Shows
The Business of FootballBridging the Gap With Anadi Taylor: Creating Pathways for Young Players to Premier League AcademiesIn this episode, David welcomes back Anadi Taylor for a second conversation, diving into the exciting developments surrounding the Soccer Skills Challenge, a program designed to benchmark and improve the skills of young football players. Anadi shares insights on how the initiative was born from the need to evaluate younger players, particularly those outside of professional academies, and how it has evolved to include collaboration with Premier League Academy scouts and coaches.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Soccer Skills Challenge Development: A new benchmarking system called the Soccer Skills Challenge has been developed to evaluate...2025-06-251h 08
The Business of FootballThe Business of Football Podcast Review: Best Interviews So Far!In this episode we look back at some of the best convrsations of The Business of Football Podcast so far, with snippets from interviews host David Chimbaza had with International Football Presenter Adriano Del Monte & Founder of Footy Addicts Konstantinos Gkortsilas.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Community Focus: Footy Addicts was founded to address the need for social football games, particularly for individuals who lack a social network.
Focus on Authenticity: Being true to oneself is essential for effective presenting. Authenticity resonates with audiences and helps build genuine connections, whether on camera or in person.
...2025-06-1818 min
The Business of FootballBreaking Into The Football Industry: Strategies for Success in a Competitive MarketIn this episode of the Business of Football podcast, David delves into the intricate economics of the global football industry, highlighting the challenges and opportunities present in various markets. Focusing primarily on Europe and the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, David also covers the saturation of the European market, where a high number of sports management graduates compete for limited roles, and contrasts it with the burgeoning growth in Saudi Arabia, where significant investments are being made to develop the sports sector. KEY TAKEAWAYS Saturation in the European Market: The European football industry i...2025-06-1117 min
The Business of FootballExploring the Evolution of Football Fandom: From Local Loyalists to Global ConsumersIn this episode of the podcast, David delves into the intriguing topic of football fan consumption, drawing on insights from their university studies and recent reports from the European Clubs Association. The discussion categorises modern football fans into six distinct groups based on their engagement levels, from casual followers to die-hard loyalists. KEY TAKEAWAYS Diverse Fan Categories: The European Clubs Association identifies six distinct categories of football fans based on their engagement levels, ranging from "FOMO followers" who seek social currency to "club loyalists" who are deeply emotionally invested in their teams. 2025-06-0424 min
The Business of FootballUnlocking the Future: How AI is Revolutionizing the Football IndustryIn this episode of David delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the football industry. With insights drawn from previous discussions and current trends, the episode explores how AI is revolutionising various aspects of football, including player recruitment, financial management, and fan engagement. David shares personal experiences with AI tools, highlighting their efficiency in content creation and graphic design. KEY TAKEAWAYS: AI's Growing Role in Football: The football industry is increasingly integrating AI technologies for various applications, including player recruitment, financial management, and fan engagement. Enhanced Fan Engagement: A...2025-05-2913 min
The Business of FootballStaying in the Game: The Importance of Emotion in Football CareersIn this episode, David reflects on the intersection of passion and career in the football industry, emphasizing the unique emotional engagement that sets football apart from other businesses. Drawing on examples of C-level executives who transitioned from non-sports industries into football, such as Ivan Gazidis and Christian Perslow, the discussion highlights how their fresh perspectives and understanding of the sport's emotional weight have shaped their leadership. KEY TAKEAWAYS Passion vs. Career in Football: There is a delicate balance between pursuing a passion for football and establishing a career in the industry. While passion i...2025-05-2119 min
The Business of FootballBuilding Community Through Football: A Conversation with Konstantinos Gkortsilas of Footy AddictsIn this episode of the Business of Football podcast, David sits down with Konstantinos Gkortsilas, the founder and managing director of Footy Addicts, a platform designed to help individuals find and participate in social football games. Konstantinos shares insights on the positive impact of football on mental health, the challenges posed by COVID-19, and the evolving landscape of organised football. David concludes with reflections on the importance of community in football and the broader societal implications of social connections in today's world. KEY TAKEAWAYS Community Focus: Footy Addicts was founded to address the n...2025-05-1433 min
