Shows
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 883 - Joe Bertoletti (Assistant General Manager, Insignia Events)The last time that Troy talked to Joe, they were at the 2016 NACDA Conference. Troy was at UC Davis and Joe was at Holy Cross. Now, both are no longer in college athletics, which has changed drastically in that time. Joe made his way out to the southwest, working at both Surprise Stadium, the Cactus League home of the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers, and now at Insignia Events, owned by the Arizona Cardinals for their State Farm Stadium event conversion unit. Joe talks about the variables of changing over a massive stadium for single weekend events, as...2024-03-2534 min
Kirby's KidsHoliday Special - Kirby's Kids Giving Thanks & 2024 Graphic Novel Reading List AnnouncementHAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! Angus gives thanks for all our community members, listeners, and fellow kids. He is also joined by Comics Cowboy Troy who performs a dramatic reading of the 2024 Kirby's Kids Graphic Novel Reading List selections.
KIRBY’S KIDS GRAPHIC NOVEL READING LIST FOR 2024
January - VERTIGO MONTH - PREACHER Book I
https://www.amazon.com/Preacher-Book-One-GARTH-ENNIS-ebook/dp/B00C2IHYPW/
February - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin
https://www.amazon.com/Teenage-Mutant-Ninja-Turtles-Ronin-ebook/dp/B09XZK3Y98/
2023-11-2320 min
Kirby's KidsHOLIDAY SPECIAL - KIRBY'S KIDS GIVING THANKS & BUYERS' GUIDE TO 2023 GRAPHIC NOVEL READING LISTHAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! Angus gives thanks for all our community members, listeners, and fellow kids. He is also joined by Comics Cowboy Troy who performs a dramatic reading of the 2023 Kirby's Kids Graphic Novel Reading List selections.
KIRBY’S KIDS GRAPHIC NOVEL READING LIST FOR 2023
January - VERTIGO MONTH - 100 Bullets Book I
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OI8ZA00
Comic Book Character Of The Month: Matthew The Raven - Sandman
The Sandman
https://www.netflix.com/title/81150303
...2022-11-2310 min
Kirby's KidsHOLIDAY SPECIAL - KIRBY'S KIDS GIVING THANKS, ANNUAL DIGITAL COMICS SERVICES REVIEW & BUYERS' GUIDE TO 2022 GRAPHIC NOVEL READING LISTHAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! Angus gives thanks for all our community members and listeners by conducting his annual digital comics services review. He is also joined by Comics Cowboy Troy who performs a dramatic reading of the 2022 Kirby's Kids Graphic Novel Reading List selections.
Services Profiled:
Amazon Prime Reading - https://www.amazon.com/b?node=15195197011
ComiXology - https://www.comixology.com/unlimited
Marvel Unlimited - https://www.marvel.com/mu-21hawkeye
DC Universe Infinite - https://www.dcuniverseinfinite.com/
Crunchyroll - https://www.crunchyroll.com/freetrial?from=topbar2021-11-2535 min
Kirby's KidsKirby's Kids Three Year Anniversary Special Featuring The Graphic Novel Reading List For 2022 AnnouncementAngus hosts a celebration of the Three Year Anniversary of the podcast and expresses gratitude for all of the listeners and active members of the Kirby's Kids community. Angus is also joined by Comics Cowboy Troy who performs a dramatic reading of the 2022 Kirby's Kids Graphic Novel Reading List selections.
KIRBY’S KIDS GRAPHIC NOVEL READING LIST FOR 2022
January - VERTIGO MONTH - Y: The Last Man: Book One
https://www.comixology.com/Y-The-Last-Man-Book-One/digital-comic/136471
February - Doctor Strange Epic Collection: A Sepa...2021-10-0911 min
Kirby's KidsThe Kids Present Jack Kirby Month - TWO-GUN KIDWelcome to Jack Kirby Month 2021 Celebration on Kirby's Kids! We have a jam packed month of "King" sized goodness planned! In this episode Comics Cowboy Troy cozies up to the campfire and reviews one of Jack's contributions to Western comics.
Two-Gun Kid
https://www.comixology.com/Two-Gun-Kid-1948-1977-60/digital-comic/582675
Please join us for our additional reads to celebrate Jack and his comics legacy:
Not Brand Echh - August 18th
https://www.comixology.com/Not-Brand-Echh-1967-1969-7/digital-comic/605310
Kudos Kirby - Machine Man Issue 5 - August 21st2021-08-1409 min
Kirby's KidsHOLIDAY SPECIAL - KIRBY'S KIDS GIVING THANKS, ANNUAL DIGITAL COMICS SERVICES REVIEW & BUYERS' GUIDE TO 2021 GRAPHIC NOVEL READING LISTHAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! Angus gives thanks for all our community members and listeners by conducting his annual digital comics services review. He is also joined by Comics Cowboy Troy who performs a dramatic reading of the 2021 Kirby's Kids Graphic Novel Reading List selections.
Services Profiled:
Amazon Prime Reading - https://www.amazon.com/b?node=15195197011
ComiXology - https://www.comixology.com/unlimited
Marvel Unlimited - https://www.marvel.com/mu-20annualxmenholiday
DC Universe Infinite - https://www.dcuniverse.com/news/dc-universe-transforms-dc-universe-infinite/
Crunchyroll - https://www.crunchyroll.com/freetrial...2020-11-2650 min
American Revolution PodcastAR-SP03 James Kirby Martin on the Saratoga CampaignAn interview with author James Kirby Martin who recently wrote about the Saratoga Campaign in the new book The 10 Key Campaigns of the America Revolution. Visit my site at https://blog.AmRevPodcast.com for a transcript of our discussion, as well as pictures, maps, and links to more books by James Kirby Martin.Contact me via email at mtroy.history@gmail.comFollow the podcast on Twitter @AmRevPodcastJoin the Facebook group, American Revolution Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/groups/132651894048271Join the podcast mail list: https://mailchi.mp/d3445a9cd244...2020-10-2255 minAmerican Revolution PodcastAR-SP03 James Kirby Martin on the Saratoga CampaignAn interview with author James Kirby Martin who recently wrote about the Saratoga Campaign in the new book The 10 Key Campaigns of the America Revolution. Visit my site at https://blog.AmRevPodcast.com for a transcript of our discussion, as well as pictures, maps, and links to more books by James Kirby Martin.Contact me via email at mtroy.history@gmail.comFollow the podcast on Twitter @AmRevPodcastJoin the Facebook group, American Revolution Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/groups/132651894048271Join the podcast mail list: https://mailchi.mp/d3445a9cd244...2020-10-2255 min
Kirby's KidsKirby's Kids Two Year Anniversary Special Featuring The Graphic Novel Reading List For 2021 AnnouncementAngus hosts a brief retrospective celebrating the Two Year Anniversary of the podcast and expresses gratitude for all of the listeners and active members of the Kirby's Kids community. He also thanks fellow 'Kids' Ray, JJ, and Doc for their contributions and support! Check out Doc's work at CBR https://www.cbr.com/author/scott-shoyer/. Angus is also joined by Comics Cowboy Troy who performs a dramatic reading of the 2021 Kirby's Kids Graphic Novel Reading List selections.
