Stay Sporty Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/stay-sporty Stay Sporty goes beyond the box score to explore the real stories and jobs behind the sports and entertainment industry. Produced by the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management at the University of South Carolina, this series is dedicated to authentic conversations and professional growth. Join host Adonis "Sporty" Jeralds as he spotlights the personal journeys and professional insights of former students, alumni, mentees, and industry colleagues. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to deep dives into industry evolution, Stay Sporty connects the dots between where professionals started and where they are today. What to Expect: The Journey: Candid discussions on career paths and pivotal moments. Real Insights: A look at current roles, responsibilities, and industry trends. Mentorship & Legacy: Reflections on guidance, growth, and wisdom for future leaders. Whether you are a student, a young professional, or a fan of the business of sports, join us as we inspire the next generation and strengthen our community. HRSM Reach Network 20e6178a-4f42-58ee-a2fe-6e437e4fc9e6 yes en Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:26:19 -0400 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:27:02 -0400 https://img.transistorcdn.com/9OHugbk8VED5LmAhx0rRcS-lJf27DAPl19rGxyPN-Qc/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9lNjJk/NzEyYzgxNzZhMGMz/ODVmYWY0Yjk5MjZi/YTIxZC5wbmc.jpg Stay Sporty episodic Sporty Jeralds Stay Sporty goes beyond the box score to explore the real stories and jobs behind the sports and entertainment industry. Produced by the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management at the University of South Carolina, this series is dedicated to authentic conversations and professional growth. Join host Adonis "Sporty" Jeralds as he spotlights the personal journeys and professional insights of former students, alumni, mentees, and industry colleagues. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to deep dives into industry evolution, Stay Sporty connects the dots between where professionals started and where they are today. What to Expect: The Journey: Candid discussions on career paths and pivotal moments. Real Insights: A look at current roles, responsibilities, and industry trends. Mentorship & Legacy: Reflections on guidance, growth, and wisdom for future leaders. Whether you are a student, a young professional, or a fan of the business of sports, join us as we inspire the next generation and strengthen our community. Stay Sporty goes beyond the box score to explore the real stories and jobs behind the sports and entertainment industry. careers in sports, sports business, careers in entertainment management, University of South Carolina, Sport and Entertainment Management Program, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management Michael Sagas No No Behind the Scenes of Event Marketing: Insights from a Feld Entertainment Director 5 5 Behind the Scenes of Event Marketing: Insights from a Feld Entertainment Director full cbd24418-f86c-42b3-99d9-b0688c7388f7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/360f3429 In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Professor Jeralds interviews Syeth Spurrier, Director of Event Marketing at Feld Entertainment and USC alumnus. Syeth shares his career journey, the importance of internships, and insights into marketing major live entertainment brands. He discusses the shift from traditional to digital marketing, the role of analytics, and adapting to industry changes post-COVID. Syeth highlights creative campaigns, the impact of AI, and the value of mentorship and giving back. The episode offers practical advice for students and a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving world of live event marketing.

In this episode: 

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

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

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

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

In this episode: 

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

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

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

]]> Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:40:53 -0400 Sporty Jeralds Sporty Jeralds 3108 In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Professor Jeralds interviews Syeth Spurrier, Director of Event Marketing at Feld Entertainment and USC alumnus. Syeth shares his career journey, the importance of internships, and insights into marketing major live entertainment brands. He discusses the shift from traditional to digital marketing, the role of analytics, and adapting to industry changes post-COVID. Syeth highlights creative campaigns, the impact of AI, and the value of mentorship and giving back. The episode offers practical advice for students and a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving world of live event marketing.

