The CUSP Show

Episodi

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  521: Disruptive Play's Michael Cohen and Jeff Nathenson Break Down the Sports Media Creator Economy 21.07.2026 1h 20min

  Tom Richardson welcomes Michael Cohen, founder of Disruptive Play and co-founder of Creator Sports Network, and Jeff Nathenson, partner at Disruptive Play and MD of Platforms at whynow, to discuss what they believe is the most consequential shift happening in sports media today: the rise of creator-led distribution and its implications for rights holders, broadcasters, and the next generation of fans. Cohen and Nathenson share the origin story of Disruptive Play and explain why they built a platform specifically to challenge the assumptions that have governed the industry for decades. The conversation digs into their thesis on creator-led media, arguing that it represents a system and mindset rather than simply a content format, drawing comparisons between Mr. Beast, the Savannah Bananas, and Walt Disney’s original vision for building IP ecosystems. They discuss Creator Sports Network, their venture that enables creators to legally stream live sports directly from their social channels, and why they believe this model solves two major problems for rights holders at once, reaching younger fans and generating net new commercial inventory. Cohen and Nathenson also tackle the looming generational challenge facing major sports leagues, asking what happens when an entire cohort of fans grows up never watching a live game, and why the traditional advertising model is increasingly incompatible with how Gen Z and Gen Alpha consume content.Connect with Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccohen/Connect with Jeff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-nathenson-09abab3/Subscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  520: Dan Mannix on How Underdog Is Disrupting the Sports Marketing Agency Model 14.07.2026 1h 5min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome back Dan Mannix, Founder and Managing Partner of Underdog & Company, to discuss how his sports marketing agency has evolved into a multi-brand platform with investments, acquisitions, and a growing roster of clients across professional sports, college athletics, and experiential marketing. Mannix shares how Underdog’s partnership with NewSpring Capital has fueled a wave of acquisitions, including collegiate consulting firm Altius Sports Partners, experiential agency BeCore, and the launch of 40Love, a venture focused on the Olympics and content creators. The conversation digs into what makes Underdog & Company’s model different from the major holding companies, including its emphasis on senior leadership involvement, solutions-agnostic thinking, and a culture built around diverse perspectives and mentorship. Mannix reflects on working with Major League Baseball, the Clippers, and emerging sports properties, and explains why he believes agencies are more valuable than ever in a sports landscape defined by media fragmentation and NIL complexity. Mannix also shares candid advice for young people breaking into the industry, making the case for smaller agencies over big leagues as the best early career training ground, and why creative persistence beats the one-page resume every time.Connect with Dan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-mannix-4ab0152/’Subscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  519: Mike "Wally" Walczewski on 37 Years as the Voice of the NBA Champion New York Knicks 30.06.2026 1h