KIRBY’S KIDS GRAPHIC NOVEL READING LIST FOR 2021
January - VERTIGO MONTH - Fables Vol. 1: Legends in Exile
...2020-10-1029 min
Tao of Sports PodcastThe Hidden Fan Ep. 1Stagefront's Mike Guiffre co-hosts this podcast with Troy, discussing various components of searching for the hidden fan. In this episode, data is discussed, along with what that data actually means, in a constructive conversation toward driving revenue in different ways. Including the Don Cherry firing.2019-11-2030 min
Kirby's KidsKirby's Kids One Year Anniversary Special Featuring The Graphic Novel Reading List For 2020 AnnouncementAngus hosts a brief retrospective celebrating the One Year Anniversary of the podcast and expresses gratitude for all of the listeners and active members of the Kirby's Kids community. He also thanks fellow 'Kids' Ray, JJ, and Doc for their contributions and support! Angus is also joined by Comics Cowboy Troy who performs a dramatic reading and preview summary of the 2020 Kirby's Kids Graphic Novel Reading List selections.
KIRBY’S KIDS GRAPHIC NOVEL READING LIST FOR 2020
January - The Invisibles: Book One - Deluxe Edition - Grant Morrison / VERTIGO MONTH
https://www.comixology.com...2019-10-1024 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 878 - Sarah Uhran (Owner, APC Agency)Sarah Uhran has taken the concept of personal branding for athletes and turned it on its head. Uhran represents a new type of dynamic that showcases not only the athlete brand from what the public sees, but also the consistent advisor role of ensuring athlete success in their personal or professional interactions with others. Uhran discusses how she has helped guide athletes toward the best decisions possible throughout her involvement with her clients. Twitter: @SarahUhran2019-02-1130 min
Kirby's KidsAngus’ Appendices - Kirby's Kids 2019 Reading List PreviewAngus is joined by Comics Cowboy Troy who performs a dramatic reading and preview summary of the 2019 Kirby's Kids Reading List selections. Please join us down on the Comics Trail in 2019 https://www.kirbyskids.com/2018/11/kirbys-kids-graphic-novel-reading-list.html Leave a message via the anchor app at Kirby's Kids. anchor.fm/kirbyskids Join the Community Discussions https://mewe.com/join/kirbyskids For detailed show notes and past episodes please visit www.kirbyskids.com2018-12-2614 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 877 - Chris Spano (VP, American Hockey League)Chris Spano ties various components of the primary and secondary ticket markets together, working for MLB, NFL and NHL teams, along with working at StubHub. Now, at the American Hockey League, Spano discusses some of the ways that the secondary ticket market can even help minor league hockey survive and thrive in a constant push for new inventory sales to the open market. Spano also talks about ways to train staff, along with the understanding that group sales, not season tickets, tend to be the main focus of every AHL team moving forward. @CSpano19802018-09-1727 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 876 - Graham Oliphant (CEO, Rugby Festival Events)Graham Oliphant has helped the growth of rugby in the United States and the United Kingdom, creating a strategic planning effort that other sport organizations have begun to follow. Oliphant talks about the impact of Major League Rugby in America, which has launched successfully with the Seattle Seawolves beginning a sellout streak and developing a winning format for other MLR teams to follow as expansion of the league nears. Oliphant also runs the London 9 Festival due for July 2018. Twitter: @Jumbo2302018-05-2128 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 875 - Jim Sweeney (FIMBA USA)Jim Sweeney is just getting started in a period when most people are looking at retirement. Sweeny serves as an international board member and the head of FIMBA USA (Federation of International Masters Basketball Association). The International Olympic Committee calls FIMBA the best senior sports federation in the world. Sweeney talks about how FIMBA hosted its 15th world championship in 2017 in Italy, with over 367 teams, and almost 6,000 players from around the world. Twitter: @FIMBA2018-05-1425 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 874 - Jeff Lapsansky (Tickets/Marketing, BMW Championship)The BMW Championship represents a unique challenge for Jeff Lapsansky, since he has to sell tickets to a PGA Tour event that moves every other year to a different city. Lapsansky discusses some of the ways that he drives ticket sales and marketing for the event, as well as ensures that pricing maximizes the possibility of a return for the non-profit organization running the BMW Championship. Twitter: @JeffLaps2018-05-0722 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 873 - John Markiewicz (Director of Sales, Chicago White Sox)The weather doesn't stop a great ticket sales staff from selling. John Markiewicz shares his knowledge about selling in cold weather for baseball and hot weather for hockey. Markiewicz talks about his strategy in driving group ticket sales for Chicago White Sox games in April where the temperature is a high of 8 degrees, and selling hockey in Florida, where it is always hot out, and yet, the goal is to get everyone inside a building to watch a winter sport. Markiewicz covers some of the details of selling third party tickets for Purdue. Twitter: @johnm_whitesox2018-04-3025 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 872 - Troy King (Director of Ticket Sales, Churchill Downs)As if it couldn't get confusing enough, Troy King comes on the podcast to share a funny episode at the 2018 National Sports Forum regarding Troy Kirby, Troy Tutt and Troy Kirby and one confused gentleman who said "Hi Troy" when all three turned around at once. King talks about his time at Churchill Downs, selling over 70 events beyond the Oaks & Derby. King shares his experiences in selling horse racing, as well as major and minor league baseball.2018-04-2324 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 871 - Zach Dayton (Sr. Assoc. AD, Fairfield U)Zach Dayton returns to the podcast after nearly four years since his original one (Ep. 328). Dayton talks about his transition from Pace University, a D2 school, to Fairfield University, which is Division 1. Dayton shares his insight into bringing not only fresh ideas, but also ways to help implement those ideas beyond the presentation stage with traditionalists in a group. Twitter: @Zach_Dayton2018-04-1630 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 870 - Holly Marie Jones (Fmr. COO, Corvallis Knights)Fresh off her departure of a second stint with the Corvallis Knights, former COO Holly Marie Jones shares her insight into the West Coast League baseball franchise's brand, and how she was able to enhance it through merchandise, ticket sales and concessions. Jones discusses how the presence of the mascot, along with a sidekick, helped boost the Knights' community efforts as well as shaping the overall food & beverage experience for the fans by bringing it all in-house. Twitter: @HollyMarieJones2018-04-0924 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 869 - Dominic Laico (CEO, AutoProcessor)Back in 2010, if Dominic Laico had been able to get his work done for a secondary market reseller on time, the entire resale market would have never been revolutionized. Laico would launch AutoProcessor in 2011, with the set goal of mass uploading e-tickets to all secondary distribution channels at once. Laico compares notes on what the market was before and after his company was formed, as well as some of the issues that have created consumer frustration today, including short-selling. Laico may not be very recognizable even at industry functions, but he has had a major impact on how the...2018-04-0528 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 868 - Glenn Wong (Sports Law Professor, ASU)Glenn Wong has had a continual front-row seat to the evolving world of sports law education, citing his enrollment in one of the first sports-focused legal classes in