The Business of FootballUnlocking Opportunities: Navigating the Hidden Job Market in FootballIn this episode of the Business as a Football podcast, David delves into the hidden job market within the football industry, highlighting the critical role of networking in securing job opportunities. With a striking statistic that 70% of roles are filled through referrals rather than traditional applications, David then shares personal experiences and insights, including the challenges faced when applying for competitive positions at top clubs like Manchester City. Additionally, the episode offers practical advice on how to navigate the industry, such as volunteering and joining community groups to uncover unadvertised roles. KEY TAKEAWAYS H...2025-05-0712 min
The Business of FootballFrom Toronto to Manchester: Dave Lipp's Journey in Sports Media and Football StrategyIn this episode of the Business as a Football podcast, David sits down with Dave Lipp, a former sports media and tech executive with an impressive background, including roles at Sky, NBC Universal, and as the business development and strategy officer at Manchester United. Dave shares insights on his transition back into sports, the significance of networking, and the challenges of working in a fast-paced football environment. KEY TAKEAWAYS Diverse Background in Sports and Media: The guest's career began in sports with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment in Canada, followed by significant roles i...2025-04-3036 min
The Business of FootballUnlocking Success in Football: The Four Non-Negotiables for Aspiring ProfessionalsIn this episode of the Business of Football podcast, David discusses four essential non-negotiables for achieving success in the football industry: knowledge, network, mentorship, and experience. David emphasises the importance of understanding the specific role one is pursuing, whether in scouting, coaching, or other areas, and highlights how building a strong network can lead to job opportunities through referrals. David shares personal anecdotes about his own mentorship experiences and the value of actively seeking guidance from industry leaders. KEY TAKEAWAYS Knowledge is Essential: Understanding the specific area you want to work in, such a...2025-04-2314 min
The Business of FootballThe Transfer Market Evolution: Analyzing the Impact of The Biggest Moves in FootballIn this episode, David delves into the complexities of the transfer market, particularly focusing on its evolution over the past decade. Highlighting the record-breaking transfer of Neymar in 2017, the discussion explores the subsequent inflation of transfer fees and the impact of financial regulations on club spending. David also raises thought-provoking questions about the future of the transfer market, considering whether it will stabilize or continue to evolve in response to economic pressures and regulatory changes. KEY TAKEAWAYS Impact of Neymar's Transfer: Neymar's record-breaking transfer to PSG in 2017 for €220 million marked a significant turning poi...2025-04-1613 min
The Business of FootballEmbracing Errors: How Mistakes Fuel Growth in the Competitive World of FootballIn this episode, David shares valuable insights gained from experiences in the football business industry, particularly focusing on the importance of adaptability, networking, and learning from mistakes. Drawing from conversations with various industry professionals, David emphasizes the need to be flexible in career paths and to embrace diverse roles to build a well-rounded skill set. Networking is highlighted as a crucial element for success, with practical advice on how to effectively connect with others in the field. KEY TAKEAWAYS Adaptability is Crucial: Being flexible and open to taking on different roles and projects is...2025-04-0915 min
The Business of FootballBridging Continents: Khalid Abdulrahman's Vision for Football in the Middle East and EuropeIn this episode of the Business of Football podcast, David sits down with Khalid Abdulrahman, the founder and chairman of Sportnaa Football Agency. Khalid shares his journey from aspiring professional footballer in Bahrain to establishing a successful agency that bridges the gap between football in the Middle East and Europe. Khalid also discusses the importance of youth development, the challenges faced by players adapting to new environments, and the ongoing efforts to enhance the Bahraini football league's professionalism and cultural significance. KEY TAKEAWAYS Transition from Player to Agent: Khalid Abdelrahman transitioned from aspiring p...2025-04-0228 min
The Business of FootballTransforming the Uganda Premier League: Insights from Chief Commercial Officer Matovu JovinIn this episode of the Business of Football podcast, David invites Matovu Jovin, the Chief Commercial Officer of the Ugandan Premier League, Motovu shares insights into his role and vision for transforming the league into a prominent division in African football. Since joining in March 2024, Matovu has discussed the importance of building a strong community connection, the significance of branding in sports, and the strategies being implemented to attract fans and sponsors. With upcoming events like AFCON 2025, Matovu emphasizes the potential for growth and the excitement surrounding Ugandan football, while also highlighting the need for sustainable financial practices within c...2025-03-2634 min
