Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee

Episode 177 | After a string of great guests, David and Tim are back on their own to tackle the latest stories in sports business. From the NBA's new partnerships with prediction markets and McDonald's departure from FIFA to the WNBA Finals, LIV Golf's uncertain future and Pat McAfee's latest controversy, there's plenty to debate. Two fan-favorite segments also return: Spotlight on Sponsorship and Owners Doing Stupid Things.

🎲 The NBA Bets on Prediction Markets — The NBA announces partnerships with Kalshi and Polymarket, but will working with prediction-market operators actually prevent the scandals the league hopes to avoid? David and Tim also discuss the looming legal battle over prediction-market regulation and whether it could ultimately reach the Supreme Court.

🍟 Spotlight on Sponsorship: McDonald's Ends Its FIFA Relationship — After 32 years, McDonald's is ending its partnership with FIFA. David and Tim consider the speculation surrounding the decision and whether the explanation might be less dramatic than the rumors suggest: a desire for a better return on marketing investment.

🏐 Spotlight on Sponsorship: Allianz Goes for the Gold — German financial services giant Allianz has secured naming rights for the beach volleyball venue at the LA Olympic Games. The hosts discuss the deal and the sponsorship opportunities surrounding the 2028 Games.

🏀 The WNBA Finals Deliver — An exciting Finals series keeps the WNBA in the headlines. The hosts also discuss the rescheduling of Game 6 in Atlanta to accommodate the game at State Farm Arena, highlighting the logistical challenges of staging major sporting events.

⛳ LIV Golf 2.0: Bonuses Amid Bankruptcy — As LIV Golf moves through bankruptcy proceedings, it is learned that significant retention bonuses were given to senior leadership. DP and McGhee consider what the move says about the league's plans for its next chapter and the challenges ahead.

🎙️ Pat McAfee Gets Defensive — McAfee draws some attention, and ridicule, from the hosts for his thin-skinned response to his visit to the University of Utah for College GameDay. David and Tim weigh in on the controversy and the reaction it sparked.

🤦 Owners Doing Stupid Things: The Knicks' Phishing Fiasco — One of DP and McGhee's favorite segments returns with the uproar over the Knicks and Madison Square Garden's handling of a cybersecurity test that used championship rings as part of a phishing exercise. A security initiative that went spectacularly wrong, or questionable judgment from the start?

From prediction markets and sponsorship strategy to league controversies and questionable organizational decisions, DP and McGhee deliver the sports business analysis, strong opinions and occasional ridicule you expect from Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee.

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

Episode 176 | It’s another wide-ranging episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee, as David and Tim tackle some of the biggest stories in sports before welcoming one of the most experienced executives in global football.

Tom Glick, CEO of Hometown Soccer Holdings, joins the show to discuss a career spanning minor league baseball, the NBA and international soccer. From the differences between European and American sports business models to the much-debated question of promotion and relegation in MLS, Tom brings a wealth of experience and perspective to a freewheeling conversation about the business of sports.

⚾ A World Series of Firsts — The World Series matchup is set, with two small-market teams facing off. One thing is certain: a first-time world champion is guaranteed.

⚖️ The Brian Flores Lawsuit Takes Another Turn — The lawsuit against the NFL and several teams takes an unsettling turn after a memo from the search firm retained to vet Flores surfaces, containing what many consider racist tropes and clichés. The hosts discuss the implications for the league and its hiring practices.

🏈 College Football Playoff Expansion on the Horizon? — With expansion from 12 to 24 teams appearing all but announced, David and Tim examine the potential consequences for college football, including what a larger playoff could mean for smaller bowl games and conference championship contests.

🌍 FIFA and the Latest Controversy — Gianni Infantino is making headlines again, this time over promised payouts to national associations and federations. The hosts debate the optics and implications of a proposal critics could view as an attempt to buy support.

😬 Coaches Behaving Badly — The opening segment wraps up with quick hits on coaches making headlines for the wrong reasons. Because in sports, the people leading the teams sometimes provide plenty of material off the field, too.

🎙️ Guest: Tom Glick, CEO of Hometown Soccer Holdings — Tom joins David and Tim to trace his career from minor league baseball to the NBA and senior leadership roles in global football. He now leads Hometown Soccer Holdings, a partnership between KKR and Major League Soccer focused on centralizing and scaling the commercial operations of MLS NEXT Pro.

🌎 European Football vs. American Sports Business — Drawing on his extensive international experience, Tom explores how European football clubs and U.S. sports organizations differ in their approaches to commercial operations, rights and business development.

⚽ Could Promotion and Relegation Work in MLS? — Tom weighs in on one of the most debated structural questions in American soccer: whether promotion and relegation could work in Major League Soccer and what it would take to make such a system viable.

💼 Building the Next Chapter of MLS NEXT Pro — The conversation explores the vision behind Hometown Soccer Holdings and how a centralized commercial strategy could unlock new opportunities for the league.

From baseball’s biggest stage and college football’s evolving postseason to FIFA’s latest controversy and the future of global soccer, this episode covers plenty of ground, with an experienced sports business executive offering insight along the way.

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

Episode 175 | Prediction markets, baseball labor battles, the future of LIV Golf, and the business of fandom. It’s another wide-ranging episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee!

David and Tim break down the latest developments across the sports business landscape, including a potential Supreme Court decision on prediction markets and how the MLB playoffs could shape looming labor negotiations. Then, Drew Cousin, co-founder of Cheers Cash, joins the show to explain how his platform helps brands tap into major sports and pop culture moments and shares advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

⚖️ Prediction Markets Head to the Supreme Court? — The NFL is asking the Supreme Court to weigh in on states’ ability to regulate prediction markets. David and Tim discuss what’s at stake and what the outcome could mean for the rapidly evolving industry.

