It’s almost mid-May, schools that haven’t finished yet are readying for graduation and final exams, and we are always on the quest for learning more. With that in mind, here are three solid listens that cover everything from Minor League Baseball and the awards business, to a successful startup launch to how to grow a massive global brand in a market like the US. Listen, learn and get ready for Mother’s Day this weekend.

Volleying for success: First up, we talked with Karen Lorenzo, Chief Legal Officer and Head of Business Affairs at League One Volleyball (LOVB) about how and why the startup league executed a successful and strategic launch in its inaugural season. Karen shares how LOVB built a vertically integrated model from youth clubs to pro teams, secured $160 million in funding, and prioritized athlete experience and long-term sustainability from day one. She also reflects on her unique journey from entertainment law to the sports industry and gives us a great blueprint for what lies ahead not just for women’s sports, but for the booming business of volleyball. Listen in here.

Bayern’s Battle For Growth in the Americas: Next up is Dee Kundra, Managing Director of the Americas for FC Bayern Munich, one of the most storied and successful clubs in global football. Dee shares her career journey from studying fashion in London to breaking into sports with the New York Cosmos, Liverpool FC, and helping Bayern Munich establish its North American presence. She talks about how the club grew its fan base in the U.S. from just eight official supporter groups to over 100, the strategic thinking behind Bayern’s U.S. office, and the challenges and opportunities tied to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. Dee also discusses how the club builds relationships on the ground, activates its global brand locally, and navigates the evolving social media landscape. Click and learn here.

How Does The Awards Business Work? Ever wonder what the secret sauce was in building an awards business? You will learn the how and the why with Maher Labban, the director of Clio Sports. A New York-native, Maher has spent over 20 years in the sports industry. He takes us through his journey from teams to leagues, major and minor including a decade being the GM of a California minor league club before moving on to the head office of Minor League Baseball. How did he then transition to Clio Sports? Relationships, which also play into the inner-workings of the sports awards industry and the value it provides to all stakeholders, especially with their event upcoming in May. Cast your vote by listening in.
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