The Business of FootballEmpowering the Next Generation: My Journey Through Youth Initiatives in FootballIn this episode, David shares insights from his experiences in the FA Leadership Academy and various youth development events. David discusses the importance of fostering the right mentality among young people to cultivate future leaders and highlights the significance of youth councils in county FA structures. David outlines six key pillars for developing youth leaders, including creating core groups, educational partnerships, providing work experience, and offering mentorship opportunities. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Youth Councils: Engaging young people through youth councils and boards can create a structured environment for them to voice their opinions a...2025-03-1916 min
The Business of FootballThe Power of Patience: Understanding the Fast-Paced World of Football BusinessIn this episode of the Business of Football podcast, David reflects on his journey in the football industry, sharing valuable lessons learned over the past few months. David emphasizes the importance of patience when building connections, networking through unique approaches, and the inevitability of making mistakes in a fast-paced environment. David also recounts personal experiences, including volunteering, the impact of offering value to others, and the insights gained from conversations with industry professionals. KEY TAKEAWAYS Patience is Essential: In the fast-paced football industry, it's important to remain patient when waiting for responses or p...2025-03-1213 min
The Business of FootballBehind the Scenes of Ticketing: Insights from Kaizen's Managing Director, David Lynam - Part 2In this episode of the Business Football Podcast, David continues his insightful conversation with David Lynam the founder and managing director of Kaizen Ticketing. Building on their previous discussion, they delve into the evolving landscape of ticketing in football, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong connection with fans while adopting a more businesslike approach. David shares his experiences from working with clubs across various leagues, highlighting the challenges and opportunities presented by the shift from paper to digital tickets, the impact of COVID-19, and the role of technology in enhancing the fan experience. KEY T...2025-03-0536 min
The Business of FootballBehind the Scenes of Ticketing: Insights from Kaizen's Managing Director, David LynamIn this episode of the Business as a Football podcast, David has an insightful conversation with David Lynam the founder and managing director of Kaizen Ticketing, who shares insights from his extensive career in the ticketing industry. With experience at prestigious venues like Wembley Stadium and involvement in major events such as the London Olympics and Euro 2012, David discusses the evolution of ticketing, particularly at non-league clubs, and how technology has transformed the way clubs engage with their audiences. David reflects on the challenges and lessons learned from his early days in ticketing, including the importance of adaptability and...2025-02-2635 min
The Business of FootballExperiencing Football's Inner Workings: A Personal ReflectionIn this episode of the Business and Football podcast, David shares experiences from two memorable days in the football industry. David recounts his visit to Liverpool's AXA Training Centre, where he witnessed a unique filming day involving the club's under-eights team and first-team players, including Endo, Tsimikas and Luis Diaz. David reflects on the behind-the-scenes workings of a marketing shoot, highlighting the coordination and effort required to create engaging content. David also discusses his visit to St. George's Park, where he gained insights into the training facilities and the decision-making processes involved in VAR scenarios. K...2025-02-1915 min
The Business of FootballThe Evolution of Women's Football: Insights from Deborah Dilworth at the FSAIn this episode of the Business Football Podcast, David sits down with Deborah Dilworth, the head of women's football at the Football Supporters Association. With a wealth of experience as a coach and mentor, Deborah shares her football journey, highlighting the influence of her family and friends in her early years. Deborah discusses her coaching experiences in the United States and Australia, emphasizing the importance of empathy and adaptability in coaching different age groups and genders. Deborah also reflects on the impact of the Lionesses' success in 2022, the ongoing challenges in women's football, and the need for greater diversity...2025-02-1234 min
