Eric Kasimov talks with Dave Yoo, founder of Onsides, a platform built to simplify the youth sports experience for parents, about the pressure and complexity behind it — and where it’s heading.

They get into the reality families are dealing with today, from rising costs and sideline behavior to NIL, recruiting, and how AI can actually reduce the “cognitive load” parents are carrying.

In this episode:
• Why youth sports has quietly become a $50B+ machine
• The chaos of managing multiple teams, apps, and schedules
• The real “cognitive load” parents are carrying
• How AI can actually reduce stress when used right
• The gap between recreational play and high-pressure club sports
• The hidden financial and emotional tax on families
• NIL, recruiting, and how early the stakes are starting
• What AI changes for students, founders, and careers

Chapters

00:14 – The business and emotion of youth sports
03:00 – Why Dave Yoo started building Onsides
05:00 – The chaos parents deal with across platforms
06:12 – The vision for an all-in-one youth sports app
08:26 – Reducing cognitive load for parents
10:48 – Private coaching, training, and monetization
12:29 – How Onsides is using AI behind the scenes
14:40 – Guardrails, hallucinations, and reliable data
16:36 – AI’s impact on software and engineering
18:57 – Advice for students and young founders
20:09 – College, careers, and uncertainty
21:49 – Growth, distribution, and parent adoption
24:23 – The commercialization of youth sports
27:07 – Recreational sports vs. club intensity
29:00 – Parent pressure and youth sports culture
31:44 – NIL, recruiting, and what comes next
38:00 – Media, podcasts, and startup storytelling
41:38 – AI, search, and signal amplification
43:51 – Phones, social media, and young athletes
47:42 – Connect with Onsides & Dave Yoo

Connect with Dave Yoo / Onsides:
Onsides | Onsides App
Dave Yoo on LinkedIn

Connect with Eric & SportsEpreneur:
SportsEpreneur.com | X | LinkedIn
Eric on LinkedIn | X

Related Youth Sports Content by SportsEpreneur

• The State of Youth Sports
• The Real Cost of Youth Sports in 2026: What Families Actually Spend
• The Pressure Placed on Kids in Youth Sports
• High School Athletes and NIL: The Future of Youth Sports

In this episode, Eric talks with Stephen Bienko, co-founder and CEO of 42U, about the gap between athlete value and athlete development. The conversation touches NIL, the transfer portal, brand equity, leadership in college athletics, financial literacy, and the life skills that still matter most.

What Stephen Bienko and Eric Discuss:

• Stephen’s transfer from the Air Force Academy to Villanova and how that shaped his thinking
• What NIL revealed about athlete value — and what it still fails to address
• How 42U approaches athlete identity, development, and long-term brand building
• Why college athletics has leadership and infrastructure gaps right now
• The difference between chasing NIL deals and building brand equity
• How the transfer portal has changed communication, decision-making, and development
• Why soft skills still matter in an AI-heavy world
• Financial literacy as a real need inside the athlete ecosystem
• Why athletes influence enrollment, culture, and school visibility beyond the field
• The role of facilities, community, and environment in athlete development

Full Show Notes

There has been no shortage of NIL conversation over the past few years, but much of it has centered on money, marketplaces, and short-term opportunity. Stephen Bienko brings a different lens. His view is that NIL exposed the value of the athlete, but the system still hasn’t built enough around developing the human being behind that value.

That idea sits at the center of 42U, the company Bienko co-founded. Rather than focusing only on transactions or exposure, the work is more about identity, communication, self-awareness, decision-making, and long-term development. In other words, what actually helps an athlete build something durable instead of just reacting to the moment.

Eric and Stephen also get into the broader college sports environment, including the transfer portal, recruiting, leadership gaps, and the changing demands being placed on young athletes. A recurring theme is that performance alone is not enough. Athletes are being asked to navigate visibility, pressure, personal branding, and business decisions earlier than ever.

The episode also explores brand equity, financial literacy, and the value of so-called soft skills in a world increasingly shaped by technology and automation. It is a thoughtful conversation about what college athletics rewards, what it overlooks, and what athletes may need if they want to build a career and identity that lasts beyond sports.

Notable Quotes

• “NIL did one thing — it exposed the value of the athlete. But no one built the infrastructure to develop the human.”
• “College sports is not a business. But there’s a lot of business in college sports.”
• “Stop chasing deals. Build brand equity.”
• “An 18-year-old with a phone and a following is now a media company.”
• “The question is: does this deal reinforce who I am — or distort it?”

Chapters in This Episode

00:00 – Intro
 01:27 – Stephen’s Transfer Story: Air Force Academy to Villanova
 04:00 – A Hard Conversation With Coach DeBerry
 07:54 – What the NIL Boom Missed
 09:24 – What 42U Actually Does
 14:03 – Athlete Identity and Long-Term Development
 18:19 – Leadership Gaps in College Athletics
 21:51 – Athletes as Economic Engines for Schools
 25:47 – The Meaning and Value of Soft Skills
 29:51 – Recruiting, Evaluation, and Mental Capacity
 35:27 – “College Sports Is Not a Business”
 47:19 – Stop Chasing Deals. Build Brand Equity.
 56:47 – Financial Literacy, AI, and Athlete Education
 1:00:00 – Parenting, Recruiting, and Decision-Making
 1:07:42 – Facilities, Community, and Why Environment Still Matters

Connect with Stephen Bienko / 42U:
LinkedIn: Stephen Bienko
Instagram: @bienkostephen

Connect with Eric / SportsEpreneur:
Website: SportsEpreneur.com
X: @sportsepreneur
LinkedIn: SportsEpreneur
Eric on LinkedIn & X
 

Related NIL and College Sports Content

• The NIL Hub
• NIL Pros and Cons for Athletes, Families, and Schools
• Transfer Portal Pros and Cons | The Wild West of College Sports
• The US Government is Now Involved with Name, Image & Likeness

About Eric Kasimov

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post What the NIL Gold Rush Got Wrong | Stephen Bienko of 42U appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Eric and Jared try to make sense of the Cleveland Browns, front office dysfunction across the NFL, and why every fan base believes they suffer more than anyone else. Baker, Stafford, Shadur, the 49ers, Vegas lines, billionaire owners, and the eternal misery of the Vikings all make an appearance.

This is a 12-minute sports-only segment clipped from Saviors of the Metaverse — now living in the SportsE feed where it belongs.

Listen to the full Saviors of the Metaverse episode: The Running Man Review Through the Lonely Eyes of a Gen Xer | via YouTube — Apple Podcasts — Spotify

Chapters

00:00 — Browns in a simulation: If Cleveland is 12–0 and undefeated Carolina exists, you’re probably dreaming.
00:50 — NFL fan misery rankings: Vikings, Browns, Bills… who actually has it worst?
02:40 — Missed kicks, cursed teams, and broken timelines: From Gary Anderson to Dante Culpepper.
04:10 — Is it all the front office’s fault?: And does “blow it up” ever work?
05:20 — Billionaire owners & the weird economics of NFL success: They win even when the team doesn’t.
06:45 — Baker, Stafford & the QB comparison spiral: Why Stafford throws lasers and Baker throws… effort.
08:00 — The Shadur Sanders paradox: Social media hype vs. reality vs. development.
09:30 — Browns upcoming schedule: 49ers, Titans, Bears, Bills — and the eternal pain cycle.
11:20 — “Bet the Browns, lose the spread”: Why Cleveland is 5–6 ATS and still maddening.

TL;DR

The Browns are confusing, the Vikings are cursed, owners are billionaires who always win, Shadur Sanders has promise but not proof yet, and betting Cleveland still hurts. Fans everywhere live in the same delusion: “nobody has it worse than us.”

Other Topics We Hit

• The Vikings’ most traumatic moments
• Why owners are built like a different species
• West coast teams traveling east: real disadvantage or Reddit myth?
• The cult of QB hype via viral “dot throws”
• Why every NFL fan base thinks their suffering is unique
• The job market — because why not

Why Listen

Because you want NFL takes without the clichés — just two Gen-X lunatics trying to decode the Browns and the universe.

FAQ 

Q: Why do the Browns continue to struggle despite talent?

Front office instability and questionable decision-making — plus a culture that hasn’t fully reset.

Q: Are the Vikings or Browns the more cursed franchise?

Depends on your trauma profile. Vikings lose big moments; Browns lose everything else.

Q: Why is Shadur Sanders so polarizing?

Social media hype + limited NFL sample + Deion effect = unstable QB stock.

Q: Do NFL owner billions matter on the field?

Not really — salary cap levels the roster. But ego drives decisions.

Q: Why is betting the Browns so painful?

They’re 5–6 ATS — slightly better than their record, still emotionally ruinous.

Connect with Saviors of the Metaverse and SportsEpreneur

• Saviors of the Metaverse: TikTok | YouTube | QuietLoud Studios
• Jared Nichols: X
• Eric Kasimov: X
• SportsE: X | LinkedIn

Transcript | Cleveland Browns Dysfunction, Minnesota Vikings Problems, and NFL Fan Delusion

1. Intro: Why This Segment Exists

[00:00:00–00:00:53]

Eric and Jared set up the idea of doing a sports-only segment and dropping it on SportsEpreneur.

[00:00:00] eric: Welcome to Saviors of the Metaverse, the podcast that saves and definitely entertains. You are listening to this show on a unrelated, yet unrelated podcast to get all the episodes of Saviors and to become a Saviors super fan. Search for saviors of the Metaverse on your podcast player of choice. Once there, I don’t know, subscribe.

And while you’re at it, give it a rating because well, Jared needs confirmation. Jared needs affirmation. Jared needs Savior Nation. And if nothing else, thank you for listening to Saviors of the Metaverse. We’ll see you in there. Cleveland Browns future. This is our sports segment. We need one of these. I’ll explain why later.

We’re gonna drop this shit on sports entrepreneur. It can do well. It’s gonna get us recognition anyway. Fine. We need a sports sports segment anytime around. But it could be any take. It doesn’t matter.

2. Browns in a Simulation

[00:00:53–00:01:51]

The hypothetical: Browns 12–0, Panthers undefeated, dream logic.

[00:01:00] Okay. Future. We’re in a dystopian, or, I don’t know what you call this shit, what you call it, A simulation.

Sure. Fast forward. Yep. You’re still with it. Yep. You still got your capabilities, your faculties in order. Faculty still? Yep. Yeah. You’d like to eat a little bit. You like to check out some stuff. Cleveland Browns are here. Late November going to Thanksgiving. But you got time. They’re like undefeated. Oh, whoa.

Okay. They’re 12 and oh. Coming to Carolina, who somehow is also undefeated. Oh, someone offered you tickets. I mean, this just hurts my head. You don’t even have to pay for the tickets. Good seats. That’s 50 yard, nine seats. Yeah. 26 up. Yeah. You go in the game. Are you gonna watch at home?

[00:01:43] jared: Well, it depends on how soon I wake up from my dream, because, uh, there’s no fucking way any of that would ever happen.

Yeah. You know?

[00:01:50] eric: Yeah.

3. NFL Pain Hierarchy: Browns, Vikings, Bills

[00:01:51–00:04:04]

Every fan base thinks they suffer the most.

[00:01:51] jared: So maybe I do, maybe I don’t, maybe I fly to the game with my magical cape because the Browns being 12 and Oh, I mean, let’s be honest, Carolina, I mean, they went to the Super [00:02:00] Bowl,

[00:02:01] eric: didn’t

[00:02:01] jared: they?

[00:02:01] eric: Yeah.

[00:02:02] jared: Twice. Okay. That’s not that. It’s just like, hey, they’re just having, they’re stuck in a rut.

