SBJ On Stage

In this edition of SBJ On Stage, we take you to SBJ's Media Innovators conference in the fall of 2024 for a conversation with UFC CEO Dana White, and SBJ Publisher and Executive Editor, Abe Madkour.  

Fresh off a record-setting run at Madison Square Garden, White discusses the UFC's upcoming media rights negotiations, the rise of streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon and YouTube, and why he believes the sport has yet to reach its ceiling. He also shares his views on global expansion into markets like Spain, Mexico and Africa, the evolution of athlete development through UFC's Performance I...

In this edition of SBJ On Stage, we revisit a conversation between Bob Iger and Jimmy Pitaro from SBJ’s 2025 CAA World Congress of Sports. 

The conversation takes on added relevance considering Iger and Josh Kushner’s pending acquisition of the Los Angeles Lakers in a record-breaking transaction. Plus, as the industry reflects on the one-year anniversary of ESPN's direct-to-consumer service, listeners can evaluate many of the predictions, priorities, and strategic themes discussed between Iger and Pitaro. 

SBJ’s managing director, Dan Kaufman, and Jump’s CEO & co-founder, Jordy Leiser, add additional context and commentary.  

Wheth...

In this episode of On Stage, Microsoft’s Chief AI Officer, MJ Jabbour, explores concepts such as “abundance of cognition,” the risks of de-skilling, and how organizations can prepare for increasingly capable AI systems.  The episode features a new addition to the SBJ On Stage format as TKO Group’s EVP of Innovation, Alon Cohen, becomes the show's first guest commentator, joining host Dan Kaufman to react to Jabbour’s ideas, challenge key assumptions, and discuss what AI means for sports, entertainment and human creativity. Together, this episode examines where AI creates value, where human judgment remains essential, and why curiosity...

In this episode of On Stage, Andrew Yaffe, CEO of Dude Perfect, joins Bret McCormick, Staff Reporter at Sports Business Journal, for a conversation about how one of the world's most recognizable creator brands is redefining sports fandom for a new generation. Recorded in June 2026 at SBJ's Brand Innovation Summit in Chicago, the discussion explores Dude Perfect's remarkable evolution—from five friends making trick-shot videos at Texas A&M to a global entertainment business with nearly 100 million followers, live tours, merchandise, premium brand partnerships, and a long-term vision that stretches far beyond social media. 

Yaffe shares how the...

In this episode of On Stage, Jess Smith, President of the Golden State Valkyries, joins Jenn Azara, Director of Tech & Women's Sports Content at Sports Business Journal, for a conversation about launching one of the most successful expansion franchises in professional sports.  Recorded at SBJ's Tech Week in New York City in May 2026, the discussion explores how the Valkyries have blended technology, innovation, and fan-first thinking to build momentum from day one. Fresh off a historic inaugural season that included record attendance, a playoff appearance, and one of the highest franchise valuations in women's sports, Smith shares the philosophy b...

In this episode of On Stage, Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer at Netflix, joins Elle Duncan, Lead Host of Sports and Live Events at Netflix and studio host for USA Sports, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of entertainment, storytelling, and live sports. Recorded in April 2026 at the CAA World Congress of Sports presented by Sports Business Journal, the discussion explores how Netflix continues to evolve from a streaming pioneer into one of the most influential players in sports and live entertainment. Throughout the conversation, Bajaria shares insights on: 

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 FO...

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: 

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...

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: 

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: <...

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...

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: 

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: 

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: 

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:

00:00 - Intro

01:16 - Assessment of job 3 years in

04:17 - Post-House reality for NCAA

04:59 - NCAA would have been bankrupt

05:20 - Prop bets

07:58 - Commercial appeal of NCAA

10:29 - Growth sports around the country

11:06 - SCORE Act update

12:30 - Private equity caution

14:38 - Issues that keep Charlie Baker up at night

17:00 - Reaction to fans complaining about CFP

19:27 - Is college sports too professionalized?