The Business of FootballBridging the Gap: Enhancing Fan Representation in Football Club Decision-MakingIn this episode of The Business of Football podcast, David delves into the critical topic of fan representation in football clubs and the role of platforms like iTrust, founded by Nick Inge, in enhancing fan engagement. David explores the financial priorities of clubs over sporting success, the rising ticket prices, and the challenges fans face in voicing their concerns. David also emphasizes the need for better communication and genuine engagement between clubs and their loyal supporters, suggesting that innovative solutions could bridge the growing gap and restore the emotional connection that fans have with their teams. 2025-02-0517 min
The Business of FootballEmpowering Youth Through Football: Insights from Paul Nelson on Grassroots DevelopmentIn this episode of The Business of Football podcast, David sits down with Paul Nelson, the former Technical Director at Bentley Green Soccer Club in Australia and current General Secretary of the UEFA AAA Board. Paul shares his unique journey from the finance world to the football industry, highlighting his passion for youth sport and community engagement. Paul discusses the importance of creating safe spaces for young players, the role of coaches in fostering personal development, and the need for grassroots football to adapt to modern societal changes. KEY TAKEAWAYS Transition from Finance t...2025-01-2943 min
The Business of FootballThe Future of Sports: Fiona Green on Leveraging AI and Data for Athlete Empowerment and Career LongevityIn today's episode, David sits down with Fiona Green, the CEO and founder of ProDataStack, to explore the evolving role of data in professional sports. With over 30 years of experience in the football industry, Fiona discusses how ProDataStack leverages AI-supported software to empower athletes by providing insights into their performance data and off-field branding opportunities. They consider the importance of data in contract negotiations, the varying levels of athlete engagement with their personal data, and the challenges faced by the sports industry in adopting data-driven strategies. Fiona emphasizes the need for athletes and their agents to understand and utilize...2025-01-2427 min
The Business of FootballMaximizing Your Networking Potential: A Comprehensive Guide to Football EventsIn this episode, David delves into the intricacies of maximising networking opportunities within the football industry. David outlines a structured approach divided into three key stages: pre-event, during the event, and post-event. Emphasising the importance of goal setting, David shares personal experiences and practical tips on how to prepare effectively, engage meaningfully during the event, and maintain connections afterwards. KEY TAKEAWAYS Set Clear Goals: Before attending a networking event, identify what you want to achieve. This could range from expanding your network, learning about specific opportunities, or connecting with a particular individual. 2025-01-1518 min
The Business of FootballFrom Melbourne to Milan: Adriano Del Monte's Journey in Sports JournalismIn this episode of The Business of Football, David chats with Alejandro De Monte, an experienced presenter and journalist, about his incredible journey from Australia to the UK and now Italy, where he covers some of football’s biggest events such as hosting events with FIFA for the World Cup, and UEFA Europa & Conference League Draws, as well as presenting for one of Europe's most elite clubs in AC Milan. Alejandro shares fascinating stories about adapting to different cultures, building a strong network, and navigating the ever-changing world of media in the social media age. He also op...2025-01-0834 min
The Business of FootballNetworking Mastery: How to Acquire and Maintain Valuable Relationships in the Sports IndustryIn this episode, David delves into the essential strategies for acquiring and maintaining high-value connections within the football business space. Drawing from personal experiences, David outlines four key methods: working for influential figures, collaborating with them, attending networking events, and leveraging LinkedIn for connections. David shares insights on how to effectively navigate networking opportunities and the significance of building a strong professional network. KEY TAKEAWAYS Gaining experience by working for established individuals in the football business can open doors to valuable networks. Volunteering or doing free work can help build trust and credibility.2024-12-1818 min
The Business of FootballEmpowering Grassroots Football: Tariq Qasim on CoachHub's Mission to Transform Player DevelopmentIn this episode, David sits down with Tariq Qasim, the CEO and founder of KoachHub, a Singapore-based sports tech company focused on revolutionizing grassroots football through data. Tariq shares his journey into the football space, the inception of KoachHub, and its mission to provide youth players with a digital resume that tracks their performance and development. Tariq also discusses the potential for collaboration with federations and brands to enhance player development and the overall football ecosystem. KEY TAKEAWAYS Focus on Grassroots Development: KoachHub aims to democratize access to technology and player data for g...2024-12-1147 min