[00:02:06] eric: They won the A FFL Championship. They were legit.

[00:02:09] jared: Who won the AFL

[00:02:10] eric: champion? Cleveland Browns. Before the, uh, before the merger. They were one of the besties Before, yeah,

[00:02:15] jared: before there was a Super Bowl. They were, they were good. Yeah. Super Bowl comes along and ruins it. Yeah. Something happened.

[00:02:20] eric: Yeah. The Ravens won though.

That’s, that hurts even

[00:02:24] jared: more.

[00:02:24] eric: Yeah, because that used to be the Browns like the greatest defense ever. 2000.

[00:02:28] jared: You know, the Browns do have ...

In this episode, Eric Kasimov examines how this is happening, why it’s growing, and what it reveals about college culture, mental health, and the expanding reach of sports betting.

This is an audio edition of the SportsEpreneur article, How College Financial Aid Fuels Sports Betting Addiction | A Hidden Crisis — written and read by Eric Kasimov.

Episode Highlights

• 21% of college students admit to using financial aid money for betting
• Why federal refund rules make this problem nearly impossible to monitor
• The neuroscience behind why young adults are prone to gambling addiction
• Real stories of students losing control — and what parents can watch for
• What universities should be doing to protect their students
• The connection between sports betting, mental health, and college culture

Read more on college students’ sports betting

• Higher Education Inquirer: Student Aid and Student Gambling: A Risky Connection
• University of South Carolina: USC researcher studies the growth of sports gambling
• Rutgers Addiction Research Center: The Rise of Sports Betting Among College Students: A Growing Public Health Concern
• Investopedia: Sports Betting Is Taking Over Young Men’s Time—And Money

Resources for Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with sports betting or gambling addiction:

• National Problem Gambling Helpline — Call 1-800-522-4700 or text “800GAM” for 24/7 confidential support.
• Gamblers Anonymous — A peer-support organization offering local and online meetings for anyone seeking recovery.

Read the full article on College Financial Aid Money Going to Sports Betting

Connect with SportsEpreneur: X | LinkedIn

Connect with Eric: X | LinkedIn

Want your brand featured on SportsEpreneur? Let’s talk →

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post 21% of College Students Use Education Money to Bet on Sports appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

In this episode, SportsEpreneur unpacks how the league turned chaos into currency, and why the outrage over NFL “rigging” might actually be part of the plan.

This is an audio edition of the SportsEpreneur article “The NFL Officiating Problem Is a Money-Making Scheme.”
Written and read by Eric Kasimov — bringing sports, business, and commentary together in a storytelling and easy-to-consume format.

Episode Highlights

• How “bad calls” drive ratings and social engagement
• Why the NFL benefits when fans debate fairness
• The fine line between bias, influence, and business strategy
• How outrage keeps the NFL trending year-round
• Why perfection might actually hurt the league’s brand

Read More on This Topic

• Debrief: Do NFL Refs Favor the Kansas City Chiefs?
• NFL.com: Officials’ Responsibilities & Positions
• Outkick: Bad week for Refs
• SportsEpreneur: The NFL Is Rigged, Right?

Listen to this episode here or wherever you get your podcasts.

Read the full article on How the NFL Officiating Problem Is Big Business

Connect with SportsEpreneur: X | LinkedIn

Connect with Eric: X | LinkedIn

Want your brand featured on SportsEpreneur? Let’s talk →

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post How Bad Calls Fuel the NFL appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

In this episode, Eric Kasimov breaks down what the NCAA’s new policy really means, why enforcement is impossible, and how this decision could collide with NIL money, insider access, and college sports culture.

It’s not just a rule change — it’s the NCAA quietly admitting it’s lost control.

This episode is an audio edition of a SportsEpreneur article — written and read by Eric Kasimov — bringing sports, business, and commentary together in a storytelling and easy-to-consume format. Based on Eric’s article “The NCAA Just Admitted It Can’t Police Sports Betting” on SportsEpreneur.

Episode Highlights

• The NCAA’s “modernization” of betting rules — and what’s really behind it
• Why policing sports betting is now impossible for the NCAA
• How NIL money and gambling access could create new ethical gray zones
• The illusion of control — and what happens when the first scandal hits
• Read more on the topic of the college athletes being allowed to bet on pro sports: direct from the NCAA’s mouth | The Hill | USA Today: Pitt’s Pat Narduzzi rails against NCAA sports betting rule, calls gambling ‘disease’

Listen to this episode here or wherever you get your podcasts.

Read the full article on NCAA & Sports Betting

Related article: How NIL Is Changing Bowl Games

Connect with SportsEpreneur: X | LinkedIn

Connect with Eric: X | LinkedIn

Want your brand featured on SportsEpreneur? We collaborate with sports media, NIL, and content partners. Let’s talk →

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post College Athletes Can Now Bet on Pro Sports | What Could Go Wrong appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Coincidence? Or did the NBA help engineer this moment to inflate the Lakers’ value before the sale? Of course they did.

In this SportsE original, we breakdown the timing and strategy behind one of the most suspiciously perfect business moves in NBA history.

Inside the Episode:

• The “gift” trade that brought Luka to LA
• Why the Lakers’ $10B valuation raised eyebrows — and franchise values across the NBA
• The case for a league-motivated boost before the sale
• How perception, hype, and timing may be worth billions
• A modern sports conspiracy hiding in plain sight

Read the Article:

Did the NBA Inflate the Lakers’ $10 Billion Sale—And Every Other Team’s Value Too? sportsepreneur.com/nba-lakers-10b-sale-franchise-valuation-inflation

Connect:

Host: Eric Kasimov: X | LinkedIn

SportsE Media: website | X | TikTok

Related content to “How the NBA Made the Lakers Worth $10 Billion | Audible Style”:

Audible Style | Soccer Will Be a Top 3 Sport in the US Thanks to the 2026 World Cup

Audible Style | The Moment Matters: Embracing the Now in Sports

Should Cities Help Pay for Stadiums? The Answer Isn’t Black and White

Want to create with us?

We’re always looking for writers, podcasters, and students interested in the business of sports. Contact us to learn more.

This episode was produced by the team at QuietLoud Studios

TL;DR: What Just Happened Here?

The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a blockbuster trade for Luka Doncic — and then sold the franchise for a record-setting $10 billion. That’s not just a trade. That’s a valuation play.

In this episode, we explore whether the NBA manipulated events to inflate the value of its marquee franchise, raise league-wide NBA team valuations, and set a new benchmark in the business of sports. From the Luka Doncic trade to the Lakers’ $10B sale, to the Cooper Flagg lottery twist, this story isn’t about basketball. It’s about leverage, timing, and brand power.

If you’re into sports business, franchise valuations, and the not-so-hidden strategies of pro leagues, this one’s for you.

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post How the NBA Made the Lakers Worth $10 Billion | Audible Style appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Chapters:

• 00:00 – The future of business and creating a positive legacy
• 01:02 – Working for free at a sneaker store as a teenager
• 02:43 – Why being passionate matters for entrepreneurs
• 05:17 – Meeting industry leaders on their way up
• 07:22 – Creating footwear for essential workers
• 10:49 – Carbon negative products and supply chain innovation
• 15:18 – Rethinking how products are made
• 20:11 – Getting into REI and major retailers
• 31:13 – Learning entrepreneurship from an immigrant hustler
• 37:44 –  From struggling student to Stanford GSB
• 42:15 – Parenting: Teaching values in different circumstances
• 50:47 – The Future of Footwear is digital connectivity and sustainable manufacturing
• 53:08 – Ales Gray’s mission
• https://alesgrey.com/

Connect with Eric:
X: @erickaz
LinkedIn: @erickasimov
Be a guest on The Sports Backdrop
Start your podcast

This show is made possible by:

KazCM: A content production company that aims to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more here: https://kazcm.com/

Related content to ‘A Footwear Industry Pioneer Talks Entrepreneurship and Sustainability’:

• Jeff Dudan | Undercover Boss, App State Football, and Entrepreneurship
• Why the NFL London Games Are a Massive Success
• Gordon Hayward | NBA Stories, FORM Basketball, and Youth Sports Today

Credits:

• Produced by the team at KazCM: https://kazcm.com/podcast-production/
• Part of QuietLoud Studios (podcast network): https://quietloudstudios.com/
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Listen on Spotify
• A version of this episode published on Entrepreneur Perspectives
• Music credits: Dark Mystery Trailer (Taking Our time) by AlexGrohl | Website | Music promoted by Pixabay | Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license (“CC0 Content”) License

About A Footwear Industry Pioneer Talks Entrepreneurship and Sustainability guest “Sneaker” Steve Patiño

Steve Patiño is the Founder and CEO of AGS Labs Inc./ALES GREY, a Los Angeles-based foot-tech company pioneering sustainable footwear manufacturing in North America.

With 30 years in the footwear industry, Steve’s career highlights include serving as Global Director of DC SHOES during its $1B growth period and co-founding the luxury footwear brand Android Homme, which attracted elite athletes and artists, including LeBron James and Kendrick Lamar.

His products have been featured in premium retailers worldwide, including Barneys, Nordstrom, and Selfridges. He’s also led successful collaborations with Latin music stars J Balvin and Bad Bunny.

A Stanford GSB graduate and NYU alum, Steve was born in Queens, NY to Colombian parents. He now lives in Beverly Hills with his family. ALES GREY, named after his son Greyson Alessandro, reflects his mission to create sustainable footwear for future generations.

The post A Footwear Industry Pioneer Talks Entrepreneurship and Sustainability appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Gordon keeps it real about life after basketball, staying in shape, youth sports, the college game, mental health, and entrepreneurship. Gordon Hayward is such a genuine and relatable guest. He speaks his mind, shares great insights, and has a clear passion for helping the next generation improve their shot. It was a privilege to have him on the podcast. Thank you, Gordon, for your time, inspiration, and stories.

What Gordon Hayward and I Discuss:

1. Life After the NBA: How Gordon stays active with tennis, golf, and fitness
2. The Power of Relationships: His connection with Paul George
3. FORM: The story behind Gordon’s training tool and how it’s helping kids master shooting fundamentals.
4. Gordon Hayward on Youth Sports Today: Youth sports have lost their way, there are too many games, and the focus needs to go back to skill development.
5. Mental Health in Sports: Gordon shares the emotional toll of a major injury, self-doubt, and social media as a pro athlete.
6. College Basketball and the Transfer Portal: How NIL and the transfer portal are reshaping college sports—and what that means for athletes.
7. NBA Media Deals: What the league’s $76 billion media deal says about the future of basketball.
8. Independent Media and Podcasts: How independent studios, podcasts, and engaged audiences are the new media.