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Mike “Wally” Walczewski, better known as King Wally, the iconic public address announcer of the New York Knicks, to the show for a special episode celebrating the franchise’s 2026 NBA championship. One of only two primary PA announcers in Knicks history, Walczewski reflects on his 37-year career at MSG, what it felt like to announce a championship season, and his experience riding in the Canyon of Heroes parade alongside Knicks alumni. The conversation explores the craft behind the PA role, from how Walczewski develops his signature player introductions entirely on his own, to the unspoken coordination he maintains with MSG organist Ray Castaldi, whose 37-year partnership with Wally has become one of the most recognizable sounds in American sports. He also shares the story of how a single index card on a bulletin board at Fordham University led him to Sports Phone, the pioneering sports news service that launched the careers of some of broadcasting’s most recognizable voices, and ultimately to MSG. Walczewski closes with career advice drawn from decades in both sports and executive recruiting, emphasizing the power of networking at every level and the importance of understanding the culture of wherever you land.Learn More About Mike: http://mikewalczewski.comSubscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  518: Marc Horine on How For Soccer Is Powering the 2026 World Cup 24.06.2026 40min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome back Marc Horine, Chief Business Officer at For Soccer, for a special World Cup 2026 edition of the show, recorded as the tournament’s group stage wraps up across the United States. Horine discusses how For Soccer was built around the long-anticipated opportunity of hosting the World Cup in North America, and how the company has positioned itself at the center of the tournament’s business activity, from supporting the New York-New Jersey FIFA Host Committee’s fan events to producing in-stadium content for all 48 national teams. He shares insight into the brand activations driving the tournament, highlighting companies like Chobani and Allstate that are investing directly in underserved soccer communities, as well as standout campaigns like Nike’s viral short film. The conversation explores the expanded 48-team format and its impact on competitive balance, the energy of international fan bases descending on host cities, and the made-for-TV changes shaping the broadcast experience, including hydration breaks, expanded commentary teams, and FIFA’s rule changes designed to speed up gameplay. Horine, Favorito, and Richardson also discuss the ongoing debate over which announcing duos are resonating with fans, and how the tournament’s broadcast rights and ratings are tracking well ahead of the last World Cup cycle. Looking ahead, Horine addresses how brands and leagues, including MLS, are positioning themselves to capture lasting interest from this moment, the growing importance of engaging young fans and families early, and why For Soccer sees its role as translating the global soccer community for an expanding base of American sponsors and partners.Connect with Marc: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marchorine/?skipRedirect=trueSubscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  517: Adam Zimmerman on How the Atlanta Braves Built a Brand Beyond Baseball 16.06.2026 53min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Adam Zimmerman, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Content for the Atlanta Braves, to the show to discuss how one of baseball’s most innovative franchises has transformed its identity through mixed-use development, content strategy, and a bold approach to regional media. Zimmerman shares the story of how he joined the Braves ahead of the 2017 opening of Truist Park and the Battery Atlanta, and how the organization’s vision of commercial real estate as a team asset has reshaped the sports business landscape. The conversation explores how the Battery has evolved into a year-round destination drawing nearly 9 million visitors annually, attracting corporate headquarters, entertainment venues, and a diverse mix of retail and hospitality that extends the Braves brand well beyond game days. The discussion highlights the Braves’ creative approach to storytelling and content, from a viral Allen Iverson traffic campaign that broke through a major PR challenge, to the launch of Braves Country Fest and a growing partnership with country music star Ella Langley. Zimmerman explains how the organization uses the PESO model to manage paid, earned, shared, and owned media, and how its platform of Braves Country connects the team to fans across six southeastern states. Zimmerman also discusses the launch of Braves Vision, the team’s direct-to-consumer streaming network, and how a combination of over-the-air, traditional distribution, and streaming partnerships is expanding the team’s reach across the south. He reflects on the role of data and business intelligence in driving personalization at scale, the global growth of baseball, and how the 2026 FIFA World Cup is creating new opportunities to introduce international visitors to America’s pastime right in the Braves’ backyard.Connect with Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-zimmerman-479685a/Subscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  516: Danny Funt on the Hidden Costs of Legalized Sports Gambling 09.06.2026 1h 13min

  Tom Richardson welcomes journalist and author Danny Funt to the show to discuss his new book, Everybody Loses: The Tumultuous Rise of American Sports Gambling, and the sweeping impact legalized sports betting has had on leagues, media companies, athletes, and fans. Drawing on years of reporting and research, Funt examines how professional sports leagues went from staunch opponents of gambling to some of its strongest supporters, and what that shift has meant for the modern sports business. The conversation explores the financial incentives that fueled the expansion of sports betting, the role media rights and audience engagement played in changing league attitudes, and the rise of companies such as DraftKings and FanDuel. Funt also discusses the growth of prediction markets, the overlap between sports betting and financial speculation, and how new platforms are reshaping consumer behavior and sports fandom. Funt takes a deeper look at some of the unintended consequences of the betting boom, including athlete harassment, player prop wagering, integrity concerns, and the growing pressure placed on professional and collegiate athletes. He also examines the challenges facing regulators, the influence of private equity and ownership groups, and the ethical questions surrounding the integration of gambling into broadcasts, media coverage, and fan experiences.Connect with Danny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-funt-2695b4a3/Subscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  515: Steve Wasik on Growing VKTRY Gear from Startup to Acquisition 02.06.2026 48min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome VKTRY Gear CEO Steve Wasik to the show to discuss the entrepreneurial journey behind one of the fastest-growing performance brands in sports. Wasik shares how VKTRY evolved from a family-owned Connecticut shoe business into a company trusted by athletes across the NFL, NBA, MLB, and collegiate sports before recently being acquired by Dr. Scholl’s. The conversation explores the science behind VKTRY’s carbon fiber insole technology, how the product became popular among elite athletes, and why performance, injury prevention, and recovery have become increasingly important across all levels of sport. Wasik discusses the company’s origins with the U.S. Olympic bobsled and skeleton teams, the role athlete feedback played in product development, and how VKTRY built credibility in professional sports through word-of-mouth and measurable results. Wasik also reflects on his career in brand management, lessons learned from leading both large consumer brands and startup ventures, and the challenges of scaling a business through the COVID era. The discussion highlights VKTRY’s innovative social media strategy, its rapid growth on platforms like TikTok, and how a focus on customer experience helped transform a niche product into a nationally recognized sports performance brand.Connect with Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenwasik/Subscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  514: Jerome Allen on Player Engagement and the NBA’s Global Future 26.05.2026 51min