The Business of FootballFrom Consumption to Creation: Maximising Value from Your Social Media ExperienceIn this episode, David considers the overwhelming nature of social media, particularly within the football industry. He discusses the pressure to constantly create and consume content, highlighting the importance of setting clear goals for social media use. David shares personal strategies for managing content creation and consumption, emphasising the value of engaging with the right people and focusing on meaningful interactions rather than mindless scrolling. KEY TAKEAWAYS Establish a purpose for your social media presence, such as networking or content creation, to avoid getting lost in the overwhelming amount of content available. Instead...2024-12-0421 min
The Business of FootballNetworking in the Sports Industry: Lessons from Carlo De Marchis on Building Lasting RelationshipsIn this episode, David sits down with Carlo De Marchis, known as "A Guy With A Scarf", to explore his extensive career in sports technology and marketing. Carlo shares his unique experiences attending major sports events, emphasizing the value of networking and idea generation behind the scenes. Carlo discusses the importance of creativity in the sports industry and how he leverages his brand to connect with others. KEY TAKEAWAYS Networking and Relationship Building: Attending sports events provides valuable opportunities to build relationships and foster connections with industry professionals. Creativity in Sports: E...2024-11-2734 min
The Business of FootballUnlocking Your Brand: The Power of Content Creation in FootballIn this episode, David delves into the importance of content creation, particularly within the football industry, and shares practical tips for individuals looking to build their brand. David shares personal experiences and strategies for documenting events, recording talks, and utilizing social media to enhance visibility and connect with a broader audience. KEY TAKEAWAYS In today's digital landscape, creating content is crucial for personal branding and marketing, especially in the football industry where content is increasingly prevalent. Speaking at events provides a unique opportunity to create valuable content. Recording talks can generate mu...2024-11-2021 min
The Business of FootballBuilding a Legacy: How Barrie Pierpont Revolutionised Leicester City Football ClubIn this special episode, David sits down with former Leicester City Chief Executive Officer Barrie Pierpont, who played a pivotal role in transforming the club during the early 1990s. Barrie shares his journey from joining a financially struggling club to significantly increasing its revenue and fan engagement, including raising ticket sales by nearly 250% and launching successful community initiatives. Barrie discusses the challenges he faced, including a tumultuous boardroom environment and the pressures of relegation, while highlighting the importance of involving fans in decision-making and creating a positive club culture. KEY TAKEAWAYS Transforming a S...2024-11-1454 min
The Business of FootballBreaking the Age Barrier: Empowering Young Voices in the Football IndustryIn this episode, David explores the challenges and opportunities faced by young professionals in the football industry. David discusses the common age bias that often leads to younger individuals feeling underestimated and how they can combat this perception by emphasizing their skills, experiences, and adaptability. David shares insights from his journey and highlights the importance of networking, staying updated with industry trends, and effectively communicating one's value. KEY TAKEAWAYS Young individuals should recognize their capabilities and the unique perspectives they bring to the football industry. Instead of feeling limited by age. B...2024-11-0621 min
The Business of FootballBuilding Community in Football: Insights from Andy Marston on Fan Engagement and Content CreationIn this episode, David talks with Andy Marston about community building within the football industry. Andy shares insights from his own experiences, particularly through his initiative, Sports Pundit, which aims to connect professionals in the sports sector. Andy also explores the need for greater inclusivity of younger voices in the industry, drawing parallels with successful models from other sectors, such as Gucci's shadow boards. Additionally, he delves into the Players Fund, an athlete-backed venture fund that empowers sports professionals to invest wisely and prepare for life after their athletic careers. KEY TAKEAWAYS The f...2024-10-3048 min
The Business of FootballMastering Personal Branding in the Football Industry: 10 Essential StepsIn this episode, David delves into the intricacies of personal branding within the football industry, outlining ten essential steps to help listeners define their niche and establish a strong online presence. Emphasizing the importance of social media, David shares insights on how to generate reactions and engage with audiences effectively. He also highlights the value of sharing knowledge and fostering relationships through consistent interaction and valuable content. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding your specific area within the football industry is crucial. Whether it's coaching, physiotherapy, or social media, identifying your niche helps you understand your audience and...2024-10-2317 min
