Editor’s note: Check out Paul Rabil’s new podcast below and be sure to subscribe on iTunes! This week, Paul is examining the high stakes world of professional sports management and ownership with Zach Leonsis.
Zach Leonsis is the Vice President and General Manager of Monumental Sports Network (MSN), a first-of-its-kind regional network for digital, mobile and over-the-top platforms. MSN is co-owned by Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) and NBC Sports Group.
MSE was founded and chaired by Zach’s father, Ted Leonsis. Ted’s a co-founder of AOL and one of the most decorated and sophisticated sports and tech operators and investors on the planet. The Leonsis’ own the Washington Capitals, Washington Wizards, Washington Mystics, Capital One Arena, two Arena Football League teams, and controlling interest in Team Liquid – one of the most successful Esports franchises in the world. Also, they’re founding members in one of the more successful private equity and venture capital groups in the US, called Revolution Growth Fund.
I traveled down to DC to sit in Zach’s office and talk shop. We cover everything from team operations, to new media in sports, NBA free agency, defining Esports, and Ted’s purchase of the Washington Capitals in 1999. There are some wonderful stories Zach shares with us, including his take on how you can secure a job in the sports industry. That bit is toward the end.
Suiting Up Podcast is a show that explores the psychology, playbook of tools, and strategies of the most influential people in sports, entertainment and business.
Washington Capitals and Wizards Owner: Zach Leonsis
Suiting Up is an interview style podcast featuring lacrosse star and entrepreneur, Paul Rabil. Rabil, a 2x Major League Lacrosse MVP, splits his time between the gym and office, where he manages an OTT subscription platform and an event company, directs his foundation focused on learning differences and oversees a lengthy investment portfolio. This balancing act has become the new norm for athletes who seek to strike while the iron is hot both on the field and in the boardroom and it’s a challenge that requires more than just good time management. This podcast will explore the playbook of tools, technologies and strategies that athletes use to succeed.
