41. How the NHL's Minnesota Wild and TrueDialog are Innovating and Converting Through SMS Text Messaging 

Summary
Episode 41 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell talks with execs from the Minnesota Wild about their SMS and text messaging efforts. Matt talks with Bryant Hafemeyer and Ben Hall from the Minnesota Wild and Amanda McGucken Hager of TrueDialog. The conversation explores the Minnesota Wild's innovative use of SMS marketing to enhance fan engagement and improve communication. The discussion highlights the strategic reasons behind adopting SMS, the importance of meeting fans where they are, and the various applications of SMS in sports marketing, from ticket sales to service communications. The panelists share insights on the competitive landscape of sports marketing and the future potential of SMS in enhancing the fan experience. In this conversation, the speakers discuss innovative strategies for ticketing and SMS marketing in the sports industry, focusing on the Minnesota Wild's approach. They delve into the mechanics of launching SMS campaigns, the legal considerations involved, and the importance of building quality SMS lists. The conversation highlights the success metrics of their campaigns, showcasing the effectiveness of SMS marketing compared to other channels. The speakers conclude with thoughts on future directions and the significance of maintaining compliance and quality in customer engagement.

About the Farrell Sports Business Podcast
Interviews with news makers from sports business to talk leadership, entrepreneurship, industry news and their unique career paths. Hosted by Matt Farrell, President of Farrell Sports and former Golf Channel, USOPC, USA Swimming and Warner Bros. 

Watch it on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@farrellsportsww

Listen in Podcasty Places - Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio and more

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Minnesota Wild's SMS Strategy
00:50 Launching SMS Campaigns: The Mechanics
26:23 Legal Considerations in SMS Marketing
32:37 Building Quality SMS Lists
35:51 Campaign Success Metrics and Insights
39:58 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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40. Building the Sport of FlingGolf One Golf Course at a Time, with FlingGolf CEO Alex Van Alen

Summary
Episode 39 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell talks with Alex Van Alen, the CEO/Founder of FlingGolf by New Swarm. They discuss the innovative sport of FlingGolf, its origins, development, and the challenges faced in promoting it within the traditional golf community. Alex shares insights into the business side of FlingGolf, including player engagement, course partnerships, and the importance of community building. They also explore the global reach of the sport, the establishment of the World League FlingGolf, and entrepreneurial lessons learned along the way.

About the Farrell Sports Business Podcast
Interviews with news makers from sports business to talk leadership, entrepreneurship, industry news and their unique career paths. Hosted by Matt Farrell, President of Farrell Sports and former Golf Channel, USOPC, USA Swimming and Warner Bros. 

Watch it on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@farrellsportsww

Listen in Podcasty Places - Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio and more

Takeaways

- FlingGolf is a unique blend of lacrosse and golf.
- The sport has been played on over 2,000 courses worldwide.
- Alex's background in environmental conservation informs his approach to business.
- The pandemic positively impacted golf participation rates.
- Community building is essential for the growth of new sports.
- Golf course owners are receptive to FlingGolf.
- Marketing efforts focus on normalizing Fling Golf in the golf community.
- The World League FlingGolf showcases the sport on a larger platform.
- Entrepreneurship in sports requires a long-term vision and commitment.
- FlingGolf aims to attract non-golfers and casual players to the sport.

Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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39. What's New in the Golf Industry from the PGA Show? Anthony Newville, COO at True Spec Golf

Summary
Episode 39 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell talks with Anthony Newville, COO of True Spec Golf. In this conversation, Matt and Anthony delve into the golf industry, discussing Anthony's career, the significance of the PGA Show in Orlando, trends in equipment and marketing, and the rise of challenger brands in golf such as Srixon, Cobra and more. They explore the current state of golf, innovations in equipment, and the importance of custom fitting at True Spec. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of golf, the impact of COVID-19, and the future of the sport.

About the Farrell Sports Business Podcast
Interviews with news makers from sports business to talk leadership, entrepreneurship, industry news and their unique career paths. Hosted by Matt Farrell, President of Farrell Sports and former Golf Channel, USOPC, USA Swimming and Warner Bros. 

Watch it on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@farrellsportsww

Listen in Podcasty Places - Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio and more

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Golf Industry and TrueSpec
03:48 The PGA Show: A Hub for Golf Professionals
06:18 Trends in Equipment and Manufacturer Participation
09:26 Navigating Golf Marketing and Brand Loyalty
12:33 Challenger Brands: Strixon and Cobra
15:31 Innovations in Golf Equipment: The Ventus White
18:28 Apparel Trends at the PGA Show
21:38 Conversations in the Golf Community
24:28 Looking Ahead: The Future of Golf and TrueSpec

Takeaways
- The PGA Show has been a key event for golf since 1954.
- True Spec is focused on brand agnostic custom fitting.
- Golf saw a significant rise in popularity during COVID-19.
- Major manufacturers are shifting their marketing strategies.
- Challenger brands like Strixon and Cobra are gaining traction.
- The Ventus White shaft caters to players with slower swing speeds.
- Apparel is a significant part of the PGA Show.
- Swag's creative marketing strategies are effective in attracting customers.
- Golf is finding its new normal post-COVID.
- True Spec aims to help golfers find the best equipment for their game.

Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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38. From Street to Sport – The Business of Parkour with Robbie Corbett, Parkour Exec and Entrepreneur

Summary
Episode 38 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell talks with
Robbie Corbett, co-owner and director of the World Freerunning Parkour Federation and Creative Director of Integrated Obstacles. Corbett shares his journey into the world of parkour, discussing his transition from a small town in Florida to Los Angeles, where he became involved in the film industry and the establishment of the World Freerunning Parkour Federation. He highlights the challenges of creating a competitive structure for parkour, the cultural tensions between parkour as an art form versus a sport, and the production aspects of parkour events. Robbie also discusses participant demographics, the business landscape of parkour, and how individuals can get involved in this growing sport.

About the Farrell Sports Business Podcast
Interviews with news makers from sports business to talk leadership, entrepreneurship, industry news and their unique career paths. Hosted by Matt Farrell, President of Farrell Sports and former Golf Channel, USOPC, USA Swimming and Warner Bros. 

Watch it on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@farrellsportsww

Listen in Podcasty Places - Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio and more

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Parkour and Robbie Corbett
03:53 Robbie's Journey into Parkour and Film
06:43 Establishing the World Free Running Parkour Federation
09:51 Challenges in Creating a Competitive Structure
12:39 Cultural Tensions in Parkour as a Sport
15:37 The Production and Experience of Parkour Events
18:47 Participant Demographics and Growth of Parkour
21:46 The Business Landscape of Parkour
24:52 The Future of Parkour and Getting Involved


Takeaways

- Robbie Corbett moved to Los Angeles to pursue parkour in film.
- Parkour gained popularity through films like District B13 and James Bond.
- The World Free Running Parkour Federation aims to formalize parkour as a sport.
- Creating a competitive structure for parkour has been challenging.
- Cultural tensions exist between parkour as an art form and a competitive sport.
- Parkour is accessible and can be practiced anywhere.
- The production of parkour events is impressive and well-organized.
- Participant demographics show a majority of male athletes.
- The business landscape of parkour includes gyms and facilities across the US.
- Social media and video games are driving interest in parkour.


Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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37. Is TGL a Sport or a Show? A Look at the Innovative New Golf League

Summary
Episode 37 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell dives into the Tomorrow Golf League (TGL), a new golf format co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. He explores whether TGL is a sport or a show, discussing its innovative approach, the vibe of the competition, player dynamics, and the pace of play. And it takes a look if TGL has some influences from World Long Driver and former Golf Channel exec Mike McCarley. Farrell emphasizes the importance of entertainment in golf and the potential for TGL to evolve, while also addressing the inclusion of women in the league and the expectations surrounding its future.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to TGL Golf: Sport or Show?
03:55 About the Venue and Competition
05:54 The Vibe of TGL
08:58 Player Conversations
10:22 Influence of World Long Drive
11:18 The Hype Factor
13:11 Sport or Show?
13:51 The Shot Clock
15:23 Team Format
17:17 Women in TGL
17:59 Is it Golf?
19:11 Innovating
22:22 Prediction for the Future
24:11 Podcast Intro.MP4

Takeaways
- TGL is a new format that blends sport and entertainment.
- The competition aims to attract a younger audience.
- Pace of play is a significant improvement over traditional golf.
- Player personalities need time to develop in this new format.
- The inclusion of women in TGL is a crucial future consideration.
- TGL's structure allows for flexibility in scheduling events.
- Expectations for TGL should be realistic as it evolves.
- The balance between sport and show is essential for TGL's success.
- Innovative formats like TGL could influence other sports.
- TGL represents a new era in golf entertainment.

Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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36. Growth of the Sport of Ninja with John Deary, Entrepreneur, Sponsor and Equipment Company Owner

Summary
Episode 35 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell talks with John Deary, the founder of Deary's Gymnastics Supply. We discuss the evolution of Deary's Gymnastics Supply, his entry into the ninja sports industry, and the growth of ninja gyms across the U.S. He highlights the importance of business acumen in the youth sports sector, the role of sponsorship in developing the sport, and the potential for ninja sports to be included in the Olympics. Additionally, he shares insights on the USA Gymnastics Foundation and its mission to support athletes and the gymnastics community.