In this episode: 

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

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

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

]]> Stay Sporty, College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management, University of South Carolina, podcast, Professor Gerald, Seth Spurrier, Director of Event Marketing, Feld Entertainment, career path, internships, marketing strategies, ticket sales, live family entertainment, Monster Jam, Ringling Bros, Disney on Ice, Supercross, digital media, data analytics, retargeting techniques, marketing campaigns, event marketing, media partners, digital advertising, social media, customer engagement, analytics, relationship marketing, post-COVID landscape, live entertainment, ticket comping, promotional support, traditional marketing, digital placements, marketing budget, audience engagement, immersive experiences, AI in marketing, community engagement, career advice, mentorship, industry insights, student experiences, practical skills, giving back, networking, professional development, event success, creative marketing, brand partnerships, ticket pricing, audience targeting, marketing evolution, sports marketing, entertainment industry, marketing technology, customer loyalty, interactive elements, sponsorships, marketing trends. No Behind the Scenes at the Toyota Center: Duane Scott on Managing Events in a Major Market 4 4 Behind the Scenes at the Toyota Center: Duane Scott on Managing Events in a Major Market full c0f27727-b085-42e9-ae04-fd33e0a776ad https://share.transistor.fm/s/2dba703a In this episode of the Stay Sporty podcast, Duane Scott, Vice President for Booking and Event Operations at Houston’s Toyota Center, shares his career journey from South Carolina to managing one of the nation’s busiest arenas. He discusses the complexities of event booking, venue renovations, and building authentic relationships with promoters. Duane offers insights on balancing NBA schedules with concerts, the importance of continual facility upgrades, and career advice for aspiring industry professionals, emphasizing effort, adaptability, and finding your personal “why.”

In this episode: 

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


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

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


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

In this episode: 

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


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

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


]]> Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:36:18 -0400 Sporty Jeralds Sporty Jeralds 3218 In this episode of the Stay Sporty podcast, Duane Scott, Vice President for Booking and Event Operations at Houston’s Toyota Center, shares his career journey from South Carolina to managing one of the nation’s busiest arenas. He discusses the complexities of event booking, venue renovations, and building authentic relationships with promoters. Duane offers insights on balancing NBA schedules with concerts, the importance of continual facility upgrades, and career advice for aspiring industry professionals, emphasizing effort, adaptability, and finding your personal “why.”

In this episode: 

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


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

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


]]> Stage 40 podcast, College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management, University of South Carolina, Duane Scott, Toyota Center, Houston, event operations, venue management, event booking, NBA scheduling, live entertainment, arena marketing, career journey, Gamecock, sporting event management, internships, Colonial Life Arena, Houston Dynamo, Fertitta Center, NCAA events, audience preferences, promoters, financial risks, venue renovations, customer experience, multi-purpose venue, capital investments, voms, event management, trust and rapport, sports and entertainment industry, networking, career building, authentic relationships, Houston market, major city events, community engagement, concert booking, artist relations, sports operations, event coordination, live events industry, venue partnerships, facility upgrades, operational efficiency, guest services, marketing strategies, professional relationships, event scheduling, concert promotions, community pillar, audience engagement, future opportunities, personal development, finding your why. No Embracing Change in the Fast-Paced World of Sports and Entertainment Management with Matt Surabian 3 3 Embracing Change in the Fast-Paced World of Sports and Entertainment Management with Matt Surabian full 86e94148-f045-4e3c-bb25-518c87318777 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7deee3ef In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Matt Surabian, Vice President of Event Booking and Transportation at MetLife Stadium, shares his career journey through the sports and entertainment venue industry. He discusses the operational challenges of managing one of the world’s busiest stadiums, from hosting NFL games and major concerts to handling complex logistics and weather emergencies. Matt offers insights on leadership, teamwork, and career growth, emphasizing the importance of communication, adaptability, and building strong relationships in the industry. The episode provides valuable advice for aspiring sport and entertainment professionals.

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

]]> Sat, 31 Jan 2026 19:15:22 -0500 Sporty Jeralds Sporty Jeralds 2860 In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Matt Surabian, Vice President of Event Booking and Transportation at MetLife Stadium, shares his career journey through the sports and entertainment venue industry. He discusses the operational challenges of managing one of the world’s busiest stadiums, from hosting NFL games and major concerts to handling complex logistics and weather emergencies. Matt offers insights on leadership, teamwork, and career growth, emphasizing the importance of communication, adaptability, and building strong relationships in the industry. The episode provides valuable advice for aspiring sport and entertainment professionals.