Connect with Gordon Hayward & FORM:
Instagram: @gordonhayward
X: @gordonhayward
FORM products: BasketballForm.com
FORM YouTube: @formbasketballtrainer
FORM X: @formbasketball
Notice to Quit (movie): IMDB

Connect with Eric:
X: @erickaz
LinkedIn: @erickasimov
Be a guest on The Sports Backdrop
Start your podcast

Chapters in the Gordon Hayward Podcast:

• 00:00 – Intro: Brief intro and mention of NBA brotherhood.
• 00:43 – Life After the NBA: Transition to new routines, including golf and tennis.
• 03:42 – Journey to the NBA: Early basketball dreams, Butler University, and draft development.
• 07:34 – Mental Health: Managing a major injury, social media, and mental wellness in sports.
• 11:06 – The State of Youth Sports: Issues like early specialization, travel sports, too many games, and parent involvement.
• 31:13 – FORM Basketball: Product purpose, shooting form, and age-specific sizes.
• 34:57 – Gordon Hayward’s Relationship with Paul George: Collaboration in FORM Basketball and career support.
• 36:54 – College Basketball and NIL/Transfer Portal: NIL’s impact, transfer portal challenges, and changes in college basketball.
• 39:01 – $76 Billion NBA Media Deal: Player salaries, league future, and team valuations.
• 45:46 – Notice to Quit Movie: Movie production, distribution, and theater release.
• 47:54 – Podcasting and New Media: Evolution of media, content creation, and marketing opportunities.
• NBA Themes: NBA Mind Health | Butler University | Utah Jazz | Boston Celtics | Charlotte Hornets | OKC Thunder

This show is made possible by:

KazCM: A content production company that aims to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more here: https://kazcm.com/

Related content to ‘Gordon Hayward | NBA Stories, FORM Basketball, and Youth Sports Today’:

• The NBA Media Rights Deal Details & What It Means for Fans
• NBA and WNBA Mind Health with Dr. Kensa Gunter
• Championship or Bust. Or None of the Above
• Enjoy the Journey

Credits:

• Produced by the team at KazCM: https://kazcm.com/podcast-production/
• Part of QuietLoud Studios (podcast network): https://quietloudstudios.com/
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Listen on Spotify
• Music credits: Dark Mystery Trailer (Taking Our time) by AlexGrohl | Website | Music promoted by Pixabay | Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license (“CC0 Content”) License

More about Gordon Hayward, NBA All-Star, FORM Co-founder:

Gordon Hayward was an NBA All-Star forward known for his smooth shooting, high basketball IQ, and ability to contribute across multiple areas of the game. After leading Butler University to an unexpected NCAA Championship appearance in 2010, he was drafted ninth overall by the Utah Jazz, where he quickly became a key player. Gordon has enjoyed a successful career with the Jazz, Boston Celtics, and, most recently, the Charlotte Hornets. His resilience and consistent on-court production earned hi...

“The people that make it to the top respect the work of those around them.” – Bob Steinfeld

“You’ve gotta dominate where you can.” — Tim Duncan to Bob Steinfeld

“Every game has a story.” – Bob Steinfeld

Go behind the camera with Bob Steinfeld, a 10-time Emmy-winning sports producer whose career has spanned four decades of unforgettable sports moments. Bob’s journey has brought countless iconic moments to life, from directing the San Antonio Spurs’ championship runs and covering the Dream Team in Barcelona to producing World Cup soccer at the Cotton Bowl. Working alongside broadcasting legends like Bob Costas, Jim Nantz, Joel Klatt, and Verne Lundquist, Bob’s dedication to capturing the magic of sports has left an indelible mark on the industry.

In this episode of The Sports Backdrop, we discuss:

• How Bob got his start in sports media, producing local sports at Channel 8 in Dallas as a kid
• The thrill and pressure of directing two perfect games in Major League Baseball
• Producing for the WNBA’s Dallas Wings and highlighting community stories through sports
• From Dallas Mavericks broadcasts to producing World Cup Soccer at the Cotton Bowl
• The impact of VR and digital tech on live sports, with insights on Meta VR broadcasts
• Mentorship moments with icons like Vern Lundquist and Bob Costas
• Overcoming a health scare to return to sports production in record time
• His son’s journey to YouTube sensation with 1.9 million Pokémon fans (Leonhart)
• Why he wrote “3…2…1…We’re On the Air” to inspire young media professionals

This episode offers a unique look into the high-stakes world of sports production through the eyes of a true legend, capturing how every game—whether NBA Finals or Little League—is an unforgettable story waiting to be told.

This show is made possible by:

KazCM: A content production company that aims to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more here: https://kazcm.com/

QuietLoud Studios: A podcast network where reflection and voice come together. Learn more here: https://quietloudstudios.com/

Related content to Behind the Scenes of Iconic Sports Moments with Legendary Producer Bob Steinfeld:

• Sports Bring People Together
• The NBA Media Rights Deal Details & What It Means for Fans
• Is NBA League Pass Worth It, Considering the New NBA TV Media Deal?
• Why This Former Athlete Believes In Podcasts
• US World Cup Series | The Biggest Sporting Event, Even Bigger Than the Super Bowl

Connect with Bob Steinfeld:

• Website: https://robertsteinfeld.com/
• 3…2…1 We’re on the Air: Amazon

Get in touch with Eric Kasimov:

• X: https://twitter.com/eric_kaz
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erickasimov/

Credits:

• Thank you to Camile Sardina of BookSavvy Public Relations for making this conversation happen!
• Produced by the team at KazCM: https://kazcm.com/podcast-production/
• Part of QuietLoud Studios (podcast network): https://quietloudstudios.com/
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Listen on Spotify
• Music credits: Dark Mystery Trailer (Taking Our time) by AlexGrohl | Website | Music promoted by Pixabay | Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license (“CC0 Content”) License

More about Bob Steinfeld and his book “3…2…1… We’re On the Air”:

Robert Steinfeld has produced and directed network sports television for five decades, covering MLB, NBA, WNBA, college basketball and football, NCAA Championships, World Cup Soccer, Cotton Bowl Classics and summer Olympics. He’s Executive Producer of the WNBA Dallas Wings. His innovated work has earned him 10 Sports Emmy Awards plus five more nominations, a national Cable Ace Award nomination, plus additional industry accolades.

Thoughts on his book from some of the biggest names in sports television broadcasting:

“Bob’s memoir is a game-changer for anybody who craves tales about the athletes and sports he’s covered.” —Nancy Lieberman, Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer

“An authentic look at how it all comes together. ” —Jim Nantz, CBS Sports

“Stories of decades in sports TV.” —Bob Costas, Broadcaster for NBC Sports from 1980 to 2019

“I stepped into the booth for my first college football broadcast, having no idea what I was doing.  Thankfully, the voice in my headset was ‘The Doctor’ himself, Bob Steinfeld! Bob’s level of preparation and leadership is top-notch and continues to drive me to this day.  Reading 3…2…1… We’re On The Air! brought me back to that day with the rush of excitement I felt then. This peek behind the production curtain is a must for anyone that enjoys watching their favorite sports on TV.” —Joel Klatt, Fox Sports, lead college football analyst

(source: robertsteinfeld.com)

In this episode of Athlete Mindset, host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, welcomes Dr. Kensa Gunter, a licensed psychologist, certified mental performance consultant, and Director of NBA and WNBA Mind Health. Dr. Gunter opens up about her journey in sports psychology, the evolution of mental health in professional sports, and her mission to promote well-being for athletes, teams, and coaches. Together, they explore the power of resilience, leadership, and culture change in sports psychology, and discuss how mental health and performance are interwoven in today’s sports landscape.

Dr. Gunter highlights how the NBA & WNBA Mind Health program is working to shift the conversation around mental health from stigmatization to normalization, ensuring that athletes are supported holistically on and off the court. She also shares insights into injury recovery, mental resilience, and the critical role of leadership in fostering a culture of well-being within teams.

Key Takeaways from Dr. Kensa Gunter:

• Dr. Gunter is the Director of NBA & WNBA Mind Health, which supports athletes’ mental health and performance.
• How resilience and mental performance contribute to athletic excellence.
• The connection between mental and physical health in injury recovery and performance.
• The evolving landscape of mental health awareness in professional sports.
• The power of leadership in driving culture change and prioritizing athlete well-being.
• Practical mental performance tools like visualization and self-talk to enhance focus and resilience.

Resources Mentioned:

• NBA & WNBA Mind Health | Program Website
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Crisis Text Line

Credits: Athlete Mindset is part of the SportsE Media platform.
Produced by KazCM and featured on the QuietLoud Studios podcast network.

Support the Athlete Mindset Community

Click Here to contribute to the Athlete Mindset Community.

By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

Connect with the guest, host, and podcast production team:

• Dr. Kensa Gunter: LinkedIn | Website
• Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC: LinkedIn | Instagram | website
• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X

Related episodes to “NBA and WNBA Mind Health with Dr. Kensa Gunter”:

• Danita Johnson, D.C. United | Consistency, Communication, Commitment
• The NBA Media Rights Deal Details & What It Means for Fans
• Angela Lee Pucci’s Fight Story | A Mental Health Revolution
• NFL and Mental Health

Music: Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

The post NBA and WNBA Mind Health with Dr. Kensa Gunter appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

In this powerful episode of Athlete Mindset, “Who You Are, Not What You Do,” host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, welcomes Kelsey O’Connor, a motivational speaker, former D1 student-athlete, and recent North Carolina State University social work graduate. Kelsey shares her inspiring journey of resilience and self-discovery following a career-ending head injury. Her story of overcoming adversity and redefining her identity resonated with millions when her commencement speech went viral, amassing over 40 million views across TikTok and many social media platforms.

This is the Athlete Mindset podcast, which explores mental health in sports. It is presented and produced by SportsE Media as part of the podcast network.

‘Who You Are, Not What You Do with Kelsey O’Connor’ Highlights:

• Kelsey’s background in softball and her journey to becoming a D1 athlete at NC State
• The traumatic head injury that abruptly ended her athletic career and its impact on her identity
• Kelsey’s struggle with recovery and the process of rebuilding her sense of self
• The importance of faith, family, and service in Kelsey’s life and recovery
• Kelsey’s viral commencement speech and its message about identity beyond performance
• The transition from athlete to advocate and motivational speaker
• Kelsey’s commitment to mental health advocacy for student-athletes and her pursuit of further education in social work and mental performance counseling
• The power of resilience and the importance of defining oneself beyond titles and achievements

About Kelsey O’Connor: Kelsey O’Connor is a motivational speaker and recent social work graduate from North Carolina State University. After recovering from a head injury that ended her D1 softball career, Kelsey found a new purpose in sharing her story and perspective with others. Her commencement speech, which went viral with over 40 million views, touched on themes of identity, resilience, and personal growth. Kelsey now travels the country, speaking to organizations and teams about building confidence, developing a strong identity, and improving team culture.

Kelsey’s mission: To help individuals and teams boost confidence, build strong identities, and improve team culture by sharing her unique perspective on identity and resilience. Through her talks, Kelsey aims to remind people that their worth is not defined by their achievements or titles, but by the qualities that truly matter.

Listen to Kelsey O’Connor’s podcast, Life Beyond Labels

Click Here to contribute to the Athlete Mindset Community.

By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

Athlete Mindset is part of the podcast network SportsE Media
SportsE Media is a sports media platform and production company that connects entrepreneurs, executives, athletes, and fans. It focuses on sports, entrepreneurship, mental health, and media.
https://sportsepreneur.com/

Athlete Mindset is also a part of QuietLoud Studios
QuietLoud Studios is the podcast network where reflection and voice come together.
https://quietloudstudios.com/

Athlete Mindset is produced by the team at KazCM
KazCM is a B2B content production company that builds assets and drives revenue by writing and talking. If you are looking to create a podcast, show, or written works, talk with the team at KazCM.
https://kazcm.com/

Connect with the guest, host, and podcast production team:

• Kelsey O’Connor: LinkedIn | TikTok | https://www.kelseyoconnor.net/
• Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC: LinkedIn | Instagram | website
• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X

Related episodes to “Who You Are, Not What You Do with Kelsey O’Connor”:

• Kelsey O’Connor Turns Medically Retiring Into Motivational Speaking
• Angela Lee Pucci’s Fight Story | A Mental Health Revolution
• Keep Showing Up, Like Chloe

Music credit:

• Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

The post Who You Are, Not What You Do with Kelsey O’Connor appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Welcome to the high-stakes world of sports betting as we explore its explosive growth and the shadowy underbelly of addiction. Our fearless podcast host, Chaz, uncovers the journey from prohibition to proliferation and the price we’re paying for this form of entertainment.