Takeaways
- Deary's Gymnastics Supply has evolved from a garage startup to a significant player in gymnastics equipment.
- The ninja sports industry is rapidly growing, with many gyms expanding their facilities.
- Ninja gyms are becoming more professional and organized, attracting a diverse age group.
- The business side of youth sports is becoming more sophisticated, with owners focusing on financial sustainability.
- Sponsorship is crucial for the growth of ninja sports, and more sponsors are needed.
- The structure of competitions in ninja sports is developing, with local, regional, and national events.
- The inclusion of ninja sports in the Olympic movement is gaining traction.
- The USA Gymnastics Foundation is focused on supporting athletes and underserved communities.
- The gymnastics industry typically sees a revenue bump after the Olympics.


Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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Highlights from 2024 of the Farrell Sports Business Podcast

About the Farrell Sports Business Podcast
Interviews with news makers from sports business to talk leadership, entrepreneurship, industry news and their unique career paths. Hosted by Matt Farrell, President of Farrell Sports and former Golf Channel, USOPC, USA Swimming and Warner Bros. 

Watch it on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@farrellsportsww

Listen in Podcasty Places - Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio and more

34. What Does the Sponsor Need in a Sports Partnership? Talk with Bill Smith, Sponsorship Director, UCHealth 

Summary
Episode 35 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell talks with Bill Smith, sponsorship director at UCHealth. He shares his unique career journey through various roles in sports and now in healthcare partnerships at UCHealth. He discusses the importance of community engagement through sports partnerships, the innovative Ready Set CO initiative aimed at promoting health in Colorado, and the impact of high-profile figures like Coach Prime - Deion Sanders. Bill emphasizes the significance of trust and understanding in partnerships, the evolving nature of ROI, and his commitment to mentorship and giving back to the community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Career Overview
04:00 Transitioning to Healthcare Partnerships
07:45 The Ready Set Co Initiative
12:12 The Impact of Coach Prime
18:03 Evaluating Partnerships and ROI
23:59 Building Trust in Partnerships
26:54 Giving Back and Mentorship

Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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Summary
Episode 33 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell shares his favorite sports business podcasts, discussing their unique features, insights, and the value they bring to listeners. From daily news updates to in-depth analyses and entrepreneurial insights, Matt provides a comprehensive overview of the best podcasts in the sports business realm, highlighting their hosts and the topics they cover.

About the Farrell Sports Business Podcast
Interviews with news makers from sports business to talk leadership, entrepreneurship, industry news and their unique career paths. Hosted by Matt Farrell, President of Farrell Sports and former Golf Channel, USOPC, USA Swimming and Warner Bros. 

Watch it on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@farrellsportsww

Listen in Podcasty Places - Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio and more

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sports Business Podcasts
01:39 Sporticast
02:48 SBJ Buzzcast and The Sports Media Pod
04:16 Sports Media Podcast with Richard Deitsch
05:50 Front Office Sports Today
06:39 Navigating Sports Business
07:03 SportsTravel Podcast
07:55 Entrepreneurial Insights: The Pet Cash Pod
09:02 Sports Business Radio
09:32 Bloomberg Sports Business
10:08 Sports Management Podcast

32. Bluesky, X, Threads - The State of Sports and Politics in New Social Media Platforms

Summary
Episode 32 - In this episode of the Farrell Sports Business podcast, the host Matt Farrell about the emergence of the social media platform Bluesky and its implications for the sports world. He explores the political influences affecting social media platforms, the cautious approach of sports leagues in adopting new platforms, and the evolution of social media over time. Farrell emphasizes the need for Bluesky to evolve beyond its current political associations to achieve long-term success and highlights the ongoing relevance of established platforms like X and Threads in the sports media landscape.

Takeaways

- Bluesky is gaining traction but remains small compared to X and threads.
- Political influences are shaping the early success of Bluesky.
- Sports leagues are cautious in adopting new social media platforms.
- The identity of threads remains unclear and lacks engagement.
- Social media platforms evolve over time, impacting user experience.
- Bluesky's growth may be unsustainable if it remains politically aligned.
- Sports organizations are diversifying their social media presence.
- User engagement on X has declined for many, including sports fans.
- The future of Blue Sky depends on its ability to attract a diverse user base.
- Cautious optimism surrounds the potential of Blue Sky in the sports world.



Chapters
00:00 The Rise of Blue Sky in Sports Media
04:20 Political Influences on Social Media Platforms
09:02 Cautious Adoption by Sports Leagues
13:00 The Evolution of Social Media Platforms
17:18 Future Prospects for Blue Sky and Other Platforms
19:17 Podcast Intro.MP4

Intro Song: All World
Artist: JMPSCR

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