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


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

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

]]> Stay Sporty, College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management, University of South Carolina, Matt Sarabia, Vice President, Event Booking, Transportation, MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, sports industry, entertainment venue, career journey, public assembly business, Rollins College, Walt Disney World Sports Complex, Philips Arena, Bobcats arena, Spectrum Center, Barclays Center, Meadowlands Stadium, operational challenges, logistics, NFL games, concert events, ticketed events, special events, event management, event booking, sponsor activations, corporate parties, guest experience, food service, NFL teams, New York Jets, New York Giants, joint ownership, stadium design, event logistics, weather planning, transportation management, public transit, rideshare, parking plans, ingress and egress, attendance factors, traffic studies, emergency evacuation, WrestleMania, Summerslam, Army-Navy game, venue management, mentorship, career growth, communication skills, face-to-face interaction, industry demands, adaptability, change management, event operations, community engagement, career advice, professional relationships, podcast distribution. No From Imposter Syndrome to Stadium Success: Adeja Spain's Inspiring Journey 2 2 From Imposter Syndrome to Stadium Success: Adeja Spain's Inspiring Journey full 92d789a6-5bd3-474f-8591-2bb5b6ea2870 https://share.transistor.fm/s/282ee581 In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Adeja Spain, Manager of Partnership Management at SoFi Stadium, shares her unconventional career journey in sports and entertainment. She discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, her roles with the Charlotte Hornets and Wasserman, and her current work managing brand partnerships at SoFi Stadium. Adeja explains the difference between sponsorships and partnerships, highlights memorable projects like launching the Gallagher Club, and offers leadership insights. She also previews her forthcoming memoir and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and relationship-building for career success in the industry.

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


-------------------------------------

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

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

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

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


-------------------------------------

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

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

]]> Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:51:45 -0500 Sporty Jeralds Sporty Jeralds 2730 In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Adeja Spain, Manager of Partnership Management at SoFi Stadium, shares her unconventional career journey in sports and entertainment. She discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, her roles with the Charlotte Hornets and Wasserman, and her current work managing brand partnerships at SoFi Stadium. Adeja explains the difference between sponsorships and partnerships, highlights memorable projects like launching the Gallagher Club, and offers leadership insights. She also previews her forthcoming memoir and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and relationship-building for career success in the industry.

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


-------------------------------------

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

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

]]> Adeja Spain, SoFi Stadium, Sports Brand Partnerships, Charlotte Hornets, Wasserman Agency, Sports Marketing Careers, Taylor Swift Eras Tour, Sports Sponsorships, Arena Marketing, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, Sports Industry Internships, A’ja Wilson No The Power of Mentorship: How Jessica O'Neill Inspires the Next Generation of Leaders 1 1 The Power of Mentorship: How Jessica O'Neill Inspires the Next Generation of Leaders full 92eb1dda-316f-445e-aaeb-d15c51360aa7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b2114b1f In this episode of "Stay Sporty" Jessica O’Neill, President of Business Operations for the Houston Dynamo and Dash, shares her journey from the University of South Carolina to leading two professional soccer teams. She discusses building her career in sports, the challenges of leadership and motherhood, growing soccer’s popularity in Houston, and the importance of representation and mentorship. Jessica offers candid insights on embracing failure, balancing work and family, and choosing happiness, while highlighting Houston’s diversity and the city’s excitement as a host for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

]]> Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:53:34 -0500 Sporty Jeralds Sporty Jeralds 1933 In this episode of "Stay Sporty" Jessica O’Neill, President of Business Operations for the Houston Dynamo and Dash, shares her journey from the University of South Carolina to leading two professional soccer teams. She discusses building her career in sports, the challenges of leadership and motherhood, growing soccer’s popularity in Houston, and the importance of representation and mentorship. Jessica offers candid insights on embracing failure, balancing work and family, and choosing happiness, while highlighting Houston’s diversity and the city’s excitement as a host for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

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

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

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

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