In this eye-opening episode, we trace the meteoric rise of sports betting in America and confront the growing crisis of gambling addiction. From Supreme Court decisions to Super Bowl wagers, discover how betting has become as much a part of sports as the games themselves – and the toll it’s taking on individuals and society. This is sports betting uncovered.

Topics in ‘Sports Betting Uncovered: Explosive Growth, Advertising, and Addiction’

• The history of sports betting in the US, from horse races to smartphones
• The landmark 2018 Supreme Court decision that changed everything
• Staggering statistics on the growth of sports betting revenue
• The role of advertising in normalizing gambling
• Understanding gambling disorder and its symptoms
• The personal and societal costs of sports betting addiction
• Expert insights on the neurological and psychological impacts of gambling
• Resources for those affected by gambling addiction

Social Media:

• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X

Related Content:

• Exploring the Sports Betting Market
• The Legalization of Sports Betting in North Carolina | Big Money
• ESPN BET | The Sports Leader Is All-In on Sports Betting
• Sports Betting on College Campuses | A Storm Is Brewing

Resources:

• Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/dont-bet-on-it
• Addiction Center: https://www.addictioncenter.com/behavioral-addictions/gambling-addiction/sports-betting/
• Sports Betting Addiction Is On the Rise: https://sportsepreneur.com/sports-betting-addiction-on-the-rise/

Credits:

• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Listen on Spotify
• Music credits: Dark Mystery Trailer (Taking Our time) by AlexGrohl | Website | Music promoted by Pixabay | Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license (“CC0 Content”) License
• Podcast produced by the team at KazCM

Disclaimer:  This episode features AI-generated voices created using premium licensed technology. These voices do not represent actual individuals. The content has been dramatized to provide an engaging and informative listening experience while addressing serious topics. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.

Transcript:

“Welcome to ‘Sports Betting Uncovered,’ where we explore the world of sports betting, its intricacies, stories, and its impacts on our lives. I’m your host, Chaz, and today we’re uncovering a serious topic that’s been rising alongside the popularity of sports betting: addiction.” 

“Six years ago, sports betting was illegal under federal law. Today, it’s everywhere. From TV ads to billboards, the rapid growth of sports betting is undeniable. But with this growth comes a significant issue: sports betting addiction. In this episode, we’ll look into the rise of sports betting, the factors contributing to its popularity, and the dark side of addiction many face.”  

“To truly understand the rise of sports betting addiction, we need to take a step back and look at the history of sports betting in the United States. Before the landmark 2018 Supreme Court decision, sports betting was largely confined to the shadows.” 

“Sports betting in the U.S. has a long and storied history. It dates back to the early 19th century when horse racing was a major pastime. Betting on horse races became popular; it wasn’t long before other sports followed suit. However, the industry faced significant challenges. In 1919, the infamous Black Sox Scandal cast a dark shadow over sports betting, where eight Chicago White Sox players were accused of intentionally losing the World Series in exchange for money from gamblers.” 

“In response to such scandals, the government began to crack down on sports betting. The most significant of these efforts came in 1961 with the Federal Wire Act, which aimed to curb organized crime by banning all forms of interstate wagering on sports. This law effectively drove sports betting underground, where it...

In this episode of Athlete Mindset, host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, shares space with Angela Lee Pucci, a retired professional MMA fighter, six-time MMA world champion, and founder of Fight Story. Angela Lee opens up about her journey from the world of combat sports to becoming a mental health advocate. She shares her personal experiences with suicide, including her own attempt in 2017 and the loss of her sister, Victoria, by suicide in 2022. The conversation explores the pressures of professional fighting, the importance of mental health awareness in combat sports, and how Fight Story aims to revolutionize the industry by providing support and resources for fighters’ mental and physical well-being.

This is the Athlete Mindset podcast. And it’s all about mental health in sports. It is presented and produced as part of the podcast network by SportsE Media.

“Angela Lee Pucci’s Fight Story | A Mental Health Revolution” Highlights:

• Angela Lee’s background in martial arts and her journey to becoming an MMA world champion at age 19
• The intense pressure of weight cutting and its impact on mental health in combat sports
• Angela Lee’s personal experience with a suicide attempt in 2017 and how it shaped her perspective on mental health
• The profound loss of her sister Victoria by suicide and its impact on Angela Lee’s life and career
• The founding of Fight Story, a nonprofit organization dedicated to mental health awareness in combat sports
• The importance of changing the narrative around mental health and “mental toughness” in athletics
• Angela Lee’s transition from professional fighting to advocacy and her mission to help others through Fight Story
• The significance of open conversations about mental health and providing support for athletes

About Angela Lee Pucci and Fight Story:

Fight Story is a platform where fighters unite to revolutionize combat sports, inspire hope, and champion a global movement for mental and physical wellness.

Fight Story vision: Our goal is to create a community that empowers one another to embrace the journey. We are starting the conversation. By sharing real stories of overcoming mental health struggles, we shine the light on a topic kept in the dark, and we break down the stigma surrounding mental health. We are here to pioneer the way for athlete guidance, support, advocacy, connection, education and wellness in combat sports. Join us in the fight for a better, kinder, and more loving world.

Click Here to contribute to the Athlete Mindset Community

By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

Athlete Mindset is part of the podcast network SportsE Media
SportsE Media is a sports media platform and production company that connects entrepreneurs, executives, athletes, and fans. It focuses on sports, entrepreneurship, mental health, and media.
https://sportsepreneur.com/

Athlete Mindset is also a part of QuietLoud Studios
QuietLoud Studios is the podcast network where reflection and voice come together.
https://quietloudstudios.com/

Athlete Mindset is produced by the team at KazCM
KazCM is a B2B content production company that builds assets and drives revenue by writing and talking. If you are looking to create a podcast, show, or written works, talk with the team at KazCM.
https://kazcm.com/

Connect with the guest, host, and podcast production team:

• Angela Lee Pucci: Instagram | Wikipedia
• Fight Story: https://fightstory.org/ | Instagram
• Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC: LinkedIn | Instagram | website
• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X

Related episodes to “Angela Lee Pucci’s Fight Story | A Mental Health Revolution”:

• Marine Corps Veteran | Michael Baldridge on Combat, Loss, and Redemption
• Empowering Women in Soccer with Grace Ahrens
• Right State of Mind

Music credit:

• Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

The post Angela Lee Pucci’s Fight Story | A Mental Health Revolution appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

In this episode of Athlete Mindset, Lisa Bonta Sumii sits down with soccer legend Brandi Chastain to explore her journey from youth soccer to international stardom. Brandi discusses the pivotal moments in her career, including her famous penalty kick in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, overcoming injuries, and the impact of mentorship and leadership. They also discuss the importance of resilience, celebrating successes, and the evolving role of mental health in sports. Brandi shares valuable insights for young athletes and parents, emphasizing the significance of support, hard work, and self-belief.

“Find Your Yes!”

“Brandi Chastain | Soccer Legend, Resilient Champion, Inspiring Leader” Topics:

• The pressure of playing on the national stage and Brandi’s iconic penalty kick in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup
• Overcoming injuries and the mental and physical challenges of recovery
• The importance of leadership and mentorship in sports
• The evolving role of mental health in athletic performance
• Celebrating successes and building confidence in athletes
• The impact of youth sports coaching and parental influence on young athletes
• The vision and mission behind founding AFC (Athletic Football Club) and its future in women’s soccer

Click here to Contribute to the Athlete Mindset Community

By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

Connect with host, guest, and podcast production team:

• Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC: LinkedIn | Instagram
• Brandi Chastain: X | Instagram | The Players’ Tribune articles
• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X

Related content:

• How NBC Sports’ Premier League Streaming Fuels Soccer in the U.S.
• TLH Reckoning – Women’s Soccer Franchise | Ashlee Fontes-Comber
• US World Cup Series | Soccer: The World’s Most Popular Sport

Music credit: Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

More about Brandi Chastain:

Brandi is a retired American soccer player. She is a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and a two-time Olympic gold medalist. She is also a coach and a sports broadcaster. She played for the US Women’s National Team from 1988 to 2004. In her 192 caps on the team, she scored 30 goals as a defender and midfielder. She scored a World Cup-winning penalty shootout goal against China in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup final.

Brandi played professionally for Shiroki FC in the Japan Women’s Football League, the San Jose CyberRays of the Women’s United Soccer Association, FC Gold Pride of Women’s Professional Soccer, and California Storm of Women’s Premier Soccer League.

Brandi was named to the USWNT All-Time Best XI in 2013. And in March 2017, Brandi was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame. In 2018 she was inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame. (source, Wikipedia)

The post Brandi Chastain | Soccer Legend, Resilient Champion, Inspiring Leader appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

This episode features Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW. Lisa is the CEO & Founder of AthMindset. She works with elite youth athletes, collegiate student-athletes, Olympians, professional athletes, coaches, and teams. She is the Mental Performance Coach for the Oakland Roots Sports Club, a men’s professional soccer team in the USL. Lisa is listed in the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s Mental Health Registry, the NFL Player Association’s Clinician Directory, and the Major League Rugby Mental Health and Wellness Directory. 

“Youth Sports Mental Health | Parents, Coaches, and Resiliences” topics:

• Bad calls in sports
• Parental expectations of young athletes
• Specialization versus playing multiple sports
• The mental health challenges faced by young athletes today
• The importance of emotional intelligence and resilience in sports
• The role of coaches in supporting the emotional well-being of athletes
• Strategies for parents to manage their emotions and support their children effectively

Social Media:

• Lisa Bonta Sumii: LinkedIn | Instagram
• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | X
• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X

Related Content:

• Coach Jim Tressel’s Legacy: A Buckeye’s Story of Life-Changing Mentorship | Nate Oliver
• The Mental Game in Sports with Aren Ulmer
• Derek Bylsma | Mental Health in Youth Sports

Resources:

• American Academy of Pediatrics: How We Can Support the Mental Health of Young Athletes
• Mission Harbor Behavioral Health: The Good And Bad Of Youth Athletics On Your Child’s Mental Health
• University of Washington Medicine: Strengthening Mental Health for Young Athletes

Credits:

• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Listen on Spotify
• Music credits: Dark Mystery Trailer (Taking Our time) by AlexGrohl | Website | Music promoted by Pixabay | Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license (“CC0 Content”) License
• Podcast produced by the team at KazCM

The post Youth Sports Mental Health | Parents, Coaches, and Resilience appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Soccer will be a top 3 sport in the US because of the following:

Efficient Game Duration:

• Highlighting soccer matches’ typical duration of two hours, appealing to fans with busy schedules.
• Discussing how the compact nature of soccer fits well into modern life, making it easier for fans to watch entire matches.

Accessibility and Affordability:

• Exploring soccer’s low-cost entry point, requiring minimal equipment to play.
• Addressing ongoing efforts to reduce expenses and create inclusive leagues, giving more children the opportunity to engage with the sport.

International Appeal:

• Examining soccer’s global popularity and its impact on the diverse U.S. population.
• Understanding how the influx of immigrants brings a passion for soccer, enriching the American soccer scene.
• The World Cup is the biggest event in the world of sports–and it’s not close. Read this: The Biggest Sporting Event, Even Bigger Than the Super Bowl

Growing Media Coverage:

• Discussing the increased television coverage of international leagues, such as the Premier League on NBC.
• Explaining how easy access to top-tier soccer helps build interest and knowledge among American fans.