  Tom Richardson welcomes Jerome Allen of the NBA to the show to discuss the evolving role of player engagement, and how the next generation of athletes are navigating NIL, media, and technology. A current Columbia Sports Management student and member of the NBA’s Player Engagement Operations team, Allen shares how experiences ranging from a year abroad in South Africa to working at Roc Nation shaped his career path and perspective on sports as a global business. The conversation explores Allen’s work with future, current, and former NBA, WNBA, G League, and BAL players, including mentorship initiatives for elite high school athletes, rookie transition programming, and team awareness meetings across the league. Allen discusses the NBA’s focus on holistic player development, the challenges young athletes face in the NIL and social media era, and the importance of meeting players where they are culturally and personally as the league becomes increasingly international. In addition, Allen reflects on the changing landscape of sports business education, arguing for a more globally integrated approach that connects fans and students to sports cultures around the world. He also shares thoughts on AI’s growing impact across the industry, the rise of athlete-driven media, and why communication and relationship-building skills remain essential in an increasingly technology-driven sports business environment.Connect with Jerome: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerome-allen-a11149127/Subscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  513: Melissa Jacobs Breaks Down the Youth Sports Industry 19.05.2026 1h 2min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Melissa Jacobs to the show to discuss the current state of youth sports, the evolution of sports media, and why the NFL continues to dominate the sports and entertainment landscape. A longtime NFL writer and founder of The Football Girl, Jacobs discusses her transition from covering the league for outlets like Sports Illustrated, The Guardian, and the BBC to launching The Good Game, a Substack focused on the realities and pressures facing youth sports families today. The conversation explores the growing influence of private equity and travel sports, the rising costs associated with youth athletics, and the increasing pressure on young athletes and parents in the NIL era. Jacobs also shares insights into the challenges facing girls’ sports participation, the growth of flag football, and why so many kids leave organized sports by their early teens. Along the way, the group examines the role of coaching, the disconnect between youth soccer participation and fandom in the U.S., and how modern media platforms like Substack are reshaping sports journalism and community building. In addition, Joe and Tom discuss the NFL Draft’s continued media dominance, Amazon’s evolving sports viewing experience, the retirement of Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman, and the changing economics surrounding youth and collegiate athletics.Connect with Melissa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-jacobs-3333b32/Subscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  512: Morgan Cato Talks Leading Player Operations at the NBPA 12.05.2026 51min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Morgan Cato, EVP of Player Operations at the National Basketball Players Association to the show, to discuss her unique journey through each side of the basketball business: from the NBA league office to the Phoenix Suns and now the players association. Cato shares insights on rookie development, mental wellness, NIL preparedness, player engagement, and the evolving support systems surrounding today’s athletes. The conversation explores how the NBPA helps players navigate everything from financial literacy and branding opportunities to mental health resources and career transitions. Cato reflects on the globalization of basketball, the realities young athletes face entering the league, and the importance of leadership, adaptability, and relationship-building in sports business. Cato also discusses her work with Pro Sports Assembly, the future of athlete development, and how leagues and organizations are evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing sports landscape.Connect with Morgan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-cato-60026b8/Subscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  511: Harvey Schiller on the Life and Legacy of Ted Turner 07.05.2026 50min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Dr. Harvey