⚾ MLB Playoffs and the Labor Battle Ahead — With four teams, including three small-market clubs, remaining in the MLB postseason, the hosts consider how the outcome could influence the sport’s looming labor showdown and the potential for a work stoppage.

📝 Tim Puts David to the Test — With baseball labor issues on the agenda, Tim quizzes David on what teams can and cannot do during a lockout. Spoiler alert: David knows his stuff!

⛳ Is LIV Golf Running Out of Road? — LIV is back in the headlines, and DP asks McGhee whether Jon Rahm’s departure signals the beginning of the end for the controversial golf league.

🎙️ Guest: Drew Cousin, Co-Founder of Cheers Cash — Drew joins the show to discuss how Cheers Cash helps brands become part of the biggest moments in sports and pop culture.

🎉 Turning Fandom Into Brand Opportunities — Drew explains how Cheers Cash helps brands connect with fans and enhance the fan experience by becoming part of the moments that matter most to them.

💡 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs — Drew shares lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, offering insights for those looking to turn an idea into a viable business.

From the courtroom to the baseball labor front to the future of professional golf, David and Tim cover plenty of ground before exploring how a new platform is finding creative ways to connect brands and fans.

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

Episode 174 | What an action-packed episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee!

David and Tim welcome longtime industry friend Drew Sheinman, founding partner of Brand Velocity Group, for a fascinating conversation about a different kind of private equity firm, how the group convinced NFL legend Eli Manning to join its ranks, and Drew's own unlikely journey from sports business to high finance. But first, the hosts have plenty to debate, from Bears-Jets bragging rights to major changes across the sports media landscape.

🏈 David Takes His Victory Lap: The Bears get the better of Tim's increasingly hapless Jets, giving David an opportunity to celebrate—and Tim nowhere to hide.

📺 Big Changes in Sports Media: Barstool Sports' Dave Portnoy is out at Fox's Big Noon Kickoff, while CBS has parted ways with Tony Romo. What does it all mean for the evolving sports media talent landscape?

⛳ Good Good Golf Good Again? The popular golf-content creators appear to be making a comeback, with video views approaching pre-scandal levels. Are fans ready to welcome Good Good Golf back?

📡 Paramount Skydance Meets Warner Bros. Discovery: With the newly completed merger reshaping the media landscape, David and Tim examine what the deal could mean for CBS and Turner's sports operations.

🚨 Owners Doing Stupid Things—NFL Edition: Following up on a recent segment, the guys discuss the NFL's punishment of 49ers president Jed York following his recent run-in with the law.

🏟️ College Football Ratings Warning: Both hosts sound the alarm over an 11% decline in college football viewership and debate what could be behind the drop—and whether it represents a temporary blip or a larger problem for the sport.

⚽ Trouble at Manchester City: Before the break, David and Tim discuss the unfolding scandal involving City Football Group and its crown jewel, Manchester City.

💼 From Sports to Private Equity: Drew Sheinman joins the conversation to explain what makes Brand Velocity Group different from traditional private equity firms, how the company has built its unique sports-focused investment strategy, and what attracted Eli Manning to become part of the group.

🏈 The Eli Manning Factor: Drew provides insight into bringing one of the NFL's most respected quarterbacks into the Brand Velocity Group family—and the value a sports icon can bring well beyond his playing career.

🎓 From the Sports World to High Finance: Drew takes David and Tim through his career journey and explains how experience in the sports business ultimately led him to the world of private equity.

It's a wide-ranging episode covering sports, media, ownership, college football, golf, soccer and private equity—with plenty of opinions along the way. 𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? indeed

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of sports & business.

𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟳𝟯 | DP & McGhee cover plenty of ground before welcoming this week's guest, touching on one of the biggest developing stories in global sports, record-setting NFL television numbers, more controversy surrounding the University of Texas football program, and another Spotlight on Sponsorship. They then welcome Sophie Whitesell for a conversation about the intersection of athletes, philanthropy, and purpose—and how her own career has shaped her work helping athletes make an impact beyond the playing field.

⚽ Manchester City Under the Microscope: DP & McGhee open with the brewing Manchester City situation, which some have already described as potentially the biggest scandal in sports history. With possible penalties looming and other Premier League clubs reportedly threatening legal action, the guys discuss what could be at stake and why this story is likely to play out for months to come.

📺 NFL Ratings Rebound: After a softer opening week, NFL television ratings bounced back in Week 2, reaching record levels. The Cowboys-Ravens matchup was particularly noteworthy, becoming the highest-rated international game in NFL history.

🏈 Football Players Behaving Badly: The University of Texas finds itself back in the conversation as DP & McGhee discuss another incident involving football players and the challenges that arise when athletes' behavior becomes a story of its own.

💰 Spotlight on Sponsorship: The recurring segment returns with two interesting developments. Michelob Ultra is becoming an NHL sponsor, while Major League Soccer is considering selling a presenting sponsorship at the league level. David and Tim also explore the news of Red Bull using increased sponsorship budgets to drive its best year since the pandemic.

🎙️ Meet Sophie Whitesell: Sophie joins the show to discuss her podcast, The Giving Game, which features athletes talking about their charitable and philanthropic efforts. Learn more about the platform and follow along @thegivinggamepodcast.