CONNECT:

Host: Eric Kasimov: X | LinkedIn

SportsE Media: website | X | Instagram | TikTok

Related content to “Audible Style | Soccer Will Be a Top 3 Sport in the US Thanks to the 2026 World Cup”: Audible Style | The Moment Matters: Embracing the Now in Sports | Audible Style | Amazon Prime Regional Sports Streaming

This episode was produced by the team at KazCM

Main point: Soccer is the biggest sport in the world. We know that. However, soccer in the US typically falls outside of the top four sports: football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. That is changing fast. Add in the World Cup in 2026 and we have a recipe for soccer becoming a top 3 sport in the US. It will go: football, basketball, soccer…wait for it…

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post Audible Style | Soccer Will Be a Top 3 Sport in the US Thanks to the 2026 World Cup appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Jerry graduated from Ohio State’s college and dental school. He is a retired dentist, entrepreneur, and now a two-time author (Altered State of Affairs and Reach for the Stars). He is also a husband, father, and grandfather, all of whom make up his Buckeye Eleven. Jerald shares how Ohio State is more than just a school or football program—it’s a shared passion.

Now, for all you non-Buckeyes, this applies to you, too. We’re sure you are excited about something! And perhaps that excitement is shared by another or many others. That’s what this episode is about. The Buckeyes are simply a backdrop to help tell the bigger story. If anything, as the author says, “GET EXCITED!”

Buy Jerald’s books: Altered State of Affairs | Reach for the Stars

Connect with Jerald: author website | X

Connect with us:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | X
• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X

Related content to “Ohio State University Impact and Shared Passions with Altered State of Affairs Author”:

• Altered State of Affairs Podcast | OSU
• The Game and The Genesis of Altered State of Affairs
• How it All Began
• But for OSU
• The Power of Ohio State Football on Alumni, Engagement, and Fans
• Ohio State vs Notre Dame History | A Rare Rivalry Leads to 2025
• Sports Bring People Together

Wrapping up: want to create impactful content: KazCM

Credits for Ohio State University Impact and Shared Passions with Altered State of Affairs Author:

• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Listen on Spotify

• Music credits: Pandemia and Victory by MaxKoMusic | https://maxkomusic.com/
  Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/
  Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0)
  https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

The post Ohio State University Impact and Shared Passions with Altered State of Affairs Author appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

The full transcription for this episode can be found at the bottom of this episode page.

Main Topics Discussed:

• The launch and vision behind TGL, and its potential to change professional golf
• How TGL plans to engage younger audiences with golf simulator technology and team competitions
• The balance TGL must strike between innovation and the traditional golfing experience
• Challenges TGL faces, including skepticism from traditionalists and the need to prove its value beyond an “indoor golf” novelty
• The role of celebrity and athlete investors in shaping TGL and its appeal to a broader audience
• The future of professional sports in adapting to the preferences of younger generations

Wrapping up:

• digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: SportsE
• want to create impactful content: KazCM

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | X
• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X

Related content to “TGL and The Evolution of Professional Sports”:

• The Future of Sports Betting with Frontrunner’s Neil Zhang | A $231 Billion Industry!
• Shaping the Future of MLB: Embracing Change and Engaging a New Generation
• The Sports Betting Industry: Exploring Future Opportunities, Challenges, and Game-Changing Trends
• US World Cup Series | Soccer: The World’s Most Popular Sport

Resources for the episode: “TGL and The Evolution of Professional Sports”

• https://www.sportsdestinations.com/management/economics/gen-zs-consumption-lot-less-live-sports-and-lot-32441
• https://www.thescore.com/mlb/news/2657184
• https://www.cbssports.com/golf/news/will-tiger-woods-rory-mcilroys-tgl-succeed-exploring-new-golf-leagues-battle-to-capture-an-audience/
• https://www.fastcompany.com/91056421/the-behind-the-scenes-superstar-of-e-commerce
• https://www.sportspromedia.com/insights/features/tgl-2025-tmrw-sports-broadcast-strategy-woods-mcilroy-espn-mike-mccarley-interview/
• https://www.sportspromedia.com/insights/tiktok-six-nations-sport-gen-z-serie-a-metaverse/
• https://www.tiktok.com/business/en-US/blog/sports-on-tiktok
• https://www.reddit.com/r/Millennials/comments/17kut2q/people_our_age_seem_to_go_golfing_all_the_time/
• https://www.outkick.com/sports/pga-tour-tv-ratings-down-the-players-valspar-championship-explained
• https://www.forbes.com/sites/mattpowell/2014/07/24/sneakernomics-how-golf-lost-the-millennials/

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify

• Music credits: Pandemia and Victory by MaxKoMusic | https://maxkomusic.com/
  Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/
  Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0)
  https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Full Transcription for TGL and The Evolution of Professional Sports:

In today’s episode, we’re looking ahead, into the future of how we consume sports, with a special focus on the groundbreaking TGL Golf League. 

The way we watch sports has taken a sharp turn over the last decade. It’s not just about catching the game on TV anymore. Streaming, social media, and smartphones have thrown the playbook out the window. Today’s fans, especially Millennials and Gen Z generations, want their sports fast, engaging, and on their terms. I don’t always watch sports live…I’ll stream it on my own time. 

When we dive into the numbers, the story gets even clear...

An Athlete Mindset special episode featuring Lisa Bonta Summi’s thoughts on the importance of therapy.

In this episode, Lisa Bonta Sumii discusses the following topics:

• The importance of seeking out a mental health professional.
• Therapy does not make you weak, and you don’t have to tell everything to your therapist.
• You can engage in preventative therapy; you don’t have to wait for something to happen.
• You can go through a consultation with a therapist to know if it’s a good fit.
• Friends are not a substitute for therapy; both are really important.

Thank you for being part of the Athlete Mindset show!

Contribute to the Athlete Mindset Community

By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

Connect:

• Lisa Bonta Sumii and AthMindset: LinkedIn | Instagram | AthMindset website
• Presented by SportsE Media | a digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: TikTok | Instagram | X

Related episodes to “Lisa on the Importance of Therapy”:

• Normalizing Mental Health in Sports
• The Alarming Impact of Powerful Psychiatric Drugs on Mental Health
• The Challenges of Finding a Therapist | Derek Bylsma, LCPC

Music credit:

• Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post Lisa Bonta Sumii on the Importance of Therapy appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

• Exploring the universal sentiment of sports fans’ championship aspirations across various cities and sports levels.
• We highlight the statistical improbability of most teams winning, focusing on the NBA’s structure and the historical championship droughts of teams like the Sacramento Kings, Atlanta Hawks, and Phoenix Suns.
• Fan optimism vs. reality: Addressing the paradox of unwavering fan support despite the long odds against championship victories.
• Proposing that the love for sports transcends championships, emphasizing the journey and experiences over the final outcome. The moment matters.
• Personal reflection: Sharing an anecdote of watching a basketball game while ill, leading to a revelation about the significance of “the moment” in sports.
• A Buffalo Bills anecdote: Illustrating the concept of “the moment” through a personal story of family, football, and the memories created beyond the game’s result.
• Beyond the championship mindset: Questioning the sole pursuit of championships and highlighting the importance of aiming high while finding value in the moments experienced along the way.
• The aim and the moment: Concluding thoughts on the balance between striving for success and cherishing the moments that sports and life offer.

Read The Moment Matters: Embracing the Now in Sports on SportsE Media.

CONNECT:

Host: Eric Kasimov: X | LinkedIn

SportsE Media: website | X | Instagram | TikTok

Related content: Until Summer | Enjoy the Journey | The Wonder of Sports and Entrepreneurialism

Your new favorite podcast is ready for your ears: Saviors of the Metaverse

This episode was produced by the team at KazCM

Main point: It’s not about the championships. It’s truly about the moments. My moment lying in bed feeling bad but enjoying the game. All those other moments I’ve spent watching games, exchanging texts with others, or watching with family and friends. It’s about the connections. It’s about witnessing something. It’s about entertainment. It’s about fun. It’s about coming together as a group. It’s about the discussions and the debates. It’s about life. It’s about this article. And all of those things are moments.

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post Audible Style | The Moment Matters: Embracing the Now in Sports appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

In this empowering episode of Athlete Mindset, we’re honored to host Danita Johnson, a trailblazer in the world of sports. As the President of Business Operations for D.C. United, Danita brings a wealth of experience, innovation, and leadership to the forefront. We discuss the core themes of consistency, communication, and commitment. And then explore how these principles have shaped her career and success. Danita shares her unique perspective on the process over outcome, the importance of being a “professional friend,” her addiction to building and growing in her field, and how confidence, pressure, and purpose intertwine in her journey.

SUBSCRIBE to Athlete Mindset for $10/month

As a subscriber, you will receive exclusive content and consistent updates on athlete mental health. With your support and amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted.

About this Episode | Danita Johnson, D.C. United | Consistency, Communication, Commitment

• Consistency, Communication, Commitment: Exploring the foundational elements that drive success in sports business and personal growth.
• Process Over Outcome: Danita’s philosophy focuses on the journey rather than the destination.
• Being a “Professional Friend”: How building strong relationships contributes to personal and professional success.
• “Addicted to the Build”: A deep dive into Danita’s passion for creating, developing, and enhancing sports organizations.
• Confidence, Pressure, and Purpose: Unpacking how these elements interact in high-stakes environments.
• Preparation, Routine, and Mindset: The daily habits and mental frameworks that fuel success.
• The Power of Authentic Leadership: The impact of genuine, transparent leadership in the sports industry.

About Danita:

• Danita Johnson stands as the first Black President of an MLS Club and only the third woman in league history to serve in this prestigious role.
• Danita has a 17-year career marked by significant achievements, including record-breaking sales, innovative marketing strategies, and impactful community engagement.
• Under Danita Johnson’s leadership, D.C. United saw a substantial increase in ticket sales, concessions, apparel sales, and partnership revenue, alongside hosting landmark events.
• Danita spearheaded the re-introduction of the D.C. United Foundation and significantly enhanced the club’s community relations efforts, positively impacting over 125,000 individuals.
• From launching professional franchises to leading the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks to historic attendances and sponsorship dollars, Danita’s influence spans across major sports leagues.
• Through her mission of “Unite Sport. Build Community. Win Championships,” Danita has fostered a culture of success and community involvement.
• A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and a graduate of Western Carolina University, Danita is deeply involved in community service, serving on multiple boards and as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, leadership, and personal growth, offering invaluable insights from one of the industry’s most influential figures.

Production Team for “Danita Johnson, D.C. United | Consistency, Communication, Commitment”:

• Presented by SportsE Media: a digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports

Social Media:

• Lisa Bonta Sumii: LinkedIn | Instagram | website
• SportsE Media:  TikTok | Instagram | X
• Danita Johnson: Instagram | LinkedIn | US Soccer | DC United

Related episodes to “Danita Johnson, D.C. United | Consistency, Communication, Commitment”:

• Michelle Alozie: Navigating the Challenges of College and Professional Soccer
• Thankfulness = Success with Pro Soccer Player, Luca Deza
• US World Cup Series | The Biggest Sporting Event, Even Bigger Than the Super Bowl

Music credit:

• Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW | CEO & Founder of AthMindset® 

Lisa brings a high level of expertise to the athlete mental health space, from both a clinical and performance focus. She works with elite youth athletes, collegiate student-athletes, Olympians/Olympic hopefuls, professional athletes, coaches, teams, and the entire sport ecosystem.  

Lisa is the first-ever Mental Performance Coach for the Oakland Roots Sports Club, a men’s professional soccer team, in the USL, working alongside other coaches on the Technical Team, as well as the Sports Medicine staff.  

Lisa is listed in the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s Mental Health Registry, the NFL Player Association’s Clinician Directory, and the Major League Rugby Mental Health and Wellness Directory. 

As a direct response to need, Lisa founded AthMindset® – a diverse team of athlete-centered, licensed mental health clinicians and mental performance consultants, serving across several states.   