Schiller, Chairman at Schiller Management Group to the show, to reflect on the life, legacy, and lasting influence of Ted Turner following his passing. Having worked closely alongside Turner during the rise of Turner Broadcasting, Schiller shares firsthand stories about the visionary executive who helped reshape sports media, cable television, and global broadcasting. The conversation explores Turner’s role in building the Superstation model, launching CNN, expanding Turner Sports, and pioneering ideas around vertical integration long before they became industry standards. Schiller also discusses Turner’s impact on the Braves, WCW, the Goodwill Games, NASCAR, international sports, and the early evolution of streaming and out-of-market sports distribution. Joe and Tom also dive into leadership lessons from Turner, his relentless creativity, his global mindset, and the entrepreneurial culture he built throughout Turner Broadcasting. Along the way, Schiller shares memorable behind-the-scenes stories involving David Stern, Vince McMahon, George Steinbrenner, the NFL, HBO, Sports Illustrated, and the early days of digital sports media.Connect with Harvey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harvey-schiller-2332386/More on Ted Turner: https://www.cnn.com/2026/05/06/us/ted-turner-deathSubscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  510: Sheila Sickau on How the Kansas City Chiefs Are Growing Flag Football Participation 05.05.2026 47min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Sheila Sickau, Head of Football Development for the Kansas City Chiefs to the show, to break down how flag football is reshaping the future of the sport, from youth participation to global expansion and women’s access to the game. Sickau is the Pro Sports Assembly 2025 Medal of Leadership Rising Leader honoree and on the show she shares her unique journey from special education teacher to NFL executive, detailing how a $12/hour seasonal role turned into a leadership position at the forefront of one of the league’s biggest growth initiatives. The conversation explores why the NFL is investing heavily in flag football as a more accessible entry point than tackle, how early participation is creating a more skilled pipeline of players, and how increased female engagement is already impacting fandom. Sickau also offers insight into the business strategy behind football development, from grassroots programming and international growth to content creation and next-gen fan engagement. Nominations for the Pro Sports Assembly Class of 2026 Medal of Leadership Honorees are open through May 15, 2026.Connect with Sheila: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilasickau/ Submit a Medal of Leadership nomination: https://www.prosportsassembly.org/Read more about the Medal of Leadership: Nominations Now Open for the 2026 Medal of Leadership CelebrationSubscribe to the CUSP Show: SubstackThe CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  509: Patrick Crakes on the True Economics of Sports Media Rights 28.04.2026 53min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Patrick Crakes, Principal of Crakes Media and longtime Fox Sports executive, to the show, to break down the rapidly evolving sports media landscape and the realities behind today’s skyrocketing rights deals. Drawing on decades of experience, Crakes explains why the industry hasn’t undergone the “overnight disruption” many predicted, and instead has seen a slower, more complex transition where traditional pay TV still underpins the majority of sports economics. He dives into the role of Big Tech, highlighting how companies like Amazon and YouTube are approaching sports rights strategically, not disruptively, and why profitability remains a challenge across streaming. The conversation also explores key industry dynamics, including the importance of broadcast distribution, the decline of regional sports networks, and the challenges leagues face in balancing local and national media strategies. Crakes offers insight into why the NFL continues to dominate the marketplace, how portfolio thinking shapes rights valuations, and what metrics actually matter when assessing media value. He also unpacks recent changes in Nielsen measurement and how out-of-home viewing is reshaping perceptions of sports viewership growth.Connect with Patrick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-crakes/The CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  508: Yeshiva Athletic Director Greg Fox on how the Maccabees are Revolutionizing College Hoops 21.04.2026 37min

