SBJ On Stage

Hosted by Sports Business Journal

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Episodes

127

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

SBJ On Stage is where the most impactful conversations in sports and business leadership get a second spotlight. Recorded live at Sports Business Journal’s industry events and presented with fresh context, each episode offers exclusive access to the insights, strategies and personal stories of the executives, entrepreneurs and visionaries shaping the future of sports. SBJ On Stage delivers candid conversations with real impact — giving listeners a front-row seat to leadership in motion. Look for new episodes every Tuesday.

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60 recent

June 16, 202629 min

Eric Shanks: Leadership Live Sports and the Future of FOX Sports

In this episode of On Stage, Eric Shanks, CEO and Executive Producer of FOX Sports, joins Colin Cowherd, host of The Herd, for a candid conversation on leadership, media strategy, and the enduring power of live sports. Recorded on April 15, 2026, at the CAA World Congress of Sports in Los Angeles, the discussion comes at a remarkable moment for Shanks and FOX Sports. As highlighted in a recent Sports Business Journal profile, Shanks has overseen some of the most significant moments in modern sports media—from Super Bowls and World Cups to major rights acquisitions and the continued evolution of FOX's sports portfolio. Throughout the conversation, Shanks reflects on: Leading Through Big Moments: Lessons learned from managing some of the largest broadcasts and events in sports. The Value of Live Sports: Why premium live content remains one of the most powerful assets in media. Media's Next Chapter: How audience behavior, streaming, and technology are reshaping the business. Building Winning Teams: His leadership philosophy and approach to developing talent and culture inside FOX Sports. The Future of Sports Storytelling: How broadcasters can continue to engage fans in an increasingly fragmented media environment. It’s an engaging discussion with one of the most influential executives in sports media, offering perspective on leadership, innovation, and the future of the industry. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 2, 202628 min

Nick Khan: WWE Media Power and the Future of Sports Entertainment

In this episode of On Stage, Nick Khan, President of WWE and Board Member of TKO Group Holdings, joins Abraham Madkour, Publisher & Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal, for a candid conversation on the evolution of sports entertainment and the business strategy driving WWE’s next chapter. Recorded on April 15, 2026, at SBJ’s CAA World Congress of Sports in Los Angeles, the discussion explores how WWE continues to grow as a global media property while adapting to changing consumer habits, platform dynamics, and fan expectations. Throughout the conversation, Khan shares insights on: The TKO Era: How WWE fits into the broader vision of TKO and the opportunities created by scale and consolidation. Media Rights & Distribution: The changing economics of live content and why premium sports entertainment remains uniquely valuable. Global Expansion: WWE’s international strategy and the continued growth of live events and fan engagement worldwide. Storytelling & Talent: Why character development and audience connection remain central to WWE’s success. Leadership & Negotiation: Lessons from Khan’s path through sports media, talent representation, and executive leadership. It’s an insightful look at the intersection of media, entertainment, and live sports from one of the most influential dealmakers in the industry. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 19, 202633 min

Sir Mohamed Mansour: Ownership Global Vision and the Future of Soccer

In this episode of On Stage, Sir Mohamed Mansour, Chairman of San Diego FC, Man Capital LLP, and the Mansour Group, joins Coy Wire, sports anchor and correspondent for CNN, for a fireside chat on leadership, investment, and the global growth of soccer. Recorded on March 26, 2026, at SBJ Business of Soccer in Atlanta, the conversation explores how one of the world’s most accomplished business leaders is helping shape the future of the sport in the United States and beyond. Sir Mohamed reflects on his journey building a global business empire while expanding his footprint in sports ownership through San Diego FC and international investments. Key themes include: Global Perspective on Soccer: Why the sport’s long-term trajectory in the United States remains so compelling. Leadership & Entrepreneurship: Lessons from building and managing businesses across multiple industries and continents. Ownership with Vision: How San Diego FC is approaching identity, culture, and growth as a new MLS franchise. Investment & Opportunity: The increasing intersection of global capital and the sports industry. Community & Legacy: Why sports ownership is about more than business performance alone. It’s a thoughtful conversation about ambition, stewardship, and the expanding global influence of soccer. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 5, 202647 min