Lisa is a professional podcast host and podcast guest. She hosts the Athlete Mindset Podcast and co-hosts Roots Radio. She is a keynote speaker, an accomplished TEDx Speaker, speaks nationally and internationally, and is often invited to s...

This episode explains Amazon Prime’s transformative role in sports media and its impact on fans and blackout restrictions.

Topics touched on in Amazon Prime Regional Sports Streaming audible style episode:

• Amazon’s investment in Diamond Sports (owner of Bally Sports) is a major shift for fans of 37 professional MLB, NBA, and NHL teams.
• The potential of Amazon Prime’s streaming technology is a massive upgrade for regional sports viewing with enhanced accessibility.
• Mixed reactions to Diamond Sports’ ongoing operations despite Amazon Prime’s involvement.
• What will the long-term response be to Amazon’s involvement in sports broadcasting?
• The convenience of Amazon Prime for sports fans: Streaming favorite teams and everyday shopping on one platform.

Read the full Amazon Prime Regional Sports Streaming article on SportsE Media

CONNECT:

Host: Eric Kasimov: X | LinkedIn

SportsE Media: website | X | Instagram | TikTok

Related content: Sports Media Wants Your Clicks | Streamlining Name, Image, Likeness with Basepath

Your new favorite podcast is ready for your ears: Saviors of the Metaverse

This episode was produced by the team at KazCM

Main point: In a groundbreaking sports media development, Amazon has rescued Diamond Sports, the owner of Bally Sports. Diamond Sports operates 18 networks under the Bally Sports brand, holding the rights to 37 professional teams across baseball, the NBA, and the NHL.

Takeaway: Amazon Prime is not the only streaming service going for live sports. Netflix and WWE scored a huge deal. Netflix and Tennis are bringing Netflix Slam to your Netflix streaming service. Apple TV+ and the MLS started their run last year and added Messi to the programming. Amazon Prime already hit it big with Thursday Night Football. Of course, YouTube TV won the day with their NFL Sunday Ticket deal. Peacock and the NFL have aired exclusive games as well. Live sports plus streaming is where we will all be watching our sports. At this moment, it’s a race to which streaming service can gain access and media rights to the best and most-watched sports content.

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post Audible Style | Amazon Prime Regional Sports Streaming appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Get ready to laugh, facepalm, and maybe even learn a thing or two as the Saviors’ co-hosts rage about the following topics:

When your team loses! Nothing fun about that, right? Or maybe that’s the point… how else can a Cleveland Browns or Buffalo Bills fan handle the end of a season?

The Carolina Panthers. From bad draft picks to firing coaches ten games into their contract. The Panthers seem to be a franchise without an identity matched with an owner the fans despise. Is the owner not up to the task or, maybe, just maybe is he doing everything he can to win and not giving a darn what anyone else says, least of all the fans and the local media?! Oh, the suspense!

Listen to all the Saviors of the Metaverse episodes: Apple | Spotify

Let’s work together:

• Download our latest ebook: The Path to Better Content
• content production
• leverage your future
• sports media brand & production co
• start your own podcast or join a network

Social media:

• Saviors of the Metaverse shorts: TikTok | YouTube
• Jared Nichols: LinkedIn
• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter

Related episodes to “When Your Team Loses”

• Saviors & Sports | NFL Sunday Ticket and Rooting for Losers
• The Sports Metaverse, Virtual Coca-Cola, And More ChatGPT Please
• The Future of Sports Betting with Frontrunner’s Neil Zhang | A $231 Billion Industry!

Three current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• It’s all about mental health in sports: Athlete Mindset podcast

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify

The post Saviors & Sports | When Your Team Loses appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Meet Duke University’s Dr. Aaron Goodson, the driving force behind Duke University’s Mental Health and Performance Department. In this episode of Athlete Mindset, we explore the vital significance of embedding clinical mental health and mental performance consultation services within athletic departments, the importance of racial and ethnic representation among practitioners, and much more. Join us for a game-changing conversation that’s reshaping athlete well-being.

Now Available: The AthMindset® Workbook: Training Your Mind for Optimal Mental Health in Sport and in Life by Dr Tiana Woolridge MD MPH and Lisa Bonta Sumii LCSW

Here’s what you can’t afford to miss:

• The groundbreaking integration of clinical mental health and performance-boosting services for student-athletes—right where they need it the most.
• A candid discussion on racial and ethnic representation in mental health practice. Choice matters: Why seeing a counselor who reflects your identity can be a game-changer.
• How tailored psychological services transform lives, both on and off the field/court/you name it.

About Dr. Aaron Goodson:

• Ph.D. in Sport Psychology (2018, West Virginia University).
• Extensive education in sport and mental health fields.
• Provides psychological services to Duke University student-athletes.
• Formerly at Mississippi State University, rising to Assistant Athletic Director.
• Licensed counselor and CMPC, with expertise in student-athlete psychology and diversity in sport psychology.

Production team:

• Athlete Mindset is part of the podcast network, QuietLoud Studios
• Presented by SportsE Media: a digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports

Social media and more:

• Lisa Bonta Sumii: LinkedIn | Instagram | website | AthMindset Workbook
• SportsE Media:  TikTok | Instagram | X
• Dr. Aaron Goodson: Bio | LinkedIn | X

Related episodes to “Duke University’s Approach to Athlete Mental Health with Dr. Aaron Goodson”:

• Ashley Prange | University of Alabama Softball & Inspiring Others
• Bringing Lived Experience to Clinical Work with Derek Bylsma
• Michelle Alozie: Navigating the Challenges of College and Professional Soccer

Music credit:

• Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW | CEO & Founder of AthMindset® 

Lisa brings a high level of expertise to the athlete mental health space, from both a clinical and performance focus. She works with elite youth athletes, collegiate student-athletes, Olympians/Olympic hopefuls, professional athletes, coaches, teams, and the entire sport ecosystem.  

Lisa is the first-ever Mental Performance Coach for the Oakland Roots Sports Club, a men’s professional soccer team, in the USL, working alongside other coaches on the Technical Team, as well as the Sports Medicine staff.  

Lisa is listed in the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s Mental Health Registry, the NFL Player Association’s Clinician Directory, and the Major League Rugby Mental Health and Wellness Directory. 

As a direct response to need, Lisa founded AthMindset® – a diverse team of athlete-centered, licensed mental health clinicians and mental performance consultants, serving across several states.   

Lisa is a professional podcast host and podcast guest. She hosts the Athlete Mindset Podcast and co-hosts Roots Radio. She is a keynote speaker, an accomplished TEDx Speaker, speaks nationally and internationally, and is often invited to speak at conferences and contribute to expert panels. 

Lisa has been quoted in Time Magazine, Teen Vogue, Women’s Health Magazine, as well as being interviewed on the BBC World News and Radio Bliss, in Jordan. Her first book, The AthMindset® Workbook: Training your mind for optimal mental health in sport and in life is now available. 

Lisa received her Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work and attended the University of California at Santa Barbara as an undergraduate. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

This episode features Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Executive Director of Millennium Counseling Center, Derek Bylsma. This episode is about bringing lived experience to clinical work, suicide prevention and awareness, and addressing the mental health stigma that still exists today.

In this Athlete Mindset podcast, Derek also discusses mental health in young athletes, his background as a clinician, and how he leads as a coach of a girls’ high school soccer team.

Topics discussed in “Bringing Lived Experience to Clinical Work with Derek Bylsma”:

• Derek shares his story of becoming a mental health professional.
• How to spot athletes struggling with mental health.
• It’s important to stay approachable for those who may need help.
• How Derek blends being a clinician with being a coach.
• Helping young female athletes build confidence and speak up for themselves.
• How social media has changed the way young people see the world.
• The importance of learning how to adapt your coaching style.

About Derek Byslma, LCPC: 

• Derek is the Executive Director of Millennium Counseling Center.
• He holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University.
• As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and board-certified counselor, he specializes in recovery-related work, mood disorders, and co-occurring disorders.
• Derek’s passion for athletics and helping others led him to lead the Sports division at the Millennium Counseling Center.
• He boasts a distinguished background as a two-time college All-American and All-Big Ten soccer player, transitioning from player to renowned High School soccer coach in Illinois.

Production team:

• Athlete Mindset is part of the podcast network, QuietLoud Studios
• Presented by SportsE Media: a digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports

Social media and more:

• Lisa Bonta Sumii: LinkedIn | Instagram | AthMindset website
• SportsE Media:  TikTok | Instagram | X
• Derek Bylsma: Podcast | LinkedIn | X

Related episodes to “Bringing Lived Experience to Clinical Work with Derek Bylsma”:

• Dr. Jessica Bartley, Director of Mental Health for Team USA
• Allison Schmitt | 10-Time Olympic Medalist on Mental Health
• 4 Lessons I Learned from Coaching Youth Basketball

Music credit:

• Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW | CEO & Founder of AthMindset® 

Lisa brings a high level of expertise to the athlete mental health space, from both a clinical and performance focus. She works with elite youth athletes, collegiate student-athletes, Olympians/Olympic hopefuls, professional athletes, coaches, teams, and the entire sport ecosystem.  

Lisa is the first-ever Mental Performance Coach for the Oakland Roots Sports Club, a men’s professional soccer team, in the USL, working alongside other coaches on the Technical Team, as well as the Sports Medicine staff.  

Lisa is listed in the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s Mental Health Registry, the NFL Player Association’s Clinician Directory, and the Major League Rugby Mental Health and Wellness Directory. 

As a direct response to need, Lisa founded AthMindset® – a diverse team of athlete-centered, licensed mental health clinicians and mental performance consultants, serving across several states.   

Lisa is a professional podcast host and podcast guest. She hosts the Athlete Mindset Podcast and co-hosts Roots Radio. She is a keynote speaker, an accomplished TEDx Speaker, speaks nationally and internationally, and is often invited to speak at conferences and contribute to expert panels. 

Lisa has been quoted in Time Magazine, Teen Vogue, Women’s Health Magazine, as well as being interviewed on the BBC World News and Radio Bliss, in Jordan. Her first book, The AthMindset® Workbook: Training your mind for optimal mental health in sport and in life is now available. 

Lisa received her Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work and attended the University of California at Santa Barbara as an undergraduate. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

The post

In this episode:

• Allison shares the profound impact her cousin’s tragic suicide had on her — it’s what fueled Allison’s passion for mental health.
• Allison talks about feeling different, fame, and experiencing isolation and depression after success at the Olympics.
• What made a difference for Allison: seeking therapy after a breakdown during a swimming meet.
• Alison emphasizes the importance of continuing the conversation about mental health.
• Allison credits her support system for understanding her heightened emotions and talks about her relationship with Michael Phelps, who has become like a brother to her — Allison Schmitt and Michael Phelps share a passion for mental health advocacy.

More about Allison Schmitt:

• Allison Schmitt is a four-time Olympian and a ten-time Olympic medalist.
• She won five medals, including three gold, at the 2012 Summer Olympics.
• She won a gold medal in the 4×200 meter freestyle relay and a silver medal in the 4×100 m freestyle relay at the 2016 Summer Olympics.
• In total, she has won twenty-five medals in major international competitions.
• She was a four-time National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) national champion.
• She was named SwimSwam’s Swammy Award-winner for Female Swimmer of the Year in 2012.

