Off the Pitch

In this episode we are joined by Brendan Hannan, the managing partner of media production company Skylark, a former MLS executive and sports entrepreneur. In this episode, Brendan shared with us his unique path to end up in sports, which led to a career working on some of the most exciting projects in American Soccer.Brendan recounted his career step-by-step, detailing some PR stunts that were pulled, and revealing details about some of the marketing campaigns behind MLS’ biggest signings. Couple that with the logistics of navigating a growing digital landscape and Brendan shows exactly why he was at the fore-front of his field. Brendan spoke to the importance of marketing to the business of sports organizations, as well as how important it is that they are working cross-functionally with the entire office to ensure consistent and cohesive messaging across the organization. He also highlights how necessary it is to have good team members behind these major projects.Brendan’s journey to and time within the league are nothing short of inspiring. Check out this episode to hear behind the scenes of marketing growth within American Soccer.Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Brendan Hannan on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-hannan-0825258/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkinnear/

In this episode, we are joined by none other than Peter Moore, a legend in both the gaming and sports worlds, who has embarked on his latest venture of founding Santa Barbara Sky FC. In this episode, Peter recounted his dynamic career trajectory, starting from his influential roles at Sega and Microsoft, through his transformative tenure at Liverpool FC, to laying the groundwork for his own USL Championship team. Peter shared insights from his days driving the Xbox 360 to success and reviving Liverpool FC’s global brand and on-field success, emphasizing the leadership principles and strategic thinking that have guided his career. He reflected on the lessons learned in the high-stakes environments of gaming and European football, and how these experiences prepared him for his current challenge. Peter dove into the reasons behind choosing Santa Barbara as a base to create a new club from scratch, the community-focused vision he has for the club, and the steps he’s taken so far to turn a blank slate into a promising soccer franchise. Peter discussed the excitement and hurdles of building a team from the ground up, from crafting the club’s identity and culture to engaging with fans and the broader soccer community. Peter’s journey is a testament to his ability to shift gears and dive into new challenges with enthusiasm and strategic foresight. Tune in to this episode to discover how a veteran of digital entertainment and sports management is now looking to help shape the future of American soccer with his latest venture.Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Peter Moore on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-moore-36827b233/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkinnear/

Grab a pair of headphones and join us for a chat with Dimitrios Efstathiou, Senior Vice President of Strategy at Atlanta United FC. Dimitrios, a seasoned strategist in the world of Major League Soccer, took us through his unique journey from legal courtrooms to the soccer pitches of the US and beyond, shedding light on the intersections of law and sport through his own experiences.Dimitrios recounted his transition from working as an Investigative Analyst at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office to diving into the sports industry, revealing what it was like to switch from a strictly legal career to one deeply embedded in the dynamic world of soccer. He shared the challenges and surprises that came with moving into his role at Atlanta United FC, especially as he shifted from focusing on soccer operations to a broader strategic outlook.Ever wondered how a legal mind tackles sports strategy? Dimitrios broke it down for us, offering stories from the frontline that illustrate how legal thinking can significantly enhance sports management and operations. He highlighted some groundbreaking projects he's championed that have not only spurred Atlanta United's growth but also pioneered new ways to engage fans and succeed as a club on and off the pitch.Dimitrios also gave us a glimpse into his vision for the future, discussing the trends that excite him most and his predictions for the evolution of soccer in America over the coming years. This episode is full of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and forward-looking thoughts that make Dimitrios' story a compelling narrative of strategic mastery in the world of professional soccer.Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Dimitrios Efstathiou on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimitriosefstathiou/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkinnear/

In this insightful episode, we spoke with Shaun Oliver, the current Vice President of Operations at Sports Illustrated Stadium (formerly Red Bull Arena). Shaun detailed how he began working part-time for the New England Revolution just as MLS was getting off the ground, which quickly led to him becoming the Director of Operations at the newly rebranded New York Red Bulls.We spoke with Shaun about his unique journey to where he is today, sharing funny stories from the early days of MLS, highlighting the professionalism Red Bull brought to the league, and diving into the specifics of keeping an aging stadium modern for the best fan experience.The insights we gained—from the evolution of MLS to the nitty-gritty operational changes between international and league matches—were eye-opening, to say the least.If you’re a fan of MLS or simply curious about how a premier soccer stadium operates in the United States, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Shaun Oliver on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-oliver-5531264/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkinnear/