  Joe Favorito welcomes Greg Fox, Athletic Director at Yeshiva University, to discuss the remarkable rise of Yeshiva men’s basketball and how the program has evolved into a global brand. He shares his journey through college athletics and what makes Yeshiva’s model unique: from rigorous academic demands and religious commitments to competing at a high level on the court. Fox highlights the impact of standout players like Zevi Samet, the program’s international following, and how streaming and storytelling have expanded its reach far beyond New York. The conversation also explores the operational realities behind the program, including Sabbath accommodations, travel logistics, and security considerations in today’s environment. Fox discusses growth opportunities across athletics, including women’s sports and potential NIL pathways at the Division III level, as well as the broader cultural significance of Yeshiva’s success. From community impact to a pipeline reaching even professional baseball, this episode offers a unique look at how identity, discipline, and storytelling can shape a Division III university.Connect with Greg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-fox-955b406/The CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  507: Ken Davidoff discusses his new book, 101 Lessons from the Dugout 14.04.2026 34min

  Joe Favorito welcomes Endicott College Adjunct Professor, Ken Davidoff, to the CUSP Show, for a thoughtful conversation on storytelling, media evolution, and rediscovering a love for the game of baseball. A longtime baseball columnist at the NY Post, who spent decades covering the sport at the highest level, Davidoff reflects on the grind of beat reporting, the rapid shift toward real-time, “hot take” media, and why he ultimately stepped away from daily journalism. The discussion centers around his new book, 101 Lessons from the Dugout, which reframes baseball and softball as vehicles for life lessons, resilience, adaptability, and perspective. Davidoff shares how collaborating with a co-author from a completely different background helped him reconnect with the fundamentals and joy of the game, moving away from the pressure of breaking news toward more meaningful storytelling. The conversation also dives into the changing media landscape, how speed has replaced depth, how relationships between reporters and players have evolved, and why versatility is now essential for young professionals entering the field.Connect with Ken: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-davidoff-220b7a4/The CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  506: Cam Smith on How Substack Hands Creators Control of Their Work and Audience 07.04.2026 1h 6min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Cam Smith, Substack’s Head of Sports Partnerships and Columbia Sports Management alum, to the CUSP Show to explore how the platform is reshaping sports media. What started as a newsletter product has evolved into a multi-format ecosystem spanning audio, video, and community-driven discovery, giving creators more control than ever over their work and their audience. Cam breaks down why journalists, athletes, and media personalities are increasingly choosing to build direct-to-consumer businesses rather than depend on traditional outlets, and how Substack’s model prioritizes ownership and sustainability over scale. The conversation gets into the economics behind the shift, including why a smaller, highly engaged subscriber base can outperform a massive but passive social following, and what that means for legacy media, fragmented distribution, and the way fans discover sports content today.Connect with Cam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-smith-68b1865/The CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  505: Inside ESPN’s Innovation Engine with Kevin Lopes 02.04.2026 54min

  Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson welcome Kevin Lopes, Vice President of Business Development and Innovation at ESPN, to the CUSP Show to discuss his 18-year journey at the company and how ESPN continues to evolve at the forefront of sports media. From starting as a programming coordinator to leading innovation initiatives, Lopes shares how timing, relationships, and a willingness to embrace new technology shaped his career. The conversation explores ESPN’s early push into streaming with ESPN360 and WatchESPN, including how the company helped build the foundation for today’s digital sports ecosystem. Lopes explains how early rights deals were driven by trust and long-term relationships, and how ESPN worked with schools and conferences to professionalize streaming long before it became mainstream. Lopes also breaks down the creation of ESPN’s Edge Innovation Center and how partnerships with companies like Microsoft, Accenture, and Meta help the company stay ahead of emerging trends. Whether it’s VR, AI, or new distribution platforms, the focus remains on ensuring ESPN is prepared for whatever the future of sports consumption looks like.Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-lopes-4160aa2/The CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz and Sydney Cristall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  504: Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson Discuss March Madness, Golf Innovation, and the Future of Sports Media 19.03.2026 53min

