Stay Sporty

Discover what it’s really like to work and thrive on a cruise ship through the eyes of Alvin "Alvincible" Marcellini, a seasoned entertainer and Fun Squad member with Carnival Cruise Lines. From managing homesickness to connecting authentically with guests worldwide, Al shares insights about building a diverse community and creating memorable experiences that go beyond the usual vacation. In this...

In this episode of Stay Sporty, Sporty interviews Jaron Coney, an account executive with the Oklahoma City Thunder and University of South Carolina alumnus. Jaron shares his journey from Allen University to earning a master's degree at USC, then breaking into sports sales with the Memphis Grizzlies before being promoted to the Thunder. He discusses the demands of inside sales, relationship-buildin...

In this episode of Stay Sporty, Brandon Ruth, Vice President of Team Operations for the Atlanta Falcons, shares his journey from college to the NFL. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, networking, and building relationships in the sports industry. Brandon discusses the critical role of team operations in ensuring the success of the organization and how a positive culture can be fostered th...

In this episode of Stay Sporty, Adina Erwin, Executive Vice President of Operations for Brooklyn Sports Entertainment, shares her remarkable journey from a receptionist to a leader in sports management. She discusses the challenges faced as a female leader in a male-dominated industry, the importance of mentorship, and her commitment to lifting others up. Adina reflects on her successful tenure at...

Betsy Mack is Senior Vice President of Community Impact and Executive Director of the Charlotte Hornets Foundation, known for her innovative approach to sports philanthropy and her unwavering commitment to community alongside her leadership in the NBA community ecosystem. In this episode, Betsy discusses her journey from nonprofit roots to leading community impact for the Charlotte Hornets reveals...

In this episode of Stay Sporty, Sporty interviews Madison Butler, a University of South Carolina Sport and Entertainment Management graduate and Manager of Operations Planning at the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium. Madison shares her inspiring career journey, from discovering her passion during a high school stadium tour to landing a TikTok-discovered internship with the Dolphins. She discus...

In this episode of Stay Sporty, host from the University of South Carolina's College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management interviews Nikita Smith, Director of Human Resources at 23XI Racing — the NASCAR team co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin. Nikita shares her career journey from retail management to HR roles across multiple industries before joining the sports world. She discusse...

In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Professor Jeralds interviews Syeth Spurrier, Director of Event Marketing at Feld Entertainment and USC alumnus. Syeth shares his career journey, the importance of internships, and insights into marketing major live entertainment brands. He discusses the shift from traditional to digital marketing, the role of analytics, and adapting to industry changes post-COVID....

In this episode of the Stay Sporty podcast, Duane Scott, Vice President for Booking and Event Operations at Houston’s Toyota Center, shares his career journey from South Carolina to managing one of the nation’s busiest arenas. He discusses the complexities of event booking, venue renovations, and building authentic relationships with promoters. Duane offers insights on balancing NBA schedules with...

In this episode of Stay Sporty, Matt Surabian, Vice President of Event Booking and Transportation at MetLife Stadium, shares his career journey through the sports and entertainment venue industry. He discusses the operational challenges of managing one of the world’s busiest stadiums, from hosting NFL games and major concerts to handling complex logistics and weather emergencies. Matt offers insig...

In this episode of "Stay Sporty," Adeja Spain, Manager of Partnership Management at SoFi Stadium, shares her unconventional career journey in sports and entertainment. She discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, her roles with the Charlotte Hornets and Wasserman, and her current work managing brand partnerships at SoFi Stadium. Adeja explains the difference between sponsorships and partnerships, h...

In this episode of "Stay Sporty" Jessica O’Neill, President of Business Operations for the Houston Dynamo and Dash, shares her journey from the University of South Carolina to leading two professional soccer teams. She discusses building her career in sports, the challenges of leadership and motherhood, growing soccer’s popularity in Houston, and the importance of representation and mentorship. Je...