❤️ Athletes & Giving Back: Sophie shares how her experiences as a college athlete and healthcare executive have shaped her approach to helping athletes pursue causes that are personally meaningful to them.

🌎 Beyond the Playing Field: The conversation explores the growing role athletes can play in philanthropy and how the right guidance, resources, and connections can help them turn their passion for important causes into meaningful impact.

From Premier League controversy and record NFL audiences to the evolving sports sponsorship marketplace and the growing influence of athletes in philanthropy, Episode 173 highlights the many ways sports, business, and purpose continue to intersect.

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

Episode 172 | This week, DP & McGhee welcome Glenn Horine, Chief Operating Officer of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), for a look at the state of the sports and fitness industry and where it may be headed. But before Glenn joins the conversation, David and Tim tackle a wide-ranging collection of timely sports-business stories, from the upcoming MLB playoffs and college sports legislation to NFL ratings and some surprising revelations about college basketball.

• ⚾ MLB Playoffs: With the MLB postseason approaching, DP & McGhee look ahead to the playoff picture—and consider whether a Nor’easter headed for the East Coast could wreak havoc on season-ending games and the postseason schedule.
• 🏀 Money Under the Table?: Former national player of the year and current ESPN basketball analyst Jay Williams tells Front Office Sports that he and his Duke teammates took money under the table during their college careers. The guys discuss the implications of the allegations and what they could mean in the broader conversation about compensation in college athletics.
• 🏈 Trouble in New England: Bill Belichick has lost two members of his staff—including his son, Steve—amid investigations into their behavior and actions. DP & McGhee examine the developing story and what it could mean for the legendary coach and his program.
• 🏛️ Protecting College Sports Act: The outlook for the Protecting College Sports Act (PCSA) has changed significantly in recent weeks. The guys revisit the proposed legislation and discuss why its path to passage now appears considerably less certain.
• 📺 NFL Week 1 Ratings: The NFL season got off to a strong start on the field, but Week 1 television ratings were down compared with the previous two seasons. DP & McGhee look at the numbers and consider what they might—and might not—tell us about the current state of NFL viewership.
• 🎙️ Meet Glenn Horine: Glenn Horine, COO of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, joins the show to discuss the organization's annual Top Line Report and what its findings reveal about the health and direction of the sports and fitness industry.
• 📈 Where Is the Growth?: Glenn shares his perspective on the sports and activities that appear positioned for significant growth, along with the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and what they could mean for continued expansion.
• 🚀 Developing the Next Generation: Glenn wraps up the conversation by discussing an accelerator program designed to identify, mentor and support the next generation of sports and fitness industry leaders. SFIA also works with the veteran community to create career opportunities and connections that might otherwise be difficult to access.

From the business of baseball and college athletics to NFL television audiences and the broader sports and fitness marketplace, this episode covers a lot of ground, and offers insight into where the sports industry may be headed next.

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

Episode 171 | No guest. No agenda. Just DP & McGhee diving into some of the biggest—and most entertaining—stories happening across the sports industry. From a wild opening week in the NFL to the latest developments in college sports legislation, a celebrity-backed prediction market, and the ever-evolving relationship between sports and media, David and Tim cover plenty of ground in this week’s episode.

• 🏈 NFL Week 1: The NFL season is off and running with record-setting scoring, and both DP and McGhee have something to celebrate as their teams emerge victorious. But not everything went according to plan, as the Rams’ decision to arrive in Australia just one day before their game against San Francisco raises plenty of questions about preparation and logistics.
• 🏛️ Protecting College Sports Act: The proposed Protecting College Sports Act (PCSA) could be headed for a Senate vote this week. DP & McGhee break down the latest developments surrounding the legislation, examine the arguments from both supporters and critics, and discuss what passage could mean for the future of college athletics.
• 📺 Sydney Sweeney & Novig: Sydney Sweeney finds herself at the center of debate once again, this time involving Novig, a sports-focused prediction market in which the actress holds an equity stake. The guys discuss the unusual intersection of celebrity, advertising, sports betting, and prediction markets.
• 🥤 Spotlight on Sponsorship — F1 & Coke: David brings back Spotlight on Sponsorship with a look at Formula 1’s response to McLaren driver Lando Norris drinking a Coke in the cooldown room following the Spanish Grand Prix. What might seem like a simple post-race moment becomes an interesting lesson in sponsorship rights and brand relationships.
• 🎙️ Steve Sarkisian vs. ESPN: The fallout continues from University of Texas coach Steve Sarkisian’s issues with ESPN during the Texas–Ohio State game. DP & McGhee examine the tension between coaches, broadcasters, and media partners—and the potential consequences when those relationships go sideways.
• 🤖 Arch Manning & "AI Slop": The discussion continues with Arch Manning’s response to AI-generated content depicting violence against ESPN journalist Holly Rowe. After initially laughing about the "AI slop" content, Manning ultimately apologized, creating another fascinating conversation about AI, social media, athletes, and responsibility in the digital age.

From NFL travel decisions and college legislation to prediction markets, sponsorship rights, media relationships, and AI, DP & McGhee once again prove there is never a shortage of 𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? moments in the sports business world.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of sports & business.

Episode 170 | This week, DP & McGhee shake things up by changing the format of the show and launching the first edition of the 𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨. Instead of the traditional guest interview, David and Tim welcome back Rick Singer for a wide-ranging roundtable discussion on some of the biggest—and most consequential—issues shaping the sports business landscape today.

With Rick’s unique experience spanning higher education, charitable foundations, IBM and the NBA, the three bring plenty of perspective, opinions and debate to the table.