Arthur M. Blank: Building Culture, Community and the Future of Soccer

In this episode of On Stage, Arthur M. Blank, Chairman of AMB Sports and Entertainment, joins Abe Madkour, Publisher and Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, ownership, and the continued growth of soccer in the United States. Recorded on March 26, 2026, at SBJ’s Business of Soccer conference in Atlanta, the discussion offers a window into Blank’s philosophy as an owner across multiple properties, including the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, and how he approaches building organizations rooted in culture, community, and long-term vision. Key themes include: Ownership with Purpose: Blank’s approach to leadership, culture, and empowering people across his organizations. The Rise of Soccer in the U.S.: How Atlanta United became a model for fan engagement and what it signals about the sport’s future. Fan-First Philosophy: Why experience, accessibility, and trust are central to sustained success. Community Impact: The role sports organizations play beyond the field in driving civic pride and connection. Leadership Lessons: Insights from a career spanning entrepreneurship, retail, and professional sports ownership. It’s a thoughtful, values-driven conversation with one of the most respected figures in sports business—offering lessons that extend far beyond the game. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 21, 202639 min

Steve O'Donnell: Racing Ahead NASCARs Vision for Tomorrow

In this episode of On Stage, Steve O’Donnell, President of NASCAR, joins Ryan McGee, Senior Writer at ESPN, for a forward-looking fireside chat on how one of America’s most iconic sports properties is evolving for a new era. Recorded on February 23, 2026, at SBJ’s National Sports Forum in St. Louis, the conversation captures NASCAR at a pivotal moment—redefining its identity, sharpening its focus, and positioning itself for long-term growth. O’Donnell shares how the organization is “turning the page” and leaning into a refreshed strategy built around innovation, fan engagement, and cultural relevance. Key themes include: Reframing NASCAR’s Identity: How the league is evolving its brand while staying true to its core. Fan Experience & Engagement: New approaches to connecting with both loyal fans and a younger, more diverse audience. Media & Distribution: Navigating shifting consumption habits and maximizing reach across platforms. Innovation on the Track: The role of competition, format, and technology in keeping the sport compelling. Leadership Through Change: What it takes to guide a legacy property through transformation. It’s an insightful look at how NASCAR is balancing tradition with reinvention—and what that means for the future of motorsports. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 7, 202630 min

Clark Hunt: Ownership Legacy and the continued Globalization of Football

In this episode of On Stage, Clark Hunt, Chairman and CEO of the Kansas City Chiefs and Chairman of FC Dallas, joins Coy Wire, sports anchor and correspondent at CNN, for a fireside chat on ownership, legacy, and the continued globalization of football. Recorded on Wednesday, March 25, at SBJ’s The Business of Soccer event in Atlanta, the conversation offers a unique perspective from one of the most influential ownership figures spanning both the NFL and global soccer. As the son of Lamar Hunt, a founding figure in the NFL and a pioneer of American soccer, Clark Hunt reflects on carrying forward a legacy while building for the future—across leagues, markets, and generations of fans. Key themes include: Ownership Across Sports: How Hunt balances leadership between the NFL and MLS, and what each league can learn from the other The Global Opportunity: Why soccer continues to expand in the U.S., and how international dynamics are shaping the sport’s future Sustaining Success: Lessons from building a championship organization with the Kansas City Chiefs Legacy and Responsibility: What it means to steward iconic franchises while evolving with the modern sports landscape The Future of Football: Where the NFL and global soccer are headed—and how ownership will play a role in that trajectory It’s a thoughtful look at leadership from an owner operating at the intersection of tradition and transformation. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

