In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Professor Jeralds interviews Syeth Spurrier, Director of Event Marketing at Feld Entertainment and USC alumnus. Syeth shares his career journey, the importance of internships, and insights into marketing major live entertainment brands. He discusses the shift from traditional to digital marketing, the role of analytics, and adapting to industry changes post-COVID. Syeth highlights creative campaigns, the impact of AI, and the value of mentorship and giving back. The episode offers practical advice for students and a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving world of live event marketing.

In this episode: 

• Syeth Spurrier's career journey from student to Director of Event Marketing at Feld Entertainment.
• The significance of internships and early career experiences in shaping professional paths.
• Daily responsibilities in event marketing, including monitoring ticket sales and managing marketing efforts.
• The unique business model of Feld Entertainment and its major brands like Monster Jam and Disney on Ice.
• The evolution of marketing strategies from traditional methods to digital campaigns and data analytics.
• The complexities of managing multiple events and the importance of flexibility in the marketing role.
• The role of digital advertising and retargeting in engaging potential customers.
• The impact of post-COVID dynamics on live entertainment attendance and ticket pricing.
• Innovative marketing campaigns and community engagement strategies.
• The future of marketing in live entertainment, including the integration of AI and interactive audience experiences.

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Ready to turn your passion for sports and entertainment into a high-impact career?

Stay Sporty is just the beginning of the journey; at the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management (HRSM), you can step out of the audience and into the industry with world-class faculty and unmatched networking opportunities. Visit the College of HRSM today (www.sc.edu/hrsm) to explore our residential and online degree programs and discover how we can help you build the experience that sets you apart from day one. 

In this episode of the Stay Sporty podcast, Duane Scott, Vice President for Booking and Event Operations at Houston’s Toyota Center, shares his career journey from South Carolina to managing one of the nation’s busiest arenas. He discusses the complexities of event booking, venue renovations, and building authentic relationships with promoters. Duane offers insights on balancing NBA schedules with concerts, the importance of continual facility upgrades, and career advice for aspiring industry professionals, emphasizing effort, adaptability, and finding your personal “why.”

In this episode: 

• Duane Scott's career journey from South Carolina to Houston.
• Role and responsibilities as Vice President for Booking and Event Operations at the Toyota Center.
• Insights into venue management and event booking complexities.
• Challenges of scheduling NBA games alongside concerts and other events.
• Importance of market knowledge and understanding local audience preferences.
• Relationship dynamics between venues and event promoters.
• Strategies for maintaining ongoing communication with promoters.
• Evolution of event management practices and team structure at the Toyota Center.
• Capital investments and renovations to keep the venue competitive and appealing.
• Advice for aspiring professionals in the sports and entertainment industry.

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Ready to turn your passion for sports and entertainment into a high-impact career?

Stay Sporty is just the beginning of the journey; at the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management (HRSM), you can step out of the audience and into the industry with world-class faculty and unmatched networking opportunities. Visit the College of HRSM today (www.sc.edu/hrsm) to explore our residential and online degree programs and discover how we can help you build the experience that sets you apart from day one. 

In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Matt Surabian, Vice President of Event Booking and Transportation at MetLife Stadium, shares his career journey through the sports and entertainment venue industry. He discusses the operational challenges of managing one of the world’s busiest stadiums, from hosting NFL games and major concerts to handling complex logistics and weather emergencies. Matt offers insights on leadership, teamwork, and career growth, emphasizing the importance of communication, adaptability, and building strong relationships in the industry. The episode provides valuable advice for aspiring sport and entertainment professionals.

• Matt Surabian's career journey in the sports and entertainment venue industry.
• Early exposure to the public assembly business through family background.
• Experiences at various venues, including Rollins College, Walt Disney World Sports Complex, Philips Arena, Spectrum Center (formerly Charlotte Bobcats Arena), and Barclays Center.
• Operational challenges and logistics of managing MetLife Stadium.
• The unique dynamics of two NFL teams (Jets and Giants) co-owning a stadium. 
• Event booking processes and the importance of collaboration with teams and promoters.
• Strategies for ensuring a high-quality guest experience at large events.
• The complexities of managing transportation and crowd control during and after major events.
• Insights on career growth and the importance of mentorship in the industry.
• Advice for young professionals in venue management and the sports industry.