Join us for a conversation with Matt Bilodeau, the Chief Strategy Officer of The Tournament, renowned for orchestrating the exhilarating TST (The Soccer Tournament) and TBT (The Basketball Tournament), each featuring a $1 Million prize for the winning team. Since leaving his 10+ career at Reebok and joining The Tournament in late 2023, Matt has been instrumental in driving forward the ambitious vision for TST, drawing on his extensive background in sports marketing. He revealed the strategic thinking behind launching TST, including how they navigated the challenges of attracting the first teams to managing unexpected hurdles with composure.Matt passionately discusses the importance of gender equality in sports, highlighting The Tournament's commitment to equal prize money for the women's competitions—a pioneering move that not only bolstered the brand but also set a new standard in the industry. With the women's devision set to double in size this summer, Matt shared his excitement and future aspirations for TST, envisioning its significant role in the expanding landscape of U.S. Soccer and beyond.If you're a fan of TST, sports business in general or simply enjoy listening to a true behind the scenes of launching a successful sports event, this conversation with Matt is one you will not want to miss.Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Matt Bilodeau on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-bilodeau-59978a2/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkinnear/

In this insightful episode, we dit down with Kevin Couture, the Senior Vice President of the USL's Club Performance Group, who brings a wealth of experience from his diverse career in sports marketing and management. Starting as a college soccer player at Merrimack College in Massachusetts, Kevin transitioned into a significant role with USA Hockey, where he climbed the ranks over 19 years to become the Director of Corporate Marketing.Kevin delved into his recent move to the USL at the end of 2023, explaining what drew him back to soccer and the unique opportunities he saw within the league. He outlined the scope of his role, highlighting the strategic initiatives he's implemented to enhance club performance across the league. We also explored the recent success in attracting new partners to the USL, discussing the strategies that have fueled revenue growth at both the league and club levels.Kevin's insights into ground-level tactics and strategies for smaller clubs and particularly enlightening, offering actionable advice for other sports organizations. reflecting on his own achievements, Kevin shared a heartwarming personal moment of pride that stands out in his career, giving us a glimpse into the dedication and passion that drive his professional life.If you're a fan of sports business, partnership marketing, or sponsorships, this masterclass from Kevin is an episode you will not want to skip. Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Kevin Couture on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-couture-9209215/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkinnear/

In this standout episode, we sit down with Radhika Duggal, the Chief Marketing Officer of Major League Soccer, who brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to one of the fastest-growing sports leagues in the world.Radhika shared her journey, reflecting on her upbringing detailing how her childhood interests and earl exposure to sports helped shape her path towards a career in marketing. Radhika recounted the strategic decisions that have defined her career so far, from her initial professional aspirations to her roles across various industries before stepping into the world of MLS.As CMO of MLS, Radhika detailed her initial impressions and strategic priorities upon joining the league. She discussed her approach to enhancing fan engagement through understanding consumer behavior, revealing some trends among MLS fans. The conversation naturally turned to the seismic impact of Lionel Messi's presences in the league, and Radhika unpacked both the immediate excitement and the long-term strategies involved in leveraging such a high-profile figure to elevate the league's global presence. Looking ahead, Radhika shared her predictions for the future of the sport here in the United States especially in light of the upcoming major soccer tournaments coming to the country, articulating her vision for how MLS could play a pivotal role in the global sports narrative.Radhika's story is not just one of professional success but also of personal growth and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the competitive world of marketing. If you're looking for a sports marketing masterclass or simply want to hear an inspirational journey, this episode is not one you'll want to skip.Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Radhika Duggal on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhikaduggal/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kinnear-b48857195/

