating rankings of America's top sports cities. Discover how Charlotte disappoints despite its potential, while Atlanta often flies under the radar. Denver shines with its impressive sports triumphs for a smaller city. The conversation dives into the struggles of New York, Kansas City's surprising successes, and the critical impact of championships versus fan engagement. Prepare for unexpected insights, especially regarding the top-ranked city!

Discover Ryan Smith's ambitious plan to transform Utah into a sports powerhouse. From acquiring the Utah Jazz to bringing the Utah Hockey Club to life, he’s building a professional sports portfolio that’s turning heads. Explore the excitement surrounding the Coyotes’ relocation and how it’s reshaping the local landscape. Challenges in arena renovations and Smith’s vision for urban development and community engagement add layers to this engaging narrative. What does the future hold for sports in Salt Lake City?

Explore Stephen Ross' strategic maneuvers that transformed the Miami Dolphins into a $8.1 billion powerhouse. Delve into the art of creative revenue generation and the lucrative opportunities in stadium management. Discover why Ross' sports assets are seen as invaluable. The sale of a minority stake signals exciting changes ahead for Miami sports.

This discussion dives into the staggering $600 million economic impact Shohei Ohtani has had on the Los Angeles Dodgers. It highlights the surge in ticket sales, merchandise, and new sponsorships, particularly with Japanese companies. The podcast also addresses how his presence has bolstered tourism in Los Angeles and elevated the global appeal of Major League Baseball. Ohtani's unprecedented contract and performance are transforming the financial landscape of the sport.

Explore the looming threat of a WNBA lockout as insights reveal complex financial dynamics. The discussion highlights salary disparities with the NBA and the league's unique revenue-sharing model. Discover how rising viewership and newfound star power, like Caitlin Clark, are affecting player compensation. The future of women's basketball hangs in the balance, driven by both enthusiasm and economic challenges.

Ethan Strauss, a writer for House of Strauss and former Golden State Warriors reporter, dives into the missed marketing opportunities surrounding Caitlin Clark in the WNBA. He critiques ESPN's shake-ups with Woj and Lowe departing, discussing the evolving sports media landscape and its impact on the WNBA's visibility. The conversation also covers Tom Brady's transition to broadcasting, highlighting his cautious style and potential NFL ownership aspirations. Strauss provides keen insights into the challenges and dynamics shaping today's sports narrative.

Zach Lowe, a prominent sports analyst renowned for his incisive basketball commentary, dives deep into his unexpected firing from ESPN. He analyzes how the decision reflects the network's shift towards sensational content driven by data analytics. As he navigates the implications for ESPN's future programming, Lowe also shares thoughts on what lies ahead for his career, stirring curiosity about his next moves in the world of sports media. Plus, there's an exciting announcement about a new sports business community on Microsoft Teams!