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Ready to turn your passion for sports and entertainment into a high-impact career?

Stay Sporty is just the beginning of the journey; at the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management (HRSM), you can step out of the audience and into the industry with world-class faculty and unmatched networking opportunities. Visit the College of HRSM today (www.sc.edu/hrsm) to explore our residential and online degree programs and discover how we can help you build the experience that sets you apart from day one. 

In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Adeja Spain, Manager of Partnership Management at SoFi Stadium, shares her unconventional career journey in sports and entertainment. She discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, her roles with the Charlotte Hornets and Wasserman, and her current work managing brand partnerships at SoFi Stadium. Adeja explains the difference between sponsorships and partnerships, highlights memorable projects like launching the Gallagher Club, and offers leadership insights. She also previews her forthcoming memoir and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and relationship-building for career success in the industry.

• Introduction and Guest Welcome 
• Early Interests and Education 
• First Internship at Live Nation 
• Describes applying for multiple internships in Charlotte, facing rejections, and overcoming imposter syndrome.
• Charlotte Hornets Internship Experience 
• Transition to Full-Time at Hornets 
• Move to Arena Marketing 
• Impact of COVID-19 and Career Reflection 
• Joining Wasserman Agency
• Agency Life and Working with A’ja Wilson 
• Career Break and Joining SoFi Stadium 
• Role at SoFi Stadium: Partnerships 
• Lessons from Arena Marketing and Mentorship 
• Preparation and Behind-the-Scenes Work 
• Sponsorships vs. Partnerships Explained 
• Managing Multiple Partners and Daily Operations 
• Event Attendance and Work-Life Balance
• Leadership Lessons and Management Philosophy 
• Forthcoming Book: "It Had to Happen" 
• Advice for College Freshmen 
• Favorite Events and Overcoming Challenges 
• Conclusion and Episode Wrap-Up

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Ready to turn your passion for sports and entertainment into a high-impact career?

Stay Sporty is just the beginning of the journey; at the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management (HRSM), you can step out of the audience and into the industry with world-class faculty and unmatched networking opportunities. Visit the College of HRSM today (www.sc.edu/hrsm) to explore our residential and online degree programs and discover how we can help you build the experience that sets you apart from day one. 

In this episode of "Stay Sporty" Jessica O’Neill, President of Business Operations for the Houston Dynamo and Dash, shares her journey from the University of South Carolina to leading two professional soccer teams. She discusses building her career in sports, the challenges of leadership and motherhood, growing soccer’s popularity in Houston, and the importance of representation and mentorship. Jessica offers candid insights on embracing failure, balancing work and family, and choosing happiness, while highlighting Houston’s diversity and the city’s excitement as a host for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

• Introduction and Guest Welcome 
• Jessica’s Career Journey: Education to Early Career 
• Transition to the Carolina Panthers
• Charlotte FC and MLS Expansion 
• Opportunity with Houston Dynamo and Dash 
• Reflections on Leadership and Taking the Top Job 
• Day-to-Day Responsibilities as President 
• Managing Two Teams: Dynamo and Dash 
• Growing Soccer in Houston and the “Soccer Curious” 
• Challenges as a Woman in Sports Leadership 
• Work-Life Balance and Motherhood 
• Vision for the Future: Clubs and World Cup 
• Learning from Failure and Leadership Lessons 
• Life Advice: “Choose Happiness”
• Closing Thoughts and Farewell 

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Ready to turn your passion for sports and entertainment into a high-impact career?

Stay Sporty is just the beginning of the journey; at the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management (HRSM), you can step out of the audience and into the industry with world-class faculty and unmatched networking opportunities. Visit the College of HRSM today (www.sc.edu/hrsm) to explore our residential and online degree programs and discover how we can help you build the experience that sets you apart from day one.