The Business of FootballExploring the Future of Football: AI Innovations with Melanie MoellerIn this episode, David interviews Melanie Muller, CEO and AI consultant at GenFuturesLab, who shares her insights on the intersection of artificial intelligence and football. Speaking at the SportsProAI Future of Sport Conference, Melanie recently discussed her innovative AI avatar, Leo AI, designed to analyse football matches and enhance fan engagement. They look into the potential of AI to improve decision-making and fan experiences. Melanie emphasises the need for football clubs, especially at lower levels, to embrace digital transformation and explore AI tools to enhance efficiency and engagement. KEY TAKEAWAYS The introduction of A...2024-10-1632 min
The Business of FootballUnlocking Opportunities: The Power of Networking in The Football IndustryIn this episode, David delves into the crucial topic of networking within the football industry. David emphasizes the importance of building relationships from an early age and how every interaction contributes to one's network. The episode covers various strategies for effective networking, including attending events, leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter, and the value of mentorship. David shares personal experiences and insights on how to foster connections, engage with industry professionals, and the long-term benefits of nurturing relationships. KEY TAKEAWAYS Networking is fundamentally about establishing connections with others, starting from a y...2024-10-0920 min
The Business of FootballFrom Steward to CEO: A Journey of Embracing Luck Through ActionIn this episode, David delves into the concept of luck and how it can be influenced by our actions. David shares personal anecdotes from his journey in the football industry, illustrating that luck often comes to those who are willing to try and step out of their comfort zones. David emphasizes the importance of taking risks, networking, and seizing opportunities, arguing that luck is not merely a chance occurrence but something that can be "hacked" through persistence and effort. David encourages listeners to embrace failure as a learning experience and to adopt a proactive mindset in their pursuit of...2024-10-0218 min
The Business of FootballHow to Stand Out in the Football IndustryIn this episode, David delves into the essential strategies for standing out in the competitive football industry. Sharing personal experiences from his university days, he emphasizes the importance of networking, gaining practical experience through volunteering, and leveraging social media as a powerful tool for self-promotion. The episode highlights the significance of authenticity and building trust within professional relationships, encouraging listeners to take proactive steps in their careers. With practical advice on utilizing platforms like LinkedIn and attending networking events. KEY TAKEAWAYS To succeed in the football industry, it's essential to differentiate yourself from others. Th...2024-09-2517 min
The Business of FootballAnadi Taylor The Tech FounderIn this episode, David welcomes Anandi Taylor and engages in a captivating conversation about the intersection of technology and sports. With a rich background in big data analysis, Anandi shares his journey from working with major corporations like Shell Oil and JP Morgan to founding iSports Analysis, a company dedicated to making performance analysis accessible to all levels of sports. Anandi emphasizes the importance of education in understanding data and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to seize opportunities and pursue their passions. KEY TAKEAWAYS A strong enthusiasm for technology and data can lead to innovative s...2024-09-2044 min
The Business of FootballGlobalization in FootballIn this episode, David delves into the profound impact of globalization on the football industry, which has evolved into a $400 billion mini-society. The discussion highlights the diverse types of football fans, from die-hard fanatics to casual followers, and how clubs are increasingly targeting these demographics for marketing and engagement. The episode explores the commercialization of football through broadcasting and social media, emphasizing the rise of player iconography and the influence of social media on fan loyalty. Additionally, David addresses the challenges faced by local fans in a globalized market, the rising ticket prices that price out younger supporters, and...2024-09-1321 min
The Business of FootballThe David Johnson-Rayner interviewIn this episode, David welcomes his first guest, David Johnson-Rayner a seasoned entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in business and a strong advocate for social mobility among young people. The episode delves into David's journey, highlighting his work with Koi Sports and the Third Eye International Sports Consultancy, which focuses on empowering young individuals through innovative educational programs. The conversation also touches on the future of the sports business industry and the impact of financial motivations on grassroots sports. KEY TAKEAWAYS Having mentors and supportive figures in one's journey can significantly i...2024-09-0635 min