In this compelling episode, we explored the journey of Nick Ragain, President of USL Championship side Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. Nick opened up about his unconventional path into the world of soccer, a sport that was not a part of his life until he spearheaded the Swtichbacks. He shared insights into his personal background and the unlikely story of how he transitioned from a newcomer to the game to leading a successful soccer franchise.Nick recounted the intriguing beginnings of the Switchbacks in 2013, including how the team's name was chosen through a fan contest–revealing some of he alternative names that were considered. He described the early days of setting up the franchise, the whirlwind of activities required to transform an idea into a professional team, and the community's role in shaping the club's direction.Delving into the complexities of launching a running a soccer club, Nick explained his approach to gathering knowledge and guidance, from consulting with seasoned professionals to studying examples of other successful franchises. He candidly discussed the challenges he faced, from unforeseen operational hurdles to the strategic decision that guided the development of the team's own stadium, Weiner Field, which opened in 2021.The opening of Weidner Field marked a significant milestone for the Switchbacks, fundamentally changing the club's dynamics both on and off the field. Nick reflected on the impact of having a dedicated space that they can call home and how it has fostered a deeper connection with fans and bolstered the team's performance. As he looked back on his journey with the Switchbacks so far, Nick identified a specific moment of personal pride that stood out–a testament to his dedication and collective efforts of everyone involved with the club. Tune in to hear how Nick navigated the challenges of founding and growing a soccer club, his vision for its future, and the lessons learned along the way.Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Nick Ragain on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickragain/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kinnear-b48857195/

In this episode, we delved deep with Michelle Hyncik, President of Utah Royals, exploring her remarkable transition from a law career to spearheading a major NWSL club. Michelle began with an overview of her legal background and her initial foray into the sports industry, highlighting the skills and experiences that prepared her for leadership in soccer.Michelle discussed the strategic decisions involved in her move from New York to Utah, the complexities of legal transitions within MLS, and how these experiences equipped her for future challenges. She outlined the process of taking the legal helm during Real Salt Lake's ownership transition, detailing the meticulous approach required to secure the club's future.As we talked about the revival of the Utah Royals, Michelle revealed how past experiences shaped her approach to relaunching the team. She discussed the early strategy sessions, the drive to build something great from scratch, and the ongoing mission to elevate women's soccer not only in Utah but across the United States. Michelle also touched on the personal attributes that have supported her career progression and the lessons learned from overseeing both legal and operational aspects of a soccer club. She concluded by sharing her proudest moment in her journey, which encapsulates her achievements and her vision for the future of the Utah Royals.Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at Michelle's unique path from the courtroom to the soccer field, filled with lessons on leadership, resilience, and the power of following your passion with one of the soccer industry's most impressive executives. Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow Michelle Hyncik on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-hull-hyncik-a43a86ab/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kinnear-b48857195/

In this episode, we're joined by John Guagliano, the Chief Marketing Officer of MLS club Minnesota United FC. John shared his fascinating journey through professional sports, which spans across major sports leagues including the MLS, NBA, MLB, and NHL, detailing the path from his humble beginnings to now being at the helm of the marketing department for Minnesota United FC.John dove into his early love for sports, particularly soccer, and how it shaped his career aspirations. He reminisced about his unique start in sports in the NBA with the Charlotte Hornets, starting as a Mascot Coordinator (yes, that's a job!) later returning to spearhead the game-day energy and fan engagement, crafting memorable experiences that went beyond just watching a game. Transitioning to soccer, John discussed his move to Minnesota United prior to their MLS debut in 2017, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of joining a new club transitioning to America's premier soccer league. He reflected on the strategic marketing shifts necessitated by the move from a large college stadium to the more intimate, soccer-specific environment of their new home in 2019, and how he drew inspiration from other clubs globally to create a unique fan culture. John opened up about his most recent rewarding project - recently working with the Make a Wish Foundation to fulfill a child's dream of scoring a goal in front of his great grandparents at Allianz Field. He shared the profound impact of integrating community service into the club's identity and how these efforts resonate deeply with fans and staff alike.Finally, John touched on the broader trends in sports marketing and soccer's growing place in American culture, offering insights into how MLS clubs like Minnesota United are not just competing on the pitch but in the hearts of their communities.Whether you're a sports fanatic looking to get a peek into the brain of one of the soccer industry's sharpest marketing minds, or simply enjoy stories showcasing how hard work and determination is always the recipe for success, you're going to want to listen to this one.Now Live on Youtube, Spotify, Apple and everywhere else.#OffThePitch • #SoccerBusinessPodcast    ----------------------------------------------------Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@PodcastOffthePitch/Follow Off the Pitch on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastoffthepitch/Follow Off the Pitch on TikTok:http://www.tiktok.com/@podcastoffthepitchFollow John Guagliano on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnguagliano/Follow Matt Cunningham on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcghm/Follow David Kinnear on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kinnear-b48857195/