Wrapping up:

• Athlete Mindset is part of the KazSource Podcast Network
• Presented by SportsE Media: a digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports
• Content brings people together: KazCM

Social media and more:

• Lisa Bonta Sumii: LinkedIn | Instagram | AthMindset website
• SportsE Media:  TikTok | Instagram | Twitter
• Allison Schmitt: LinkedIn | Instagram

Related episodes:

• Making a Splash with USA Olympic Gold Medalist, Cullen Jones (Part 1)
• The Olympian Mindset with Swimmer, Cullen Jones (Part 2)
• AthMindset | Dr. Jessica Bartley, Director of Mental Health for Team USA
• Watching the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• Short-form video production: KazCM

Credits:

• This podcast was produced by the team at KazCM
• Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot

Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW | CEO & Founder of AthMindset® 

Lisa brings a high level of expertise to the athlete mental health space, from both a clinical and performance focus. She works with elite youth athletes, collegiate student-athletes, Olympians/Olympic hopefuls, professional athletes, coaches, teams, and the entire sport ecosystem.  

Lisa is the first-ever Mental Performance Coach for the Oakland Roots Sports Club, a men’s professional soccer team, in the USL, working alongside other coaches on the Technical Team, as well as the Sports Medicine staff.  

Lisa is listed in the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s Mental Health Registry, the NFL Player Association’s Clinician Directory, and the Major League Rugby Mental Health and Wellness Directory. 

As a direct response to need, Lisa founded AthMindset® – a diverse team of athlete-centered, licensed mental health clinicians and mental performance consultants, serving across several states.   

Lisa is a professional podcast host and podcast guest. She hosts the Athlete Mindset Podcast and co-hosts Roots Radio. She is a keynote speaker, an accomplished TEDx Speaker, speaks nationally and internationally, and is often invited to speak at conferences and contribute to expert panels. 

Lisa has been quoted in Time Magazine, Teen Vogue, Women’s Health Magazine, as well as being interviewed on the BBC World News and Radio Bliss, in Jordan. Her first book, The AthMindset® Workbook: Training your mind for optimal mental health in sport and in life is now available. 

Lisa received her Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work and attended the University of California at Santa Barbara as an undergraduate. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Get ready to laugh, facepalm, and maybe even learn a thing or two as the Saviors’ co-hosts rage about the following topics:

NFL International
The NFL (aka NFL International) has been playing games in England and Germany, and they are simply crushing it.

Baker Mayfield
Jared’s favorite quarterback may have a new home, but Jared will still visit him often.

Trey Lance vs. Justin Fields
It turns out the Trey Lance pick didn’t work out. Who knew? That’s facetious.

Is this the Cleveland Browns’ year?
I mean isn’t every year the Cleveland Browns’ year? That’s what “they” say.

The city of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is no longer the punchline. And the Saviors are big fans…of the city, not the Steelers.

No city has it worse than Charlotte — when it comes to traffic
Traffic in Charlotte is terrible with a lot of f’s!

Join us on this rollercoaster ride of absurdity and brilliance, as we bring you the very best (and worst) of the Saviors of the Metaverse sports discussions. This one just happens to be about the NFL, mostly!

To listen to the full audio of this Saviors of the Metaverse: “The Shirtless Man’s Guide to Reality”

Let’s work together:

• content production
• leverage your future
• sports media brand & production co
• start your own podcast or join a network

Social media:

• Saviors of the Metaverse shorts: TikTok | YouTube
• Jared Nichols: LinkedIn
• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter

Related episodes to Saviors & Sports | NFL International, QB Talk, Cleveland, and the city of Pittsburgh

• Saviors & Sports | NFL Sunday Ticket and Rooting for Losers
• The Sports Metaverse, Virtual Coca-Cola, And More ChatGPT Please
• The Future of Sports Betting with Frontrunner’s Neil Zhang | A $231 Billion Industry!

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• It’s all about mental health in sports: Athlete Mindset podcast

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post Saviors & Sports | NFL International, QB Talk, Cleveland, and the city of Pittsburgh appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

CEOs and athletes may be in the limelight, but just like everyone else, they are people. This CEO happens to be a New York Knicks fan. So naturally, we talk about RJ Barrett and Ja Morant — including their rise to stardom, expectations, and perception in the media-verse.

• Introduction to the young CEO of a publicly traded company
• CEO’s passion for the New York Knicks
• RJ Barrett’s expectation, reality, and just playing basketball
• Spotlight on Ja Morant and decision-making
• The challenges of young talents in the limelight
• Parallels between young NBA stars and young CEOs

This episode is taken from the long-form conversation on Entrepreneur Perspectives titled, “How AI Security Could Save Lives With Vicon CEO, Saagar Govil”

Wrapping up:

• digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: SportsE
• want to create impactful content: KazCM

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter
• Saagar Govil: Forbes | Twitter | LinkedIn

Related content to “Young CEO of Publicly Traded Company on RJ Barrett and Ja Morant”:

• AthMindset | The Life of an NBA Agent with Josh Beauregard-Bell
• Should The Golden State Warriors Start Chris Paul?

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• It’s all about mental health in sports: Athlete Mindset podcast

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify
• Music by AlexGrohl from Pixabay

The post Young CEO of Publicly Traded Company on RJ Barrett and Ja Morant appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

Episode Highlights from “Why This Former Athlete Believes In Podcasts”

• Telling Your Story: Podcasting allows former athletes to communicate their experiences, the highs, and the lows, in an authentic manner.
• Ripple Effect: Understand the profound impact even a single episode can have, potentially reaching and changing someone’s perspective or life.
• Sharpening Communication: Learn how podcasting enhances communication skills, vital in anything you do.
• Podcasts: The New Frontier: Explore the increasing importance of podcasts in today’s world, becoming as essential as traditional media once was.
• Personal Touchpoints: Realize the connections a podcast can foster, whether it’s with an ardent fan, a peer, or even a loved one.
• Uncharted Potential: Discuss the boundless opportunities podcasting offers, from brand-building to unforeseen ventures.

While quantifying the exact benefits of podcasting remains elusive, the intangible rewards can be monumental. Join us in this episode as we uncover the many facets of podcasting in the sports world.

Wrapping up:

• digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: SportsE
• want to create impactful content: KazCM

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter

Related content to “Why This Former Athlete Believes In Podcasts”:

• This episode is from a long-form conversation with JR Butler
• The Power of Conversation
• Shaping Your Future | Through Podcasting

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• The podcast that saves and entertains: Saviors of the Metaverse

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The post Why This Former Athlete Believes In Podcasts appeared first on SportsEpreneur.

In this conversation with Dr. Erik Korem of AIM7, we discuss:

• His days playing college football at Texas A&M, including the challenges and transitions he faced with a head coaching change going into his senior year.
• Dealing with unfortunate circumstances in his college football career and how the mantra of “chopping wood” kept him persevering.
• His personal experience with bullying. He shares a powerful story about the resolution of a bullying incident and the long-term effects that it had on his life (and his bully’s).
• The concept of enforcing your will and the power that holds in achieving your goals.
• Navigating the overwhelming world of biohacking. We discuss the overload of information available and how to sift through it effectively.
• Practical tips for improving physical fitness, including simple actions anyone can incorporate into their daily lives.
• The benefits and frustrations of wearable tech. We explore the confusion surrounding these devices and how to make the best use of them.
• The crucial importance of taking time off, both for your physical and mental wellbeing.
• The reason behind having a podcast (The Blueprint), appearing on podcasts, and producing a large amount of content. He shares insights on the impact content creation can provide.
• Straightforward strategies for improving sleep and overall health, based on scientific research and practical experience.

Dr. Korem also introduces us to his organization, AIM7. Built for real people with busy lives, AIM7 is designed to offer customized, science-backed guidance that has never been available to the public at this level. The aim is to empower people to feel and look their best without having to be a professional athlete or chase unsustainable trends.

This was an enlightening conversation, filled with practical guidance, and stories of overcoming adversity.

More about Dr. Erik Korem, PhD:

Erik Korem is the founder and CEO of AIM7, a health and wellness content creator, and a former NFL sports scientist. His mission is centered around equipping people with the confidence and knowledge to live a healthy and fulfilled life. He is making advancements in wearable technology that will be the most personal device to date in order to create unique lifestyle changes and habits for each and every individual.

Connect with Dr. Erik Korem, PhD: website | The Blueprint Podcast | LinkedIn | Instagram

Learn more about Aim7: website | Twitter

Wrapping up:

• digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: SportsE
• want to create impactful content: KazCM

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter

Related content to “Simplifying Sports Science and Overcoming Adversity with Dr. Erik Korem, Founder of AIM7”:

• Former LA Lakers Strength and Conditioning Coach Marco Nunez
• The Alarming Impact of Powerful Psychiatric Drugs on Mental Health
• Sports Psychology and Mental Training with Henrik Hjarsbæk

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• The podcast that saves and entertains: Saviors of the Metaverse

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify
• Music by AlexGrohl from Pixabay

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader m...

In this Sports Backdrop episode, we discuss:

• The three feelings in sports and business (we have a podcast about this very topic here)
• Practice and business success: “Repetition is the key to learning”
• The role of perseverance, with a nod to the Buffalo Bills
• The changing face of youth sports today
• The significant rise in college applications
• Mississippi State University and other state colleges
• “If you don’t know what else to do, work harder.” -James Barnes’ father
• The worrying trend of blame culture in sports and its wider implications
• The rise of entrepreneurial college students with side hustles
• The impact of AI across diverse industries

Connect with Dr. James Barnes: Bricks-To-Clicks | Podcast | LinkedIn | Twitter

Learn more about Mississippi State University: website | Niche profile | CE, Marketing & Sales

Wrapping up:

• digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: SportsE
• want to create impactful content: KazCM

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter

Related content to “Mississippi State University + Dr. James Barnes | Education, Youth Sports, and Marketing Insight”:

• AthMindset | Dr. Jessica Bartley, Director of Mental Health for Team USA
• Sports Matterz | John Wooden Stories as Told By Steve Lavin
• Creating Fulfillment Through Content | Content Matterz
• From The Players| Jayda Coleman | Three Time National Champion and Oklahoma Sooner

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• Short-form video production: KazCM

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify
• Music by AlexGrohl from Pixabay

More about our guest, Dr. James Barnes:

Dr. James Barnes is a professor, marketing mentor, and author who has dedicated his life to helping others achieve their business goals. He is an Associate Extension Professor and Economist at Mississippi State University, the brains behind the renowned Bricks-To-Clicks® Marketing program, and the author of ‘5 Social Media Mistakes Your Business Should Avoid’. Two decades of coaching youth basketball and a tenacious determination to help people succeed have shaped James into the kindhearted, insightful teacher he is today. James lives by the ethos that anything is possible with positive encouragement and a willingness to work as hard as you play. His latest offering is Master Your Marketing – an interactive, online course that takes the mystery out of marketing, so entrepreneurs can make money instead of wasting it.

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Thr...

Key Discussion Points in This Episode

Life Decisions and Moving to the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Area: Our conversation begins with Chris explaining his move from chilly Chicago to sunny Raleigh-Durham, primarily driven by the weather. This decision was also fueled by the need for a place that could nurture his ventures, given Chicago’s then lack of familiarity with the internet in the early 2000’s

Choosing Cities to Live In: Chris discusses the process of choosing his new home, comparing Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill with Boulder, Colorado. He shares insights into his preference for secondary cities that foster a faster pace of life and work, alongside being closer to aging parents on the East Coast.

The Appeal of Secondary Cities for Business: The discussion shifts to how often businesses, especially in the early days, were pressured to settle in major cities like San Francisco, New York, or Boston. Chris gives his perspective on why he chose not to adhere to this norm, despite building multiple businesses.

Hockey and Life Beyond Business: We explore Chris’s love for hockey, reminiscing about his childhood where hockey was a way of life. He shares a special family tradition of attending away games of the Philadelphia Flyers, kindled by a shared love of the sport.