🎙️ Meet Rick Singer: Rick returns to the show with a career that includes leadership roles in higher education, charitable foundations, IBM and the NBA, providing a unique perspective on the business of sports.

⛳ LIV Golf — Past, Present & Future: The three examine the evolution of LIV Golf, where the controversial league stands today and what its future could look like. They also discuss how LIV forced the PGA TOUR to respond and the potential long-term ramifications for professional golf.

🏀 NBA & the Clippers Sponsorship Scandal: Drawing on his experience inside the NBA, Rick offers his thoughts Commissioner Adam Silver's response to the Clippers cap circumvention scandal. The group also considers a fascinating question: How might former NBA Commissioner David Stern have handled the situation?

🏀 The WNBA's Next Chapter: With the league searching for a new commissioner, DP, Tim and Rick discuss the qualities the WNBA should be looking for, and who some of the likely candidates might be. They also tackle the growing number of off-court distractions surrounding the league and its players and what can be done to keep the focus on the basketball.

🏈 SEC vs. LSU: The conversation wraps up with the increasingly contentious battle between the SEC and one of its most prominent member schools, LSU. The guys debate what's behind the dispute and what it could mean for the conference—and college sports—going forward.

The first installment of the Wait, What? Conversation Series brings together three experienced sports-business voices for a discussion that goes beyond headlines, exploring the issues, decisions and personalities shaping the industry today.

🎙️ 𝗪𝗮𝗶𝘁, 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁? 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀𝗯𝗶𝘇 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗗𝗣 & 𝗠𝗰𝗚𝗵𝗲𝗲
Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of sports & business.

Episode 169 | With football season upon us, DP & McGhee welcome an executive from one of the most iconic franchises in professional sports. Pittsburgh Steelers SVP of Business Operations Ryan Huzjak joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation about the culture, leadership, and traditions that have helped define the Steelers for generations, while also sharing his perspective on the current state of football and the business of sports.

🏈 Steelers Culture: Championships Are the Standard — Ryan explains what it means to work for a franchise where winning isn't simply the goal—it's the expectation.

🟨 50 Years of the Terrible Towel — Ryan discusses the history, significance, and enduring power of one of the most recognizable symbols in all of sports.

👔 The Legacy of Dan Rooney — Huzjak reflects on the influence of former Steelers owner Dan Rooney, his impact on the franchise and the league, and the lasting significance of the Rooney Rule.

🏟️ A Quarterback's Perspective — A standout quarterback at the University of Toledo, Ryan offers his thoughts on today's college football landscape and how the game has evolved since his playing days.

Before welcoming Ryan, DP & McGhee tackle another busy week in sports business:

🧵 David's Opening "Weave" — DP connects the demise of the Pro Bowl, Karl Ravech's final Little League World Series call, and Pat McAfee's reported march toward another massive ESPN deal.

🏀 The WNBA Keeps Making News — The hosts discuss the latest developments surrounding women's professional basketball and the league's continued ability to command attention.

🎥 Content Controversy Continues — The fallout from the Good Good Golf and Callaway debate provides another opportunity to examine the increasingly complex relationship between brands, athletes, creators, and content.

🏈 LSU vs. the SEC? — LSU's effort to welcome players back from NFL training camps raises fresh questions about the evolving relationship between college programs, athletes, conferences, and the professional game.

⚽ Kushner's Football Education — David and Tim have some fun at Josh Kushner's expense while discussing UEFA's latest efforts to push back against FIFA.

Another episode that gets listeners ready for football season with a fascinating look inside one of sports' most respected organizations, while DP & McGhee continue connecting the dots across the ever-changing sports business landscape.

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

Episode 168 | DP & McGhee return with another episode that spans the business of sports, questions of leadership and accountability, and some decidedly unusual behavior from owners and athletes. David and Tim also welcome Amanda Gunville, a longtime sports executive, cancer thriver, and entrepreneur, who shares her career journey and the inspiration behind her new venture helping women better understand and enjoy the game of football.

🤦 Owners Doing Stupid Things — The popular recurring segment returns, with San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York taking the spotlight following a recent incident that sparked debate across the sports world. David and Tim examine the situation and the uncomfortable questions it raises about leadership, accountability, and public perception.

🏀 The WNBA's Off-Court Distractions — The league continues to deal with headlines away from the court, including Enes Kanter Freedom being ejected from a game following a confrontation with Chicago Sky player Natasha Cloud. The hosts agree they would much rather be talking about the tremendous basketball being played and the continued growth of the WNBA.

⛳ Is LIV Golf in Trouble? — DP & McGhee examine the increasingly uncertain outlook surrounding LIV Golf, including reports and speculation about the league's long-term future. David and Tim discuss what a potential restructuring—or even the league's demise—could mean for professional golf and the broader sports business landscape.

🎙️ Guest: Amanda Gunville — Longtime sports industry executive Amanda Gunville joins the show to discuss her career journey, her experience as a cancer thriver, and the lessons she's learned navigating the sports business.

• 🏈 Introducing Champera — Amanda explains her new sports education company, Champera, which helps people better understand American football strategy while building knowledge and confidence, particularly among women. She shares why she saw an opportunity to make the game more accessible and enjoyable for an audience that has historically been underserved by traditional football education.
• 🤝 Lessons from Leigh Steinberg — Amanda reflects on working with legendary sports agent Leigh Steinberg and the influence that experience had on her career, leadership style, and approach to the sports industry.
• 💡 Creating Confidence Through Sports Education — The conversation explores how understanding football strategy, terminology, and decision-making can make the game more enjoyable while giving women greater confidence participating in conversations around America's most popular sport.

