Imagine the dedication and initiative it takes to turn a small blog into a multimillion-dollar media brand. We know it’s not easy, but the habits and hustle required may surprise you. This is what I dive into in this episode with former CEO of Barstool Sports, Erika Ayers Badan. 

We discuss how Erika transitioned from leading roles at Barstool to her current position at Food52, the importance of authenticity, learning from failures, and how to cut through information overload. We also discuss the traits that foster success, like persistence, generosity, likability, and hard work compared to “coddle culture” which leaves detrimental effects. 

Ranked one of the most influential executives in digital innovation, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle media, Erika Ayers Badan is the CEO of Food52 and the former CEO of Barstool Sports. During her tenure at Barstool from 2016 to 2024, Erika transformed the organization from a regional blog to a national powerhouse operation leading to a 5,000% increase in overall revenue, making it one of the most innovative and successful internet media brands.

What We Discuss:

…and more!

Thank you to our sponsors:

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Find more from Jen: 

Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/

Instagram: @therealjencohen  

Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books

Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement

Find more from Erika Ayers Badan:

Website: https://www.erikaayersbadan.com/  

Instagram: @erika

Book: Nobody Cares About Your Career