  In this special CUSP Show conversation, Joe Favorito and Tom Richardson take a step back after 500 episodes to reflect on how much the sports business has evolved, and where it may be headed next. The two hosts dive into a discussion on the current state of the industry, from March Madness and the Big East Tournament to golf’s evolving business model, media rights strategy, and shifting fan behavior. The conversation highlights the Big East’s continued success in a changing college sports landscape, including its strong fan engagement and willingness to embrace creator-driven media. Joe and Tom also explore broader questions around the future of college athletics, including the growing financial divide and the possibility of new structural models. They also examine golf’s momentum under PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp and the increasing need for leagues to think of themselves as entertainment products competing for attention. From there, the discussion turns to one of the biggest challenges in sports today: fan access. With content spread across multiple platforms, they break down how fragmentation is reshaping viewing habits and why simplicity will be critical moving forward. The episode also touches on emerging trends like AI and prediction markets, and reflects on the many “next big things” that have come and gone over the past decade.Connect with Joe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joefavorito/Connect with Tom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomrichardson01/The CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  503: Sports Investment: Navigating the Current Landscape 13.03.2026 45min

  Recorded at the 2025 Columbia Sports Management Conference in October, moderator Chris Lencheski leads a conversation on the forces reshaping the sports investment market. Joined by Daniel Adams of Polsinelli, William Mao of Octagon, Betsy Morgan of TOGETHXR, and Stephen Schifrin of Terrapin Partners, the discussion explores how investors, advisors, and operators are evaluating today’s sports landscape across team ownership, media rights, women’s sports, and global growth opportunities. The panel breaks down how capital is flowing into sports differently than ever before, from private equity and family offices to strategic investors looking for long-term value in scarce assets. The group discusses how media rights continue to underpin valuations, why shorter and more fragmented rights cycles are changing the deal environment, and how investors are increasingly forced to balance traditional financial analysis with a deeper understanding of fandom, community, and brand relevance. A major focus of the conversation is the continued rise of women’s sports as a serious investment category, with discussion around where the strongest opportunities exist and how those properties should be measured on their own terms rather than against legacy men’s models. The panel also examines the importance of fan behavior, player visibility, and social engagement in driving the commercial potential of teams, leagues, and emerging properties. From MLB and media-rights strategy to women’s sports, global football, and the future of ownership structures, this conversation offers a smart, grounded look at what sophisticated investors are actually watching in sports right now, and why the next generation of value creation will come from understanding both the numbers and the passion behind them.Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrislencheski/Connect with Daniel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-adams-b98bab2/Connect with William: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williammao/Connect with Betsy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsylmorgan/Connect with Stephen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-schifrin-0014333/The CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com
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  502: Praxis AI’s David James Clarke IV on Digital Twins, AI, and the Future of Sports Expertise 11.03.2026 20min

  Live from Super Bowl Radio Row, Joe Favorito welcomes David James Clarke IV, CEO of Praxis AI, for a conversation about how artificial intelligence is becoming a practical tool across sports, media, education, and healthcare. Clark explains how Praxis AI uses “digital twins” to help scale human expertise, making knowledge more accessible without losing the personality, communication style, and experience of the original expert. Clark shares how his company first found traction in higher education, where digital twins of professors are now answering thousands of student questions and saving faculty significant time each semester. From there, Praxis AI expanded into sports and entertainment, where digital twins can help athletes, coaches, broadcasters, and thought leaders extend their reach well beyond what is possible in person. He discusses recent work involving Dr. Robert Cantu, Dr. Jen Welter, Shannon Sharpe, Von Miller, and events tied to the Super Bowl, the Cricket World Cup, and future global competitions. The conversation also explores the emotional side of AI, including what it means to hear and interact with a digital version of yourself, as well as the practical business model behind Praxis AI’s platform. Clark addresses the speed at which AI is affecting jobs and workflows, the difference between job replacement and job transformation, and why he believes AI can be both commercially powerful and socially impactful. He also emphasizes the value of digital twins in cause-driven spaces such as concussion education, youth mentorship, and athlete-led social responsibility work.Connect with David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjamesclarkeiv/The CUSP Show is hosted by Joe Favorito (@Joefav) and Tom Richardson (@ConvergenceTR) and produced by Sam Henry (@s_henry11), LJ Holmgren (@LJ_Holmgren), and Danny Hagenlocher (@DhColumbiaSPS), with social media efforts led by Lissa Ruiz. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecuspshow.substack.com