Another engaging episode of Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee combining the latest sports business headlines with an inspiring conversation about resilience, entrepreneurship, and making America's most popular sport more accessible to new audiences.

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

Episode 167 | This week, DP & McGhee explore the increasingly complex world of sports ownership before welcoming a guest whose work helps ensure the NFL's most important numbers are accurate. David and Tim break down a series of major ownership developments across the NBA, NFL and MLB, then go behind the scenes with Ollie Auerbach from the NFL's Statistics Operations department.

• 🏀 The Lakers' Blockbuster Sale — The hosts discuss Mark Walter's shocking sale of the Los Angeles Lakers and the surprising decision by the Buss family to sell control of the franchise. They also consider whether the move could have implications for Chelsea, another major sports property in Walter's portfolio.
• 🏀 The Buss Family Drama — Not long after the Lakers sale was announced, members of the Buss family indicated they intended to sell their minority stake in the franchise (also to Bob Iger and Josh Kushner). But Jeanie Buss was quick to push back with a "not so fast," suggesting the Lakers ownership story may have another chapter—or several—yet to come.

• 🏀 Clippers Investigation Gets Murkier — David and Tim examine conflicting reports surrounding the NBA's investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers, Kawhi Leonard and their dealings with Aspiration, and what the uncertainty could mean for the league and the franchise.

• ⚾ The Yankees Bring in Apollo — The New York Yankees become the latest iconic sports franchise to tap outside capital, taking an investment from Apollo Sports Capital that includes both equity and a line of credit. DP & McGhee discuss what the deal says about the changing financial landscape of professional sports ownership.
• 🏈 Guest: Ollie Auerbach — Ollie joins the show to explain his role in the NFL's Statistics Operations department, where he and his colleagues oversee the statistical operation for every play of every NFL game.
• 📊 Every Play Counts — Ollie provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the NFL monitors games from league headquarters and with personnel stationed at every stadium, ensuring the statistics relied upon by teams, broadcasters, fans and fantasy players are accurate and consistent.
• 🤔 David Gets the Quiz — Ollie opens the interview by giving David the same quiz he previously gave Tim: What exactly qualifies as a sack? The seemingly simple question turns out to be considerably more complicated than it sounds.
• 📈 The Science Behind the Stats — The conversation reveals the extraordinary level of detail, judgment and coordination required to produce the official statistics that become part of the NFL's permanent record.

From franchise valuations and ownership intrigue to the people responsible for recording every sack, tackle and touchdown, this episode offers a fascinating look at both the business and operational sides of professional sports.

🎙️ Wait, What? SportsBiz Chat with DP & McGhee

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

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Episode 166 | DP & McGhee are back with another wide-ranging episode exploring the business of sports from both the front office and the fan's perspective. David and Tim examine the latest turmoil surrounding FIFA, revisit some of the most memorable sports venues they've experienced, and welcome an industry veteran whose unconventional career path has led to a new approach to helping college athletic departments generate revenue.

🏟️ The DP & McGhee Top 10 — The hosts bring back a popular segment and reveal their favorite sports venues, sharing the experiences and characteristics that make certain stadiums and arenas truly memorable.

🌍 FIFA Faces More Turmoil — The ongoing controversy surrounding Gianni Infantino and FIFA takes center stage as David and Tim discuss growing opposition from several of the sport's confederations despite a vote of confidence from FIFA's board.

💰 World Cup Host Cities Cry Foul — The hosts examine claims from several U.S. host cities that they have not received funding they expected to help offset costs associated with staging the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

🎙️ Guest: Tom Valdiserri — The CEO of TKN Sports joins DP & McGhee to discuss a new fan engagement platform designed to help college athletic departments generate incremental revenue while building deeper relationships with their supporters.

🏀 A Career Unlike Any Other — Tom shares stories from a sports business journey that includes serving as Commissioner of the Continental Basketball Association and leadership roles across multiple areas of the industry.

🐾 From Mascot to Management — In one of the more unusual career stories in sports, Tom reflects on his time as a mascot for the Chicago White Sox and the lessons he learned from seeing the business from a completely different perspective.

💡 The Future of Fan Engagement — Tom explains why direct fan relationships are becoming increasingly important and how colleges can create new revenue opportunities in an evolving landscape.

Another entertaining episode from DP & McGhee combining sports business headlines, personal sports experiences, and a fascinating conversation with an executive whose career has taken him from the CBA to the baseball diamond and now into the next generation of fan engagement.

Wait, What? Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business.

Episode 165 | Even more than two weeks after the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the tournament's ripple effects continue to dominate the sports business conversation. This week, DP & McGhee examine FIFA's latest controversy, highlight several noteworthy sponsorship deals, and revisit the ever-expanding world of sports wagering.

⚽ FIFA's Post-World Cup Controversy — David and Tim break down FIFA President Gianni Infantino's short-lived proposal to sell a 21% stake in FIFA's commercial operations, a move that generated swift and widespread criticism throughout the global football community.

🤝 A Rare United Front — The hosts discuss the nearly universal opposition to the proposal, led by UEFA and CONCACAF, and debate whether the backlash could ultimately jeopardize Infantino's future as FIFA president.

💰 Spotlight on Sponsorship Returns — DP & McGhee revive one of the show's favorite recurring segments to discuss several notable partnership announcements:

• Ohio State lands a jersey patch partnership with JPMorgan Chase.
• Notre Dame announces a similar jersey patch agreement with SoFi.
• The New York Mets become the first Major League Baseball club to partner with a prediction market through Novig.
• Japanese insurer Sompo Property & Casualty signs on as a major sponsor of the PGA TOUR.