the country. After a long tenure at U-Mass, Wong is helping broaden the sports legal education on the west coast at Arizona State University. Wong discusses various components of sports law; from NCAA issues and FBI probes to potential labor collusion. Twitter: @WongSportsLaw2018-04-0239 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 867 - Brad Taylor (GM, El Paso Chihuahuas)The biggest dog in the fight is sometimes a little yapper. That's what El Paso Chihuahuas' general manager Brad Taylor discusses as he joins the podcast, covering exactly how the MiLB team has created one of the hottest merchandise brands across the country. Taylor talks about perception versus reality with the El Paso, Texas/Juarez, Mexico marketplace, as well as how the El Paso Chihuahuas' mascot is the biggest ambassador of the team in the greater community. Taylor specifically mentions his advocacy against discounted or free tickets, pushing for group sales over even season tickets, as well as how...2018-03-2932 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 866 - Alicia Jessop (Assist. Professor, Pepperdine)Since 2012, Alicia Jessop has had one of the premiere sports legal blogs called Ruling Sports. Jessop has parlayed that platform into a full-fledged website, as well as a career change from a practicing assistant city attorney to an assistant professor at the University of Miami and Pepperdine University. Jessop discusses her path, as well as provides insight into various aspects of sport law, especially on how it impacts cultural norms and society as a whole. Twitter: @RulingSports2018-03-2637 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 865 - David Crawford (Principle, FloorballGuru)David Crawford is one of the top industry advocates for the game of Floorball, which is fast becoming one of newest off-season training options and intramural sports in the world. Crawford shares his story of how he first engaged with the sport of Floorball, and quickly because one of its staunchest promoters. Crawford talks about launching his own business, Floorball Guru, LLC, and some of the new endeavors it has allowed him to do. Twitter: @FloorballGuru2018-03-2229 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 864 - Mackie Feierstein (Assist. AD, Miami)Mackie Feierstein doesn't have the ability to focus on a single successful sport, because the University of Miami athletic department has several winning programs to sell. Feierstein talks about serving several masters, including men's basketball and football, as well as picking up prospects between both. Feierstein discusses the issue of playing in an NFL stadium, with a heavy-premium focus, and how he trains his staff to work toward selling out the house. Twitter: @MackieFire2018-03-1925 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 863 - Harris Peskin (Associate Attorney, ESG Law)Harris Peskin works for the leading esports law firm in the world, ESG Law. Peskin talks about representing various ownership groups and teams in leagues throughout esports, and how that shakes out as the landscape begins to solidify from a wild west atmosphere into a structured tier system. Peskin describes governance and esports economics, as well as where the industry has to go in order to be successful long term. Twitter: @HarrisPeskin2018-03-1537 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 862 - John Roberson (CEO, Advent)The core principles of design and branding are discussed beyond the idea of logo, focusing on environment for both the staff member and the fan. John Roberson covers some of the dynamics of what his company, Advent, has done in the marketplace in order to create an atmosphere that people want to touch and feel connected by, that includes the Stanford Cardinal's Home of Champions and the Dallas Cowboy's The Star display of The Ring of Honor Walk.2018-03-1231 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 861 - Charles Welde (GM, Bloomington Edge)Indoor football has had hundreds of defunct teams or franchises switching leagues. The practice is considered almost common place. Yet when the Bloomington Edge decided to depart the Champions Indoor Football League for another, they were sued. Edge general manager Charles Welde talks as much as he can about the lawsuit and where the team sits today, as well as how it trains its staff and interns to sell experiences in such an uncertain environment.2018-03-0826 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 860 - Eric Platte (Sr. Director of Ticket Sales, Atlanta Hawks)Growing an account representative into a skilled sports sales professional is Eric Platte's goal at the Atlanta Hawks. Platte discusses his mindset in how to foster growth from each new hire to develop a pipeline of success for the Hawks organization. Platte talks about allowing the curtain to be pulled back on what selling in sports is, as well as the time commitment required up front of all employees. Twitter: @EricPlatte2018-03-0534 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 859 - Lenny Groh (Business Development, Tradable Bits)The bridge between the accumulation of consumer data and actionable data in sports revenue generation is narrowing in focus daily. Lenny Goh discusses how the advent of social media data collection is now starting to yield out measurable returns for sports teams and concert ticket buyers, as clients are starting to figure out exactly what makes an online transaction occur. Goh talks about the methodology that transforms a message into a marketing sale. Twitter: @lennygoh2018-03-0124 min
Predictable Prospecting's PodcastEpisode 92: The Tao of Sports - Troy KirbyTroy Kirby is a sports business consultant who builds relationships and revenue for sports organizations. He is the owner of Tao of Sports where he consults for B2B vendors, professional teams, and college athletic departments. He also hosts the Tao of Sports podcast. We have a really interesting conversation on today’s show. Troy comes from the world of sports, and he is an expert in sports sales. He is going to share some of his great stories in the area of sales, education, where he came from, and what he was trained for. He is al...2018-02-2745 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 858 - David MacKay (Partner, SPP)As the esports revolution continues, so does the separation from the original game tournament structure to an actual revenue generation model focused on corporate sponsor activation and player rights. Strategic Project Partners' David MacKay shares his knowledge of the esports space from Australia's arena, discussing how the growth of the vertical within the sports industry has shown some dynamic growth, but also some cautious issues still to be worked out. MacKay presents a vision of where players have to continue to build their brands in order to stave off the inability to capitalize on them effectively.2018-02-2626 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 857 - Mike Forman (Sr. Director of Branding, Carolina Hurricanes)Mike Forman has entered into the unique experience of helping on-board his new ownership group at the Carolina Hurricanes, which has helped re-invigorate the local fan base as well as create dynamic, outside the box thinking. Forman describes the process of meetings, which has solidified direction toward a fan-focused model of customer service and branding. Forman talks about his new ownership group has also connected older fans from the Hartford Whalers days in a way not thought possible under the old regime. Twitter: @MForman52018-02-2231 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 856 - Debra Fine (Author, The Fine Art of Small Talk)Debra Fine's latest book, The Fine Art of Small Talk, is about revolutionizing how we engage with each other in ways that lead toward relationship building, as well as business development. Fine discusses ways to not only break the ice, but avoid a "Stage Five Clinger" who isn't going to buy but merely absorb your time. Fine talks about how to engage with people on a personal level and move it toward getting them to want