How can AI and innovation transform not just the business side of sports, but create truly human-centered fan experiences?
In this episode, Christa Stout, the Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer for the Portland Trailblazers, talks with Kate O’Neill about building people-first strategies in professional sports, using AI to impact real human experiences, and lessons in innovation from around the world.
The evolving role of Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer in sportsBalancing business value with fan, community, and employee impactApproaches to meaningful innovation and international development lessonsBuilding and implementing AI strategy in a sports organizationChange management and centering real people in organizational changeHow generative AI unlocks human potential and personalizes fan engagementOrganizational metrics for innovation, inclusion, and impactUpskilling employees and culture change for AI adoptionCreating frictionless, joyful fan experiences with technologyConnect with Christa Stout
Portland Trailblazers Website
LinkedIn
Episode Chapters
00:00:05 – Introduction to the Tech Humanist Show & Guest Overview
00:01:33 – The Scope of Strategic and Innovation Leadership in Pro Sports
00:02:58 – The Rise of Strategy Roles & Future-Focused Planning
00:05:42 – What Makes an Innovative Sports Team?
00:07:23 – Lessons in Innovation from International Experience
00:09:16 – Change Management: Combining Theory and Impact
00:14:54 – Embedding AI Strategy: From Curiosity to Company-Wide Change
00:19:15 – Real-World Results: AI’s Impact on Employee and Fan Experiences
00:22:38 – Humanizing AI: Where Tech Enables Personal Touch
00:26:18 – Redefining “Value” in Sports Organizations
00:29:38 – Evolving Metrics and Exponential Possibilities with AI
00:32:42 – Building Employee Buy-In and Upskilling for AI Adoption
00:35:01 – Tools & Anticipated Changes for the Future of Sports Innovation
00:37:25 – What True Innovation Could Mean for the Sports Experience
00:39:46 – Closing Thoughts, Where to Connect, and Outro