🎲 The Expanding World of Sports Wagering — David and Tim revisit one of the show's recurring themes, discussing how sportsbooks, prediction markets, and even financial index-based products continue to blur the lines between sports and wagering. The hosts agree that as betting opportunities expand, so too does the potential for future integrity concerns and betting scandals.

🏀 Lines Being Drawn in the WNBA — A co-owner is fined as sides continue to form following Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham's comments regarding transgender athletes. While acknowledging the complexity of the issue, the hosts agree that much of the reaction has been overblown.

Another insightful episode from DP & McGhee that blends timely sports business news, thoughtful debate, and a wide-ranging look at the stories shaping the industry.

Another insightful episode from DP & McGhee that blends timely sports business news, thoughtful debate, and engaging conversation.

Another insightful episode from DP & McGhee that blends timely sports business news, thoughtful debate, and engaging conversation.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩?

Smart Takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the Corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 164 | With the 2026 FIFA World Cup now in the books, DP & McGhee take one final look back at a tournament that captivated the sporting world before turning their attention to what's next in sports business. David and Tim recap the biggest moments from the World Cup, debut a brand-new recurring segment, and welcome one of the industry's leading sponsorship strategists for a conversation spanning commercial partnerships, squash, and the road to the Los Angeles Olympics.

🌍 One Last Look at the World Cup — The hosts reflect on a memorable tournament and discuss the lasting impact it may have on the global sports landscape.

🏆 A Spectacular Final — David and Tim break down the championship match, including the pre-match entertainment, halftime festivities, and the atmosphere surrounding one of the world's biggest sporting events.

📺 Ratings Through the Roof — The World Cup Final delivers blockbuster television numbers, reinforcing the tournament's unmatched global appeal.

⚽ The Best Match That Wasn't the Final — The England–France third-place match earns high praise from the hosts, who argue it may have been the most entertaining contest of the tournament.

🚀 Momentum for What's Next — DP & McGhee discuss how the World Cup's success could accelerate interest in the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup and continue fueling Major League Soccer's growth in the United States.

🇦🇷 Argentina Under the Microscope — The hosts weigh in on Argentina's conduct during and after the championship, sparking a broader conversation about sportsmanship on the biggest stage.

🐐 Messi's Legacy — David and Tim debate Lionel Messi's leadership throughout the tournament and how it may influence the way history remembers one of the game's greatest players.

🤦 Owners Doing Stupid Things — DP & McGhee introduce a new recurring feature that calls out questionable decisions and head-scratching behavior from professional sports team owners.

🎙️ Guest: Stephanie Borges — The Founder & CEO of Mead Point Capital joins the show to discuss how her firm helps brands and rights holders maximize sponsorship value through strategic intelligence.

🏸 A Passion That Became a Profession — Stephanie shares how her love of squash led to owning a professional men's squash team, serving on the World Squash Federation board, and supporting U.S. Squash's commercial development efforts.

🥇 Looking Ahead to LA28 — Drawing on her experience in sponsorship strategy, Stephanie offers her perspective on the commercial opportunities and competitive storylines surrounding the 2028 Summer Olympic Games.

Another engaging episode that wraps up a historic World Cup, introduces a fun new recurring segment, and delivers expert insight into the evolving business of sponsorship and global sport.

Wait, What?

Smart Takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 163 | DP & McGhee return with another episode that blends insightful sports business analysis with an engaging conversation about one of the most overlooked aspects of the fan experience.Before welcoming sports business veteran and entrepreneur Ryan Halkett, David and Tim tackle the latest headlines in golf, college sports, sponsorship, and baseball.

⛳ Golf's Changing Landscape — David opens the show with a deep dive into several of the biggest stories in professional golf.

🎙️ LIV Golf Under the Microscope — DP shares his reaction to LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil's recent interview with Sportico, explaining why he came away less than impressed with the league's messaging and direction.

📈 The PGA TOUR's New Structure — The hosts discuss the PGA TOUR's new two-tier competitive format, featuring Championship and Challenger events, and how a promotion-and-relegation-style system could reshape professional golf.

🎰 A Gambling Double Standard? — David and Tim examine what they see as hypocrisy from players such as Jordan Spieth, who accept sponsorship money from sports betting companies while criticizing fans whose gambling interests lead to disruptive behavior during tournaments.

🤝 Monster Energy Joins the Big 12 — The co-hosts break down Monster Energy's landmark sponsorship agreement, which gives the brand naming rights to the Big 12 Conference's football and basketball seasons, and discuss what it signals about the future of conference partnerships.

⚾ Home Run Derby Review — Before the interview, David and Tim share their thoughts on the latest MLB Home Run Derby, discussing its entertainment value and place among baseball's premier showcase events.

🎙️ Guest: Ryan Halkett — Sports business veteran, entrepreneur, and game presentation expert Ryan Halkett joins the show for an in-depth conversation about the art and science of creating unforgettable live sports experiences.

🎆 More Than Halftime Entertainment — Ryan explains why game presentation extends far beyond halftime entertainment, influencing fan engagement, sponsor value, and the overall atmosphere inside a venue.

📺 Connecting the Arena and the Broadcast — The discussion explores how game presentation serves as a bridge between live audiences and viewers at home, helping shape the perception of teams, leagues, and events.

💡 Innovation in the Sports Experience — Ryan shares lessons from his career building businesses and advising sports organizations, offering insight into how technology, creativity, and storytelling continue to reshape the fan experience.