The Business of FootballAI In FootballIn this episode, David delves into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the world of football. The discussion highlights how AI is already being integrated into various aspects of the sport, from coaching and player performance analysis to injury prevention and stadium management. David emphasizes the importance of AI in achieving marginal gains and operational efficiency, while also asserting that the human element in football remains irreplaceable. Listeners are encouraged to embrace AI as a valuable tool for enhancing their own businesses and coaching practices, with practical advice on how to start utilizing AI effectively. ...2024-09-0218 min
The Business of FootballThe Business of Social Media in FootballIn this episode David delves into the significant impact of social media on the football industry, highlighting its role in the digital revolution. The discussion covers three key areas: the ease of content creation and distribution for football clubs, the importance of brand and influencer positioning, and the innovative repurposing of content to engage diverse audiences. The episode emphasizes how clubs are leveraging short-form content and influencer partnerships to enhance their reach and engagement, ultimately transforming the way fans interact with the sport. With insights into the strategies employed by organizations like the Premier League and Sky Sports, 2024-08-3026 min
The Business of FootballDisrupting Football BusinessIn this episode David, delves into the concept of disrupting an industry, emphasizing the importance of breaking down the status quo and leveraging personal skills for innovation. Drawing inspiration from entrepreneur Rob Moore, the discussion highlights the significance of belief in oneself and the necessity of acquiring skills through networking, volunteering, and preparation. David shares personal anecdotes from their journey in football and business, illustrating how mistakes and learning experiences contribute to growth. KEY TAKEAWAYS To disrupt an industry, it's crucial to first believe in your own abilities and ideas. If you don't h...2024-08-2622 min
The Business of FootballInvestigating Money in FootballIn this episode David dives into the lucrative world of football, focusing on the highest earners outside of playing roles. The episode explores the top 10 highest-paying non-playing jobs in football, from performance directors to club managers, highlighting the significant impact these positions have on the sport. The discussion also touches on the most searched roles in sports, revealing what aspiring professionals are interested in, and contrasts this with what people want to pursue in their careers. Additionally, David examines the most profitable business models in sports, emphasizing the importance of emotional investment from fans and the evolving landscape of...2024-08-2230 min
The Business of FootballDecoding Football BusinessIn this episode, David delves into the intricacies of the football business model, addressing common misconceptions about how football clubs operate financially. The episode highlights the stark reality that a significant majority of clubs do not operate at a profit, with 85% of teams in the top four English divisions losing money in the 2022-2023 season. The discussion also covers the high costs associated with player wages and the risks clubs take in gambling for promotion, using Derby County as a cautionary example. Additionally, the host clarifies the myth surrounding player transfers and shirt sales, revealing that clubs earn only...2024-08-1917 min
The Business of FootballThe Price of a DreamIn this episode David shares a personal journey through the world of football, reflecting on his early aspirations to become a professional player and the challenges he faced along the way. Starting from his childhood in Swindon, he recounts his experiences as a goalkeeper, the disappointment of being released from an academy, and the subsequent loss of passion for the sport. The episode delves into the emotional toll of pursuing a football career and the importance of player care within clubs. David emphasizes the value of providing opportunities for young players to engage with the sport beyond playing, such...2024-08-1914 min
The Business of FootballBuilding a BusinessIn this episode, David shares insights on breaking into the football business from a young person's perspective. Reflecting on their journey after graduating, they discuss the importance of networking, humility, and seizing opportunities. The episode highlights the challenges faced while navigating the industry, including a humorous anecdote about a near-mistake in player administration. David emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly changing industry, drawing parallels between personal growth and the evolution of football clubs. KEY TAKEAWAYS Building connections and networking with established individuals in the industry can open doors a...2024-08-0213 min