On this episode of the SeventySix Capital Sports Leadership Show, Wayne Kimmel interviewed David Aufhauser to discuss his 30-year career at the intersection of sports, media, technology, and innovation. David reflects on his experience working with major sports leagues, media companies, technology platforms, and startups throughout his career. He shares how relationships and working with the right people have shaped his journey and why surrounding himself with talented leaders has been critical to his success. The conversation dives into David’s involvement in the creation of Bay FC and the growth of women’s sports. He discusses what went into building the organization, working with some of the biggest names in soccer, and developing a strong team culture while bringing a new professional sports franchise to life. David also reflects on his experience at companies including Yahoo and Twitch and how those roles shaped his perspective on the convergence of sports, media, and technology. He discusses how the sports industry has evolved into an increasingly significant asset class, creating new opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs, and technology companies. The episode also explores the impact of AI and emerging technology on sports business models, media, and fan experiences. David shares his perspective on how Silicon Valley views opportunities across sports and gaming and what founders should understand when building companies in the space. David also discusses the rapidly changing college sports landscape, including the evolution of NIL and the opportunities and challenges facing athletes, universities, investors, and other stakeholders. Finally, David reflects on leadership, mentorship, and navigating change throughout his career. He shares the principles that have guided him, the people who have influenced his approach, and where he sees opportunities emerging across sports, media, and technology. In This Episode David’s 30-year career across sports, media, and technologyThe importance of relationships and working with the right peopleLeadership principles that have shaped David’s careerHelping build Bay FC and expand women’s professional sportsBuilding a team culture with leading figures in soccerLessons from David’s experience at Yahoo and TwitchThe convergence of sports, media, and technologyThe emergence of sports as an asset classNew investment opportunities across the sports industryHow AI is transforming sports and mediaSilicon Valley’s approach to sports and gaming investmentsThe evolution of college sports and NILOpportunities and challenges in the modern college sports landscapeStrategic partnerships and venture capital in sportsLeadership, mentorship, and navigating industry change Chapters 02:07 Connection with Quintar and early collaborations 04:35 The importance of working with the right people 07:06 Highlights of David’s career and key achievements 08:05 The story of Bay FC and women's sports expansion 09:37 Branding and naming of Bay FC 11:05 Working with top women soccer players and team building 13:29 In-person and virtual collaboration during team development 16:20 Early days at Yahoo, Twitch, and sports media innovation 19:28 Reflections on the evolution of sports as an asset class 26:30 Sports as an asset class and investment opportunities 28:09 Silicon Valley's evolving interest in sports and gaming 31:02 David's involvement in college sports and NIL 35:28 Challenges and opportunities in college sports and NIL 38:13 Leadership, people, and navigating change in sports 39:30 Mentors and influential figures in David’s career 41:39 Future outlook and ongoing collaborations Subscribe to the SeventySix Capital Sports Leadership Show for conversations with the athletes, executives, entrepreneurs, and investors shaping the future of sports! #SportsBusiness #SportsTechnology #SportsInnovation