Another thoughtful episode from DP & McGhee exploring the business of sports from every angle, from golf, sponsorship, and baseball to the sights, sounds, and storytelling that bring live events to life.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? Smart Takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the Corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 162 | With no guest on the schedule, DP & McGhee devote nearly the entire episode to the biggest sporting event in the world—the FIFA World Cup. David and Tim take a deep dive into the tournament's defining storylines, reflect on the performance of the U.S. Men's National Team, and discuss what the competition means for the future of soccer in America. Along the way, they also tip their caps to a pair of champions from one of America's most unique Independence Day traditions.

🌭 Saluting Competitive Eating Legends — The hosts congratulate Joey Chestnut on yet another victory at the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest and marvel at Eric "Badlands" Booker's astonishing feat of chugging a gallon of lemonade in just 21 seconds.

🇺🇸 USMNT Meets Expectations — Both David and Tim agree the U.S. Men's National Team advanced about as far as could reasonably have been expected given the quality of the international competition.

🟥 Politics Enters the Pitch — The hosts discuss President Trump's public comments surrounding Folarin Balogun's controversial red card, another example of how the World Cup has extended beyond sports into the broader cultural conversation.

👏🏼Balogun's Composed Response — David and Tim praise Balogun for handling the situation with class and grace despite the intense scrutiny.

🇵🇹 Ronaldo's Final World Cup? — The conversation turns to what appears to be Cristiano Ronaldo's farewell appearance on soccer's biggest stage and the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.

🎙️ Broadcast Booth Tension — DP & McGhee revisit the increasingly obvious friction between Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimović on one side and fellow analyst Alexi Lalas on the other, making for compelling television beyond the matches themselves.

⚽ The Future Is Bright — The hosts conclude that while American soccer still has room to grow, the World Cup demonstrated that the sport's foundation in the United States has never been stronger. Increased fan interest, stronger infrastructure, and greater visibility leave David and Tim optimistic that the game's momentum can continue after the tournament ends if the proper commitments are made.

Another episode filled with thoughtful analysis, spirited debate, and a celebration of the moments—both on and off the field—that made this World Cup unforgettable.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? Smart Takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 161 | Fresh off attending a FIFA World Cup match in Philadelphia, DP & McGhee return with another episode packed with observations from the tournament, major NBA headlines, and a conversation with veteran sports industry executive Gordon Kane.

A quick note: Due to connectivity issues during recording, portions of Gordon's audio may sound choppy at times. We appreciate your patience and believe the insights he shares are well worth it.

🌍 World Cup from the Stands — David and Tim recap their trip to Philadelphia to watch Côte d'Ivoire take on Curaçao, sharing observations on the fan atmosphere, tournament operations, and the continued growth of soccer in the United States.

🏀 NBA Betting Scandal Grows — The hosts discuss two additional indictments tied to the league's ongoing sports betting investigation and what the latest developments could mean for the NBA.

🔎 Clippers Investigation Nears a Conclusion — DP & McGhee examine reports that the NBA is close to wrapping up its investigation into the alleged Steve Ballmer/Kawhi Leonard/Los Angeles Clippers and Aspiration controversy.

⭐ LeBron's Next Move — LeBron James announces he is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers in pursuit of one more championship, and the hosts discuss the potential destinations and business implications of another high-profile free agency decision.

😂 Sophie Cunningham's Viral Moment — Tim can't get enough of the now-viral clip of Sophie Cunningham seemingly pointing at an opponent for an eternity, creating one of the week's most entertaining social media moments.

📰 What Is an "NFL Insider"? — David and Tim discuss former The Athletic reporter Diana Russini, her reported compensation, and what the increasingly common title of "NFL Insider" really means in today's sports media landscape.

🎙️ Guest: Gordon Kane — Joining from Kansas City after experiencing the World Cup firsthand, Gordon shares his perspective on one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

⚽ Evaluating the Tournament — Gordon discusses how the World Cup has unfolded, from fan engagement and operations to the overall execution of the event.

🤝 The Sponsorship Winners and Losers — Drawing on decades of experience, Gordon identifies which brands have successfully activated their World Cup partnerships—and which have missed valuable opportunities.

🇺🇸 World Cup's Lasting Legacy — The conversation's highlight is hearing Gordon's well-articulated thoughts on the long-term impact the 2026 FIFA World Cup will have on soccer's growth, commercial development, and cultural relevance in the United States.

Another engaging episode that combines firsthand World Cup experiences, breaking sports business news, and expert analysis from one of the industry's most respected voices.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? | Smart Takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 160 | DP & McGhee are back with another episode that blends global football, major championship golf, and a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of the most accomplished careers in sports business. After breaking down the latest World Cup storylines and sharing their thoughts on the U.S. Open, David and Tim welcome a longtime industry executive whose career has touched some of the most important developments in international baseball.

🌍 World Cup Storylines Take Center Stage — The hosts dive into the latest developments from the tournament and discuss the players and personalities dominating the global conversation.

⚽ Mbappé Chasing History — David and Tim discuss why Kylian Mbappé appears on track to challenge the World Cup scoring record and further cement his place among the game's all-time greats.

🎙️ Broadcast Drama on Display — The co-hosts discuss the on-air tension between Alexi Lalas and Zlatan Ibrahimović during World Cup coverage, with Thierry Henry seemingly caught in the middle.

🇵🇹 Ronaldo Answers the Critics — After drawing some criticism from the hosts, Cristiano Ronaldo responded with a brace shortly after recording wrapped, offering another reminder that writing off greatness is rarely a safe bet.