to buy from you. Twitter: @DebraFine2018-02-1535 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 855 - Tim Katt (Global Sports Venture Studio)The Los Angeles Dodgers have found a key way to innovate off of the field, combining forces with R/GA studios to create the Global Sports Venture Studio, a technology accelerator. GSVS Managing Director Tim Katt discusses what all of that means, and why a professional sports franchise is smart to infuse itself into the tech-development space of start-ups. Katt talks about the types of innovation already realized as well as the commitment level needed to succeed long term. Twitter: @tim_katt2018-02-1232 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 584 - Erin Dutcher (Operations Specialist, San Diego Seals)Erin Dutcher may have a famous name around San Diego sports, but she refused to trade on it, earning her own way by gaining a position with the San Diego Seals, the new lacrosse team. Dutcher talks about how important it was for her to be hired for her own skills, rather than the coaching lineage of her father or grandfather, and how the Seals became that perfect opportunity. Dutcher shares how she seeks to impact the front office staff in a positive way every time she enters the room.2018-02-0821 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 853 - Andrew Brandt (Sports Law Professor)Andrew Brandt has sat on both sides of the table in a NFL player contract negotiation; both as a player agent and as legal counsel of the NFL's Green Bay Packers. Brandt also has an interesting distinction of being the agent of Ricky Williams, dropped in favor of rapper Master P, who guided Williams to one of the worst contracts in NFL history. Brandt discusses the nuances of NFL player representation, how it varies from other sports in terms of contract terms and length. Brandt talks about how his passion for sports law brought him to Villanova, to direct...2018-02-0533 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 852 - Tom McMullen (President/CEO, LEAD1)Tom McMillen oversees 129 Football Bowl Subdivision athletic directors, working on mentoring and advocacy, as president/CEO of LEAD1 Association. The organization has been around since 1986 and has fostered a conduit of growth of athletic directors, as well as giving voice their challenges to legal matters happening in the nation's capitol. McMillen, a former Congressman, shares his insights into the new tax legislation which erases seat donation write-offs and the fall-out that new law can do to Olympic sports programming. Twitter: @LEAD1ACOM2018-02-0129 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 851 - Eric Jackson (Founder, EMJ Capital)Eric Jackson has managed to create one of the more remarkable weekly emails to date, focused on the financing of media and technology. Jackson covers several topics in-depth, providing reasoning for his investment strategy as well as the different issues cropping up with various companies. Jackson discusses the recent departure of ESPN's John Skipper, focusing on those who might serve as heir-apparent, the Amazon Prime sports streaming model and Bill Simmons' success/failure of The Ringer. Twitter: @EricJackson2018-01-2937 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 850 - Eric McElvenny (Motivational Speaker)Injured Marine Captain Eric McElvenny came back from Afghanistan, recovering from a below knee amputation, with a goal set to run an Ironman competition. He's now going for the world record for an amputee with zero sign of stopping. McElvenny discusses his return from injury, how he looked at staying positive, and what goals he has for the future beyond sport. Twitter: @EricMcElvenny2018-01-2525 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 849 - Lee Landers (President, Appalachian League)Since 1959, Lee Landers has worked in minor league baseball, seeing the various trends and attitudes of sports marketing. Landers discusses how he started out as well as how the game has changed off of the field in the perception of promotion. Landers talks about crazy promotions gone bad because of weather, and some of the ways that ownership groups have finally come to terms with sharing ideas.2018-01-2225 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 848 - Mark Burns (Founder, Sports Business Chronicle)Mark Burns returns to the podcast for a second go-around after Ep. 697, leaving two online publications behind to start his own digital venture, the Sports Business Chronicle. Burns reflects on some of the choices that he made in order to initiate his own reporting microsite, including taking a chance on himself and whether enough subscribers would buy-in to what he built. Burns talks about the negativism he encountered and how he shrugged it off. Twitter: @markjburns882018-01-1829 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 847 - Christopher Asa (Assoc. AD, FAMU)Christopher Asa returns to the podcast after almost five years in between episodes (Ep. 161). In that time, he's worked for MiLB at the Montgomery Biscuits, the ACC's Florida Seminoles and with the Florida A&M Rattlers. Asa's role with FAMU oversees revenue generation for ticket sales, fundraising and overall external relations. Asa talks about the challenges as well as the successes of working at a HBCU, especially when it comes to the impact on student-athletes of working at FAMU. Asa shares his story of tweeting NCAA critic Jay Bilas about a FAMU "money game" against Arkansas, and the positive...2018-01-1534 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 846 - Jennifer Piorkowski (Sales Director, TGSM)Jennifer Piorkowski has an ambition to kill the porta-potty in all tailgate lots national wide. Piorkowski discusses her disdain for the plastic wall commode and suggests the alternative of using a portable bathroom solution. Piorkowski talks about the growing fan experience outside of the stadium which influences attendance, especially when it comes to female fans. Not to mention all of the data that can be harvested from a portable bathroom solution as well. Twitter: @tgsmsportsmktg2018-01-1130 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 845 - Matt Jessep (CEO, EGAA)As the world of esports gaming explodes, so does the opportunity for player representation. Matt Jessep is a sports agent in Australia's National Rugby League, who is helping redefine player rights and values within the esports industry. Jessep discusses some of the issues surrounding the game today, including how promoters treat esports players as well as whether the prize money guarantees are legitimate. Jessep talks about some of the newer aspects of getting in front of the top esports players to share why an association is so vital.2018-01-0828 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 844 - Chad McEvoy (Professor/Chair, NIU)Dr. Chad McEvoy comes on the podcast to chat about sports management degrees and their viability in the marketplace. Are sports management programs expected to generate job opportunities or to develop critical thinking skills? Is it an either-or scenario? McEvoy discusses whether sports sales managers even want sports management programs to train students on sales, or if that is still training preferred done by the sports sales managers themselves. Twitter: @ChadMcEvoy2018-01-0432 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 843 - Dave Rowan (COO, NLL)Dave Rowan oversees the financial operations for the 32-year-old National Lacrosse League, which is focused on smart, efficient franchise expansion with great partners such as ownership groups like Comcast-Spectacor and Alibaba. Rowan shares his vision of how the digital growth of the NLL on Twitter and OTT has increased not only awareness of the sport of box lacrosse, but also gained traction with younger demographics. Rowan talks about the challenges of ensuring that ownership protects the integrity of the sport, understanding its values within a marketplace. Twitter: @dro11202018-01-0129 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 842 - Mark Washo (CBO, Rochester Rhinos)The