March 24, 202656 min

Joe Buck: Broadcasting Preparation and Longevity

In this episode of On Stage, Joe Buck, play-by-play announcer at ESPN, joins Eric Stisser, Vice President of Corporate Sponsorship for the St. Louis Blues, for a candid fireside chat about broadcasting, preparation, and longevity in one of the most visible roles in sports media. Recorded on Tuesday, February 24, at SBJ’s National Sports Forum in St. Louis, the conversation gives listeners a closer look at Buck’s career, his approach to the craft, and what he’s learned from calling some of the biggest moments in sports. Key themes include: The Art of Play-by-Play: How Buck prepares, adapts, and finds the right tone for major moments. A Career in Broadcasting: Reflections on longevity, pressure, and evolving with the changing media landscape. Storytelling on the Mic: Why context, pacing, and trust matter as much as the call itself. Sports, Media, and Audience Expectations: How the job has changed as fans consume games and commentary differently than ever before. Lessons from the Biggest Stages: Insights from a broadcaster who has spent decades at the center of major sports events. It’s an engaging and personal conversation with one of the most recognizable voices in sports. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

March 10, 202635 min

Howie Nuchow: Capital Influence and the Next Era of Sports Investment

In this episode of On Stage, Howie Nuchow, Managing Director at Creative Artists Agency and Co-Head of CAA Sports, joins Abraham Madkour, Publisher & Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal, for a conversation about the expanding role of capital, advisory, and global strategy in sports. Recorded on February 23, 2026, at SBJ’s National Sports Forum, the discussion highlights how firms like CAA are operating far beyond traditional representation by helping shape ownership structures, league investments, and strategic partnerships across the industry. During the conversation, Nuchow explores: The Rise of Sports Private Equity: Why institutional capital is flowing into sports and what it means for teams, leagues, and investors. CAA’s Expanding Role: How the agency advises ownership groups, investors, and global sports properties. The Evolution of Representation: How modern agencies operate at the intersection of talent, media, capital, and strategy. Global Opportunities: Where sports investment is growing and how international markets factor into the next wave of deals. Lessons in Leadership: What it takes to navigate a rapidly evolving sports business landscape. It’s a sharp, strategic look at how the financial architecture of sports is changing and the executives helping shape that transformation. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 24, 202633 min

Karen Brodkin: Boardroom to Broadcast Shaping Sports from the Inside Out

In this episode of On Stage, Karen Brodkin, President of WME Basketball, joins Rachel Axon, Staff Writer at Sports Business Journal, for a dynamic conversation on leadership, representation, and influence across the sports ecosystem. Recorded on September 25, 2025, at SBJ’s Game Changers event in New York City, this discussion traces Brodkin’s remarkable career—from senior leadership roles at Fox Sports and the NFL, to serving as Executive Vice President at Endeavor, to her current position overseeing WME Basketball. Throughout the conversation, Brodkin reflects on: A Career Across Power Centers: Lessons from the NFL, Fox Sports, and Endeavor—and how those experiences shape her leadership today. Boardroom to Broadcast: How rights negotiations, distribution strategy, and talent representation intersect in modern sports. The Business of Basketball: The growth of women’s and men’s basketball and how agencies play a role in shaping the sport’s next chapter. Leadership & Advocacy: Her work across nonprofit and foundation boards, including youth sports and community initiatives. Navigating Change: How to lead through disruption while maintaining clarity of vision and purpose. It’s a compelling look at how one executive has influenced sports from multiple vantage points—league, media, agency, and governance. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 10, 202628 min

Matt Hong: Disruption and Opportunity Media Reinvented

In this episode of On Stage, Matt Hong, President of USA Sports at Versant, joins Abe Madkour, Publisher & Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal, for an insightful conversation on how the sports media landscape is being rebuilt in real time. Recorded on November 18, 2025, at SBJ’s Media Innovators in New York City, the discussion captures Hong at the center of a fast-evolving ecosystem. Versant operates at the intersection of content, technology, and distribution—helping shape how sports are produced, packaged, and consumed across platforms.Key themes include:Media Disruption: How changing consumer behavior, platforms, and technology are redefining sports media models.Versant’s Role: What Versant does, how it partners across the industry, and where Hong sees the greatest opportunity ahead.Leadership & Strategy: Hong’s approach to navigating uncertainty, building teams, and making long-term bets in a volatile market.Innovation at Scale: How data, distribution, and product thinking are reshaping how fans engage with sports content.What’s Next: A look at where sports media is headed—and what leaders should be paying attention to now.It’s a forward-looking, practical discussion for anyone navigating disruption across sports, media, and technology. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.