22:40 - USOPC and NCAA relationship

23:57 - Sports Broadcasting Act changes<...

In this episode of On Stage, Tom Ricketts, Chairman of the Chicago Cubs, joins Joe Leccese, Chairman Emeritus of Proskauer, for a wide-ranging conversation about stewardship, leadership, and the evolving business of baseball. Recorded on November 19, 2025, at SBJ Dealmakers Conference, the discussion explores how Ricketts balances the weight of tradition that comes with owning one of the most iconic franchises in sports while positioning the Cubs for long-term success in a rapidly changing industry. 
Key themes include: 

In this episode of On Stage, we take you inside a panel conversation unpacking the launch of one of the most ambitious new properties in sports: TGL. Recorded on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the SBJ World Congress of Sports in Nashville, this discussion brings together leaders from across sports, media, technology, and investment to break down the vision, execution, and early lessons from TGL’s inaugural season.

Moderated by Sports Business Journal staff writer Chris Smith, the panel features:

In this episode of On Stage, Minnesota Vikings Owner and President Mark Wilf joins Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard, for a wide-ranging conversation that took place on October 1, 2025, at Leaders Week London.  Wilf reflects on his journey as an NFL owner and the leadership principles that have shaped the Vikings’ long-term vision—both on and off the field. As the NFL accelerates its international strategy, the conversation offers a timely look at how ownership, culture, and global ambition intersect at the highest levels of sport. 

Key themes from the conversation include: 

In this episode of On Stage, we bring you a joint conversation with Dee and Jimmy Haslam of Haslam Sports, one of the most influential ownership groups in American sports. Recorded on October 2, 2025, at Leaders Week London, this discussion offers an inside look at how the Haslams approach ownership, leadership, and long-term community impact across their portfolio: the Cleveland Browns, Columbus Crew, and Milwaukee Bucks. In a thoughtful and candid conversation with BBC Sport presenter Sarah Mulkerrins, the Haslams explore: 

In this episode of On Stage, Richard Masters, Chief Executive of the Premier League, joins Karthi Gnagnasegaram, Presenter and Host, for an in-depth conversation on the evolving strategy behind the world’s most-watched sports league. 

Recorded on October 2, 2025, at Leaders Week London, this discussion explores how Masters and his team are steering the league through a period of transformation—balancing commercial success with the long-term integrity of the game. 

Key discussion points include: 

In this episode of On Stage, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell joins Neil Reynolds, presenter of the NFL on Sky Sports, for an in-depth conversation about the league’s global ambitions and evolving strategy. Recorded on October 2, 2025, at Leaders Week London—hosted by SBJ’s sister company Leaders in Sport at Allianz Stadium—Goodell shares his perspective on expanding the NFL’s international footprint, fostering fan engagement, and the evolving business of football. 

Key discussion points include: 

In this episode of On Stage, BIG EAST Commissioner Val Ackerman joins Sports Business Journal’s Publisher and Executive Editor, Abraham Madkour for an inspiring and candid conversation that took place on September 25, 2025, at SBJ’s Game Changers conference in New York City.

Ackerman — a pioneer in sports leadership and one of the most respected voices in college athletics — reflects on a career defined by innovation, advocacy, and resilience. From helping launch the WNBA as its first president to guiding the BIG EAST through a time of rapid change, Ackerman’s insights illuminate how leadership evolves in moments of...

In this episode of On Stage, U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Properties CEO John Slusher joins Sports Business Journal Editor-at-Large Terry Lefton for an insightful conversation about the business engine powering the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. 

Recorded on September 17, 2025, at SBJ’s AXS DRIVE conference in Los Angeles, this discussion explores how Slusher — a longtime Nike executive who helped architect some of the brand’s biggest global partnerships — is now applying that experience to redefine how the Olympics engage fans, brands, and communities.