Rochester Rhinos of the USL have announced that they won't be playing for the 2018 season. Chief Business Officer Mark Washo returns to the podcast (Ep. 113) to discuss how the decision came down, as well as his return to sports after spending time in the cruiseliner industry. Washo discusses some of the issues around professional soccer, including how one of the biggest problems is an internal one, with soccer's hardcore fans. Twitter: @SoccerWasho2017-12-2834 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 841 - Jim Hayes (Citizen Resale Activist)Before 2017, Jim Hayes never thought about who owned his Denver Broncos tickets. He always thought that he did. Since 2011, after being on a 75,000+ waiting list for 6 years prior, Hayes had been a Denver Broncos season ticket holder. But when he decided to resell his tickets through the official Ticketmaster exchange, he unwittingly had his information weaponized against him. Hayes' story goes beyond the issues of resale, and explore the issues of customer service, season ticket investment loyalty. Twitter: @jamesrhayes2017-12-2524 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 840 - Annemarie Hastings (EVP, Fund Raisers Sports)In her 20 years with the San Francisco Giants, Annemarie Hastings helped craft one of the largest client relations programs for a Major League Baseball team front office. Hastings discusses how the Giants approached season ticket holders, renewals, and high-level client retention as well as building a strong brand through their front-line ambassadors at the ballpark and through their call staff. Hastings is quick to mention that "listening" is as much selling as anything, as well as build client passion for the brand. Twitter: @KCAnnemarie2017-12-2229 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 839 - Ayo Taylor-Dixon (Sr. Associate, Georgia Tech)As the president of NACMA for 2017-18, Ayo Taylor-Dixon comes on the podcast to present the 2020 strategic plan for the marketing arm of college athletics administration. Taylor-Dixon discusses how the organization has taken a deep-dive into understand what its membership want, both at convention as attendees and as non-attending members in their athletic departments. Taylor-Dixon talks about the role of networking and the power it has to help increase job opportunities by attending the annual NACDA convention. Twitter: @AyoTaylorDixon2017-12-1840 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 838 - Rick Horrow (The Sports Professor)Rick Horrow has a media sports business legacy that spans over two decades, along with a sports consultancy firm which has amassed a portfolio of clients ranging from major leagues to individual sports stars. Horrow discusses his approach to the industry, interviewing well-known and unknown front office personalities, and working with inside information without divulging everything to the viewing public. Horrow talks about the role of sports education since his days co-teaching a sports law class at his alma mater Harvard, and where sports business is headed in the next two decades. Twitter: @RickHorrow2017-12-1425 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 837 - John Barrows (Sales Trainer)John Barrows represents a new type of sales training with old school skills, focused on technology companies and building relationships through workflows. Barrows discusses the process of creating a dynamic relationship within the sales team, and initiating it into a formidable strategy. Twitter: @JohnMBarrows2017-12-1132 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 836 - Richard Harris (Sales Trainer)Richard Harris is known as one of the top sales trainers in the country and has come on the podcast to take on the tactics and acumen applied to sports ticket sales. Harris goes through scenarios of how to engage with a prospect, as well as to transition the conversation into a buying experience. Harris refers to his thoughts on management and improving the sales pipeline for a sales team. Twitter: @rharris4152017-12-0734 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 835 - Glenn Critchley (Commercial Manager, Vodafone Warriors)The Vodafone Warriors may sit one of the rugby hotbeds of the world, but that doesn't mean that the National Rugby League team doesn't have to fight for attention, especially given that one of the top rugby squads internationally, The All-Blacks, is nearby. Glenn Critchley discusses the challenges for the Vodafone Warriors, which do not designate their brand with a city name, but instead a corporate sponsorship. Critchley shares his insight into making the brand successful off of the field, despite the on-field struggles of the squad. Twitter: @glenncritchley2017-12-0432 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 834 - Kenneth "Ziggy" Siegfried (AD, CSUB)Kenneth "Ziggy" Siegfried was on the podcast back in 2013 (Ep. 15), as the Sr. Associate Athletic Director of Major Gifts for CSU Bakersfield. Now serving in the Athletic Director's chair, Siegfried gets to announce a move for the athletic department to the Big West Conference from the WAC. This is a long time coming for CSUB, as Siegfried explains, and helps bolster the expectations for the school and the community overall. Twitter: @CSUBZiggy2017-11-3033 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 833 - Tibor Shanto (Principal, Renbor Sales Solutions)Tibor Shanto has honed his B2B sales training in Toronto over the last 25 years. Shanto discusses how he works with business development teams to get them focused on improving their pipelines from prospecting to actual closing. Shanto presents the argument that sometimes, the best sales people aren't your future managers. Twitter: @TiborShanto2017-11-2730 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 832 - Kevin Westgarth (VP, NHL)Few NHL journeymen can claim to have an amazing second career like Kevin Westgarth, who won a Stanley Cup with the LA Kings and now transitioning to developing the game of hockey in China for the NHL with an eye on the 2022 Olympics. Westgarth talks about growing the game the right way in Asia along with how other countries are embracing the sport. Westgarth also talks about his role as an enforcer in the NHL and how that feature of the game is being phased out overall. Twitter: @KWesty192017-11-2334 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 831 - Malcolm Bordelon (President, Chula Vista Elite Athlete Center)Malcolm Bordelon represents a 20-year legacy with the San Jose Sharks (1993-2013) where the NHL franchise was one of the highest revenue drivers in all of professional hockey. Bordelon discusses his tenure with the club, which created waves in Silicon Valley and the tech industry, stemming from the birth of building naming rights to the secondary market. Bordelon chats about leaving the Sharks to work at various tech start-ups, then the Silicon Valley Business Journal and now as president of the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center in San Diego. Twitter: @SVBizMalcolm2017-11-2042 min
Tao of Sports PodcastSWAPCAST: Ticket Talk with Charlie Kaufman InterviewCharlie Kaufman launched Ticket Talk on WLINY Radio in Brooklyn in 2017, and asked me to come on the show Nov. 9. We chatted about the secondary market, the issue of whether a closed market is about protecting the consumer or locking the consumer into a limited option system. You can listen to the other Ticket Talk episodes here, which are also video livestreamed.2017-11-171h 02
