The Sports Economist

Dr. Shirin Mollah sits down with Neil Schwartz, president of SBRNet and host of "My First Job in Sports," for a deep dive into the data driving modern sports business. Schwartz shares his journey from cable TV to becoming a self-proclaimed "data nerd" who helps colleges, universities, and sports organizations understand fan behavior through comprehensive consumer research.

The conversation covers the evolution of fan engagement post-pandemic, revealing surprising trends like the Kansas City Chiefs' 23% increase in female fans thanks to the Taylor Swift effect, Formula One's explosive U.S. growth through Netflix's "Drive to Survive," and the WNBA's impressive 60% year-over-year fan increase. Schwartz explains why sports has a "Gen Z problem," how women's sports fandom is nearly equal to men's, and why price elasticity varies dramatically between leagues like the NFL and WNBA.

From sports gambling concerns to the globalization of soccer and F1, Schwartz emphasizes one core principle: sports are fun, and data tells the story. He challenges traditional marketing approaches, advocates for fact-based decision making over gut instincts, and reveals how organizations can use demographic insights to change conversations with sponsors and maximize revenue while enhancing fan experience.

What is The Sports Economist?

"The Sports Economist," hosted by Shirin Mollah, delves into the fascinating intersection of athletics and economics, exploring how major sporting events shape local economies and industry trends. From analyzing the Super Bowl's economic impact on host cities to breaking down the complex dynamics of ticket pricing, Shirin brings clarity to the business side of sports through engaging analysis and expert insights. This podcast offers sports enthusiasts and business minds alike a unique perspective on how the games we love drive economic decisions and impact communities across the globe.