Key themes include: 

In this episode of On Stage, we take you inside the L.A. Dodgers with CEO & President Stan Kasten and Executive Vice President & CMO Lon Rosen. This conversation, recorded September 17, 2025 at SBJ’s AXS DRIVE event in Los Angeles, explores how one of the most iconic franchises in sports continues to set the standard on and off the field. Kasten and Rosen—two of the most respected leaders in professional sports—share candid insights on how the Dodgers combine tradition with innovation to grow their global brand. The conversation covers: 

In this episode of On Stage, Steve Ballmer—Chairman of the L.A. Clippers, Intuit Dome, and former CEO of Microsoft—joins Sports Business Journal’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour for a wide-ranging conversation that took place on September 16, 2025, at SBJ’s AXS DRIVE conference in Los Angeles.

With his trademark enthusiasm, Ballmer shares how he’s redefining what it means to be a sports owner, builder, and leader. The conversation explores:

In this episode of On Stage, two visionary leaders—Mellody Hobson, Co-CEO and President of Ariel Investments, and Ted Leonsis, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment—share the stage at SBJ’s Dealmakers Conference in Washington, D.C., on November 30, 2023. 

Hobson, a nationally recognized financial executive and advocate for financial literacy, speaks candidly about how Ariel Investments approaches long-term value creation, why patience is critical in both markets and leadership, and how she’s worked to open doors for underrepresented groups in business. She also reflects on lessons from serving on the boards of major companies like JPMo...

In this episode of On Stage, Michael Rubin, CEO and Chairman of Fanatics, joins SBJ’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour for a lively conversation at the CAA World Congress of Sports on April 16, 2024. 

Rubin pulls back the curtain on the unprecedented growth of Fanatics, which now spans licensed merchandise, trading cards, collectibles, and sports betting. Along the way, he shares the mindset behind building what he describes as “the world’s leading digital sports platform,” and what it takes to keep scaling a business that has reshaped how fans interact with their teams and athletes. 

The c...

Description:

This episode of On Stage takes us deeper into the SBJ archives than ever before, revisiting a keynote interview from the 2016 Intercollegiate Athletics Forum with Paul Tagliabue, the longtime former commissioner of the National Football League. 

Tagliabue, who led the NFL from 1989 to 2006, oversaw one of the league’s most transformative eras: four expansion franchises, high-profile franchise relocations, and landmark decisions that reflected the NFL’s influence on culture and society—from postponing games after 9/11 to moving a Super Bowl over Arizona’s refusal to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Elected to the Pro Footb...

In this episode of On Stage, Laura Ricketts—co-owner of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Sky—sits down with Abe Madkour, Publisher & Executive Editor of Sports Business Journal. Recorded on October 30, 2024, at SBJ’s Dealmakers Conference in Washington, D.C., the conversation highlights Ricketts’ unique position as one of the few women to hold a majority stake in a U.S. professional sports team.  Ricketts reflects on her journey across MLB, WNBA, and NWSL ownership, and how her philanthropic and activist commitments shape the way she approaches sports as a business and cultural platform.

Key themes include: 

In this special episode of On Stage, actor, comedian, and LAFC co-owner Will Ferrell joins Larry Freedman, the club’s co-president, for a fireside chat moderated by SBJ’s Abe Madkour.

Recorded on February 27, 2023, at the National Sports Forum in Los Angeles, this session offers a rare glimpse into how one of Hollywood’s most recognizable figures became a driving force behind one of Major League Soccer’s most dynamic franchises.

Ferrell shares his origin story with LAFC—from being recruited as an owner to embracing the culture of the club—while Freedman pulls back the curtain...

Description:

In this episode of On Stage, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred joins SBJ Senior Writer Joe Lemire for a candid conversation on the business, challenges, and opportunities shaping professional baseball. 

Recorded on April 22, 2025, at the CAA World Congress of Sports presented by Sports Business Journal, this keynote captures Manfred’s perspective just months before major headlines about MLB’s labor landscape and new national media rights negotiations. 