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 830 - Maury Brown (Sports Business Writer)Maury Brown has redefined the investigative sports business reporting game published in the New York Times, Boston Globe, CNN/Money and Forbes. Brown discusses the issues of breaking news compared to well-sourced reporting, as well as he develops his sources long-term. Brown chats about young people trying to break into the sports industry, as well as leading the Portland, Oregon effort to nab the Montreal Expos relocation. Twitter: @BizBallMaury2017-11-1638 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 829 - Bobbi-Sue Doyle-Hazard (Asst GC, Tampa Bay Buccaneers)Bobbi-Sue Doyle-Hazard has initiated a sports business podcast focused on the advancement of women in the industry, called Leveling The Playing Field. Doyle-Hazard discusses some of the issues underlying the sports industry in terms of gender equity, then starts a discussion on privilege and the #MeToo social media movement. Doyle-Hazard then discusses her battles with depression. Twitter:@BobbiSue2017-11-1346 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 828 - Cameron Wilson (Editor, Wild East Football)The international soccer community's interest in the Chinese Super League is growing and is bouyed by Wild East Football, the only English speaking website focused in China on the sport of soccer. Founding editor Cameron Wilson opens up the massive country of soccer-crazed fans, showcasing where the sport in within China and how far it can potentially go. Twitter: @CameronWEF2017-11-0936 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 827 - Andy Schwarz (Partner, OSKR)Should NCAA student athletes be paid for their performance? OSKR's Andy Schwarz thinks so, and provides his argument for why they are already being compensated, and why transparency in the overall marketplace for college sports could be a great thing. Schwarz discusses his thoughts on the economics of recruiting for various schools, as well as whether NCAA compliance would go away in a payment-restructure system, and how that would fit with the concerns of gender equity. Twitter: @andyhre2017-11-0642 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 826 - John Beaven (VP, Golden State Warriors)The Golden State Warriors have become the darlings of the NBA on and off of the course, with record-breaking team wins and attendance records. GSW Vice President John Beaven discusses the success of the team, especially when it comes to ticket sales, pricing and the secondary market. Beaven talks about the Chase Arena membership plan, and its uniqueness in the marketplace. Twitter: @JohnBeaven2017-11-0231 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 825 - Mike Snee (Exec Director, College Hockey Inc)Mike Snee comes on the podcast to discuss the overall branding of College Hockey, as it expands from a northeast American sport to a national one, with more Midwest and West Coast athletic departments seeking new programming for men and women. Snee talks over some of the challenges that have faced the game of hockey at the college level in the past, as well as the opportunities. Twitter: @mikesnee2182017-10-3028 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 824 - John Barr (NHL to Seattle)John Barr is in an interesting position. He's advocating for the relocation or expansion of a National Hockey League team in Seattle, but has no ownership stake in the outcome. Barr represents the grassroots effort of the NHL to Seattle, creating a Facebook group of over 15,000 members and a significant-sized email list. Barr discusses some of the issues with the NHL coming to the Emerald City, including the Oak View Group's MOU with the City of Seattle over privately financing KeyArena & the SODO Arena project by Chris Hansen. Twitter: @NHLtoSeattle2017-10-2628 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 823 - Stefanie Gordon (Sports Social Media Expert)Stefanie Gordon arrives on the podcast during an interesting time in her sports social media career: searching for that elusive next job. Gordon shares her experiences in the digital realm as a producer for Sports Illustrated, as well as how one tweet from a space shuttle managed to go viral, giving her the idea of how to generate the hashtag #hirestef as her job search continued. @stefmara2017-10-2333 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 822 - Karri Zaremba (COO, Venuetize)Karri Zaremba shares her experiences at creating connective marketing for venues through technology, both inside and outside the facility. Zaremba talks about the optimization of personalized data, marketing analytics, relevant/targeted content, and interactive technologies designed to acquire, retain, and monetize active users. Zaremba discusses the highly fragmented technology market around the venue-based sports and entertainment industry. Twitter: @karrizarem2017-10-1937 min
Success is a ChoiceTao of Sports Host Troy KirbyTroy Kirby is the host of the very popular Tao of Sports podcast. He has done more than 800 episodes with some of the top people in the sports business world. He has worked in the sports industry for more than 15 years, at three different university athletic departments, and one professional soccer team. Kirby is a much sought after sports business consultant and keynote speaker. He is the president of The National Association of Athletic Ticket Sales & Operations. Website: www.SportsTao.com (has articles and resources, as well as podcast episodes) Website: www.TroyKirby.com (has all...2017-10-1636 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 821 - Paul Franklin (Principle, Franklin Capital Strategies)Paul Franklin, founder of Franklin Capital Strategies, a full-service financial strategies firm with offices in Vienna, Virginia and Cleveland, OH. Franklin shares his vision of what makes a great financial strategic plan for athletes, and has worked with many professional athletes and is himself a long-time athlete and football coach. Through these experiences, he has become an expert on the intersection of sports and financial strategies. Twitter: @franklinfinplan2017-10-1629 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 820 - Matt Harper (Sr. Sales Director, Pawtucket Red Sox)It's the 5th Anniversary of the original recording the Tao of Sports Podcast, with Ep. 1 guest Matt Harper, who returns for the third time to the show. Harper discusses his transition from college ticket sales to minor league baseball, as well as the founding of the college ticket association (NAATSO) and the first Sports Sales Boot Camp. Harper provides his thoughts on why he had originally agreed to be on the podcast in the first place, and some of the opportunities for connections that it gave him since that time. Twitter: @mattharper_tix2017-10-1231 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 819 - Dan Gale (Principle, Leona Marketing)Dan Gale isn't shy about telling everyone that he finds the large sponsorship merger of Learfield-IMG College to be troubling for the landscape of collegiate athletics. Gale discusses some of the issues that arise from developing corporate sponsorship activation, especially with the lack of interest in signage and more interest in data. Gale discusses why he decided to move to an independent consultant model, along with the history behind his company's name. Twitter: @DanGaleJr2017-10-0935 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 818 - Brandon Steiner (CEO, Steiner Sports Marketing)Brandon Steiner launched a sports marketing empire by using his life savings in 1987 and hasn't looked back since. Steiner discusses how sports collectibles have been resilient in their comeback potential with consumer demand, and what the sports trading card industry didn't do which has harmed that sector the most. Steiner talks about how the availability of athletes to understand their brand, engage with the marketplace and initiate it properly are the biggest challenges they face. Steiner shares why he's starting Project X on Facebook, in order to get entrepreneurs a chance to succeed in the marketplace. Twitter: @BrandonSteiner2017-10-0529 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 817 - Michael Abramson (Asst GM, Hartford Yard Goats)Over two years ago, Michael Abramson came on the podcast (Ep. 520) to discuss how The Hartford Yard Goats would open up the 2016 season in their new ballpark. Almost 300 episodes and two years later, Abramson returns to the podcast to discuss why 2017, not 2016, was the opening year at home for The Hartford Yard Goats. In a story that covered the gamit from construction delays, FBI investigations and continual