⛳ U.S. Open at Shinnecock — David and Tim review the year's third major championship and share differing perspectives on the event.

👥 An Underwhelming Atmosphere? — David was less than impressed with both the gallery turnout and the television presentation from Shinnecock Hills.

😂 A Bushwood Comparison — Tim jokes that Wyndham Clark belongs at the fictional Bushwood Country Club, providing one of the episode's lighter moments.

🙈 Predictions Best Left Unmentioned — Neither host seemed eager to revisit their pre-tournament picks.

🎙️ Guest: Jim Small — The founder and president of Ascendant Sports & Entertainment joins the show after retiring from a remarkable 40-year career in sports, including more than 25 years with Major League Baseball.

⚾ A Memorable First Day — Jim shares the story of a run-in with Hall of Fame manager Earl Weaver on his very first day in professional baseball.

🌎 Building the World Baseball Classic — Jim takes listeners behind the scenes of creating and growing the World Baseball Classic into one of the premier international competitions in sports.

💡 Lessons from Four Decades in Sports — Jim reflects on the relationships, challenges, and opportunities that shaped a distinguished career and discusses what comes next in his new chapter with Ascendant Sports & Entertainment.

Another entertaining episode packed with sharp takes, sports business insights, and memorable stories from one of the industry's most respected executives.

𝙒𝙖𝙞𝙩, 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩? | Smart Takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 159 | DP & McGhee are back with a wide-ranging conversation spanning college football, global soccer, combat sports, and championship reflections. With no guest this week, David and Tim dive into the biggest stories in sports, delivering their trademark mix of analysis, opinion, and fandom, and in doing so, reveal numerous things that are 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴.

🏈 A New Twist in College Football — Brendan Sorsby elects to forgo his final season at Texas Tech and enter the NFL Supplemental Draft, potentially sidestepping what could have become a significant legal battle involving the Big 12.

🥊 UFC at the White House — The hosts pull no punches in discussing the UFC event at the White House, examining the spectacle, symbolism, and implications of blending sports and politics on such a visible stage.

🌍 World Cup Headlines Continue to Dominate

• An Côte d'Ivoire player is arrested on suspicion of match-fixing, creating one of the tournament's most troubling off-field stories.
• Argentina overwhelms Algeria behind Lionel Messi's first World Cup hat trick.
• Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha becomes an overnight sensation after a standout performance against Spain captures global attention.

🏆 Championship Season Wrap-Up — David and Tim reflect on the Stanley Cup Final and NBA Finals, discussing the moments and storylines that made both championship runs memorable.

🏒 Another Great NHL Season — A look back at the storylines that made this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs must-watch television.

🏀 Knicks Fanboy Moment — The conversation turns personal as the hosts discuss what's next for one of the NBA's most talked-about franchises.

Another lively episode from DP & McGhee blending sports business, current events, and passionate fan perspectives from across the sporting world.

Wait What?

Smart Takes. Occasional Nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.

Episode 158 | With the 2026 FIFA World Cup finally set to kick off, DP & McGhee break down the biggest storylines surrounding the world's largest sporting event before welcoming Ed Horne, COO of On Location, the company helping deliver hospitality experiences for millions of fans. From tournament predictions and operational concerns to the business of premium experiences, this episode explores both the competition on the field and the massive industry supporting it.

🌎 World Cup Predictions & Business Implications — David and Tim kick off the show by sharing their forecasts for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, discussing both the competition on the pitch and the broader business implications of the tournament.

⚠️ World Cup Operational Concerns — While excitement is high, the hosts revisit concerns that logistical or operational issues could arise during the event, pointing to reports that an African referee was denied entry to the United States on the eve of the tournament.

🏛️ The "Save College Sports Act" — David examines the latest effort by U.S. senators to bring structure to the college sports landscape, noting that while the intentions may be good, meaningful legislation remains difficult to achieve.

🏒 Stanley Cup Finals Quick Hits — The hosts offer their thoughts on the latest developments from hockey's biggest stage.

🏀 NBA Finals Storylines — A look at the key narratives emerging as the championship series unfolds.

🤖 ESPN's AI Misstep — DP & McGhee weigh in on ESPN's much-discussed use of artificial intelligence in its NBA Finals Game 1 coverage package and whether the execution missed the mark.

🎙️ Are We in a Golden Age of Play-by-Play? — Before heading to the interview, Tim makes the case that sports fans are currently enjoying an unprecedented era of elite play-by-play broadcasters across multiple sports.

🎟️ Guest: Ed Horne, COO of On Location — Ed joins the show to discuss the massive scale of the company's hospitality operations for the World Cup and what it takes to serve fans at one of the largest sporting events in history.

🏈 Executing the Biggest Events in Sports — Ed shares behind-the-scenes insights from On Location's work at the Super Bowl, Winter Olympic Games, NCAA Final Four, and numerous other marquee events.

📈 The Business of Sports Hospitality — The conversation explores how hospitality has become a critical revenue driver and fan-engagement platform across the sports industry.

🏒 An Unforgettable Career Origin Story — In a first for the podcast, Ed reveals that his sports business journey began as a hockey referee at the 1988 Olympics, providing a remarkable example of how unconventional paths can lead to executive leadership.

Another episode packed with timely analysis, industry perspective, and a fascinating look at the people and organizations operating behind the scenes of the world's biggest sporting events.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

🌐 Link in bio or visit dpandmcghee.com

Wait, What?

Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the corner of Sports & Business.