The Culture of Hockey: We discuss the fascinating culture of hockey and its growth in areas you wouldn’t typically expect to thrive. Chris likens the hockey fanbase to the community of entrepreneurs, both “second-tier” but equally passionate and tightly knit tribes.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a hockey enthusiast, or someone looking for insights on life decisions and specifically how to think about where to live, this ” Hockey Goes South ” episode is for you.

Wrapping up:

• digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: SportsE
• want to create impactful content: KazCM
• article to read on the topic: Why Southern Teams Have Seen So Much Success

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | X
• SportsEpreneur: Instagram | X | YouTube
• Chris Heivly: website | LinkedIn | X | book: Build The Fort

Related content to “Hockey Goes South”:

• SportsMatterz | Being a Hockey Enforcer with Josh Gratton
• RAV | A Journey to Helping and Healing with Stanley Cup Champion, Theo Fleury

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• It’s all about mental health in sports: Athlete Mindset podcast

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify
• Music by AlexGrohl from Pixabay

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

Sports Culture Across the Atlantic

Across the Atlantic, there is a unique sports culture. And no matter what side of the Atlantic you are on, England’s or the USA’s, the sports culture is fascinating. Everything from relegation, history, depth, drafts, transfer windows, passion, youth sports, and much more. In the latest episode of “The Sports Backdrop” podcast, Eric Kasimov of the United States, along with Jim James of England, explores how sports can serve as a platform for broader discussions, using football (soccer) as the case study.

Promotion, Relegation, and Competitive Structure

The conversation begins with the cultural differences between sports in the US and the UK, focusing primarily on football. The Premier League’s system of relegation and promotion is a unique aspect of English football (and other international leagues) that contrasts starkly with the US sports model, where relegation does not exist.

They then move on to discuss the differences in the collegiate sports systems of the two countries. While US universities serve as training grounds for athletes with scholarships, UK universities don’t have a similar emphasis on sports. This divergence has led to unique opportunities for international students, including the chance to compete in the US collegiate sports scene.

Infrastructure, Scale, Financial Reality, and Youth Soccer

Another point of discussion was the sports infrastructure in both countries. In the UK, there are so many teams across different divisions, providing depth to the competition. In contrast, the US has a more singular focus, but with larger sports enterprises and substantial financial involvement.

The conversation extends to the commercialization of youth sports in the US, where participation can cost thousands of dollars, in contrast to the UK, where costs are significantly lower. This leads to an interesting discussion about the growing entrepreneurial opportunities within sports, particularly around major events and famous athletes.

Sports, Careers, and the Entrepreneurial Path

Finally, these entrepreneurs discuss career paths in today’s society, emphasizing that traditional linear careers are becoming less common. They propose that interests and personal fascinations can guide individuals to learn new skills and gain experiences that may not be directly linked to their fields of study.

In conclusion, the episode provides an engaging comparison of sports cultures and their influence on society, education, and business in the UK and the US. It also provides insights into the emerging trend of career exploration driven by personal interest and entrepreneurial spirit.

FAQ

Q: What is this episode mainly about?

It compares sports culture in England and the United States, using football (soccer) to explore differences in competition, education, youth sports, and career paths.

Q: Why focus on promotion and relegation?

Because it highlights a fundamental difference between European and U.S. sports systems—merit-based movement versus closed leagues—and how that affects teams, fans, and long-term strategy.

Q: How do college sports differ between the US and UK?

In the U.S., universities play a major role in athlete development through scholarships and competition. In the UK, sports are less integrated into higher education, creating different development paths.

Q: What role does youth sports play in the discussion?

The episode contrasts the high cost and commercialization of youth sports in the U.S. with the more accessible, lower-cost model common in the UK.

Q: Is this episode only for sports fans?

No. It’s also about culture, business, and how people think about careers and opportunity in modern society.

Interested in how sports intersect with culture, business, and opportunity? Explore more conversations and analysis on The Sports Backdrop and across SportsEpreneur.

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | X
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | X
• Jim James: LinkedIn | Linktree

Related content to Sports Culture | England vs USA

• Goalkeeper Psychology
• The Future of Soccer in the United States | Eric Kasimov
• The Top Five Soccer Leagues in the World

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• The podcast that saves, and definitely entertains: Saviors of the Metaverse

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify
• Music credits: Pandemia and Victory by MaxKoMusic | https://maxkomusic.com/
  Music promoted by

Recently I have had the opportunity to connect with and spend time with Rob Finkelstein, all thanks to Tim Claiborne and his Lockerroom sports group. Rob is the CEO & Founder of Alumni Direct. And he is the host of the podcast Athletes to Entrepreneurs. We’re bringing an episode of his show to the SportsEpreneur platform because it’s all about sports, entrepreneurship, and mental health. And with that, here’s a special episode of athletes to entrepreneurs.

About the Athletes to Entrepreneurs podcast:

Athletes to Entrepreneurs is a podcast where Rob speaks with former college and professional athletes from all over the world as they share the joys, successes, failures, and lessons of their entrepreneurial journey. Hosted by Rob Finkelstein of Alumni Direct, the number-one network for alumni worldwide. Listen to the AtoE podcast.

About this episode:

A conversation with Tim Wright, Superbowl champion, multi-passionate entrepreneur, and co-founder of Dome Audio.

Tim Wright: “Sports was very important to my foundation. That’s where you learn how to win. That’s where you learn how to lose. And later on in life, I learned that you either win or you learn. So taking the lessons of what you were able to learn in that loss is what you’re then able to apply to that game next week or the practice the next day, and really get better. And that’s the same thing throughout life and the same thing in entrepreneurship.”

Tim’s advice to current athletes: “When I got on the field, I made it count. And that’s the most important thing. The time you get, make it count.”

Wrapping up:

• digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: SportsE
• want to create impactful content: KazCM

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter
• Athletes to Entrepreneurs: Podcast
• Rob Finkelstein: LinkedIn 
• Alumni Direct LLC: Website
• Tim Wright: LinkedIn | Dome Audio

Related content to “Athletes to Entrepreneurs”:

• SE Perspective | Your Sporting Career Is Over: What Now?
• How To Take Advantage Of Your Amazing Network As An Elite Athlete

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• It’s all about mental health in sports: Athlete Mindset podcast

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify
• Music by AlexGrohl from Pixabay

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

Get ready to laugh, facepalm, and maybe even learn a thing or two as the Saviors’ co-hosts rage about the following topics:

The NFL Sunday Ticket Shake-Up
Diving into the pricing chaos surrounding YouTube TV’s takeover of NFL Sunday Ticket and what it means for football fans everywhere.

The Red Zone Channel
A newbie’s learning of what the Red Zone Channel is… sorry, Jared is living under a rock.

The Struggles of a Cleveland Browns Fan
A heartfelt (and hilarious) look at the ups and downs of being a die-hard Browns fan, with a side of optimism.

Oakland A’s: Bye Bye, Oakland. Hello, Vegas!
Discussing the upcoming move of the Oakland A’s to Las Vegas and why Oakland keeps losing its teams.

Rooting for Losers: A Surprisingly Positive Experience for Kids
A tongue-in-cheek argument for why cheering for a losing team might actually be a character-building experience for children.

The Problem When Losing Teams Finally Win
When the Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox finally broke their curses, it also broke the fun behind their losing.

Betting on the Future: The 2023-24 NFL Super Bowl Odds
A wildly speculative look at the odds for the upcoming Super Bowl and which teams are in the running.

The Deshaun Watson Court Case: Drama Off the Field
No criminal evidence found, the media coverage, and more.

Join us on this rollercoaster ride of absurdity and brilliance, as we bring you the very best (and worst) of the Saviors of the Metaverse sports discussions. This one just happens to be about rooting for losers!

To listen to the full audio of this Saviors of the Metaverse: College ROI + Gotham City, Cleveland, The Butt Naked Emperor

Let’s work together:

• content production
• leverage your future
• sports media brand & production co
• start your own podcast or join a network

Social media:

• Saviors of the Metaverse shorts: TikTok | YouTube
• Jared Nichols: LinkedIn
• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter

Related episodes to Saviors & Sports | NFL Sunday Ticket and Rooting for Losers:

• ChatGPT Impact, Human Identity & Juice Jacking | Saviors Delve Deep
• The Sports Metaverse, Virtual Coca-Cola, And More ChatGPT Please
• The Future of Sports Betting with Frontrunner’s Neil Zhang | A $231 Billion Industry!

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• It’s all about mental health in sports: Athlete Mindset podcast

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify

Eric Kasimov is the founder of SportsEpreneur, part of the KazSource media network. Since launching the platform in 2015, he has hosted over 500 podcast episodes, written and published more than 1,500 articles, and advised business leaders, founders, and creators on building authority through media strategy.

Through his brands — KazSource, KazCM, SportsEpreneur, and QuietLoud Studios — Eric leads teams that produce podcasts, develop brand platforms, and help companies grow through modern content ecosystems. He also scaled KazSource Insurance into a seven-figure boutique agency, providing the foundation for the broader media network he operates today.

His work has been featured in Forbes, Axios, and Front Office Sports, and his podcasts have included conversations with top founders, investors, and athletes turned entrepreneurs.

The full transcription for this episode can be found at the bottom of this episode page.

Main Topics Discussed:

• The explosive growth of the sports betting market
• Technological innovations shaping the industry
• The rise of mobile betting and its implications
• Mental health and sports gambling addiction
• Addressing corruption in sports betting
• Strategies for promoting responsible gambling

Wrapping up:

• digital sports media brand for entrepreneurs engaged in sports: SportsE
• want to create impactful content: KazCM

Social media:

• Eric Kasimov: LinkedIn | Twitter 
• KazSource: TikTok | YouTube
• SportsE: Instagram | Twitter

Related content to “Exploring the Sports Betting Market”:

• The Sports Betting Industry
• The Future of Sports Betting with Frontrunner’s Neil Zhang | A $231 Billion Industry!
• Fanalyze the Game

Resources for the episode: “Exploring the Sports Betting Market”

• https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/14/us/politics/supreme-court-sports-betting-new-jersey.html 
• https://www.fastcompany.com/90807790/draft-kings-sports-betting-fantasy-league 
• https://www.esportsbets.com/news/unstoppable-future-of-esports-betting/ 
• https://boxscorenews.com/sports-corruption-is-on-the-rise-around-the-world-according-to-report-p168366-302.htm
• https://www.reuters.com/article/ozasp-uk-tennis-corruption-mobile-idAFKCN0UZ0LW 
• https://www.goracle.io/post/why-sports-betting-is-shifting-to-blockchain 
• https://www.betmgminc.com/blog/industry-news/the-future-of-sports-betting/ 
• https://sportsepreneur.com/sports-betting-industry-future-challenges-trends/ 
• https://sportsepreneur.com/future-of-sports-betting-neil-zhang-frontrunner/ 

Two current projects:

• We published a book! Check it out on Amazon: Altered State of Affairs
• It’s all about mental health in sports: Athlete Mindset podcast

Credits:

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts
• Listen on: Spotify

• Music credits: Pandemia and Victory by MaxKoMusic | https://maxkomusic.com/
  Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/
  Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0)
  https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Full Transcription for Exploring the Sports Betting Market:

Welcome to The Sports Backdrop, where we discuss the latest trends and developments in the world of sports! I’m your host, and in today’s episode, we’ll dive into the thrilling world of the sports betting industry. We’ll explore the sports betting market future opportunities, challenges, and game-changing trends that are reshaping this exciting world. So, buckle up, and let’s get started! 

Over the past few years, the sports betting industry has experienced a significant transformation, particularly in th...