check-ins with sponsors, Abramson chats about how The Yard Goats kept everything focused and showed MiLB as well as the City of Hartford how well the franchise could succeed under pressure. Twitter...2017-10-0240 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 816 - Isabella Tamplin (COO, Grupo BWA)Isabella Tamplin opens up the ticket world of Brazil for podcast listeners, sharing insight into her company, Grupo BWA, which oversees ticketing for over 30 professional soccer clubs. Tamplin discusses some of the issues facing the Brazillan soccer fan, especially in attendance and ticket buying consumption. Tamplin discusses how the area has handled venue operations since the Rio 2016 Games & FIFA World Cup of 2014.2017-09-2828 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 815 - John Katz (President, Columbia Fireflies)John Katz returns for a third time to the podcast (Ep. 601 & Ep. 183), this time to discuss how Tim Tebow and a lunar eclipse, two marketing boons that helped the Columbia Fireflies achieve attendance metrics in 2017. Katz discusses Tebowmania, and how to handle the international press attention that came along with it. Katz shares how the team prepared for the lunar eclipse game in August 2017. Twitter: @JEKatz332017-09-2527 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 814 - Jim Boone (Owner, KO Tickets)Jim Boone joins the podcast to chat about the volatility in the secondary ticket market for combat sports, especially considering the terrible pricing decisions of the Mayweather-McGregor bout in August. Boone discusses his insight into reselling tickets for MMA/UFC and boxing, as well as why the Klitschko brothers never yielded out a huge demand from American audiences despite their title reigns. Boone shares how his company caters to high-end clients, actually helping promoters move a lot of tickets, filling seats and generating revenue for the fighters. Twitter: @kotickets2017-09-2131 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 813 - Seth Shapiro (CEO, Diesel Films)Seth Shapiro joins the podcast to discuss the world of sports filmmaking, fresh off of a trip with the NFL in China. Shapiro talks not only about the air of filmmaking, but also the production angle, where there are time limitations with sports stars, as well as branding implications. Shapiro covers the several issues concerning how gauge evergreen content in a world of fast paced social media, along with building a quality production every time out. Twitter: @dieselfilms2017-09-1830 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 812 - Evan Flagg (Assist AD, UCLA)Even with the legacy of UCLA, the Bruins face constant changes in how they operate. Assistant Athletic Director of Ticket Sales Evan Flagg explains that UCLA has had to make tough decisions when it comes to dynamic pricing, as well as avoiding dropping the ticket price if they feel it price was originally in error. Flagg shares his insight into dealing with group sales and ticket initiatives for promotions at UCLA, as well as how to enhance longer term commitments from fans. Flagg compares the difference between working in the pros and college. Twitter: @BlueGoldFlagg2017-09-1432 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 811 - Neil DeMause (Co-Author, Field of Schemes)Originally published in 1998, the book "Field of Schemes" has continued to be a hot topic for public stadium finance opponents in the 19 years since. Co-Author Neil DeMause talks about some of the issues surrounding the ability of teams to gain publicly financed stadiums, as well as the economic viability that each project actually presents to the community at large. DeMause shares insight into how large events may actually have a net-zero economic gain, and some of the misconceptions overall about team relocation. Twitter: @neildemause2017-09-1145 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 810 - Ashwin Puri (VP, Oakland Athletics)Ashwin Puri joins the podcast to chat about the end of his experience as the Chief Revenue Officer of Cal-Berkeley Athletics and the transition to VP of Strategy and Business Operations at the Oakland Athletics. Puri discusses his time moving from NBA TMBO to Cal in order to start the in-house model for the Pac-12 school in 2012, as well as some of the ways he met the challenge of bureaucracy while building an efficient inside sales model. Puri talks about how the school found creative ways to pay commissions through bonuses and contracts, as well as the opportunity with...2017-09-0739 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 809 - Mark Murdock (Managing Partner, CryoUSA)Mark Murdock joins the podcast to chat about how whole body cryotherapy and other recovery modalities are changing sports fitness and athletic training. Murdock discusses the latest cutting-edge recovery methods from the point of view as a former coach; introducing the concept of infrared light therapy which has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and to help rapid recovery, improved sleep and increased strength and performance. Murdock talks about his involvement in the Nike Oregon Project, as well as how the majority of technology on athletic recovery is coming from the U.S. Military.2017-09-0431 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 800 - Nick Schmidt (Sports Admin Professional)Nick Schmidt fully admits that sitting in class at Seattle University with Troy Kirby was an experience that he will never forget, and is the guest for Episode 800 of the podcast. Schmidt talks about various concepts at the small college level, concerning both the student athlete and the administrator engaging across campus and with each other. Schmidt discusses some of the ways he feels can help administrating deal with coaching and player issues, as well as the expectations that student athletes may have toward raising their profile overall. Schmidt examines some of the fundraising challenges that small colleges have...2017-08-0324 min
Front Office ExchangeEpisode 20: Troy Kirby, Host, "The Tao of Sports" Podcast & Sports Business ConsultantWelcome to Episode 20 - the holiday edition! - of the Front Office Exchange podcast, where you'll hear from the one, the only, Troy Kirby, Sports Business Consultant and host of the popular "The Tao of Sports" podcast.
Let's be honest, if you're listening to my podcast, you're definitely listening to Troy's. When I started FOE a few months ago, I had a plan in mind, but I would be lying if I said I didn't try to mimic many of the things that Troy does in ToS. While his podcast is more topical rather than career-focused, his passion, energy and...2016-12-1900 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 684 - @troy_ruediger (Creator, Starters)Troy Ruediger has helped launch one of the more "sticky" forums for sports and technology discussion, called Starters. Based out of a Slack platform, Starters has engendered a larger amount of early adopters, communicating in various connectivity discussions and sharing timely articles. Ruediger discusses the vision of Starters, its original intentions, as well as its current state of growth, which is starting to scale in rapid succession. Ruediger also discusses his time at Rukkus, a secondary market ticket search engine with virtual reality capabilities, and the ways that the sports industry still lag behind in technology adoption. Twitter: @troy...2016-08-1022 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 517 - Dwight Clark (Fmr. NFL Player, GM)49ers' Legendary Wide Receiver Dwight Clark shares his thoughts on a wide variety of topics, ranging from "The Catch," playing in the NFL, serving as a general manager, and beginning a second career in sports. Clark also mentions his disdain for appearing in the 1994 direct-to-video Kindergarten Ninja, the loss of Candlestick Park compared to Levi Stadium, and working for the 1999 expansion franchise Cleveland Browns organization as GM. Clark spoke at the Corporate Ticket Impact Conference on July 9, 2015 at the Marquis Marriott in San Francisco and was interviewed by Troy Kirby.
Note: There is a video version of...2015-07-1347 min
Tao of Sports PodcastEp. 476 - Steve Stroud (Sr. Associate AD, Troy University)Steve Stroud feels that those looking to move up in the sports field should think twice before hitting the application button on any open position announcement, and presents his theory on the podcast. Stroud feels strongly in utilizing a few key principles of learning about the job's details, as well as seeing who within the current organization can help guide the interested party toward a potential hire. Stroud brings several years of experience in the athletic administration realm, and discusses his passion for sports revenue, marketing and communications above all else. Stroud shares his knowledge of how to continue...2015-04-0633 min
Sports Geek - A look into the world of Sports Marketing, Sports Business and Digital MarketingTroy Kirby on ticketing, #sportsbiz and @SportsTao podcastTroy Kirby is a prodigious sports business podcaster and a sports business lifer working on the ticketing side of the business at UC Davis. Troy has released over 350 podcast interviews since launching the Tao of Sports podcast in 2012 and he was one of the reasons I started podcasting. Troy stopped by the Sports Geek office on a recent trip to Melbourne for a great discussion around podcasting but also Troy's sports business career in ticket sales. Full show notes - https://sportsgeekhq.com/podcast/troy-kirby-sportstao-podcast/2014-07-0745 min
Tao of Sports PodcastTao of Sports Ep. 104 - Jason Behenna (Sports Information Director, Seattle University)
One of the infamous “lost episodes” of the podcast has been discovered. Recorded in late November 2012 in Palo Alto right after Stanford defeated Seattle University in men’s basketball, Troy’s former boss, Jason Behenna, talks to him about media relations. Behenna goes over some of the new media duties that he has during the game, as well as what it takes to do a sports information job correctly. Behenna discusses some of his experiences with media, coaches, administration and student-athletes, as well as his philosophies on how a sports information department should be run to reach maximum e...2013-04-231h 22
Tao of Sports PodcastTao of Sports Ep. 102 - David Black (President/CEO, InSource Technology Corporation)
The WiFi landscape of stadium technology is so confusing that most people, including Troy, don’t really have a good grasp of it. That’s why InSource’s David Black agreed to be a guest in order to help explain it in laymen’s terms. InSource has been responsible for several major WiFi projects, including the 5,000-seat Lakewood Church and the 40,000-seat, $105 million University of Houston Football Stadium set to open in 2014. Black talks through several of the capacity issues, especially with enterprise data, because it takes a lot to get one small text message from point A to poin...2013-04-2142 min
Tao of Sports PodcastTao of Sports Ep. 100 - Vykky Hawkins (Social Media Coordinator, Arizona St. Sun Devil Athletics)
In the 100th episode of the podcast, Troy sits down with social media guru Vykky Hawkins to talk about social platforms and where the entire scope of digital media is headed. Hawkins talks about what are the best, worst things to tweet, how to ensure quality controls even on breaking news that she may know about two days earlier such as a coaching hire, the UA Grumpy Cat Campaign, Trolls, Catfishing and ensuring that there is a true relationship with the Arizona State fan base. Twitter: @VykkyHawkins2013-04-1843 min
Tao of Sports PodcastTao of Sports Ep. 92 - Ben Foster (General Manager, Australian Baseball League)
Australians have a long love affair with the sport of baseball according to Ben Foster. General Manager of the three-year-old Australia Baseball League Down Under, Foster talks about the highs and lows of a sports just feeling its way into economic stability amid various other popular sports vying for Aussie’s attention. Foster talks about where the ABL has gone, what the future looks like, and how much history the sport of baseball actually has in Oceania. Note: The podcast was recorded amid the Mexico-Diamondbacks game at Salt Fields at Talking Stick during Cactus League Spring Training in M...2013-04-1144 min
Tao of Sports PodcastTao of Sports Ep. 4 - Ken Troupe (KT Marketing)Ken Troupe has 18 years of professional sports experience and was willing to come on the podcast with Troy, talking about some of the newer technologies that have enhanced the sales portion of the sports industry. Troupe is a consultant for several sports franchises, currently the NHL's Phoenix Coyotes, and co-hosts a twitter conversation #social4tixsales about new ticket sales ideas with some of the industry's top performers. From 1996-2008, Troupe work for the Texas Rangers' franchise, moving up from account executive to Sr. Director of Ticket Sales by the end of his tenure. The conversation goes into various areas...2012-11-0749 min
Tao of Sports PodcastTao of Sports Ep. 3 - Rick Hill/Bryan Moynihan (Valero Alamo Bowl)The Valero Alamo Bowl's Rick Hill (VP of Marketing) and Bryan Moynihan (Director of Ticket Sales & Service) were invited to be guests on the podcast and talked with Troy about how to actually pull off a major college football event. The Alamo Bowl is played Dec. 29 in a 65,000 seat stadium between a Pac-12 and Big-12 Opponent. Hill and Moynihan show off their strategic sales plan in ensuring the bowl's success, which was sold out last year with less than 10,000 tickets available before either Baylor or Washington was selected to play. Hill and Moynihan take turns talking price points, how...2012-11-0426 min
Tao of Sports PodcastTao of Sports Ep. 2 - Rob Sine (Pac-12 VP, Tickets)Group Ticket Sales Giant Rob Sine talks with Host Troy Kirby about the current state of ticket sales on both the college and professional landscape. Sine is a Pac-12 Vice President, the only major conference which has a position specifically dedicated to ticket sales. Sine's extensive background includes working for three NBA teams (Milwaukee Bucks, Portland Trailblazers, and Seattle Supersonics), stints in marketing & promotions with minor league hockey teams. Prior to joining the Pac-12, Sine founded Hands on Sports which had clients from the NCAA, NFL, NBA, NHL, Auto Racing, MLS, CFL and was president of Collegiate Consulting, a...2012-10-2834 min
Tao of Sports PodcastTao of Sports Ep. 1 - Matt Harper (Univ. of Oregon Duck Tix)Matt Harper serves as the general manager of The University of Oregon's Duck Tix, an in-house out-bound ticket sales division within the UO athletic department. Harper's extensive experience in ticket sales includes work at IMG-Learfield, Disney Wide World of Sports, & Seattle University Athletics. Harper sits down with Troy Kirby to talk selling philosophies, customer care, season ticket holder retention, and some of the misconceptions of the ticket sales arena. A companion to this podcast is a 11 minute minicast (available exclusively to FREE iOS podcast app subscribers), where Harper discusses leveraging ticket sales and other topics.2012-10-2249 min