Sports Business Initiative Launches New Podcast Series That Takes a Deep Dive into Issues at the Cutting Edge of Sports

Faculty , Sports Business | Oct 06, 2023 | Gabelli School of Business

“Sports Business Podcast with Prof. C.” will integrate expert commentary from Professor Mark Conrad, J.D. with insightful perspectives from invited guests

Founded and directed by Mark Conrad, J.D., a professor of law and ethics at the Gabelli School of Business, the Gabelli School Sports Business Initiative is focused on the future of sports. As the world of sports becomes more complex and controversial, stories about profiteering, misconduct, legal standards, mental health and ethical issues fill the news cycle, calling attention to the urgent issues that are changing the sports world today and will have an impact on fans, athletes, and society for generations to come. With his new podcast series, “Sports Business Podcast with Prof. C.,” Professor Conrad seeks to delve deeper into these stories, analyzing and examining crucial topics on a deeper level through expert commentary and interviews with stakeholders across professional sports, amateur sports, collegiate sports, and Olympic sports, for critical discussions about what matters most.

“Each of these episodes will focus on a different topic, sport or athlete or will cover breaking news in the sports world. I’ll be asking the difficult questions that other experts often can’t comment on. I am thrilled to have an opportunity to explore tough subjects objectively and investigate complicated issues,” Professor Conrad noted. “I want to highlight the many facets of sports business in a way that is informative for a wide audience.”

Professor Conrad’s law background provides an informed and unique perspective and underpins his ground-breaking approach to leading enlightened exchanges with guests from across the world of sports. As an experienced commentator in the media, he knows how to present subjects in an evocative and engaging way. “With this podcast, I want to use my experience working with journalists and have more in-depth discussions about the big issues and ideas having an impact on sports now and in the future.”

Several episodes have already been released. Episode 1 provides an overview of the ground Professor Conrad will cover across the spectrum of issues he will discuss. Episode 2 focuses on USA gymnastics and the long road back from the Larry Nassar sex abuse scandal to the appointment of Li Li Leung, who was named the organization’s CEO in 2019. Professor Conrad commends her dedication but questions the expanded deal she recently brokered with Nike to be the exclusive apparel and footwear provider for the men’s and women’s national teams through the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Episode 3 explores the NCAA 2021 decision to loosen rules around the name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights of student athletes, and the ways in which the Supreme Court played a role in this decision.

Tune in to these stimulating discussions to gain diverse perspectives, learn about interesting trends, and delve into the depths of the controversies that often make headlines.

Written by: Michelle Miller, Associate Director of Communications, Fordham University Gabelli School of Business