While the news cycle has since moved quickly—with fresh updates on his talks with players over the next labor agreement and signs of progress on a new me...

Episode Description:

In this episode of On Stage, Rich Paul—CEO of KLUTCH Sports Group and Head of Sports at United Talent Agency—joins Zach Leonsis, President of Media & New Enterprises at Monumental Sports & Entertainment, for a compelling one-on-one conversation that spans business, brand, representation, and long-term influence.

Recorded on October 29, 2024, at SBJ’s Dealmakers conference in Washington, D.C., this session came just as Paul and Leonsis announced a new partnership between KLUTCH and Monumental—aimed at unlocking new revenue streams and strategic collaborations as Monumental prepares to reimagine Capital One Arena.

In this...

In this episode of On Stage, NCAA President Charlie Baker sits down with SBJ Executive Editor and Publisher Abe Madkour for a candid conversation about the state of college athletics—and the future of the NCAA itself.

This conversation took place December 11, 2024, at the SBJ Intercollegiate Athletics Forum in Las Vegas, during a pivotal moment in Baker’s presidency. At the time, the industry was bracing for major shifts in governance, athlete compensation, and long-term sustainability.

Since then, the updates have continued at a rapid pace: the NCAA’s proposed House settlement, revenue-sharing discussions, and deeper...

Episode Description: 

In this special episode of On Stage, two extraordinary leaders—General Mark Milley, the recently retired Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Ted Leonsis, Founder and CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment—sit down for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, culture, and service. 

Recorded on October 30, 2024, at SBJ’s Dealmakers conference in Washington, D.C., this fireside chat explores what it means to lead during times of transformation—whether you're guiding a nation’s military or a multibillion-dollar sports and media empire. 

Topics include: 

In this episode of On Stage, Sports Business Journal’s Executive Publisher Abe Madkour sits down with iconic sports agent David Falk for a conversation about the legacy of athlete empowerment and the business of storytelling. 

Recorded on May 20, 2025, at SBJ’s 4se event in New York City, the conversation traces Falk’s role in redefining what it means to represent an athlete—not just on the court, but across culture, commerce, and entertainment. 

Falk, who famously represented Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson, Patrick Ewing, and many more, shares: 

Episode Description: 

In this episode of On Stage, Sports Business Journal’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour sits down with SMAC Entertainment’s dynamic co-founders—Michael Strahan and Constance Schwartz-Morini—for a masterclass in athlete-driven media and brand building. 

Recorded on May 20, 2025, at SBJ’s 4se event in New York City, this wide-ranging conversation covers the origin story behind SMAC, how the former NFL star and the veteran media executive built a business that blends storytelling with strategy, and the secret to unlocking multi-platform success.

Topics include:

Episode Description:

In this episode of On Stage, Sports Business Journal’s Publisher and Executive Editor Abe Madkour sits down with the three siblings leading the most valuable sports franchise in the world—the Dallas Cowboys. 

Recorded on September 17, 2024, at SBJ’s AXS DRIVE event in Frisco, Texas, this rare joint appearance features Charlotte Jones (Chief Brand Officer), Jerry Jones Jr. (Chief Sales & Marketing Officer), and Stephen Jones (Chief Operating Officer) in an open, insightful—and often humorous—conversation about brand leadership, family legacy, and building a business that goes far beyond game day. 

Together...

Episode Description:

In this episode of On Stage, Olympic gold medalist and action sports icon Shaun White joins Sports Business Journal staff writer Chris Smith for a strategic conversation that took place on May 21, 2025, at SBJ’s 4se event in New York City.

White shares his vision behind The Snow League, a new venture designed to bring structure, visibility, and commercial potential to competitive snowboarding—while capturing a broader, global audience. Blending his experience as a world-class athlete with lessons from brand-building and entrepreneurship, White covers: